Common Grounds Cafe

Recently I found myself traveling through Nowhere, Pennsylvania (aka Middleburg, PA), and since I had previously heard of a little coffee and sandwich cafe being located there, I decided to take a look.

I do enjoy finding unique or out of the way little places to eat, and I often refer to two books, Roadfood by Jane and Michael Stern, and Going Local! by Ken Hull to find these sorts of places whenever I travel.

However, this little gem of an eatery was not listed in either book.  It should be.  It is one of those places that doesn't look like much on the outside.  In fact, when I pulled into the parking area and turned off my engine, I seriously debated whether or not I really wanted to go in there.

There's simply not a lot of exterior appeal to the building itself.  However, everything inside this cozy little eatery, from the employees, to the decor, to the friendly patrons, exudes warmth.

Common Grounds Cafe is an informal meeting place where you can enjoy healthy homemade food, specialty drinks and a warm, friendly atmosphere.  I spoke to owner Heidi Potter, and she explained that this establishment is part of a vision that her church, of which her husband is the pastor, has to reach out into the community and provide services and kindness to those who need them.

Frankly, there's not much in this little town.  However, besides this little cafe, the church has also established a day care center and a thrift shop.

Although this cafe has only been in business for the last 5 1/2 years, Potter feels that the vision for the cafe is coming to pass.  She estimates that 90 to 95 percent of the clientele are not members of her church.

Homemade soups, sandwiches and salads are prepared fresh each day.  The menu features unique food and drink options not available in other local restaurants.  Unique coffee specialty drinks can be ordered to go, or simply enjoyed there.

I ordered a simple grilled ham and cheese sandwich with a side of Maui sweet onion potato chips.  I didn't figure the sandwich would be that much out of the ordinary, but whatever the secret sauce was, it took it up to another level.  It was absolutely delicious.

Their coffee beans come fresh from around the world and are roasted locally to provide the freshest coffee possible.  A variety of flavors of regular coffee, lattes and cappuccinos and other specialty drinks are available.

Although this little shop has limited hours, I will make it back with the husband/lover/taste tester hopefully soon.  I'd like to try a breakfast next time.  Hours are Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM and Saturday, 7:00 AM to noon.  Only breakfast is served on Saturdays.

If you're ever in the area, use your GPS and find this place:
     Common Grounds Cafe
     57 Cafe Lane Suite 10
     Middleburg, Pennsylvania

  A little hard to find, but definitely worth the hunt.