A month ago, the space next to The String Corner in the village of Camillus was a classroom and workshop; string instruments in various stages of repair, music stands and books filled the area.
But that was a month ago. The space has since been transformed into Cafe Montero, a full service coffee shop slated to open Monday, July 7.
Michael and Jennifer Montero started sketching out plans for the coffee shop just six months ago, though Jennifer has wanted her own coffee shop since she was a teen.
I suppose you could say that things just fell into place, Michael said of how quickly the project came together.
Though the pair had luck on their side – Jennifer was thrilled to see how well the carpet matched some wall decor she ordered online – they have been putting in long hours and a lot of hard work, replacing layers of carpet with new flooring, painting, erecting counters.
The Monteros are aiming to create a place where people can gather and enjoy coffee, desserts or grab a quick breakfast in a comfortable atmosphere.
Baked goods – muffins, coffee cake, danish, cookies, bagels, pies, cake and cannollis will fill the display cases while coffee and ice cream sundaes are made behind the counter – though that variety will be expanding over time.
And in the fall, Jennifer hopes to serve homemade soups and sandwiches.
The musically inclined couple also plan to offer live music on Friday and Saturday nights, and will have outdoor seating available while the weather cooperates.
Cafe Montero is located at 57 Genesee Street in the village of Camillus, and is open seven days a week: Monday 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
