Urban Alchemy Delivering More than Just Coffee and Wine
By Office of Communication
Posted on April 03, 2020, April 03, 2020

Wine shelf

With restaurant dining rooms closed to slow the spread of coronavirus, Arlington restaurants have shifted their focus to takeout and delivery.

Urban Alchemy, in Downtown Arlington, is known for its coffee and wine. And while the restaurant is ready to bring both to your front door – it’s also getting creative.

Owner Tony Rutigliano partnered with Lindsay’s Art Cart to create a wine and art kit. For $25 dollars, customers received a bottle of wine and the supplies to complete an online art course. The kit sold out, and the two businesses are already planning another collaboration.

“People are just trying to be creative,” Rutigliano said. “What you’re trying to figure out is who does things that are complimentary to you that can add value.”

Rutigliano said he’s found more customers are interested in delivery than takeout right now. That prompted him to launch the restaurant’s “Door to Pour” program. Customers can order coffee or wine, with no minimum order, and it will be delivered to their home for free. 

Rutigliano said he’s been considering adding delivery services for some time now. He just never imagined it’d happen like this. And while the current situation is challenging, it’s also teaching him valuable business lessons. 

“That’s the great thing about challenges like this. It really does force you to think outside the proverbial box,” Rutigliano said. 

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