The Merchant is one of the truest examples of uplifting local businesses in this city. The sprawling shop, newly opened in the Crislip Arcade, features nearly 100 St. Pete artists and makers. Customers can browse everything from hand poured candles and St, Pete-inspired wall art, to jewelry, magnets, t-shirts and decorations. Owner Jennifer Schultz has meticulously curated the best and brightest in the ‘Burg and created a platform for their ideas to shine.

The Merchant’s next endeavor is the Crislip Cafe, a coffee and pastry shop in the 600 Block Arcade. Tasty bagels, activated charcoal lattes, and exquisite waffles from Pop Goes the Waffle are all on the menu.

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Bella’s Bagels and Cakes will make the bagels. The roster of coffee drinks are named by the owners’ favorite songs and films. Drinks include the Purple Rain (lavender latte with lavender buds), a smoked s’more’s latte called Light my Fire, a creme brûlée latte called “Pour Some Sugar on Me”, and an activated charcoal latte called “Voodoo Child.”

An official opening is set for June 2020, but a date has not been confirmed. Follow Crislip Cafe on Facebook and Instagram for updates.