The team behind The Mercantile Cafe and Sweet Simplicity Bakery in Manchester are planning to open a coffee bar adjacent to the two existing businesses, according to a Facebook announcement earlier this month. The new coffee bar is slated to open at 216 N. Irwin Street in early summer, according to a video announcement posted this month.
In the announcement, owner Renee Holt shared that construction is underway on the space, which will feature seating for 15 customers indoors as well as some outdoor seating options.
“We want it to be small and intimate,” Holt said in the announcement. “If you want to come in and eat, you can.”
The coffee bar will serve beloved Nashville-based coffee brand Crema Coffee. Syrups will be made in house, and the shop will offer freshly ground coffee to customers, as well.
“We’re super excited about the Crema brand and about having a coffee house on this side of town,” Holt said in the announcement.
It will also feature a food menu different from items served at The Mercantile Cafe next door, including sandwiches, breakfast bagels, salads and pastries. Since there will be limited seating, there will be grab-and-go food options, as well.
The design for the space will include art from local artists lining the walls. Artists will be able to sell the art to customers, and change the art they choose to display. Customers can also expect cozy touches such as a sofa and a bookcase in the layout of the space.
Holt shared on social media that the spot will be open Monday through Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday hours are expected to be 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Since The Mercantile Cafe is closed on Monday and Tuesday, she hopes that the coffee bar will serve as a helpful breakfast and lunch option for locals.
“It’s going to be really cool, and I’m excited for you guys to see what we have coming,” Holt said in the announcement.
