Lionheart Coffee to Open in Former Starbucks Location in Playhouse Square

The new cafe will join the original Lionheart Coffee in the 5th Street Arcades.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Lionheart Coffee, owned by Hangry Brands, is slated to open its second downtown cafe, taking the space vacated by the national coffee powerhouse Starbucks in the shadow of the iconic Playhouse Square chandelier. The new location, dubbed Lionheart Reserve, will offer a 'stepped-up coffee experience' and an expanded food menu compared to the original Lionheart Coffee.

Why it matters

The opening of Lionheart Reserve in the prominent Playhouse Square location represents a win for the local coffee brand and the neighborhood, filling a gap in the market left by the closure of the national Starbucks chain. It also signals continued investment and revitalization in the Playhouse Square district.

The details

Hangry Brands plans to restore the physical space to its former glory, reopening the second floor and exposing the original ceiling, crown molding, and architecture that was previously concealed by bland renovations. In addition to classic and specialty coffee and tea drinks, Lionheart Reserve will offer an expanded food menu to better complement the Playhouse Square location.

  • Lionheart Coffee is expected to open Lionheart Reserve later this year.

The players

Lionheart Coffee

A local coffee brand owned by Hangry Brands that is opening its second downtown cafe location in the former Starbucks space in Playhouse Square.

Hangry Brands

The parent company of Lionheart Coffee that is overseeing the opening of the new Lionheart Reserve location in Playhouse Square.

Playhouse Square

The iconic entertainment district in downtown Cleveland where the new Lionheart Reserve cafe will be located.

Craig Hassall

The president of Playhouse Square, who expressed excitement about welcoming the local Lionheart Coffee brand to the district.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“For Hangry Brands to be a part of the Playhouse Square District, in such an iconic corner of Cleveland, is just such an honor.”

— Julia Licastro, Vice President and Partner, Hangry Brands (clevescene.com)

“This was once one of the most unique and coolest coffee shops in the region, and it will be that again. We're also going to bring the design back to its original glory, which includes exposing the original ceiling, crown molding and architecture, as well as eliminating the added drop ceiling.”

— Julia Licastro, Vice President and Partner, Hangry Brands (clevescene.com)

“We are thrilled to welcome a local champion in the form of Hangry Brands to the Playhouse Square District. As a personal fan of Lionheart Coffee, I am so pleased to see this wonderful addition to our portfolio for residents and visitors alike.”

— Craig Hassall, Playhouse Square President (clevescene.com)

What’s next

Lionheart Reserve is expected to open later this year, joining other new retail options in the Playhouse Square district such as Encore, Ben & Jerry's, Something Good Social Kitchen, the Brasserie and Friar's Table.

The takeaway

The opening of Lionheart Reserve in the prominent Playhouse Square location represents a win for the local coffee brand and the neighborhood, filling a gap in the market left by the closure of the national Starbucks chain and signaling continued investment and revitalization in the district.