‘It’s a good time to start.’ New downtown Bellefonte cafe opens amid COVID-19 pandemic
Despite opening last week in the middle of a pandemic, business is brewing at a new cafe in Bellefonte, and its owner hopes it’ll serve something customers won’t forget.
While many business owners were adjusting to a new normal amid the statewide shutdown, Heather Lingle was gearing up to open My Cafe Buzz, located at 325 W. High St. in Bellefonte. With a new paint job and revamped menu, the former home of Bella Vino Wine Bar is now serving baked goods, coffee, ice cream and more.
“It’s starting out slow, but I think because we’re new at this, it’s a good time to start,” Lingle said. “Then, we can perfect everything before we fully open up.”
With a name inspired by some beekeeper friends, Lingle hopes to donate a portion of her earnings to bee conservation efforts. For now, “buzz” refers to the wide variety of coffee, tea and pastries inside, she said.
“Between my mother and myself, we bake muffins and cupcakes every other day and odds and end cookies,” Lingle said. “I have a baker that comes in twice a week and does pocket pies and breads — things that are a little more time consuming.”
Since last week’s opening, Lingle said the community has been “very supportive.” Customers can call in their order and pick it up at the curb or by using the porch at the side of the building.
Lingle said she is excited to invite customers inside so they can see the redecorated “mystical” interior. But most of all, she’s eager for them to be able to sit on the deck and enjoy the scenery of Talleyrand Park and downtown Bellefonte.
“It’s definitely a relaxing atmosphere,” she said. “I want it to be something people don’t forget.”
My Cafe Buzz is open from 8-2 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
This story was originally published May 15, 2020 at 2:39 PM.
