In the world of artisan coffee, few stories are as inspiring as that of Carrie Prado, now owner of Retro Coffee in South Asheville. If you’re from Asheville, you may remember Overlook Coffee Collective—a local gem nestled inside the Asheville Outlets. Carrie poured her heart into it. But her journey didn’t begin there.
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Carrie worked for many years under other local businesses, steadily learning the coffee business and dreaming of a space she could call her own. That dream came true with Overlook Coffee. But when Tanger took over the Asheville Outlets, things changed. A more corporate direction meant less marketing freedom and an atmosphere that increasingly prioritized big box brands.
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With her back against the wall, and Starbucks poised to move into her hard-earned space, Carrie made a bold move. She acquired Retro Coffee in South Asheville—right next to Juanchos Fonda, a Latin restaurant with its own comeback story after the devastating hurricane Helene.
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Now, Retro Coffee is thriving. Carrie is more committed than ever to supporting local vendors, offering shelf space and opportunities for other small business owners to grow alongside her.
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A Little History on Tanger: Tanger Outlets was founded in 1981 by Stanley Tanger in Burlington, North Carolina. The Asheville location opened in 2015 with the promise of combining name brands with mountain-town charm. But in recent years, the shift toward national chains and stricter marketing controls has made it harder for independent local vendors to compete or even stay.
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As of 2025, several locally owned stores, including Overlook Coffee, either left voluntarily or were priced out.
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Why Retro Coffee Matters to Asheville: Retro Coffee isn’t just a coffee shop—it’s a symbol of resilience. From artisan brews to an inviting space for creatives and neighbors, it’s become a hub for connection and community.
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So if you’re in Asheville, swing by Retro Coffee. Grab a cup, meet Carrie, and experience what real community tastes like.