Dragon of Gibson Sotheby’s Commercial represents Virginia’s Café & Market in 3,728 s/f lease

Reading, MA William Dragon, commercial broker with Gibson Sotheby’s Commercial, represented Virginia’s Café & Market in securing retail space at 26 Haven St. in downtown. The landlord was represented by Jeremy Cyrier of Mansard Commercial Properties, listing agent for the property.

Virginia’s Café & Market has leased 3,728 s/f of retail space formerly occupied by Pamplemousse Gourmet Market. Located near the local commuter rail station, the property sits in the downtown corridor.

The Portuguese-inspired café and specialty market was scheduled to officially open in February, introducing a rich dining and retail experience to the community. Inspired by owner Jake Chaves’ Portuguese heritage, the café will feature Portuguese coffee, teas, house-baked pastries, sandwiches, and a curated specialty market offering imported goods including olive oils, cheeses, jams, and canned seafood.

Dragon worked closely with Chaves throughout the site selection and lease negotiation process to secure a space aligned with the café’s operational goals and long-term vision. 

Chaves shared that the café is named in honor of his great-grandmother, Virginia, whose Portuguese sweet bread inspired the business. He described his vision as creating “a warm, welcoming space that celebrates Portuguese culture” and establishing more than just a café – but a true neighborhood gathering place for the Reading community.

“We are incredibly excited to help bring Virginia’s Café & Market to downtown Reading,” said Dragon. “This is the type of locally driven, culturally inspired concept that adds real character and energy to a downtown. 26 Haven St. offers strong visibility, steady foot traffic, and immediate proximity to the commuter rail – an ideal foundation for long-term success.”

Dragon also emphasized the collaborative spirit of the transaction; “Working with Jeremy Cyrier was a true pleasure,” Dragon said. “Jeremy was thoughtful, proactive, and instrumental in helping structure a deal that worked for both ownership and the tenant. We were both genuinely excited about bringing this business to downtown Reading, and that shared enthusiasm helped move the transaction forward smoothly and efficiently.”