Have backpack, will travel (to Front Street Café)

As a communities reporter, I am considered, in newspaper jargon, a “mojo.” No, not that kind of mojo, but a mobile journalist. My office of choice is usually any local Panera or Mammoth Café in Newport. Last week however, I had the pleasure of working out of the newly opened and wifi-connected Front Street Café in beautiful New Richmond.

Of the nearly 20 communities I cover, New Richmond is one of my favorites not only for its historicity, but for the scores of passionate resident volunteers there who are devoted to revitalizing the village. Café owner Bob Lees grew up in New Richmond and later moved to Asia where he headed a large Asian-Pacific company. Lees never forgot his roots, however, and frequently returned to New Richmond where he began purchasing and renovating once-doomed properties. Lees is now back in town for good and has been busy working on economic plans to benefit the area.

Front Street Café is ideally situated along the village’s historic business district, offering breathtaking views of the river outside. An outdoor patio allows patrons to soak in the sun and enjoy the occasional river boat passing lazily by. One of the ladies in the photo above declared it to be "the jewel of New Richmond."

In addition to its extensive artisan coffee menu, the café also offers salads, daily soup specials, baked goods and a kid’s menu. Seven sandwiches and/or Paninis are offered on your choice of six different breads – all around $6 to $7 – or create your own sandwich. Limited breakfast options also available.

If you go: Café hours are 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, with an open mic on Thursday evenings. Front Street Café is at 120 Front Street and can be reached at 513-553-4800.