Toastique uses fresh and locally sourced ingredients to offer a variety of creative and delicious combinations that are sure to satisfy! Join them for a cozy coffee break, a productive study session or to simply relax and savor the flavors that the menu has to offer.
What initially attracted you to the Toastique franchise?
I’ve always been someone that has valued health and wellness. Long-term health trends show that the demand for healthier food options is continuing to grow and is driven by an increased focus on personal health, sustainability and environmental concerns. Toastique caters to the health-conscious community by focusing on fresh locally sourced ingredients, using eco-friendly materials and catering to specific dietary needs. Being able to use local vendors and suppliers was a big attraction for me. Having grown up in Bethlehem, my family and I always supported local businesses. I understand the importance of local businesses and the value they bring to the community. I firmly believe that local vendors are the glue that holds any community together. I was attracted to the opportunity to bring healthy, locally sourced food items to the community of Southside Bethlehem. In turn, it allows me to contribute to the local economy and promote a healthier lifestyle. Sometimes it is difficult to find healthy food on the go, so I wanted to provide access to healthier food options to those who are conscious of their eating habits.
What do you love about being based in Bethlehem?
As a native of Bethlehem, the city holds a special place in my heart. Being able to establish and run my business in my hometown allows me to contribute to its growth and prosperity. Bethlehem has a strong sense of community, where residents and businesses support and care for one another.
How has Toastique been received by the community thus far?
Toastique has been met with overwhelming support from the community. From the very beginning of my journey as a business owner, I have been so grateful for the unwavering support I have received. Not only have my family and friends played a crucial role in helping me get up and running, but the broader community has shown immense support, embracing the concept and vision behind Toastique.
Describe your offerings!
At Toastique Bethlehem, we take toasts to the next level. Our gourmet toasts are more than just a slice of bread with toppings; they are artfully crafted open-faced sandwiches. Our menu includes a refreshing selection of smoothies and smoothie bowls that are packed with wholesome ingredients. We also offer a selection of cold-pressed juices, which are made in house with no sugar added. At Toastique, we believe in making everything from scratch, including our spreads. We also take pride in serving espresso drinks to satisfy those coffee cravings.
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Tell us more about your gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options.
At Toastique, we are committed to accommodating a wide range of dietary needs and preferences, ensuring that everyone can find something delightful to savor on our menu. We proudly offer gluten-free bread, vegan and vegetarian choices, customization and locally sourced and fresh ingredients. We strive to satisfy a diverse range of dietary requirements while never compromising on taste and quality.
What would you say are the most popular menu items?
Unquestionably, our Avocado Smash takes the crown as the most beloved item on our menu. Other popular toasts are the Smoked Salmon and the Tomato Burrata. Among our lineup of smoothies, a few favorites have emerged as customer staples including the Blue Mystique, SuperFruit and Green Machine smoothies. Our OG Açaí and PB + B Bowl have become sought-after choices among customers looking for a satisfying and Instagram-worthy meal in a bowl.
What is the overall vibe like at Toastique?
The ambiance at Toastique is modern and inviting. Our cafe offers a contemporary and stylish décor, creating an appealing space for customers to enjoy their dining experience. At Toastique Bethlehem, we are dedicated to promoting a healthy lifestyle and this is reflected in the vibe of the cafe. My vision was to create a community-oriented atmosphere where residents and visitors can gather to meet friends, hold meetings or simply relax.
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Talk about some of the event and communal studying opportunities that the space allows.
We have a versatile event space behind the store called The Southside Lounge. This space provides a private and customizable setting for a variety of gatherings. Whether it’s business meetings, luncheons, baby showers or other special occasions, The Southside Lounge can be reserved to accommodate a range of events. The flexible layout makes it an ideal space for community engagement. Whether it be a pop-up shop, yoga class or workshop, we are open to partnering with local organizations for collaborative initiatives. The aim is to provide a space that fosters connections, learning and shared experiences.
As this is our annual women’s edition, tell us a little bit about what being a female business owner means to you!
Being a female business owner is an opportunity to challenge norms, inspire others, advocate for equality, lead with authenticity and leave a positive impact. It has been an empowering experience for me. By showing others that age and gender should not limit their ambitions, I hope to leave a lasting legacy of empowerment and encourage the next generation of women leaders. As a female business owner, I recognize the importance of collaboration and support within the community of women entrepreneurs. I actively seek opportunities to connect with and uplift women in business, promoting a sense of camaraderie rather than competition. By sharing my experiences, offering guidance and fostering a supportive network, I aim to create an environment where women can thrive together. Success knows no gender boundaries and I hope to contribute to a more equitable future and encourage others to challenge gender-based limitations. Every day, I get the chance to embrace my unique perspective and my approach to leadership. I believe in leading with authenticity, empathy and compassion.My goal is to create a nurturing and inclusive work environment and establish meaningful connections with my team, my customers and the broader community. It is a responsibility that I embrace with passion and determination, and I am committed to creating a path that inspires women to embrace their full potential and achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
21 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem | 610.419.0950 | toastique.com/bethlehem
Published as “Get the Goods” in the August 2023 edition of Lehigh Valley Style magazine.
