While Judy Frizlen was busy chatting it up at the Shea’s Seneca dedication, I decided that I would spend some time wandering around the building in search of the new businesses that had recently opened, and others that were soon to open.
All four of the new shops – Public Espresso & Coffee (coming soon), April Spencer Floral Design (open), Cantina 62 (coming soon), and Bottle Rocket Beer Reserve (open), are accessible from Seneca Street, or by the interior corridors that lead to the rear of the businesses. This makes it super convenient, especially in the winter. It’s a bit similar to a market experience. Plus, the interior of Shea’s Seneca is gorgeous – when there is an event underway, and the businesses are all open, it will be quite the refreshing, fun-filled experience. It should be noted that the team of Molly and Bill Koessler was tapped as the in-house banquet and catering operators.
Let’s start with Bottle Rocket Beer Reserve. The business has a number of hard to find draught brews on tap, and also sells unique beers by the can. You can fill up a six pack and take the beers home with you, or you can crack them open and sit at the bar, or at one of the tables. The large screen TV will show music concerts, and will also be used for video gaming competitions. This place is designed for the hop head in your life.
[smart-grid]
[/smart-grid]
Next up is Cantina 62, a Mexican-American taco joint that will serve up “hand prepared and unique food” in a fun family atmosphere.
“Founded in 2016 we strive to create a fun family atmosphere, inviting our guests a to wide variety of exciting and creative food as well a full selection of beverages both alcoholic with beer, wine and margaritas, as well as non-alcoholic with Mexican sodas, coffees and fresh juices. Table service is available at your preference but counter ordering is preferred.” – Cantina 62
From there, we get an initial glimpse of the new Public Espresso & Coffee space, which already has a super cool vibe with the dizzying black and white floor tiles, a vibrant yellow bar, and snazzy red-orange furniture. Mondo cinema posters will adorn the walls. Once open, the café will feature all of the great coffees, pastries, etc. that we have come to love, with beer and wine at a future date. The business will serve as a lively café anchor on the street, similar to the one that is located at The Hotel @ The Lafayette.
[smart-grid]
[/smart-grid]
Finally, we have April Spencer Floral Design, which is housed in a beautiful domed space unlike anything else in the building. April has done a smashing job of creating wonderful looking display windows, and a matching interior floral spread. It’s a super cozy space, especially with the wood floors.
[smart-grid]
[/smart-grid]
Altogether, it’s a great mix of businesses that will all do their part to draw people to the building. It’s a great time for Seneca Street thanks to the vision of Schneider Development Services, and everyone else that came together to get the project off the ground. Developer Jake Schneider told me that in five years, Seneca Street will be just as great as Elmwood Avenue. Now that this solid anchor building is in place, with all of the tenants ready to do business, there’s going to be a ripple effect up and down the street.