A cozy morning at the Mill

Last Saturday morning my husband Vince invited me to go ice fishing. I politely, but firmly, declined.

Instead, I spent a cozy morning sipping a decadent hot chocolate chai, catching up with my friend Jill and marveling at the Mill, one of the coolest coffee shops in all the land.

I have been watching with fascination as Keith and NiCole Fischer renovated the old feed mill we drive past on every trip Up North. Their exterior upgrade caught my eye, their social media page drew me in.

When I saw the video of a Christmas tree party they hosted for goats (a very clever repurposing of a giant, gorgeous tree), I knew I had to check the Mill out.

I arrived early, which gave me time to take a giddy, self-guided tour of what is clearly a love letter to Bonduel. Keith, NiCole and all their friends and family managed to celebrate the building’s rich history even as they created a gorgeous, inviting space. Several lamps are made of boat motors, a cash register has serviced business in town since the bears saved Father Bonduel, and a giant antique scale greets customers as they mosey in.

In addition to being a coffee shop and museum of coolness, the Mill is a restaurant, a bourbon bar and a boutique.

I saved the bourbon for another day but those boozy hot drinks were tempting. I bought a sweater that caught my eye and I really love it.

I’m looking forward to coming back for lunch.

The Mill doesn’t just honor Bonduel’s past, it also toasts its present. The talk among patrons and staff was all about the undefeated Bonduel boys basketball team.

Several of the friendly, professional staff members play on area high school teams.

I highly recommend a trip to Bonduel to check out the Mill.

I know I’ll be back.