The Mother-Daughter Duo Behind One of the County’s Newest Eateries

Positively Inspirational

In this monthly series, local realtor Andrea Schutter Riebeling does a Q & A with local business leaders about what inspires them. This month’s interview is with Lori Allen of Round Top’s Mill Street Cafe:

1.) What is your business? Mill Street Cafe in Round Top.

2.) How did you get started?

I have always loved baking and serving people. It was an opportunity to own and operate my own business. I started out small and it grew from there.

3.) How long have you been in business?

I started a mobile bakery and coffee bar about 10 years ago. Five years ago, we opened our first brick-andmortar, KaffeeHaus on Historic Main Street in Fredericksburg. We opened our second location, Mill Street Cafe, in September 2023 in downtown Round Top.

4.) Is this a family or Female business?

We are a family business. My oldest daughter has a business degree and puts her skills to work helping us set up inventories, scheduling, orders, etc. My son graduated from college and was actually our first barista. They both have other jobs but are so wonderful to step in and lend a hand when needed. Kate, the pastry chef, put her baking skills to work and created a menu which includes vegan and gluten free options. Kate has been the backbone of our business. We would not have been able to do any of this without her. We are a female owned business.

5.) What kind of service do you provide?

We are a scratch bakery and coffee shop, and, with Mill Street Cafe, we have made-toorder toast and smoothies. We also make sandwiches, salads, soups and other seasonal options along with a grab and go market.

6.) Tell me something unique about your business?

We include gluten free and vegan options on our menu. There are so many people with food restrictions. We try very hard to offer service to all our customers. We are always up for any suggestions.

7.) What is your background?

I have a degree in Art. I love creating and making. Kate is a pastry chef. So with our combined love of creating, we make a great team.

8.) What do you suggest to others who want to venture out and take a leap of action in the future of their career?

I would say to follow your dream. You don’t always need a great amount of money to begin. Start small, work hard and build your business. Make sure there is a market for whatever you want to sell or produce. We have made many mistakes. But you learn and adjust and adapt. And most importantly, be willing to work harder than you have ever worked in your life. The reward is amazing.

9.) Do you believe in college, trade school, or any training?

I do believe any type of training is important, whether it be college, trade school or hands-on training. I have learned most of my baking skills from my daughter, Kate. I know many people who have learned skills through work and been successful. You just need to find your passion and give it 100%.

10.) What do you like about living in the country?

I adore Round Top. I had been coming to Round Top and Warrenton for many years to shop. I actually set up at Zappe Hall with my Cookie/ Coffee Bar many years ago. It was the beginning of what is now Mill Street Cafe. Everyone is so friendly, kind and encouraging. It’s cliche, but everyone truly knows your name.