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Dolce and Bean has been a cherished member of the Del Ray small business community since opening on Mount Vernon Avenue in April 2017. The 2021 winner of the Del Ray Business Association’s Heart of Del Ray award for exemplifying the “heart and soul” of Del Ray, Dolce and Bean is beloved by local residents and Alexandria visitors alike. Petros welcomes each guest like they are family, spreading his generosity and warmth to all those whom he encounters.
Petros worked tirelessly to keep the shop open throughout the challenges of COVID and, facing rising costs, he took on debt to keep the business operating. Petros has made the very difficult decision to close the shop and is working diligently to pay off the business’ debt. As he works through this transition, we wanted to show him the support and care he has shown the community and provide others an opportunity to do so as well.
All money raised will be provided to Petros to help pay down the business’ debt and to allow him to start a new chapter with the dignity and grace with which he operated Dolce and Bean for nearly a decade.
Nominations for Del Ray Business Association's Heart of Del Ray Award
- Petros from Dolce & Bean is the nicest, most welcoming business owner! He always greets guests with a smile, and new customers with free chocolate! His spirit, even throughout Covid, has put a smile on my face, as well as lightened up the community atmosphere!
- Petros is wonderful and the nicest man around. We’re so lucky to have him and his business in Del Ray.
- Petros is always so kind and personable. He makes you feel you’re his most special client every time you go in.
- In a year like 2020, when the world gave us limited things to smile about, Petros always found a way to put a big smile on the faces of every person (particularly children) who walked through the doors of Dolce and Bean. In addition to the tasty treats he sells, the real heart of this store is Petros and his general attitude. He takes the time to get to know all of his customers (I really think may know every child in Del Ray at this point) and has fostered a culture in his store of exactly what I think of when I think of the word "community."
- Dolce & Bean is a great location for families to gather for great treats. The owner is great with children and embodies the values of our Del Ray community.
Organizer and beneficiary
Petros Ghebre-Egziabher
Beneficiary