Red Otter Coffee is bringing cozy vibes and handcrafted drinks to Buffalo’s Kenmore neighborhood. Located at 3147A Delaware Ave., the new independent coffee shop opened June 6 and has already received a warm welcome from the community.
To mark its official debut, Red Otter will host a grand opening celebration on July 15, featuring festivities and 50% off all regular-sized drinks.
Housed in the former Painted Lady Consignment Shop, the 1,200-square-foot café blends modern design with a welcoming atmosphere. With bar seating at the front window, two-top tables, and a loveseat, the shop currently seats 20 guests indoors — with plans to expand as the business grows.
Founders Victoria Mamat and Robert Nunnally left behind corporate careers to follow their dream of building a neighborhood gathering spot focused on connection, quality, and community.
“We wanted to create a space where people feel seen and valued — and where a cup of coffee might just change the course of someone’s day,” said Mamat.
Victoria brings food service experience, while Robert now manages the café full time. The duo chose Kenmore for its walkability and lack of independent coffee options.
“We were looking for a neighborhood that had foot traffic but few local options,” said Nunnally. “Kenmore felt right — we saw a real opportunity to offer something different and personal.”
Red Otter’s menu includes specialty espresso drinks, teas, and smoothies made with beans and ingredients from Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea in Columbus, Ohio. Local pastries — including muffins, scones, and cheesecake bites — round out the offerings.
The couple launched their venture with the help of Crimson Cup’s 7 Steps to Success program, which has supported over 300 indie coffee shops in 37 states.
“The main thing we knew about opening a coffee shop was that we didn’t know what we were doing,” said Nunnally. “Crimson Cup gave us a framework, practical coaching, and honest expectations. It’s been invaluable.”
Mamat and Nunnally said one of the most valuable lessons was designing the layout for maximum efficiency and flow — especially important for a shop that plans to grow.
“Crimson Cup helped us build something uniquely ours, but backed with real expertise,” said Mamat. “They don’t sugarcoat the process — they prepare you for it. That made all the difference.”
Red Otter joins a growing stretch of independent food and beverage businesses along Delaware Avenue, including Fattey Beer, Macy’s Place Pizza and Nowhere Lounge.
The shop will host its grand opening celebration on July 15. Stop in July 15 for 50% off regular drinks and help welcome Kenmore’s newest coffee shop.
