Fond du Lac Spotlights with- Kelly Northlee -

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Celebrating 20 Years of Success: Sombrero's Restaurant

In this article, we'll dive into the journey of Sombrero's Restaurant, its unique offerings, and its deep connection with the Fond du Lac community. A Journey of Passion and Family Elizabeth shares that the journey of Sombrero's Restaurant began about 24 years ago when she was working at another Mexican restaurant that is no longer in operation. After working there for four years, her parents presented her with the opportunity to open her restaurant. Initially unsure about leaping, Elizabeth eventually embraced the challenge and opened Sombrero's Restaurant. It has been an incredible journey for her and her family. Over the past 20 years, Sombrero's Restaurant has become a beloved establishment in the Fond du Lac community. As a small, family-owned business, they pride themselves on the personal touch they bring to their customers' dining experience. Elizabeth mentions that what sets them apart from other restaurants is the strong bond they have formed with their patrons. They have been invited to weddings, graduation parties, baby showers, and even surprise birthday parties. The restaurant has become a gathering place for celebrations and special moments in their customers' lives. Expanding the Menu: The Colony Supper Club To keep things fresh and exciting, Sombrero's Restaurant introduced a new addition to their menu called the Colony Supper Club. This family recipe from the 1970s and 80s has been brought back to life, offering customers a taste of nostalgia. In addition to their delicious Mexican cuisine, customers can now enjoy the Colony Supper Club fish fry. This addition has been a hit for the past eight years, showcasing the restaurant's versatility and commitment to providing a diverse range of options for their customers. Accommodating Dietary Preferences One of the standout features of Sombrero's Restaurant is their willingness to accommodate dietary preferences. Elizabeth emphasizes that almost anything on the menu can be made vegetarian by simply removing the meat. This level of flexibility ensures that all customers can find something to enjoy, regardless of their dietary restrictions. A Family Affair Sombrero's Restaurant is not just a business for Elizabeth and her family; it's a way of life. Elizabeth's sister has been a stylist in the same location for almost 30 years, and her children also play a role in the restaurant's operations. Her daughter, Michaela, has been working alongside her since she was young, becoming Elizabeth's right-hand person. Even her other daughter, Mariah, helps out on special occasions. Elizabeth's two younger sons also lend a hand, with the older one assisting regularly and the younger one occasionally hiding. The restaurant truly embodies the spirit of a family business, with each member contributing their unique skills and dedication to its success. The Fond du Lac Community: A Loyal Support System Throughout their 20 years in business, Sombrero's Restaurant has witnessed the changing landscape of Fond du Lac. However, one thing that has remained constant is the loyalty and support of their customers. Elizabeth expresses her gratitude for the loyal patrons who have been with them from the beginning and continue to support them today. She mentions that she has developed personal connections with many of her customers, remembering their favorite drinks, booths, and orders. This level of familiarity and connection is what makes Sombrero's Restaurant a special place for both the staff and the customers. Giving Back to the Community Sombrero's Restaurant has a history of giving back to the community, although recent economic challenges and workforce limitations have made it more difficult to do so. Elizabeth explains that they have had to prioritize their resources and ensure that their employees are not stretched too thin. However, in the past, they have organized events and initiatives to support the community. Despite the current limitations, Sombrero's Restaurant remains a pillar of the Fond du Lac community, providing a welcoming space for gatherings and celebrations. Recognizing and Valuing Long-Term Employees Elizabeth takes pride in the longevity of her employees, particularly her daughter, Michaela, and her husband, who have been with the restaurant for a significant period of time. She mentions that her husband has developed a remarkable ability to recognize customers and remember their orders, even if he doesn't personally know them. This level of familiarity and attention to detail creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for customers, making them feel like part of the Sombrero's Restaurant family. Reflecting on 20 Years of Success As Sombrero's Restaurant approaches its 20th anniversary, Elizabeth reflects on the incredible milestone they have achieved. She acknowledges that not many businesses can say they have been in operation for 20 years, especially considering the challenges faced by businesses in recent years. Elizabeth credits the support of her loyal customers and the backing of her family for the restaurant's longevity. To show their appreciation, Sombrero's Restaurant will be offering a special promotion on their anniversary date, October 28th. Customers will receive a generous 20% off their total bill as a token of gratitude for their continued support. Looking Ahead: A Bright Future As Sombrero's Restaurant celebrates their 20th anniversary, they look forward to the future with optimism and excitement. Elizabeth acknowledges that Fond du Lac has evolved over the years, but she believes that the city still retains its charm and traditions. She encourages anyone considering a move to Fond du Lac to explore the hidden gems and unique offerings that the city has to offer. From the beautiful scenery to the diverse range of activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In conclusion, Sombrero's Restaurant is a testament to the power of passion, family, and community. Elizabeth and her family have created a welcoming and inclusive space where customers can enjoy delicious food and create lasting memories. As they celebrate their 20th anniversary, they express their gratitude to their loyal customers and look forward to many more years of serving the Fond du Lac community.
Recommended Spots for Hot Drinks in the Fond du Lac Area

