While permitting and construction delays have pushed the timeline back slightly, the café remains on track to open this fall.
The name is a play on “aura” while also referencing the prefix “ora,” which Seymour said reflects communication, connection, and bringing people together.
Seymour is the founder of Uncommon City Church and serves as a commissioner with the St. Petersburg Housing Authority. He has also held several civic leadership roles throughout the city.
In addition to serving coffee, the space will host meetings for Uncommon City, neighborhood associations, local nonprofits, and city-led educational classes on topics such as financial literacy.
Café Ora’s menu will feature classic espresso drinks, matcha lattes, teas, organic sodas, mushroom coffees, breakfast sandwiches, baked goods, and light afternoon fare.
Operator and general manager Allison Nash is also developing a lineup of signature coffee drinks inspired by the surrounding neighborhoods.
Beginning Thursday afternoons, Café Ora will transition into an evening gathering space with beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and neighborhood programming that could include jazz performances, comedy, and spoken word.