Coffee Connections: An Interview with the KuGeR, Honeoye Falls
The Owl interviews the KuGeR in Honeoye Falls, owned by Kenneth Tomaszewski.
Owl Light News:
How did you come to be a coffee house?
KuGeR:
We were operating the Falls View Academy, which focuses on music instruction for local students. The waiting room area was pretty unused, and it is located across from the local high school, so, we decided to renovate and make it happen.
The idea was actually spawned many years ago when I set up my primary business (KJT Group, Inc.) in the Village of Honeoye Falls. I remember walks to the gas station for coffee back in 2007 and beyond and was looking for a little more. Then, in 2012, my family and I moved to Amsterdam in the Netherlands. My view of coffee really changed and when we returned the idea of making better coffee drinks locally, and establishing the atmosphere which is prevalent across most major city coffee shops; it really spurred us on to action. The space was, a few generations earlier, a local deli and hangout for the high schoolers, and many have told me th same. “TJs” as it was called was a real favorite, so same location, but now with a café focus.
Owl:
Who are the people behind the scenes and front of the house that keep you going?
KuGeR:
My entire family has been involved, and contributed greatly to the launch and operation, among their other life tasks. Carol, my wife, has been particularly helpful, doing everything from making soups and coffees to washing dishes. Much like when we lived in the Netherlands, we have grown stronger together as we face new challenges.
Owl:
Who roasts your coffee?
KuGeR:
We tested many local roasts from the region, and were hands down impressed with and chose Evening Star Roasters from Avon, NY. The owner, Jodi, has been a huge help and makes some amazing coffees!
Owl:
In what ways does your venue expand and encourage community connections?
KuGeR:
As a part of the Falls View Academy, and because we are across from the High School, the KuGeR has really become an important destination for kids of all ages. They may just grab a cookie, or after school, refill and rejuvenate after a long day. We have also been increasingly a place for the non-school crowd. Friends grabbing a soup or toastee together, in a unique and fun atmosphere. We see folks coming just to hang for a wifi spot, get connected and get away from their day, listen to some tunes and take a little more of life in.
Owl:
Other than coffee, what offerings do you have that make your place special?
KuGeR:
We have a somewhat limited but quality menu different from most cafes. We pride ourselves on the homemade soups, which have been a huge hit. Smoothies (we spell it “Smuthee”) have been huge among the high schoolers and anyone looking for a truly delicious, fresh made and healthy option. And the Toastees, which are Dutch style grilled cheese sandwiches are amazing, and taken right from the Netherlands. These are fun, as we can really mix them up and add all sorts of weekly specials, such as the “Peetsa Peetsa,” “Dutch Turkey Day,” and the “Piggly Wiggly.” The other part of this is that we feature many Vegan options, including a daily Vegan soup, and an incredible home made smoked vegan sausage which makes for the best toastee, in my opinion. Few places carry this kind of variety in such a small package!
Owl:
How would you describe the people you serve?
KuGeR:
Students are maybe 40%, 30% are working in the community and the remainder are living in the community or visiting from elsewhere.
Owl:
Every space has an atmosphere, a feel that distinguishes it. How would describe the “mood” at “the KuGeR”?
KuGeR:
The building we house was built in the late 1800s and for much of its life it was a blacksmith shop. Our floors are original refinished work floors. The ceilings are open, exposing the old rough sawn beams. It is an eclectic mix of old and new, and almost the anti-Starbucks feel. An original plank made from Chestnut, as salvaged from the basement, serves as a bar of sorts, positioned overlooking a large window, which provides patrons a view of the street and passersby. It is a “homey” feel, where you might some Beatles, Dylan, or Imagine Dragons playing overhead. The small tales are made from whiskey barrel ends. All of this was designed to provide a place that felt like it transcended time and allows visitors a place to unwind and let loose a little.
Owl:
What else makes “the KuGeR” special?
KuGeR:
As the name suggests, the KuGeR is a little quirky and is its own character. Yes, our coffee and foodstuff is amazing. But coffee shops are about the experience. A properly pulled shot of espresso, with its crema deliciously sipped, while enjoying time with friends, maybe catching some tunes, or reading a book are times that can remind us of what matters in life. These brief escapes are important and if we can help facilitate that, we have done our job.