Neighborhood Treat

Got to know lots of lovely folks this summer hanging out at Iroquois Park documenting the South End Community Market, but none so well as Danielle Beebe and Chef Michael Hargrove of the Beechmont Bakehouse.

For three years they've been turning out tasty treats from their home bakery, serving them up on Saturdays at the community market in the summer and the neighborhood bookstore, Foxing Books, in the cooler weather.

Now they're working on taking the next step, opening a brick-and-mortar bakery and cafe in the same building as Foxing Books. To that end they've got a Kickstarter going until the end of the month to help fund getting the place up and running.

The thought of having such a place within walking distance of the house is enough to make your mouth water. As the summer progressed, Michael and Danielle laid out their vision for the place and even the jaded service worker in me was impressed.

Unlike almost all the restaurants in this city (country, ahem), it's going to be a no tipping establishment, with the employees being paid a living wage rather than being forced to rely on the generosity of customers. There was even mention of paid vacation, albeit everyone takes it the same week. Spent more years than I care to admit waiting tables and living on tips and never come across anyplace doing either of those.

They're currently renovating the space in the old school building that houses Foxing Books and aiming for a summer open. The Kickstarter campaign is at the halfway point and they're just shy of halfway to their goal, got my fingers crossed they make it.

My taste buds would be quite excited if I could wander on over and get breakfast or lunch whenever I wanted, but my belt might have other things to say about it. Now that's a problem I can live with...