(Photo credit: Rebecca Atwood / Atomic Clock Photography)
As of October 1st, 2023, Riffraff has new owners! Ottavia De Luca and Lucas Mann have officially moved in as its proud new proprietors! They are overjoyed to continue the legacy of this special little store.
Ottavia has been working in wine and spirits in Rhode Island for over a decade. She was the manager at Eno Fine Wines, and from there went on to run the operations at The Wine Brothers, a local independent importer/distributor. She is also an active part of Rhode Island’s creative community as a core member of OUT LOUD Theatre. She will be taking over all operations of the bookstore and bar, dreaming up big and small ideas for how to continue to make Riffraff thrive.
Lucas is the author of four books of nonfiction. He is an associate professor of English and Writing at UMass Dartmouth. With his extensive reach in the literary community, Lucas will be piloting the author readings and events, as well as leading monthly literary trivia and open mic nights.
They are longtime residents of the West End of Providence, and have been coming to Riffraff since day 1 (even helping shelve books in the early days!). They hosted their baby shower there, and found community throughout the darkest pandemic months in Riffraff’s wonderful courtyard.
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Previous owner Tom Roberge opened Riffraff in 2017 along with co-founder Emma Ramadan. As veterans of the publishing world, bookselling, and translation, they drew inspiration for the space from the best independent bookstores and neighborhood bars alike, establishments that are welcoming and comfortable and integral to the community. It's the kind of place where readers looking for a selection of thoughtfully curated books might sit down at the bar and ask their neighbor what they’re reading, and where those meeting a friend for a good inexpensive drink might also pick up a book at the same time.
Riffraff was only possible through an incredible amount of financial and moral support from friends, family, and community investors. Thanks to all of you — you know who you are.
All design and fabrication, in the bookstore and bar, was done by JOSHUA KAMPA.