If you're in the Fond du Lac area and looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a hot drink, look no further than Stone Oak Coffee House. Located in an old 1930s Tudor-style house, this coffee shop offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for meeting up with friends or having a quiet moment to yourself. I had the pleasure of sitting down with the owner, Andrew, to learn more about his journey into the coffee business and what makes Stone Oak Coffee House so special. A Passion for Coffee Andrew and his wife, originally from Portland, Oregon, have always had a love for coffee. Andrew used to roast his coffee at home as a hobby. When they moved to Fond du Lac during the COVID-19 pandemic, Andrew could explore his passion for coffee even further. He started a company called Angel's Share Coffee, where he roasted and made barrel-aged coffee. This unique coffee is aged in freshly sourced whiskey barrels, giving it a distinct flavor that sets it apart from traditional coffee. The success of Angel's Share Coffee led Andrew to expand his business and look for a commercial space. That's when he stumbled upon Stone Oak Coffee House, a charming coffee shop that was up for sale. A Perfect Match Stone Oak Coffee House was a perfect fit for Andrew and his wife. The coffee shop is not your typical drive-through coffee joint. It's a place where people come together to experience life and create meaningful connections. The motto of the coffee house, "Life happens, coffee helps," perfectly captures the essence of what Stone Oak Coffee House is all about. Andrew and his wife saw the potential in the coffee shop and decided to take the leap and purchase it. They have been running Stone Oak Coffee House for about a year, which has been an incredible journey for them. Creating Meaningful Connections One of the things that Andrew loves most about Stone Oak Coffee House is the opportunity to create meaningful connections with customers. He shared a heartwarming story about a customer who reunited with her daughter after 35 years. The coffee shop provided the perfect setting for this emotional reunion, and Andrew was grateful to be a part of such a special moment. In addition to catalyzing important life moments, Stone Oak Coffee House also takes pride in supporting local businesses. They partner with a local roaster, Terra Verde Coffee, to provide their daily drip and espresso. They also source their pastries from local bakeries, such as Thunderbird and Three Sweets. By keeping things local, Stone Oak Coffee House contributes to the growth and success of the community. A Family Affair Stone Oak Coffee House is not just a business for Andrew and his wife; it's a family affair. Their two daughters, aged 7 and 10, are actively involved in the coffee shop. The 10-year-old has even worked at the coffee shop during the summer, and both girls have expressed interest in becoming baristas when they grow up. Having their children be a part of the family business is a source of joy for Andrew and his wife, and it also adds a personal touch for their regular customers who get to see the kids grow up. Embracing Small-Town Living Moving from a big city like Portland, Oregon to a small town like Fond du Lac was a big change for Andrew and his family. However, they have come to love the close-knit community and the sense of belonging that comes with living in a small town. They enjoy being involved in people's lives and making a positive impact on the community. Andrew believes in the power of working together and supporting one another, and he sees the success of the coffee shop as intertwined with the success and happiness of the community. Bringing Innovation to a Small Town One of the things that Andrew and his wife bring to Stone Oak Coffee House is a fresh perspective and a willingness to try new things. They understand that small towns can sometimes get stuck in their ways, and they strive to bring innovation and new ideas to the community. In the coffee world, they introduce unique flavors and brewing methods, encouraging customers to step out of their comfort zones and try something new. Andrew believes that by embracing innovation, they can help expand people's horizons and show them that there are different ways to enjoy coffee. Stone Oak Coffee House is more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee. It's where connections are made, stories are shared, and lives are touched. Andrew and his wife have created a welcoming and cozy environment where people can come together and experience the joy of community. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a friendly atmosphere, Stone Oak Coffee House is the perfect spot to indulge in a delicious cup of coffee and connect with others. So, if you find yourself in Fond du Lac, be sure to stop by Stone Oak Coffee House. You'll be greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere, where the motto "Life happens, coffee helps" sets the tone for meaningful connections and memorable moments. Andrew and his wife have poured their passion for coffee into this charming coffee shop, creating a space that goes beyond serving a great cup of joe. Visit Stone Oak Coffee Haus Located at: 347 Winnebago Dr., Fond du Lac, WI, United States, Wisconsin Contact Number: +1 920-933-5033 Email:coffee@stoneoakcoffeehaus.com Website:stoneoakcoffeehaus.com Get in Touch with Kelly Northlee for All Things Fond du Lac Facebook Page: @FondyFamousKellyNorthlee Instagram: @kelly.NorthLee Linkedin: Kelly NorthLee Website: www.KellyNorthLee.com Contact Number: +1 920-204-9957
Best Handmade Chocolates, Bakery, & Meals in Fond du Lac Area || CC’s Chocolate Cafe

