Ocean View's Kool Beans Bistro to close
After more than a decade of serving the Ocean View community, Nancy Crass is closing Kool Bean Bistro.
The decision was a, "hard and personal one," she said.
The Philadelphia native worked as an emergency room nurse for nearly 20 years before inheriting the coastal Delaware cafe from family. Although she knew little about the restaurant business, she was able to transform Kool Bean Bistro into something with special charm and character.
Kool Bean Bistro: From paper plates to whimsical charm
When she took over, the space was small, with just a coffee bar and three tables. Pastries and sandwiches were served to customers on paper plates.
Twelve years later, Kool Bean Bistro, located on Atlantic Avenue in Ocean View, could easily seat more than 40 guests, the menu was made entirely from scratch and colorful, mismatched dishes replaced the paper plates.
Lisa Welling, of Millville, who dined at the restaurant twice a week before work, was disheartened to hear the news.
"There will be a big void in the community," she said. "I will miss the friendliness, the cozy comfort of Nancy's smile and her wonderful food," said Welling, adding that Crass often went out of her way to make her customers feel like family.
"When I was sick with cancer, Nancy brought me homemade quiche all the time, and on holidays she would leave little surprises on my front porch. She is a wonderful woman and she, and her lovely restaurant, will be missed."
Welling posted a personal message of love and gratitude toward Crass on Facebook, which garnered more than 50 likes and 15 shares.
John Brenda Fegelein reached out on the post and said, "So sorry to see this happen — we wish Nancy the best."
Joan Jett tickets for OC Springfest going fast
On Twitter @hcarroll_1
On Instagram @thesassy_banana
If you go:
Kool Bean Bistro
Where: 111 Atlantic Ave, Ocean View
When: 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
Call: 302-541-5377