Artisan becomes Underground Cafe
The space will be revamped, while maintaining a similar atmosphere.
Published Sept. 11, 2009
After seven years as a community staple, the Cherry Street Artisan will close its doors this week. But fear not coffee-lovers, this hideaway venue will reopen soon as the Underground Cafe.
Since opening in 2002, the Artisan has served as a hub for local musicians and artists to make their own way. It's been a place for friends to meet and students to study with a good cup of coffee. But these ideals are not lost in the rising of the Underground Cafe.
The new theme is the brainchild of owner Laurie McAllister, who decided it was time to remodel the quaint restaurant. McAllister has worked at the Artisan for years and acquired ownership from its original management as of earlier this year. She said she sees this as an opportunity to make her mark on the business. McAllister will remodel the building with her children, Ryan and Katelyn McAllister, who will also help run the business.
Upcoming changes include a slight modification of the original Artisan image. McAllister said the cafe seeks to be a more family friendly environment, particularly during the day. This change entails a children's play area, a brightened atmosphere and expanded breakfast and appetizer menus. McAllister will seek to maintain the small, intimate music venue setting in the evening. She ensures many of the old comforts patrons have come to expect will remain.
"It will stay a place where you can have a cup of coffee and read, or have a glass of wine and enjoy an acoustic show," McAllister said.
Employee Mallory Benedict describes the change as positive. She has been an employee of the coffee shop for a year.
"We'll still have the same ambiance, we'll still have good coffee and good music," Benedict said. "It'll just look different."
Benedict also said she is anticipating the new line of Intelligentsia coffee that will be served, describing it as a better brand of coffee.
Given the Artisan's long relationship with the community, patrons might find themselves anxious about the changes. McAllister expects a positive community reaction, hoping patrons come in finding the Cafe "enhanced," and enjoy it even more.
A new direction is being taken in regards to the art gallery side as well. In the past, two artists have held two-month time slots on the venue's walls. McAllister describes the new set-up as having six or so different artists holding semi-permanent spaces, replacing their own art as it is sold. She also encourages interested student artists to contribute their work for display and sale.
As stated on the Artisan Web site, the original intent was "to explore the Good, the True, and the Beautiful in art and ideas," seeking to be a positive contribution to the community. McAllister said she strives to remain a positive influence in the community, maintaining many of the traditions established by the Artisan. Regardless of a new face, a changing of hands and a new name on the door, this burrow on Cherry Street will surely remain a staple in Columbia for years to come.
