The Farmstead, founded by Bonnie Hofmann, has quickly become more than just a local eatery; it’s a manifestation of dreams and a hub for community connection. Since its doors swung open in May 2023, this quaint Medina café has been serving up not just delicious treats but also a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from the rest.
Inspired by personal challenges and the desire to better her community, Bonnie’s journey led her to dream beyond just a café—a dream she’s had since she was a kid. Her dream began to feel more like a reality when the opportunity arose to purchase the old Medina General Store. With the building being large enough for multiple businesses, Bonnie decided to tackle the growing need for childcare first by renovating the larger area of the building with her husband and kids. Now, since the continuation of the renovations has been completed, Bonnie’s dream of having a café has come to life. The building, now housing both The Farmstead and the Country Kids Corral daycare, forms a harmonious relationship; each business contributing to the other’s sustainability.
“It was my desire to serve in my community that really pushed me to pursue this,” Bonnie said.
What sets The Farmstead apart is a commitment to being more than just a place to grab a quick bite. Bonnie’s journey, from a chef’s assistant at a Colorado dude ranch to experiences in burger and ice cream shops, forms the culinary backbone of The Farmstead. A Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Energy Management adds a business perspective. The menu, inspired by Bonnie’s travels, boasts specialty drinks, espresso delights, and a diverse array of breakfast and lunch options different from
the other choices in town.
“I also wanted the full coffee experience,” Bonnie explained. “I know how much the teachers in Medina love coming to get a specialty coffee and it makes my heart so happy.”
At The Farmstead, it’s not just about the food; it’s about creating an atmosphere where the community thrives. The peace that permeates the space makes it an ideal spot for both a casual latte catch-up and a cozy meal.
Despite quickly becoming a local gem, The Farmstead faces the typical challenges of a small business. Establishing brand recognition in a new market proves to be a difficulty, with passing foot traffic often oblivious to the café’s existence. Bonnie is also juggling multiple responsibilities, from being a parent of four to ensuring the success of more than one business–a delicate dance of time management that has kept Bonnie on her toes. Striking the right balance between being adequately staffed and maintaining a consistent schedule is an ongoing concern. Bonnie is hopeful that by summer, with the help of high schoolers, she will be able to go back to being open five days a week. Until then, she has decided to always be open on Thursdays and Fridays. Check out The Farmstead’s Facebook page for schedule updates and specials.
Behind the scenes, Dakota Central plays a pivotal role in The Farmstead’s operations.
“Dakota Central set up a network in my building to add both security and public Wi-Fi,” Bonnie explained. “I told them what I needed, and they were able to install it. From multiple computers, TVs, and a POS system, to multiple phone lines, everything works flawlessly.”
Peering into the future, Bonnie has grand plans for The Farmstead. Beyond just being a café, retail sales featuring floral arrangements and a boutique are on the horizon. This expansion aims to transform the café into a one-stop local shop, offering not only delectable treats but also a curated selection of gifts, fashion, and décor.
For Bonnie, the joy of running The Farmstead is deeply rooted in connecting with customers and letting creativity flow into the culinary creations. After pouring so much time and energy into it, the café is more than a business; it’s a canvas for expression, where every recipe tells a story, and every customer interaction adds a stroke of color.