Amid a great deal of community buzz, "Street 14 Coffee" in Astoria’s Commodore Hotel opened its doors on Feb. 20.
The long-awaited opening of the hip, urban-style coffee bar was delayed from its anticipated December opening. Owner Denise Heckes said there were several reasons for putting off the opening.
"We did a lot of work, and I took my time. I wanted to do it right," she said. Heckes said she also used a significant amount of reclaimed material, which "made the work take longer than expected."
In a November 2009 interview with Heckes, she said that in addition to serving up a good cup of java, Street 14 will offer panini, soup, salads and pastries, along with homemade granola and other breakfast items.
Street 14 recently received approval for a liquor license from the City of Astoria, and beer and wine will be on the menu. She said she thinks the Astoria community will find it socially-acceptable to enjoy that type of drink during the day.
"I agree with the Portland [Ore.] attitude about coffee and beer," she said. "People drink coffee in the morning, and beer or wine at lunch."
With its location in the Commodore Hotel, Street 14 will have a built-in audience of hotel guests, but she said she looks forward to serving locals, too.
"We will be developing events such as ‘open-mike’ nights and other activities we think everyone will enjoy," Heckes said.
Street 14 Coffee is located at the corner of 14th and Commercial streets. Hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and on Sundays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hours will be expanded during the summer and for special events.