In the past year, the Chadds Ford Barn Shops have undergone a renaissance thanks to father-daughter duo John Anderson and Bri Brant. The latest iteration in their modernizations is a new eatery, Chadds Cafe + Store, which will host a grand opening on Sept. 15 from 12-6 p.m.
“We envisioned a year-round spot that can serve as a social anchor for the shops, as well as the community at large,” says Brant, noting that Chadds fulfills a need in the community. “We want the cafe to be an oasis to chill and unwind, perhaps toting along a laptop or getting the family out of the house for a break. We’re so excited to host neighbors, businesspeople and tourists alike here.”
The father-daughter team purchased the shops in February 2017, injecting energy into the artisan village which includes Chrome Salon, Besoul Studio, Green Meadows Florist, Lynn Victoria Cosmetic & Medical Skin Care, Barbara Moore Fine Art Gallery and Yoga Underground as well as Brandt’s own chic handbag and accessory shop, Arden + James.
“The barn-style cafe is authentic in its approach,” adds Anderson. “We wanted the place to fit in with the rest of the community by maintaining its rustic design and using repurposed materials where possible.”
The space is cozy and intimate with a fresh coat of white paint, vibrant red Adirondack chairs, natural light, comfortable indoor and outdoor seating and a newly-installed pergola where customers can appreciate the country views while enjoying a latte or snack.
Related: Meet the Local Family Breathing New Life into the Chadds Ford Barn Shops
The must-try seasonal menu from accomplished chef and renowned potter Pam Lau—of local restaurants Talula’s Table and Sovana Bistro—will focus on crafted sandwiches, savory soups, crisp salads and decadent desserts, including pies, scones and cookies.
Sit-and-sip or grab-and-go smoothies, teas, espresso drinks and nitro cold brew will be available as the cafe partners locally with Brandywine Coffee Roasters of Delaware creating a signature “Barn Shops” coffee blend.
Popular Woodside Farm Creamery ice cream and Romano’s Original Stromboli will also be featured on the menu.
1609 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford.
