The Dripolator: The relocated Dripolator coffeeshop is now open in downtown Asheville's Pioneer Building, again serving drinks to thirsty customers. “We still have some things to finish up to trick it out and warm it up, but the espresso is pulling, coffee is hot and beer is cold!” owner Jay Weatherly writes in an e-mail announcing the reopening at 190 Broadway. A grand-opening celebration is planned for July. To reach the coffeehouse, call 252-0021.
Firestorm Cafe: Refrigeration means lemon meringue pies, blueberry cheesecakes and Jell-O — but it also means money, which is why downtown Asheville's Firestorm Café is soliciting its customers to help finance the purchase of a refrigerated display case. "We want to expand our cafe and bring customers a wider range of delicious baked goods and desserts," staffer E Scott explains in an e-mail. But, he continues, "due to the depressed economy, we cannot easily obtain an expansion loan from a traditional lender." Firestorm is instead selling $50 gift certificates through July 1 to produce what supporters hope will bring a sudden flood of cash to the cafe. As an incentive, the $50 gift certificates will be valued at $55. All proceeds from certificate sales will go toward the cafe's expansion; to learn more about the project, call 255-8115, or visit Firestorm at 48 Commerce St.
Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project: ASAP, the local nonprofit dedicated to strengthening local-food systems, is devoted to cutting out the middleman. But the organization is currently encouraging supporters to make their contributions through Sensibilities, which has pledged to match all donations throughout the month of June. The day spa is also rewarding donors with discount cards, presumably so they can feel good inside and out. To make a contribution, visit Sensibilities at 59 Haywood St. or 2 Town Square Blvd.
Madison County Farmers Market: The Madison County Farmers & Artisans Market is planning to celebrate the Fourth this year in true Southern style: with pork. Mackey Farms will be cooking its farm-raised hogs, with whole pork shoulders available for sale. Barbecue by the plate will also be available. For more about July Fourth festivities at the market, located in downtown Mars Hill, call 649-2411.
Grovewood Cafe: The Grovewood Cafe is partnering with the Weinhaus for a five-course wine dinner on Thursday, July 16, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets to the event are $65, and can be reserved by calling 254-6453.
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