By Tim Ryan
This Spring, Norfolk’s Selden Market welcomes a vibrant new addition to its incubator lineup with the opening of Potted, a novel café that marries the aromatic world of teas with the verdant bliss of tropical plants. Slated to open its doors next month, Potted is poised to become a sanctuary for tea enthusiasts and plant lovers alike.
Co-founders Travis DiPerna and Michele Berkhimer bring their shared passions to the fore, crafting a haven within the bustling cityscape. At Potted, visitors can immerse themselves in a unique environment where the joy of bubble tea and the serenity of plant care blend seamlessly. The café will feature a range of house plants, potting supplies, and a custom soil bar, offering both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts all the tools they need to thrive.
“Our vision for Potted extends beyond simply selling plants and tea. We want to cultivate a community space where people can slow down, enjoy the beauty of nature, and learn more about plant care,” explains Michele Berkhimer. Her connection to plants is deeply personal, rooted in childhood memories of gardening with her father, a former farmer and Navy veteran from the Philippines.
Potted’s menu highlights their signature bubble tea, inspired by the Filipino dessert Halo-Halo. This inventive concoction features sweetened red bean milk tea adorned with coconut jelly, mango popping bubbles, and a lush topping of ube cream. It’s a tropical twist that promises to delight the taste buds of Norfolk’s diverse populace.
Travis DiPerna, also a Navy veteran, emphasizes the community-building aspect of their enterprise. “Potted is more than a café; it’s a place where people can connect with nature. We’re excited to bring our love for the culinary arts and horticulture to Selden Market, fostering a new community space in Norfolk.”
Potted’s innovative concept taps into the growing trend of café and plant shop hybrids yet stands out with its unique focus on bubble teas and tropical plants. As the only establishment in Virginia, Potted offers a distinctive experience that invites customers to explore new flavors and green-thumb techniques.
Selden Market’s initiative to incubate small businesses provides the perfect ground for Potted to flourish. The market’s supportive environment and central location offer an ideal setting for Travis and Michele to nurture their budding business. With Potted, they plan to introduce a fresh dynamic to the local market scene, inviting patrons to partake in a journey of culinary and botanical discovery.
As Potted prepares to plant its roots this Spring, Norfolk residents and visitors can anticipate a refreshing new venue to reconnect with nature and indulge in uniquely crafted beverages. Potted at Selden Market isn’t just a café; it’s an experience that grows on you.
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**For further information, please contact:**
Careyann Weinberg
Tel: 757-510-2740
Email: seldenmarket@gmail.com
