New Deli and Coffee Shop Headed to Thayer Street
Two new businesses are preparing to open on Providence's Thayer Street as the area sees changes in its local storefronts.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Openings & Closings
Live Poll
Do you believe new eatery openings on Thayer Street improve the area for local residents?
Providence residents will soon see two new additions to the Thayer Street dining scene. Georges on Thayer is set to open at 252 Thayer Street, while a new Blank Street Coffee will move into a former Starbucks space.
Why it matters
The arrival of these businesses marks a shift in the tenant mix of Thayer Street, reflecting ongoing changes in local retail and restaurant availability. These openings bring new dining options to a high-traffic area of the city.
Georges on Thayer is taking over the site at 252 Thayer Street, a location that previously housed Spectrum India and the College Hill Bookstore.
The players
Georges Makhlouf
He is a local restaurateur who owns Nara on Atwells Avenue and previously operated East Side Bagel on Elmgrove Avenue.
Harry Dulgarian
He is the individual who confirmed the arrival of the new commercial tenant to the Thayer Street corridor.
The details
Business owner Georges Makhlouf, who also operates Nara on Atwells Avenue and formerly ran East Side Bagel on Elmgrove Avenue, is currently renovating the new space. Meanwhile, Blank Street Coffee is moving into the street-level retail space previously occupied by a Starbucks.
Timeline
Georges Makhlouf incorporated the new business in August 2026.
Harry Dulgarian confirmed the identity of the new tenant on October 14, 2026.
Market Landscape
The arrival of these two businesses follows the established pattern of high-turnover retail spaces on Thayer Street. These moves demonstrate how the area continues to attract new hospitality concepts to replace legacy storefronts.
Thayer Street visitors can expect new menu options and potential changes to the retail atmosphere as these businesses complete their renovations. Customers should look for future announcements regarding final grand opening dates for both establishments.
The takeaway
The transformation of Thayer Street storefronts highlights the rotating nature of the local food scene. Residents looking for new dining experiences should keep an eye on upcoming progress at the 252 Thayer Street location.
Further reading
Stay updated on local retail changes by checking the Providence Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by GoLocalProv.
Live Poll
Do you believe new eatery openings on Thayer Street improve the area for local residents?
