Twosome Place Will Open First US Cafe in Old Town
The South Korean coffee chain is launching its debut American location at 404 King Street on October 17.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Twosome Place will hold a grand opening event for its inaugural U.S. location on October 17. The cafe will operate at 404 King Street in Alexandria, serving as the first stateside expansion for the brand.
Why it matters
This opening marks the beginning of the company's U.S. expansion strategy following its 2021 acquisition by The Carlyle Group. The cafe aims to establish a foothold in the American market after managing over 1,700 locations in South Korea.
The chain operates over 1,700 cafes in South Korea. The new Alexandria location will host an opening event from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The players
Twosome Place
This South Korean coffee chain operates more than 1,700 locations internationally.
The Carlyle Group
This global investment firm acquired Twosome Place in 2021.
The details
The grand opening will feature free coffee and cake samples from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., along with a gashapon capsule giveaway between 10 a.m. and noon. The first 100 guests in attendance will receive a free branded tote bag.
Timeline
Twosome Place was founded in 2002.
The Carlyle Group acquired the chain in 2021.
The chain announced plans for U.S. locations in November 2025.
The grand opening occurs on October 17, 2026.
Market Landscape
This move reflects a broader trend of South Korean retail franchises expanding into the U.S. market to diversify their international portfolios. It positions the brand to compete within the established American coffee shop sector.
Local residents can visit the new King Street location during the opening event to receive promotional items and free samples. Future company-owned locations in the U.S. are expected to follow in subsequent years.
The takeaway
Customers should arrive early during the grand opening weekend to secure the limited promotional tote bags. This launch serves as a trial for the brand to adapt its established South Korean service model to local American consumer preferences.
Further reading
For more information on other local business changes, visit the Alexandria section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ALXnow | Alexandria, Va. breaking news, local events and community happenings.
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