In this article, we will be discussing the journey of CC’s Chocolates Cafe a local business that has become a beloved part of the community. I had the pleasure of sitting down with the owner to learn more about their story and what makes their establishment so special. A Dream Turned Reality The business in question is celebrating its second anniversary on October 2nd, which is a significant milestone. The owner reflects on how this achievement seemed like a pipe dream 20 years ago. She has always been passionate about making chocolates, desserts, and cookies for her loved ones. Being the go-to dessert person in her family, she decided to turn her love for baking into a business and share her creations with others. Following Your Passion One of the most remarkable aspects of this business is that the owner is doing what she truly enjoys. Her passion for creating delicious treats shines through in every bite. It's a testament to the saying, "Do what you love, and you'll never work a day in your life." The owner feels incredibly fortunate to have found a way to combine her love for baking and her desire to share her creations with others. Expanding Horizons When the business first started, the owner never imagined that it would expand beyond chocolates and desserts. However, she took a leap of faith and decided to venture into the world of food. This decision was both nerve-racking and exciting. It allowed her to try new things, experiment with different recipes, and receive valuable feedback from her customers. Building Relationships One of the most rewarding aspects of running this business is the opportunity to build relationships with customers. The owner mentions a couple who visits every Saturday and has become more than just customers – they have become friends. Their honest feedback and support have been invaluable in shaping the business and ensuring that the products meet the highest standards. Creating Comfort Food The owner believes that her establishment has become a place of comfort for many people. Customers can come in, say hi, enjoy a treat, and feel a sense of familiarity and warmth. It's not just about the food; it's about the connections and friendships that are formed within the walls of the business. Popular Items When it comes to food, the quiche and the sandwiches are among the most popular items. Customers rave about the quiche, and the sandwiches have a loyal following. In the realm of chocolates, the melted and turtles are customer favorites. And of course, the cheesecakes are a big hit as well. Community Involvement The business actively participates in the local community. They work with other businesses and organizations to support each other and promote local products. For example, they collaborate with a nearby store to sell their cheesecakes. This partnership allows them to reach a wider audience and contribute to the local economy. Highlighting Downtown Businesses The business is also involved in highlighting other downtown businesses. They have been featuring different establishments on their social media platforms, showcasing the variety of businesses in the area. This initiative has been well-received, as it helps raise awareness about the hidden gems in the community and encourages people to support local businesses. Looking Towards the Future The business is excited about the future of downtown and the projects that are in the works. They are actively involved in promoting events and sharing updates on their Facebook page. By working together with other businesses, they hope to continue building a thriving downtown area that attracts both locals and visitors. In conclusion, this local business has not only created delicious handmade chocolates, bakery items, and meals but has also become an integral part of the community. The owner's passion for baking and her dedication to providing high-quality products have earned her a loyal customer base. Through community involvement and collaboration with other businesses, they are contributing to the growth and success of downtown. So, the next time you're in the area, stop by and indulge in some of their delectable treats. Best Handmade Chocolates, Bakery, & Meals CC’s Chocolates Cafe Contact Info Located at: 57 N Macy St, Fond du Lac, WI, United States, Wisconsin Contact Number: +1 920-933-3121 Email: Claudette.Rahmer@CCSChocolates.com Website: www.CCs-Chocolates.com Get in Touch with Kelly Northlee for All Things Fond du Lac Facebook Page: @FondyFamousKellyNorthlee Instagram: @kelly.NorthLee Linkedin: Kelly NorthLee Website: www.KellyNorthLee.com Contact Number: +1 920-204-9957

AGENTS

Kelly Northlee

Broker Associate