Salina couple to open bistro in former barbecue restaurant
By KALEY CONNER
After opening their first Hays business, Salina residents Jason and Lisa Ingermanson liked the community so much they decided to try another venture.
Thus, a new bistro soon will be located at 1230 E. 27th, the former home of Bar-B-Cutie restaurant. With two other locations in Salina, Mokas Bakery and Bistro will offer a full menu of coffee drinks, as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner selections, Jason Ingermanson said.
"It's just been a great business community to be in," said the Salina businessman, who also owns Freddy's Frozen Custard in Hays. "All the people seem really nice and friendly, and we really enjoy the city of Hays' atmosphere."
The business is slated to open next month, and Ingermanson said he expects to hire up to 30 employees. Hiring likely will begin in early September, he said.
Besides coffee, the menu will include a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, soups and salads. Breakfast plates, ranging from sandwiches to pancakes, also will be served, he said.
"It's more like a Panera Bread, Starbucks-type combination, but probably a bigger menu than both of those," Ingermanson said.
He said the business strives to offer a relaxed, client-friendly atmosphere. Customers will be welcome to hang out for as long as they like, he said. Business events also will be welcome.
"It's not driven to cram people in and out real fast," he said.
The building features a drive-thru window for carry-out orders.
Opening hours are expected to be from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the possibility of live music and weekend events.
Remodeling has started, and the decor will be inspired by European bistros, he said. The exterior also will be refinished.
"It's always good to use a building that is vacant, to be able to use it rather than having to create something new," said Mike Michaelis, executive director of the Ellis County Coalition for Economic Development. "That revitalizes things."
For more information about Mokas, or to inquire about employment, find Mokas Coffee profile on Facebook. Job applications also will be available on location.