The Clayton News-Star, May 7, 2003, Page 1A
Jodi Sager and Cliff Morgan have been pleased at the number of musical acts that want to play their venue, The Coffee Mill.
So much so that they are planning an expansion which will allow the facility to have a private club which will serve alcohol along with its entertainment.
"We have had so many people interested in playing here because they have heard about this place" said Morgan, who along with his wife operates the business at 105 S. Lombard St. "I get three or four emails a day from artists who want to play here."
The Coffee Mill's expansion will add approximately 1,200 square feet to its existing 800 square feet. The addition will be known as "The Flipside," which will house a stage as well as a bar and seating for around 40-50 people, depending on fire-code restrictions.
The Flipside will be considered a private club, have its own handicapped accessible entrance and be separate from The Coffee Mill. The shop currently serves a variety of baked goods, small sandwiches and salads as well as its menu of coffees, shakes, smoothies and cappuccinos in a smoke-free environment.
"We want to go to a different level as far as what we're offering to the public," Morgan said. "This will not be a bar or a tavern — rather, an upscale establishment where we have quality music, upscale beer and wine that's all top-shelf."
Sager, who purchased the coffee shop from Tyson Reubel in February 2000, has wanted to add an ABC permit, which will allow the business to serve alcohol. To get an ABC permit, however, state law mandates that the business be a private club or have a kitchen area which will serve a certain amount of food.
The Clayton Town Council approved a Zoning Code amendment a few months ago allowing private clubs in downtown.
Shortly after purchasing the business, Sager opted to expand the hours and add live acoustic music on the weekends, which has been a big hit with locals as well as out-of-towners who want to perform there.
Jazz Nights — held on the first Saturday each month — draw some of the biggest crowds.
Having a bigger area for live music would enable the business to bring in bands in addition to the single acts usually booked at the venue.
"I have had several people tell me they were going to stop in but there wasn't any room," Sager said. "It's a problem, but a good problem to have."
The Coffee Mill holds around 25 people. The new club could hold as many as 40 more.
The Flipside will sell memberships for $1, and a cover charge may be paid, depending on the artist. The goal, Sager said, is to maintain the coffeehouse-type atmosphere.
"It will be a 21 and over club," she said. "It will be a non-smoking area, a place where people can enjoy a good glass of wine or beer and listen to some good music."
Morgan said the venue will adhere to the town's rules.
"As far as security goes, we will have a door person," he said. "Our message to our patrons is this will not be a bar-type atmosphere. If someone has too much to drink, they will be cut off."
The Coffee Mill would continue to serve its current fare with no alcohol.
Sager said she envisions having a large stage at one end, with booths along one side, a bar at the back with limited alcohol selection, and, if room allows, tables and chairs.
Morgan said the name, The Flipside, was a natural choice.
"I was thinking about when you have a record and you flip it over, that's the flipside," he said.
The expansion will not be completed in time for the annual Millstock Festival, which is slated for Saturday, June 7.
The event will continue to be held in the parking area to the side of the building.