Protagonist Café opens in Soulard

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Courtesy Protagonist Cafe

On Tuesday, the owners of Pieces Board Game Café and Restaurant opened a new concept in Soulard: Protagonist Café.

Located at 1700 S. 9^th Street, three blocks from Pieces, in the former Porch Gift Shop space, the coffee shop's bright, airy interior evokes an artist’s den. Protagonist has purple walls, exposed brick, and repurposed furniture including large, comfortable couches. A 27-foot floor-to-ceiling bookcase holds approximately 3,000 books, which guests are encouraged to peruse.

“The atmosphere inspires you to read a story, write a story, or start a story,” says manager Sam Sultzer.

The coffee menu includes bottomless drip coffee and espresso drinks with non-dairy options including a Samoa Mocha (with chocolate, caramel, vanilla, and espresso). Protagonist uses a local facility in Maplewood to roast its beans and grinds them to order.

An extensive tea menu includes loose-leaf tea from local favorite Big Heart Tea Co. and tea lattes with non-dairy options such as a London Fog (with Earl Gray tea, steamed milk, and vanilla).

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Courtesy Protagonist Cafe

Individual mini apple pie made with fresh apples, cinnamon, and ginger.

Protagonist also serves a rotating selection of house-made vegan sweet and savory pastries and quiche. Current selections include a gluten-free salted chocolate pecan cake doughnut, a caramelized onion basil scone, and eggless asparagus tomato quiche with navy bean purée. Guests can also place special orders for custom vegan cakes and pie on the coffee shop’s website.

The coffee shop will be open daily from 7 a.m.–6 p.m. The owners plan to eventually extend Friday and Saturday hours until 10 p.m., with an expanded menu including boozy coffees, wine, and hand-crafted cocktails.