In 2017, Bene and John’s daughter, Brooke, and son-in-law, Ryan McCauley, joined the family business to contribute to its growth and secure a retirement plan for Bene and John. Like many businesses, Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa faced significant challenges, notably the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. This led to the difficult decision to close their downtown location for two and a half years due to reduced office work and limited dining options in Ankeny. Despite these hurdles, Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa has expanded, a testament to their resilience and the strong support of the Ankeny community.
What sets Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa apart is their unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. While Ankeny boasts numerous dining options, Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa has carved a niche by providing not only delicious food but also exceptionally fast service and outstanding customer care. This dedication to creating a positive dining experience is a key ingredient in their continued success.
Main Street Cafe & Bakery storefront
A Menu Crafted for Everyone at Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa
The menu at Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa is thoughtfully curated and refreshed 3-4 times annually. Originally developed by John, Bene, Bryan, and Leigha, it has evolved significantly since 2014 to cater to diverse tastes while maintaining a focus on speed, freshness, and quality. The goal is simple: to offer something delicious for every palate, ensuring a satisfying and efficient dining experience.
Among the many popular choices, the soups and salads at Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa consistently receive high praise. The Turkey Bacon Avocado Melt reigns supreme as the most ordered item, closely followed by the flavorful Baja Rice Bowl. Mac n cheeses are another customer favorite, offering comfort and satisfaction. When the weather is pleasant, the salads and wraps become particularly popular, providing lighter yet equally delicious options.
No visit to Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa is complete without indulging in their scratch-made baked goods. From cookies and bars to cake slices, these treats are prepared in-house and are a perfect complement to any meal or a delightful indulgence on their own.
Selection of baked goods at Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa
Family and Business: Balancing Act at Main Street Cafe
As a generational family-owned business, Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa navigates the intricate balance between professional and family life. They acknowledge the demanding nature of the restaurant industry, operating from 6 am to 9 pm seven days a week. However, a strong support system and a dedicated team of managers and hourly staff contribute significantly to achieving a workable balance.
The team at Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa is described as caring and committed, understanding the importance of family, customers, and teamwork. While the family owners admit to being somewhat hands-on, they trust their team to maintain operations, even during brief periods of absence. During peak seasons or times of staff turnover, family support becomes even more crucial. Grandparents, aunts, and friends step in to assist with childcare, allowing the family to focus on the business while knowing their children are well cared for.
Family owners of Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa
Cultivating a Culture of Feedback and High Standards
When it comes to developing a successful business culture, Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa believes in a personalized approach, tailored to the industry, goals, and team dynamics. Their philosophy centers around constant feedback and maintaining high standards. They foster an environment where open communication is encouraged, with team members feeling comfortable providing feedback to management and vice versa.
This commitment to feedback, both positive and constructive, is seen as essential for continuous improvement. Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa believes that understanding areas for improvement, alongside recognizing strengths, is vital for growth. While this direct feedback approach may lead to some employee turnover, it ultimately strengthens the team with individuals who are receptive to growth and committed to excellence. The emphasis on customer service is ingrained in every employee, understanding that customer satisfaction is paramount to the cafe’s success and everyone’s livelihood.
Deeply Rooted in the Ankeny & Metro Community
Owners Brooke and Ryan, both Ankeny and Des Moines natives, express deep appreciation for the growth and community spirit of the area. Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa is proud to be a part of this thriving local community. They value the sense of community, local support, convenient access within the metro, and the welcoming “Iowa nice” attitude prevalent in the region. The increasing diversity of the metro area is also celebrated, with Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa striving to offer a menu that welcomes and caters to people from all backgrounds.
Interior of Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa
Wisdom for Growth and Customer Focus
Sharing advice for fellow business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and open communication. They advocate for understanding employees, fostering a positive team environment, and recognizing the ever-changing nature of the business world. Staying relevant requires ongoing reinvention and redevelopment. Ultimately, Main Street Cafe Ankeny Iowa reiterates the fundamental principle of prioritizing customer care, regardless of the industry. Passion for one’s work is also highlighted as a crucial ingredient for long-term success and fulfillment.
Main Street Cafe & Bakery at 2510 SW White Birch Dr #1,2, Ankeny, IA 50023, invites you to experience their delicious menu and warm hospitality. Visit their website at https://mainstreetcafeandbakery.com/ to explore their offerings.
