Earlier this week, the raved European-inspired eatery, famous for its devotion to all-natural ingredients and artfully-crafted baked goods went public with its decision to expand its storefront audience with a third location, which will be open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The 1468 West 9th St. venue will be housed within the Western Reserve Building, giving the cafe a uniquely Romanesque environment to settle into. “It's a beautiful historic building and we're keeping some of the elements like the high ceilings and exposed brick while infusing our signature Luna style,” says chef and owner Bridget Thibeault.
When asked for the catalyst behind the new setting, Thibeault insisted that it wasn’t on her radar. In fact, after the pandemic, she wasn’t looking to start any big projects for another year or two. However, when the opportunity presented itself to collaborate with Joe Kubic, founder and CEO of The Adcom Group, she couldn’t refuse.
“He was really looking for someone like me to come into his building because he wants to have amenities for staff, but was also looking to help improve the quality of food Downtown,” she says.
“I felt good knowing there was going to be a steady stream of customers coming through because it’s within an office set-up. If it was a freestanding building, or somewhere where I didn't have a relationship with someone, I might be a little more hesitant to agree.”
Similar to its Cleveland Heights and Moreland Hills destinations, the new front is expected to have seating of roughly 60 to 70 and will include a patio for incoming patrons on their lunch break. “We’re planning on a lot of takeout and catering,” Thibeault says, preparing for the new clientele a spot on the western edge of Cleveland’s central business district will bring.
As for significant adjustments to the menu, Luna’s is leaning into a theme that is already present in their older establishments. With no intention of dropping their staple sugary treats, the new location plans to expand upon its healthy grab-and-go breakfast options, adding more salads and green bowls to the mix.
“We'll have a full espresso bar, so people can stop by Luna instead of Starbucks or a similar competitive coffee shop. We're focusing on the business clientele knowing that many are people that are just trying to grab a quick, healthy lunch during the week … and maybe the occasional crepe, paninis, and sweet.”
Last updated 8/14.
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