A real-life Central Perk Coffee House, a la the “Friends” television show, is opening in Boston. Its Tuesday debut is also set to honor late actor Matthew Perry for his role as Chandler due to his recent passing.
According to People Magazine, the cafe’s grand opening was delayed after Perry passed away on Oct. 28.
People also noted the coffee shop’s press release detailed that customers who visit the shop during its first day of operation will receive a special Chandler-themed treat.
It stated, “Central Perk Coffeehouse will distribute the Chandler Bing ‘Can I Interest You in a Sarcastic Comment’ sleeve exclusively for the entire day, in honor of the life and enduring legacy of Matthew Perry.”
Inside the new venue sits a familiar orange couch, much like the one where six friends often came together in the show.
Friends memorabilia is on sale throughout the shop, and the decor is designed to pay homage to the hit comedy, not imitate it.
A wall-sized image of the fountain from the show’s opening sequence is the first thing guests see when they come down the entrance steps.
An oversized image of a cup and saucer is also featured, as well as a golden duck and chicken cutout on the hall door leading to the bathrooms.
Glen Coben, founder and principal designer of Glen & Co Architecture, stated the modernized design was created to give fans the feeling that they are part of the show.
Although the “Friends” craze began nearly 30 years ago, it is still a popular show, so the Central Perk Coffee House is a vision of what its atmosphere would be like today.
Coban noted that only, “The historical elements are black and white.”
“The idea is the one with … you,” he added.
“So this is a place for everybody to come. The show is no longer in production, but you get to create your own stories here now,” he concluded