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When owners Damon and Yonka Maynard purchased Cafe Fresco in 2011, they never imagined the impact they would have on the community. Now 11 years later, the husband-and-wife team are reimagining their restaurant with a revamped name in a new location.

Originally opened in 2005 under previous owners, the Maynards became the owners of Cafe Fresco in downtown Christiansted in July 2011. “We have worked in the restaurant industry for over 30 years,” said Yonka. “The opportunity to purchase the business presented itself and everything came together in a way we couldn’t imagine.” Noting it to be an easy transition, Yonka and Damon made the restaurant their own with delicious lunches made to order and exceptional service customers have come to expect and enjoy. Located on King Street in downtown Christiansted, Cafe Fresco’s welcoming space in the courtyard of the historic Penthenny Building saw a multitude of people over the years. A physical sign hung over their door with the phrase “enter as strangers, leave as friends.” The Maynards shared they have made more friends than anyone could ever deserve, which is why they are excited about welcoming friends into the next chapter.

October 28th will be the last day in their current location in downtown Christiansted. In December 2022, Cafe Fresco will officially become Fresco’s Kitchen & Pub House at their new home in Gallows Bay. Customers can expect much of the same they’ve grown accustomed to with a few new details. This larger space will include indoor and outdoor seating for up to 90 people alongside a full bar. Their indoor air conditioned space will have a sports bar feel with several TVs throughout the space playing your favorite sports games. The outdoor seating in the new courtyard features ample shade thanks to the large mango tree. Expanded hours will include evenings and weekends and a larger space means a bigger kitchen. “We’re most excited about that,” said Yonka. “We’ll be able to have more help and create new dishes, which was a challenge in the previous location.” Customers will be happy to know that menu favorites will be available in the new location with new fun additions to the menu, not to mention a full bar with new cocktails, drinks and desserts. They also plan to host a weekly Sunday brunch that will segue into Sunday football.

The Maynards will use the month of November to get the new space ready for old friends and new ones. Interior designers Twila Wilson and Kobie Nichols are managing the decor and all the finishes in Fresco’s Kitchen & Pub House where guests can look forward to a warm, welcoming space perfect for the entire family. “While we are changing the name slightly and moving to a new location, not much else is changing other than a renewed energy being injected into the restaurant.”

Get a taste of Cafe Fresco before they close their doors on King Street on October 28th. For all the up-to-date details on the restaurant, follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/usvistcroix.

Written by Anquanette Gaspard (agaspard@cruzanfoodie.com)