Precious Café, a locally owned and operated restaurant, will soon be opening in Altoona, according to a recent filing with the State of Florida. The restaurant will be located at 42247 State Road 19, in a rural area unpopulated by restaurants—which is what makes this development so notable.
“We’re going to stick with southern American food,” Owner Maggie Simeon tells What Now Orlando. “BBQ, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, pulled pork, and baked beans. But my restaurant will be a little unique. It’s not just southern food—I’ll also provide boba drinks at a cafe separate from the dining area.”
When asked about the story behind the location and her motivation to open a restaurant in Altoona, Simeon says “I purchased the building in 2018 and I was supposed to open it in the coming months—then the world changed with COVID and shut me down. But what motivated me to open this in Altoona is that this place is a ghost town and there’s nothing there for the locals. I was motivated to bring them a place to hang out, to come do homework with WiFi without having to go into town.”
Simeon was also enthusiastic about the building’s particular history.
“The building is a landmark. It’s the original post office of Altoona, Florida. That’s why the location is important to me.”
And when will the café finally open?
“I’m looking to open on Feburary 14th, 2023, the day of love, so I can give love to the community”
