Crystal Café adds room, outdoor seating
By Holly Neumann
When the Crystal Café in Iola decided to expand in the fall of 2019, little did its owner know that decision would pay off for them after the COVID-19 pandemic began.
“We have the extra space, so people feel comfortable coming in to enjoy a nice breakfast out while still practicing social distancing,” Judy Bolier said.
Dubbed the Family Room, this new space has somewhat of a rustic farmhouse charm, with bistro tables, new bathrooms and even a bar.
According to Bolier, future plans include using the area for private parties, meetings and overflow from the original restaurant.
An outdoor dining space was recently finished as well.
“With covid, we had a tough time getting our hands on supplies, but we will be ready to seat people safely outside come spring,” Bolier said.
She is looking forward to hosting live outdoor entertainment with a variety of wine, beer and drink specials.
“We thought this would be a nice addition to the downtown community,” Bolier said.
Crystal Café has been a family-owned business for 55 years, spanning over four generations.
The pandemic has not slowed the business down.
“We have been lucky enough to keep all our employees as well as implement a person strictly for sanitizing for our customers safety,” Bolier said.
The focus now is on carry-outs and deliveries on Fridays.
“We have offered holiday dinners to go in order to bring our home-cooked meals safely into homes during the difficult holiday season,” Bolier said.
Treating everyone like family is part of Crystal Café’s charm, she said.
“This is something that we have always prided ourselves on,” she said. “Social distancing does not stop us.”
Bolier is hoping to see all the faces that she and her staff have missed.
“We are striving to keep a flow,” she said. “Hopefully, with the continued support of the community, we will be here for many years to come.”