Sandwiched
My little neighborhood just got busier, and we’re all excited! In December, I wrote about the pride I feel for the south side of Noblesville, namely the two blocks bordered by Pleasant Street and Greenfield Avenue and 9th and 10th streets. We’ve got a little bit of everything ‘round here and it’s just getting better.
Last Monday we were all ecstatic to welcome one of our town’s beloved restaurants to its new location on South 10th Street – Ginger’s Café. I got to take a personal tour of the spot before they officially opened thanks to Ginger’s lovely owner, Mikki Perrine, and I had to pick my jaw up off of the floor numerous times.
I have to admit I was worried that somehow Ginger’s Café would lose its homey atmosphere in the move. Since 2007, the restaurant has been nestled in a small strip mall off of Conner Street and has had a cozy, neighborly feel. I loved the eclectic mix of tables and chairs, many reminding me of my childhood, and the antique décor. A box of children’s toys always greeted you upon arrival, letting everyone know that families with small children were more than welcome.
Would a larger, updated space take that overall feeling away? I’m happy to report that the answer is no. In fact, it’s better than ever.
The wonderful décor is back with some great additions thanks to fellow columnist Janet Hart Leonard and others. Mikki was glowing as she showed me around the new and improved space, which provides her kitchen staff even more room to store supplies, prep food, and cook those awesome “just like home” breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. It’s easier to get to the restrooms now, and from what I could see, elderly patrons like my mother and those with disabilities will have a better time getting around overall.
Wait, did I just write “dinners”? Thanks to this new space, Ginger’s will now offer dinner on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. I’m doing the happy dance as I type.
Another great Noblesville south side treasure also just expanded not long ago. Although it’s a bit outside of my two blocks, I’ve been a fan of the Noblesville Society of St. Vincent de Paul for years. When it first moved from its cramped South 10th Street location to its Greenfield Avenue spot years ago, I not only became an avid shopper, but a regular volunteer.
Thanks to community support and thrift store sales, this non-profit has a food pantry with a variety of perishable and non-perishable foods including canned and frozen meats, veggies and fruits, fresh eggs, boxed and bagged cereals and rice, canned soups and sauces, toilet paper, diapers, baby food, toiletries and some cleaning supplies.
Although I’ve had to stop volunteering there, I still shop at St. Vincent de Paul every month. I purchased a classic navy blue dress last spring for $2 that people raved about all summer. And when my kids go to college, you can bet we’ll give St. VdP a lot of business to help the guys furnish their first apartment!
The organization remodeled about a year ago to improve the store’s overall flow, and it is a welcome change. They also have expanded hours, which is impressive with its all-volunteer staff.
So take a half-day some time and come over to visit the south side soon! You’ll end up with a full belly, a warm heart, beautiful treasures and the joy of supporting outstanding local businesses.