Evolve opens in Lakeside, replaces Starbucks | Business News

Evolve Coffee + Matcha, a New Orleans-based specialty café, is continuing its expansion across the metro area with the opening of a third location inside Lakeside Shopping Center.

The new Evolve is a freestanding kiosk that was formerly a Starbucks location in the Dillard wing of the mall. It sits near another new addition to Lakeside — Arhaus, a furniture and accessories store that was previously located in the South Market District near the Caesars Superdome.

Evolve’s expansion comes five years after New Orleans native Yvonne Pichoff opened the first Evolve on W. Esplanade Avenue in Metairie. She opened a second location on Harrison Avenue in Lakeview in 2023.

In a city with dozens of beloved neighborhood coffee shops and cafes, Evolve has tried to distinguish itself as a purveyor not only of gourmet coffee but of ceremonial-grade matcha, which is a finely grown powder made from Japanese green tea leaves. 

“Bringing Evolve to Lakeside is a natural next step for us,” Pichoff said in a prepared statement. “Whether someone’s running errands or meeting up with friends, we want them to have a moment to pause, recharge, and enjoy something made with care.”

The kiosk will feature Evolve specialty drinks, classic espresso drinks, matcha lattes, and a rotating selection of herbal and traditional teas. It will have a limited menu of sweet and savory pastries, as well as light breakfast and lunch items designed to be eaten on the go.

A spokesperson for Evolve said it’s too soon to say whether future locations are in the cards. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Evolve to Lakeside Shopping Center,” said Lisa Manzella, General Manager of Lakeside Shopping Center. “Even better, they’re a local New Orleans brand bringing quality, heart, and a true sense of community to the space.”