Nestled in the heart of Grantville, Café Nova at 11 Church Street is set to become a favorite destination. From early-morning coffee rituals to leisurely evening gatherings, the café will offer a welcoming space for people to connect over thoughtfully crafted food and drinks.
Mornings at Café Nova will start with a selection of coffee beverages, including espresso drinks and freshly brewed options. The breakfast menu will feature savory choices like Avocado Toast, sweet bites such as Honey Fruit Toast, and classic treats like muffins and croissants.
As the day unfolds, lunch options will include refreshing beverages like hot and cold teas, kombucha, and sparkling waters. Evenings will bring a different ambiance, with curated wines and charcuterie boards, providing the perfect setting for a relaxing end to the day.
“For my husband Charlie and me, new ideas often start with phrases like, ‘Wouldn’t it be wonderful if…’ or ‘If only…,’” says co-owner Maggie McDonald. “That’s exactly how our journey with Pure Life House of Music began—a project that brought a creative space to LaGrange, Georgia, where artists could showcase their work and collaborate in an inspiring setting.”
Now, that same creative spirit has led them to Grantville. Their close friend Doug Frost owns an historic building that has caught the attention of filmmakers, appearing in productions like Marvel’s Brave New World, The Bondsman with Kevin Bacon, and The Walking Dead. Like many others, Maggie and Charlie felt drawn to its charm and potential.
“When Doug mentioned he was looking for new ideas, Charlie and I saw an opportunity to bring something special to the community,” Maggie explains. “This time, our vision included our son, Liam McDonald, and his best friend, Taylor Jones. Liam’s love for gardening and fresh ingredients, paired with Taylor’s growing expertise in wine, sparked an idea: what if they played a key role in shaping Café Nova? We imagined Liam growing produce for the café on our farm and Taylor hosting wine-themed Nova Nights, creating experiences that blend food, learning, and community.”
“Our goal is to build more than just a place to grab coffee or a glass of wine,” says Maggie. “We want Café Nova to be a space where people feel at home, where local ingredients and talents are celebrated, and where new memories are made. Our time with Pure Life House of Music taught us the value of fostering creativity and connection, and we hope to bring that same spirit to Grantville.”
“We are deeply grateful for the warm welcome and encouragement we’ve received from the community,” Maggie adds. “The enthusiasm surrounding Café Nova has been truly heartening, and we can’t wait to open our doors. While we’re aiming for a May opening, we’ll announce a specific date once everything is in place.”
Here’s to good food, great company, and new beginnings at Café Nova!
Photo: Submitted Photo
