Last May, I posted about “The Fantastic Future of 884 Main Street,” which, I am happy to say, is finally upon us. At the time, I reported that Michael Lignos, owner of MTL Contracting Company, and his wife Jaclyn, had struck up a franchise deal with Kaylena Marie’s Artisan Bakery and Café, to open a bakery and café in the former home to Roxy’s Bar.
Just yesterday, I was afforded an opportunity to witness all of the hard work that has been infused into what was previously just a shell of a building, quite literally. The result? Simply marvelous.
What could have been another sad architectural loss for the city has turned out to be a significant preservation win, thanks to the fortitude of Mike and Jaclyn who took a huge leap of faith. In fact, if it had not been for Mike’s affiliation with his contracting company, this building might never have stood a chance. That’s how big of an investment this was in the end.
Located at 884 Main Street, next to Coco Bar & Bistro, Kaylena Marie’s Artisan Bakery + Café is one of three franchise locations, with a location-specific menu.
Thanks to Jaclyn, who got her chops working in the hospitality industry, and who is a self taught baker, visitors to the neighborhood will soon have access to fresh, in-house, daily-baked treats such as gourmet cupcakes, cookies, squares, crumbles, strudel, bars, brownies, breads, and everything in-between. More substantial lunch meals will feature grilled turkey and avocado, grilled ham and swiss, and a California quesadilla. Salads, wraps, and sandwiches will be available for in-house orders, to-go, or via the catering menu (perfect for workers at The Medical Campus). There’s also a breakfast menu with all sorts of sweet and savory options, including artisan French toast and a chipotle power burrito.
Of course there is a full list of espresso and specialty drinks such as chai latte, caramel macchiato, gourmet hot chocolate, cold and hot teas, etc. The café has hired three full time baristas and two lead bakers who are embarking upon career opportunities with perks, instead of simply fulfilling job requirements…