The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Perkatory coffee shop readying to brew
Plug Perkatory into a bunch of newer businesses opened at the Matchworks building in Mentor.
Plug Perkatory into a bunch of newer businesses opened at the Matchworks building in Mentor.
Pending inspections, the independent coffee shop will join Fourk Restaurant, Vipassana Salon and Wellness Spa, Stella’s Art Gallery, Sparkle and Shine Makeup Studio and other establishments adding new life to the redeveloped building at 8500 Station St.
Perkatory, owned by Kirtland residents Natalie Catania Nelson and her father Bill Catania, hope to start brewing up coffee for patrons later this month.
Nelson, who is also an artist, came up with the idea for a coffee shop while working at Stella’s Art Gallery.
“I thought it would be perfect if there was a coffee shop here. You usually think coffee house and art,” she said. “Plus there are so many offices in the building. Everyone had to leave to get coffee and people said they were tired of chains. They wanted more of a mom-and-pop shop.”
Catania’s experience with food service along with Nelson’s knack for design were among elements bringing the coffee shop to fruition. Catania formerly owned restaurants in Wickliffe and Eastlake and a party center in South Euclid. But he’s clear about who’s in charge.
“My daughter is running the show,” he said. “She’s a good artist…and really has a good head for business.”
Fortunately, available space adjacent to Stella’s Art Gallery was partially
finished and offered a good spot for the enterprise. Nelson noted that an adjoining door will allow patrons to float from the coffee house to the art gallery with the option of enjoying both.
To encourage local artists, she’s offering to rent sections of wall space in Perkatory for those who would like to promote their work.
Keeping in line with the industrial feel of the building, the 800-squarefoot shop sports a wooden ceiling, exposed pipes and other raw materials. Nelson is enhancing the industrial look by creating
a steampunk theme which can be described as a type of science fantasy that includes 19th-century technology such as steam-powered machinery complete with gears, wheels, cogs and more.
Plans are for Stronghold Creations in Perry to add to the steampunk image by crafting tables, lamps and other décor with a raw metal look, Nelson said.
Tables, couches and a counter with charging stations will be available for patrons to relax or work on electronic devices.
Intent on supporting local businesses, Perkatory
will offer coffee from Caruso’s Coffee Roasters based in Brecksville. Jamaican Me Crazy, Pecan Sticky Bun and Caramel Nut Fudge are among varieties.
Teas, smoothies, seasonal drinks and more will also be available to accompany pastries made by Raw Sugar, Cakes by Rosie and
other local bakers.
Attesting to the support business owners in the Matchworks building provide for each other, Fourk Restaurant plans to feature a “Perkatini” drink using espresso from Perkatory.
“It’s really unique here,” Nelson said. “Everyone is looking out for everyone
else…we want (the building) to be more of a destination spot versus somebody coming out for a single purpose.”
Store hours will be 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ perkatorycoffee/.