Voting Home / Specialty Food and Drink / BEST Coffee Shop / 2011 Top 5 Slideshow
French Chocolate Espresso Bar
Born in the tradition of service excellence, Groupe Rim originated on the Cote d’Azur in 1982. Founder and Owner, Rene Kobeitri introduced the concept of around-the-clock service in his markets in Nice, France. Very soon, he expanded and opened shops in Cagnes-sur-Mer and then in Cannes.
By the late 1980's, Rene was the premier caterer to the finest Cote d’Azur hotel establishments such as Beach Plaza (today’s Marriot Hotel) in Monaco, Meridian Hotel, Hyatt Regency, Negressco, in Nice, and Gray d’Albion in Cannes. Around this time, he opened his first restaurant, La Ferme, which served Mediterrean cuisine and featured live entertainment.
In 1989, by lucky coincidence, Rene bought a well-established printing company. This, in time, inspired him to open Mac Mania, where he sold Apple computers. By 1992, he opened the Cesar Center, further expanding his printing business to include banners and signs.
In 1995, Rene created a MAC mobile technology center, “CA COLLE”, in response to the growing technology needs of his community.
In 1999, Rene opened Cyber Mac Mania — the first Apple cyber cafe in Nice, featuring colorful new iMacs and backed by Rene’s self-taught knowledge of Apple technology.
In 2002, Rene opened a small eatery in Nice featuring French fast food.
In 2006, Rene once again expanded Groupe Rim and ventured to the United States. Settling in South Philadelphia’s famous Italian Market, he opened the RIM Cafe’, bringing with him the essence of the French Riviera and the Italian cafe tradition. A year after his arrival, Rene was recognized by Philadelphia magazine for making the city’s best hot chocolate in their June 2007 “Best of Philly” issue.
In 2008, the adventure continues…..
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