Back in April, we talked about the arrival of Kornerstone Coffee, which was opening in Larkinville. Since that time, the business – Kornerstone Café & Juice Bar – has been making significant strides within the historic Larkin Center of Commerce. Located on the first floor of the building, in a sizable space, the coffee shop is Larkinville’s newest eatery, serving up locally roasted, freshly brewed coffees, and a variety of food offerings. Aside from the vast array of café provisions and libations, including house-brewed kombucha, acai-hemp-pitaya bowls, and sandwiches, Kornerstone also prides itself on being open six days a week (closed on Sunday).
When it comes to the coffees, pressed juices, smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, soups, etc., Kornerstone offers up the healthiest ingredients possible, which is the reason that it has amassed such a loyal following over the years.
“We are honored to share our passion for healthy nutrition with the community,” said owner Jamie Dinero, the head of this growing family operation. “We invite everyone to stop in and try one of our delicious menu items, including our fresh cold-pressed juices, fruit- and veggie-based smoothies, sandwiches, salads, homemade soups and, of course, our very own artisan roasted coffee. We have plenty of vegan and vegetarian options available, too. Everything we serve is all natural, with no artificial colors or flavors added. I also love the way coffee brings people together to share moments and build community. To be able to pair that with my other passion — which is making simple, clean food — is truly a dream come true.”
A visit to Kornerstone Café & Juice Bar is not just about the food and drink, it’s also about the overall experience. Guests to the café or greeted with historic photos of the building, a mural by local artist Alix Martin, and furniture that is sourced locally from reclaimed wood. If that was not enough, the back of the café features a glass wall where people can view historic objects in The Larkin Gallery (inset photo above – free and open to the public).
From humble beginnings serving her distinct locally roasted coffees at WNY farmer’s markets (she began roasting coffee in Kenmore in 2010), to opening her first brick and mortar in East Aurora in 2016, now with a second permanent spot in Larkinville, Dinero has certainly shown what can happen to those who work hard to build their brands the right way.
Kornerstone Cafe & Juice Bar @ Larkin, at 701 Seneca St., Buffalo, is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Orders can be placed in advance by calling 3716-322-0237. Online ordering is also offered at kornestonecafe.com.