Situated in the heart of Lowville between Route 12 & 26, the vision to create a community space for business, friendships and children to play has been nestled into a cozy cafe. People, Bagels & Java are just the beginning of The PB&J Cafe's story and they continue to evolve to meet the community's needs. Read more about their story below!
Business Owners: Will & Dawn Roggie and Nick & Briele Kilionski

Number of Employees: 1 full time, 2 part time

Business Established: 2018

Location of Business: 7409 Utica Blvd. Lowville, NY 13367

NEW Website: thepbjcafe315.com 

Describe your start-up story: For 11 years we had dreamed of a place in Lowville that would be cozy, warm, inviting, & kid friendly!  Will and I began the process in early 2017 to purchase a great space and get it ready.  The renovations and preparations took one year.  During that time we partnered with our daughter and her husband to come up with a business plan and ideas to make that dream happen.  We are now open 6 days a week serving our community three simple things: People, Bagels & Java.

Why did you choose to do business in Lewis County?  We chose to locate in Lewis County because we live here! :)  We felt that Lowville needed a spot for kids to play while their parents sat to relax or meet with friends.  We were very excited to find such a great piece of property in the heart of Lowville, nestled in between Route 12 & 26!  The clock that hangs on the exterior of the building is a reminder of the building's rich history.  We happily restored the clock to its original position on the building after almost 40 years of being in storage. 

What are the advantages and/or opportunities of doing business here?  The advantage of doing business here is that we have a niche that no one else is doing; offering bagels and a playroom!  We find it so important to support other local businesses in the process, especially those that complement what we are providing to the community.  We brew Tug Hill Artisan Roasters coffee daily and offer an array of local products on our sandwiches and in our beverages.  We also have local products on display for purchase at the cafe including Golden Creek Farm & Apiary honey, maple syrup products and a beautiful gallery wall of artwork. 

How have you adapted throughout the last year and the COVID-19 Pandemic?  We have tried to be as creative as possible to continue to serve our customers. Before the pandemic began, we started delivery within the Village of Lowville in February. Since then, we have implemented pick-up ordering, eliminated the fee for delivery and created some outdoor seating options. Our latest project is to create a NEW pick-up window for customers. Customers will be encouraged to call ahead with orders and pick-up will be available without having to exit your car.  We are also excited to offer Third Thursday Trivia Night, a COVID-19 compliant event at the cafe or in the comfort of your own home, beginning Thursday, January 21, 2021!

How has Lewis County Economic Development helped or made an impact on your business?  We recently received a Winter Design Challenge Grant from the Lewis County Development Corporation to assist with building our new pick-up window.  The Lewis County Economic Development staff supports the cafe by hosting meetings and by stopping in for lunch or a cup of coffee!  They have also been a great resource for answering questions as they arise. 

Check out The PB&J Cafe Website