In the beginning of January, when the rest of the world was concerned with things like bathing suits and vegetables, I had my mind on other things…cupcakes. Beaver County offers its residents many fantastic spots to grab something sweet, but I had someplace specific in mind.
I seized the opportunity and headed to one of my favorites in the area, Mezza Luna in Midland.
Mezza Luna Cafe
Mezza Luna is a cafe and catering business, run by the mother-daughter team of Sherri and Audra Kelly. Sherri runs the catering and public relations side of things, while her daughter focuses her attention on the cafe. This setup allows each of them to use their strengths for the best of the company.
They are located at the intersection of Midland Avenue, the main thoroughfare through town, and Seventh Street. Situated on a corner lot, with large windows, it’s the perfect spot for enjoying a chai tea latte and people watching. And as always, parking is rarely an issue and always free.
Thanks to Marc, Mezza Luna is already well-known to our YBC readers, but while munching on a delicious gingerbread espresso cupcake (with the most adorable mini gingerbread man on top), Sherri and I began chatting about all the great things Mezza Luna and Beaver County have to look forward to.
Mezza Luna features hot and cold beverages, hand-crafted desserts, and a full lunch menu. Their entire menu is available for both dining in and taking out and features goodies like my adorable gingerbread espresso cupcake, applewood smoked cheddar salad with a yummy apple cider vinaigrette, and homemade buffalo chicken dip sliders.
Expanding the Business
While their menu is already diverse, Sherri was excited to share that they will be adding new items to their menu, but was careful not to give away any specifics. They also will be providing wholesale items to local cafes.
The cafe’s expansions are not the only exciting news. Mezza Luna will be at Rome Inspiration’s First Holy Communion Fashion Show and Exhibit at Saints Peter and Paul School on February 7. The event takes place from 2 pm until 5 pm. It will feature a fashion show from 2-3:30 pm.
Sherri believes it’s one of the cutest shows of the year, watching the children model holy communion outfits. There will be exhibits from 3:30-5pm, which will include invitation designers, restaurants and party venues, caterers, bakeries, candy shops, and more. She recommends stopping by.
Sherri also said that Mezza Luna will also be making a lot of appearances outside of the county this year. On the catering side of things, they will be hosting graduation parties, weddings, and other private events in locations such as the Sewickley Country Club and “A Night in the Tropics” at the Aviary in Pittsburgh. Weekends are a very busy time for Mezza Luna!
Cooking Courses
Lastly, Sherri mentioned another amazing opportunity. She will be teaching cooking classes at Sweetwater Center for the Arts, located in Sewickley. For those who are not familiar with the school, it is located in Sewickley’s old post office. From there, they offer multiple fine arts and crafts courses for individuals ranging from age 3 through adult. Their courses include cooking classes (as mentioned here), watercolor, drawing, and even preschool clay work and music.
Sherri will be teaching at least three courses at Sweetwater: Gourmet Grilled Cheese, Secrets to Mac and Cheese, and Dessert Secrets. She whispered that she may reveal classified information regarding a very popular and very tasty s’mores cookie. Check out Sweetwater’s website for information such as dates and costs…and to sign up.
Mezza Luna’s location has played a big part in their ability to succeed and expand. Originally located in Cranberry, Sherri said that their move to Midland was great for business. Between the loyal customers and fantastic lunch business, they’ve been able to have a brick and mortar cafe while still having the time to pursue their catering business.
Finishing up my cupcake and tea, I casually mentioned how much my mom adores their double chocolate brownie. After disappearing behind the counter for a moment, Sherri reappeared with a little slice of heaven…my mom’s favorite brownie. I ordered the perfect accompaniment, a small coffee to go.
After gathering up my mom’s surprises, Sherri and I parted ways. We both knew my absence would not be a long one, I am already looking forward to my next cupcake. I also have a feeling this will not be the last time I’ll be bringing my mom a brownie, either.
