The Old Brick Café- Here To Stay
April 14, 2005

It’s been a long, cold, lonely winter and with the first burst of spring we can all celebrate a birth in the center of town: The Old Brick Café is here! Thanks to the vision and efforts of Williston resident David Herskowitz & Company, locals have a newly renovated historical landmark right in the heart of Williston village to call “home.” Beautifully restored and updated with master craftsmanship maple woodwork and fresh mint and saffron colors, this darling little respite truly is better than coming home ever was. It features a killer espresso machine that has been seasoned and blessed by local CoffeeGod, Don Holly. Delectable baked goods by Williston Baker Mike Grillo are fresh and ready to go each morning at 7 am sharp. Chef Tom Norcross and staff effortlessly juggle multiple breakfast orders while turning out one of the best omelets I have ever eaten: filled with fresh spinach, portabella mushrooms and feta cheese, it was a stunner for the eye, palate and stomach. Rustic loaves of bread are now being offered daily for $4.25 each: Whole Wheat, Honey Oat White, and Whole Grain loaves, a godsend in a bread-poor town. With a call to 872-9599 you can preorder scones, muffins and other goodies to treat your office mates, or lock in a rush lunch order that might include a fresh veggie wrap, a French dip or a colorful Greek salad.

From the street you’d never guess that there are fifty seats inside this tiny brick house- super host, David, did an excellent job of dedicating space. There is a lovely private room that would be ideal for a breakfast meeting or company luncheon for 10-20 people. I kept envisioning cooking classes, a wine tasting party and early dinners in these rooms, or a private reception on the delightful patio, but David cautioned my enthusiasm for the moment. He has a conditional use permit for the property that allows business to transact daily only until 3 pm; he is in the process of applying to the Developmental Review Board for extended use. So, if you know anyone on this Board, or feel like sending a message to the town, lobby hard for a Williston social scene: dinners on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings- that’s what’s up next on the Old Brick Café menu.

Kim Dannies is a graduate of La Varenne Cooking School in France. She lives in Williston, VT with her husband, Jeff, and three college–aged daughters who come and go. ©2008