Shortly after I left the place this morning, and headed into work, I realized that I was not only the last patron to leave Solo Cafe before they closed for renovations, but I was the first patron in the door this morning. I guess if you measured just by this, you’d think I’m a total Solo junkie, and well I kind of am, but I’m not always there for the coffee. It’s really a second home almost for me. It’s so relaxing and there’s always so much going on. Not to mention it connects to the best. salon. ever.

As I was saying, today was the re-opening of Solo. I had an 8:30am meeting this morning but was determined to stop in and see what went on while I was locked out. I was joined by the infamous Matthew Petro.

I am glad to say that the feel remained the same. Some of the changes included moving the large round tables a bit and adding some smaller white ones which were pretty comfy. The “TV viewing area” was opened up and the couch and two matching chairs moved where the leather chairs used to be. The bicycle everyone remembers so much has been replaced with an awesome one of a kind mural that was painted on the walls by local artists while cleaning and renovating was being done.

The kitchen is coming along and a food menu should be available shortly. In addition there will be patio seating along the back patio of the cafe and I think I heard there would be a fire pit eventually as well. Smores n’ Lattes sounds like a fantastic night to me.

My peppermint cream was just as good as last time as was my cherry danish I haven’t enjoyed in awhile.

I’ve heard about a local tea place opening up, White August. Would be awesome if some of their teas were brought into Solo too.

Great way to start the day today, and glad to have my security blanket back and the balance back in my life

Solo – you rock!

My most favoritest place aside from my house is Solo Cafe in Tempe. I started coming here almost 8 months ago when I moved to the area from Detroit. Then, the place was usually abandoned when I stopped over. The past two months, it’s been packed full, which is good, unless I am looking for a seat with access to an outlet and not my favorite round table by the bar.

It’s 1:43pm on Friday, and I walked in from Altered Ego Salon & Spa and took a spot on one of the leather chairs to enjoy my last half hour here until Tuesday, and to take in the old Solo Cafe. In 15 minutes or so they will close their doors to begin some awesome renovation. From what I’ve heard while ordering my iced peppermint cream, they are ecstatic about it. Pictures I have been promised

1:45pm and the doors connecting Solo and Altered Ego have officially closed. The tables are being brought in from outside also. There’s currently only one other patron here aside from me and it looks like he is gathering his things to head out. He had my second favorite spot, the comfy sofa.

I was told not to worry about leaving in a hurry, but have ordered my peppermint cream to go just in case. It’s so quiet and clam in here, almost like the calm before a storm.

I have to admit I am nervous and excited at the same time to see how this place will look come Monday when I stop in. I know it will keep its same charm. I have no doubt about that. Solo Cafe will have it’s charm plus 100.

I guess I am just glad to know that I knew this place before it was “the place” and that I am able to sit here to be out with the old and in with the new.

1:51pm: Umbrellas are coming in. Let them know I was willing to leave at any time and to just kick me out, but was told to not worry. They aren’t worried about me

2:00pm: Was just asked if I minded being locked in. Open sign has been turned off. Chatting with the Solo crew while some local music plays. It’s a duo that typically plays at Macayos every Thursday. Folksy. Great stuff. Will now need to hit Macayos some Thursday night. I kinda feel like dancing

2:15pm: Work is starting at Solo Cafe. It’s also been mentioned that my pink sandals are the girliest.

2:23pm: Leaving Solo to go pick up my repaired Lil 3 so they can really start working. Bye all. See you Tuesday Solo!

One last glance at Solo before I close this: