The inspiration for opening my charming cafe and bakery traces back to my roots and learning the art of bringing people together around the table, as well as a passion for good food. My journey began in my grandmother’s kitchen in Queens, NY, where my love for cooking and the appreciation of Italian cuisine took shape. With my grandmother from Calabria and my grandfather from Sicily, I was exposed to the diverse flavors of northern and southern Italy. My grandmother’s dining room was a place for gathering, where we would enjoy the dishes she spent the day preparing. This early exposure grew into a passion not only to cook and bake but to have a place where friends and family would travel to gather around the table.
It wasn’t until I was 48 that the stars aligned to turn my dream into reality. The location at 47 Phila Street in Saratoga Springs became available, although it took nearly a year to secure the lease. The subsequent 11 months were devoted to the transformation of this space into the cafe I had envisioned. I was deeply involved in the design and remodeling process, ensuring every detail reflected the ambiance I wished to create. Finally, on October 11, 2013, Sweet Mimi’s Cafe & Bakery opened its doors.
Prior to launching the cafe, I ventured into the world of cookies, aptly named “Sweet Mimi’s,” which eventually became part of the cafe’s identity. The name “Mimi” pays homage to our middle child and only daughter, and it resonated with our family’s shared belief in this venture. As we transitioned from cookies to a full-scale cafe, the “& bakery” was added as an afterthought. Surprisingly, the bakery component now accounts for 10% of our total sales and has allowed me to embrace all aspects of my culinary skills.
The challenge of opening a cafe is never without its hurdles, and this space had sat vacant for three years before I took it over. Extensive renovations were required, including tearing down walls, replacing floors, and preserving the building’s original
character. The process took longer than anticipated, causing us to miss the summer season, but it turned out to be a blessing. This additional time allowed us to iron out details, build a dedicated team, and establish our presence in the community. Throughout this journey, my three children, who were 12, 14, and 16 at the time, worked alongside me to make my dream a reality. Their unwavering support was my daily motivation.
Sweet Mimi’s Cafe & Bakery offers a distinctive blend of culinary traditions. As a classically trained chef in Provincial Italian, French, and American cuisine, my culinary repertoire is diverse. Additionally, I have specific training in baking. When contemplating the cafe’s concept, I wanted to balance my love for regional Italian flavors and the importance of being present for dinner with my children. The answer was to create a breakfast cafe and small bakery. Focusing on breakfast and brunch throughout the day seemed like a wonderful way to offer something unique to the community. It was an opportunity to infuse the menu with healthy Mediterranean dishes and delightful sweet options that could be savored by kids and adults alike. The dishes on our menu reflect a medley of Italian influences, healthy Mediterranean offerings, and indulgent sweet treats.
At Sweet Mimi’s, we prioritize quality and use the best quality products I can source. Working directly with local farmers allows us to offer the freshest produce, often picked from the farm and delivered to our kitchen on the same day. We are committed to knowing where our food comes from, and we collaborate with 25-30 vendors annually to ensure we serve only the finest ingredients, from pure maple syrup to the retail jams and hot sauces on our shelves. Beyond the exceptional food, our staff is the heart and soul of our cafe. They are true professionals who share a deep commitment to my mission of providing an inviting dining experience.
Many of our signature dishes are rooted in cherished family memories. My Grandmother taught me the importance of details, such as peeling the tough skin off asparagus, and using only top quality olive oil for cooking. These lessons left a lasting impression on me, inspiring dishes such as our Roman Eggs. This dish features roasted asparagus, crispy prosciutto, eggs, cherry tomatoes, and shaved parmesan. It has been a best-seller for a decade. Our presentation emphasizes the importance of high-quality ingredients and the visual appeal of each plate.
GET THE ROMAN EGG RECIPE
Our journey took an exciting turn when I was invited to compete on the Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay” in 2019. It was a remarkable and humbling experience. Friends, family and long-time customers, and staff rallied to support me. It remains a cherished memory, representing a testament to our passion for food and our commitment to providing an unforgettable culinary experience.
We are incredibly proud of our role in the community and the warm relationships we’ve built with our regulars and tourists. Despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, I was able to pivot and launch a successful cookie delivery business. The support and involvement of my children, Charlie, Mimi, and Max, who played a key role in developing new recipes and flavors, made it possible. Sweet Mimi’s Cafe & Bakery continues to thrive, and we take great pride in the warm and inviting atmosphere we create. We are not just a cafe; we are a place where friends gather, stories are shared, and food tells a beautiful story.
At Sweet Mimi’s Cafe & Bakery, we are proud to celebrate a decade of serving the community and creating an inviting space for friends and food lovers. Our journey has been marked by dedication to quality, love for tradition, and a deep appreciation for the customers who have become part of our extended family. We look forward to many more years of shared stories, delightful food, and memorable moments. Thank you for being a part of our journey and helping us in celebrating 10 years in Saratoga Springs, NY.
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