Starbucks is officially brewing its iconic cup of coffee in Chardon.
Although the store on the corner of Center and Cherry streets has been serving customers for a few weeks, a ribbon-cutting event on Oct. 20 marked its ceremonial opening. After a snip of the traditional red ribbon, officials, local business owners and others gathered to sip samples of the distinctive java.
Chardon Community Development Administrator Steve Yaney rated the new business as “a pretty big deal” based on the many requests he’s received from residents.
Chardon City Manager Randy Sharpe agreed.
“It’s been asked for since I came here 19 years ago,” he said.
Yaney noted that the prime corner facing two well-traveled streets had been underutilized for years. Prior to the new construction an old, dilapidated home stood on its grounds.
He said now interest has been shown in two nearby properties since the addition of Starbucks’ high profile to the community.
During the initial planning process a drive-thru was proposed to be built facing Center Street which serves as a main entry to the city. Prior to its approval Chardon officials requested that the structure be rotated in order for the patio and frontage to gain more visibility.
Inside the approximately 2,000-square-feet modern building seating is plentiful. Several tables paired with comfortable, padded chairs near large windows give access to light and outdoor views. An extended bench facing a long bank of tables provides more seating options.
Stretching the length of a full wall is the service counter where orders are placed, filled and picked up. The eatery presently allows patrons to dine indoors, unlike some other Starbucks where dining areas are currently closed.
Chardon resident and owner of nearby Chip’s Clubhouse Maureen Cox said that she’s pleased with the addition of the new business.
“It’s a great asset for the city,” she said. “You might think the last thing we need is another coffee shop, but so far it’s been a success.”
Among other coffee shop stops already operating in Chardon are Beans, Buckeye Chocolate Café, Dunkin Donuts and the newly opened Maggie’s Doughnuts on Center Street.
Marci Mondello-King, longtime business owner of Marci’s Hair on the Square, noted that she plans to stop by Starbucks for her favorite dark roast brew.
“I’m excited that they’re here. I think a lot of people are excited,” she said.
One happy customer is 10-year-old Adrianna Yaney. With Starbucks designated as a preferred place for refreshment, the Chardon Middle School student claims that her beverage of choice is strawberry acai lemonade.
The presence of Starbucks underscores the city’s ability to attract global enterprises in addition to local establishments.
“There’s a lot going on here…it shows that (business) can be done from either end of the spectrum, big or small,” said Chardon Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Melissa Ricco, while adding that she hopes the new operation will be good stewards of the community in connection with sponsorships and volunteering.
Chardon Mayor Dan Meleski summed up many of the attendees’ comments regarding the arrival of the prominent cafe to the city.
“We’re glad to have them here and that they’re investing in Chardon,” he said.
Chardon Starbucks is open from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily.
