The wait is almost over, Springfield! Late-night coffee house and non-alcoholic bar The Wakery opens on April 1st. Soon you’ll be able to enjoy the fun of a classy night out without the negative side effects. The Wakery is the first recipient of the Isringhausen DRIVE Grant, which benefits newly established Downtown Springfield businesses.
Located on Fifth St., directly across from the Old State Capitol, The Wakery is the brainchild of Springfield native Elizabeth Wake. Elizabeth describes herself as an “avid coffee drinker, night owl, and baker.” She was looking for a way to combine those passions into a business, and The Wakery was born.
“I saw a need in our downtown community to have more to our nightlife than alcohol-centered bars,” she wrote on The Wakery’s website. “I love new and interesting flavors, creating complex drinks and baked goods, and the challenge of making N/A more exciting and fun.”
The Menu
The Wakery will offer a wide assortment of N/A cocktails, N/A beers and wines, locally roasted coffee, exotic teas, and fresh pastries. Products will be sourced from a variety of local businesses including Custom Cup Coffee, Whimsy Tea Company, Incredibly Delicious, and Golden Hour Bakehouse.
The Space
Elizabeth worked with an interior designer to create a whimsical, welcoming environment. Checkered floors, mixed eclectic light fixtures, and a large mural greet customers when they arrive. Guests can settle in at the bar or at a more intimate table. A small performance space is available for local artists to utilize.
Isringhausen Drive Grant
The Isringhausen DRIVE Grant was created to help local entrepreneurs establish new businesses in downtown Springfield. The sizable cash grant helps the entrepreneurs cover remodeling, inventory, equipment, advertising, and/or other start-up related costs during their first year.
The DRIVE Grant was created in partnership with Downtown Springfield, Inc., a local non-profit organization dedicated to increasing economic and cultural vitality in Springfield's historic downtown.
If you would like to apply for a future Isringhausen DRIVE Grant, follow us on Facebook for more information in the coming weeks.