Kim Murray has owned and operated the cafe for one year now. We placed our lunch order and then browsed the bookstore a bit. We met Peggy, the owner of the bookstore. Her family are the original homesteaders of this land.
Most of the vegetables and herbs used in the cafe are grown in the small garden behind the cafe. There is a patio with tables and chairs that overlooks the garden, as well as ample seating inside. If you are relaxing with a book and espresso, there are comfortable chairs to enjoy.
The cafe also offers catering services for small or large gatherings and has onsite seating for 24 people. After hours private parties may be scheduled and they have hosted book club meetings, book readings, poetry readings and story times for children. There are displays of local artwork and always prominent is a cookbook - the one from which Kim has chosen a specialty of the day.
You can get great muffins, monster cookies and their specialty - Kenai River Chiller (which is a blended mocha), in addition to soups, salads and sandwiches. I chose the tortellini soup and white chocolate espresso. Mike went with the ham & cheese sandwich with garden vegetables on wheat and a Pepsi (what else!?!). We followed it all with a wicked cappucino mousse that was fabulous!
Too soon, it was time to head out again. But, when in Soldotna, be sure to stop by the River City Books & Espresso Cafe at 43977 Sterling Highway, or give them a call at (907) 260-7722 or email Kim at jim-kimsenn@gci.net, and tell them Cruising America says Hi!
Our thanks to Joanne at Diamond M Ranch for setting up this great review for us!
A Winding Road * (formerly Cruising America) * * 336-984-9648 * freedom04@awindingroad.net
