NORRISTOWN — A mother-daughter duo received a $100,000 grant earlier this week to assist with the development of a new restaurant in downtown Norristown.
“I am super excited. There’s a lot of opportunity on Main Street,” said Ricole Morgan, of Simply Divine Catering.
Morgan addressed members of the Norristown Municipal Council during a work session on Tuesday to share her plans for the space, located at 14 W. Main St.
Morgan, and her mother, Juanita Cody, both of Conshohocken, were being considered for the six-figure grant funded through the Community Development Block Grant Main Street Economic Development and Job Creation and Retention Assistance Program.
Morgan shared how their business arrangement has two parts: Morgan’s business savvy and Cody’s culinary expertise spanning three decades.
Together, Morgan emphasized how this venture shows their strengths as they aim to bring “home cooked meals” to Norristown.
“Our vision is to serve happiness to our customers through delicious, quality food and extraordinary restaurant experience, while working toward the greater good for our employees, community and environment,” Morgan said in her presentation.
The space, which municipal officials said was the former Sound of Music record store, was purchased by Cody and Morgan in July 2021.
When all is said and done, Morgan said the two-level space will feature “modern decor,” accommodating 52 seats, counter space and limited seating on the terrace.
Cody and Morgan have set their hours of operation from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday, as they hope to attract the area’s “lunch rush.” Morgan added that the menu will include fresh food, as well as vegan and vegetarian options.
“It’s going to be made with love, care and from scratch,” Morgan said.
Morgan also touted the company’s plans for the incorporation of weekly specials and online ordering capabilities.
“There’s a need for good food at affordable prices,” she said.
Morgan told council members how the “centrally located” building could offer opportunities for foot traffic from nearby offices such as the Montgomery County Court House, the Norristown Transportation Center, the Norristown Police Department, the Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library, as well as other administration offices.
In addition, the catering side would offer “onsite and offsite catering services,” as well as “private event space” and “prepared holiday meals and individual packaged lunches for company events,” Morgan said in her presentation.
Additionally, establishing a relationship with the community of Norristown was something of great importance to Morgan and Cody. Morgan said the formation of that bond would include local hiring practices.
Their business plan included the potential for staffing 12 positions, including seven food service employees, according to municipal officials.
As of Dec. 31, 2021, they’ve invested $174,340, according to municipal officials. The $100,000 grant fund would cover the cost of several construction projects including ceiling, drywall, flooring, and roof replacements, retrofits to the kitchen’s ceiling, bathroom and door. Additional spending initiatives included upgrades to the HVAC, plumbing and water heater.
Morgan said there’s an anticipated opening date of summer 2022. While catering restaurant concept is still in its early stages, Morgan said she and Cody would like to “start with Norristown,” with the potential to expand, launching other locations in Montgomery County.
Ultimately, the municipality’s elected officials approved the grant award in a 6-0 vote. Norristown Municipal Council Vice President Heather Lewis was absent from Tuesday’s session.
“The ayes have it. Congratulations. Good luck,” said Norristown Municipal Council President Thomas Lepera.
