~courtesy of The Scranton Journal
Mike Winger’s vision is becoming a reality with the opening this week of The Maker’s Brew Cafe on Scranton’s Main Street. The former grocery store has been completely remodeled and updated into an attractive coffee shop with plans to add a cafe later this year.
The coffee shop is open now from 6:30 am – 1 pm Monday through Friday throughout the winter months. Hours may be expanded in the spring as folks emerge from their winter hibernation.
Mary Brady and Leah Winger will staff the coffee shop which features a full line of specialty coffees. They also have tea, boba (bubble tea) and hot chocolate available in several sizes. For folks who like healthier options, smoothies are also on the menu using a variety of freshly squeezed juices.
Baked goods including muffins, bagels, croissants and more will fill out the menu to complement the drinks.
People are invited to stop in and enjoy the atmosphere or take their beverages and treats “to go”.
To order ahead, call 712-652-3773. They are finalizing the design of an app that will be available for phones and computers. Please ask for more information about that convenience.
“We’re starting with beverages and baked goods but we hope to expand the menu,” said Brady.
The large lower level has seating for about 70 customers when COVID restrictions are lifted. Seating is available at tables, couches and at the counters. One counter table even features a built-in cribbage board.
WiFi is available. There are outlets conveniently located to charge phones and for computer stations.
Both ladies are native of California. Winger moved here about five years ago and is married to Mike’s son Daniel. She has previous experience having worked in coffee shops.
Leah Winger steams milk for latte 
Mary Brady shows some Maker’s Brew Cafe decor
Brady moved here last fall from Idaho. The Brady family includes her husband and seven children. They live upstairs in the building in a remodeled living area.
“We always wanted to have a family business,” said Brady. “It’s always been like a dream.
“We knew Mike and this was a good fit for us at this time in our lives,” she added.
“We both have experience we’re bringing into this,” agreed Winger.
The ladies are eager to greet the customers and learn what their favorite drinks are. They look forward to making new acquaintances.
Mike Winger did most of the remodeling work himself with some help from family and friends. He started 11 years ago with the first project – cleaning out the building that was filled with “stuff”. It’s been a slow process. The past two years he has focused on the lower level but he’s glad to see the project taking shape and the business open.
The south wall features the original brick, adding a nostalgic feel to the facility.
The ladies have added the finishing touches in the past couple of months and are still picking out some final decor.
“We want this to be a very family friendly atmosphere,” explained Brady. “Very mom friendly.”
Winger joked about bringing in her dominoes so customers can play games. That idea was met with other suggestions for games and possibly organizing some tournaments.
They hope that clubs and other organizations will consider holding meetings at Maker’s Brew. They are open to suggestions and willing to work to make the coffee shop available.
Another potential is the display and potential sale of artisan works.
Plans have been made to add a restaurant at the location (1016 Main Street), according to Mike Winger. “It’s in the works and we hope to be open in the spring. I also see a catering potential.”
They have obtained a panel van which will be used for deliveries.
“So far, the people who have come in have been pleasantly surprised with the building,” added Mike. “It’s come a long way in the last couple of weeks.
“We want to get this off to a good start. Scranton is going to get behind it,” announced Mike. “I want to look at everything and in the restaurant, get it to the table. ‘Freaky fast family foods!’
“Please stop in and give us a try.”
