Slowalk, a three story and aesthetically pleasing cafe, three to four years in the making finally opened its doors Nov. 15 after delays caused by COVID-19 and Typhoon Mawar.
“Slowalk brings coffee to another level by using its own roasted coffee beans and specialty coffee beans in their drink menu,” said Junwoo Park, general manager of Slowalk Cafe.
The new cafe also serves burgers, sandwiches, and pastries. Currently, the menu is limited as the café slowly opens, “But the goal is to sell more food and drink items as more customers get familiarized with Slowalk,” Park said.
Slowalk features a coffee museum on its third floor showcasing “old grinders … and other coffee makers from France and Turkey which are from the owner's collection," he said. The third floor will also be open to individuals who want to learn how to roast coffee, as well as companies and organizations looking for a unique area to host events and parties.
The cafe has outside seating available as well, so customers can enjoy the transition from day to evening. When the sun sets, Park told the Journal that Slowalk offers cocktails for that time of day.
“So, whether you are looking for a new place to study, or a hang out spot with friends while taking Instagram worthy pictures amongst the numerous decorations, Slowalk is the place for you,” Park said.
Slowalk is currently open Monday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. You can visit its Instagram page @slowalkcoffee_official for updates.
(From left) Brandon Vera, MMA fighter; and Franklin Arriola; business owner and consultant Photo by Althea Engman After his career, Brandon Vera, Filipino-American Mixed Martial Artis,t also known as “The Truth” is using his retirement to launch a podcast, host grappling events for the community, and start an online apparel business that showcases his passion for his work.
The Journal asked Vera how his experiences as an MMA fighter helps this next chapter of his life. He said having discipline to succeed without people having to check on him has made this next step easier.
“I will get things done and progress forward in all three things from the podcast to the events to the apparel,” he said.
Vera’s new athletic leisure-based clothing line focus on men's fashion. Readers can visit his website at www.shop.brandonvera.com for items such as athletic tees, hoodies, tank tops, polos and other accessories ranging from $30 to $70.
Vera said his target market is “anyone looking to feel comfortable.”
The Truth offers a flat fee delivery charge for Guam Customers. Vera said apparel for women and children will be coming soon.
Guam Foodies can now welcome back Capitol Kitchen to their list of restaurants to enjoy for lunch, dinner, and brunch with family and friends.
After the move to its current location on Airport Road in July 2022, Capitol Kitchen, like other businesses, was slammed by Typhoon Mawar and the restaurant experienced significant damage. Throughout the renovation process, Capitol Kitchen still provided the Guam community with a Trunk or Treat in October as well as its catering services for the Thanksgiving season.
At Capitol Kitchen’s Nov. 30 event were (from left) Casey Castro, chef and owner; Katherine Aguon, general manager; Lisa Brennan, controller; and Joey Atalig, sales manager. Photo by Althea EngmanCapitol Kitchen reopened its doors on Dec. 1 just in time for the holiday season.
Now customers can come in and experience a fresh version of the restaurant.
With more than $800,000 spent on renovations, Casey Castro, chef and owner told the Journal, “In those six months the goal was to modernize the 13-year-old building.” He said one benefit of the renovation is, “With the upgrades and expansion of the outside seating, Capitol Kitchen can seat about 350-plus patrons.”
Although Capitol Kitchen is open for dine-in, renovations are still ongoing to complete the décor with four 7,000 eye-catching piece chandeliers and a new bar design. Also, additional patio seating will offer five private rooms or one big entertainment space. Castro said “investing in a restaurant that enhances the customer experience not only by the food but by the overall ambiance of the restaurant” is one way he expresses his passion for his work.
The building isn’t the only thing getting an update. Castro also said, “New items will be added to the menu such as a sushi section, a bakery is in the works and can be expected in 2024, followed by live music from local artists Monday to Friday in the evening.”
During lunch, customers can indulge in a local buffet with features such as the Kadu station or an a la carte menu.
Capitol Kitchen is also introducing a quarterly giveaway for live concerts off-island. Throughout December, customers who dine-in and spend more than $50 will be entered in a giveaway to see Taylor Swift in concert in Japan. The giveaway includes two concert tickets as well as two round trip airfare tickets.
There are exciting new opportunities for patrons to help the community while enjoying a fresh dining experience, Castro said. From its re-opening on Dec. 1, every table that spends more than $100 can choose a non-profit organization from a list of partners and Capital Kitchen will donate $5 to the non-profit.
Casey said he’s excited that restaurant doors are open again, adding that he appreciates “how good the Guam community has been to us with the vast amount of support, encouragement, and kind words flooding our restaurant.”
“Capitol Kitchen is now ready to serve the island,” he said. mbj
