By Matthew Avitabile
JEFFERSON — Kim Tom and Dan Berke have great hopes for 170 Main Street in Jefferson, planning to turn the current Middle Brook Mill location into the Middle Brook Café and open early next year.
Tom always liked the idea of having a cafe.
“This was just the time,” she said.
Tom said that this was a unique opportunity, including the ability to live and work in a small town. The existing business was similar.
The size was perfect, she said.
“A lot of the stars aligned,” she said. “If I were to design an opportunity, this would be about it.”
The couple is planning to open in spring 2026.
There are plans to have an "espresso bar and cafe,” she said. There would need to be several months of reconfiguration to get it just right.
Tom worked as a barista as a young adult before entering a corporate job after college. She loves being in the kitchen, and didn’t consider the wider idea of running a business that aligned with that passion.
Cooking “fills her cup” and opening a cafe has “always been a thought in the back of my mind.”
Both Tom and Berke plan to split the responsibilities, including Kim operating the customer service and utilizing Berke’s skills, including repairs and carpentry.
Tom said that the most exciting aspect is the ability to meet people.
“I really like meeting people,” she said.
In addition to the Mill Pond Inn, Tom said that there is a “need for a daytime casual environment.” The new “hang-out spot” would be a great place to meet new people or simply read a book.
Tom said that the public support has been “incredible” and that many people have offered to help.
While there may be some minor changes, the building itself is pretty much turnkey, Tom said.
Tom said that she is looking forward to offering a “really good cup of coffee” for Jefferson and a “warm, inviting place to be.” She enjoys cooking “all sorts of things,” and describes herself as both a cook and a baker.
At first, the cafe will offer muffins, scones, cookies, and more. Later on, she hopes to include breakfast and lunch.
Tom looks forward to meeting the community, and offering a common space for the people of Jefferson.
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