Business & Tech

ESP Tea & Coffee Opens With New Ownership In Alexandria

The brand opened with new ownership after the former Killer ESP's owner drew criticism for his alleged views.

The former Killer ESP, pictured here in 2019, reopened as ESP Tea & Coffee on Feb. 1, 2021.
The former Killer ESP, pictured here in 2019, reopened as ESP Tea & Coffee on Feb. 1, 2021. (Emily Leayman/Patch)

ALEXANDRIA, VA — ESP Tea & Coffee, a new version of Killer ESP with new ownership, opened Monday at 1012 King Street in Alexandria.

The former Killer ESP was reported to be closed after staff quit in June and November in response to allegations against owner Rob Shelton, as reported by Washingtonian. A former manager told the publication Shelton defied COVID-19 safety policies, and the staff alleged sexual harassment. In June, staff had quit after Killer ESP's Twitter showed comments or likes questioning the COVID-19 pandemic and whether George Floyd's death was staged. Shelton had claimed he didn't send the tweets but indicated to Washingtonian he didn't support COVID-19 restrictions and questioned the Black Lives Matter movement.

The new ESP Tea & Coffee has new ownership and a new brand but is the "same chill spot to enjoy tea, espresso, and snacks," according to its website. The menu includes 35 loose leaf teas, espresso drinks, other specialty drinks, pastries, saltenas and empanadas. On Instagram, the business indicated it is working to bring back old menu favorites in the coming weeks.

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Online ordering is available, and the business is operating with cashless payments. Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. For more information, visit www.espteaandcoffee.com.

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