Homegrown Ice Cream and Coffee Cafe is a wildly creative, totally unique space that serves drinks, brunch-style bites, and a mouth-watering selection of freshly baked goodies. Since its grand reopening in June of 2024, Homegrown’s owner and visionary, Mikaela, has poured her heart into this local gem. The coffee shop is sunny and spacious, filled with plants, stickers, and several great photo ops for visitors to enjoy.
“I didn’t buy this place for me,” Said Mikaela. “I bought it for the community. That’s why we make everything fresh. That’s why I bake everything from scratch.”
Mikaela is a single mom with two kids and a whole lot of energy. “I want to make something my kids can be proud of,” She stated, pointing out how much of the cafe’s fresh updates and artistic additions have been accomplished through her hard work. Mikaela has transformed the front of the cafe with paintings and fun glass designs. However, the back of the shop is a true hidden treasure. The spacious area features a bar, whimsical light fixtures, and retro furniture. The garage-style back door can open up into a patio during the summer time, creating the perfect spot for ice cream and drinks on warmer days.
Mikaela was inspired to change the space so that there could be a fun place in Okauchee for parties, showers, and even business meetings. Day-to-day customers are still able to enjoy everything the shop has to offer, though. Homegrown’s menu features coffee, real fruit smoothies, and even boozey drinks for those of age. A full menu also serves up a variety of delights, from charcuterie boards and soups to Scratch ice cream, a local favorite. Mikaela’s personal favorite? The ‘Hey Jude’ panini, a chicken sandwich topped with a BLT that serves as an homage to her longtime friend’s mother.
The coffee shop is a true testament to her commitment to create an environment that feels unlike any other. It’s authentically Okauchee, selling several locally made treasures like candles, jewelry, and even a killer hot sauce. Homegrown aims to live up to its name by incorporating the community into its identity.
There’s a clear commitment to creating a peaceful space that celebrates Okauchee’s character. “For many people, this is a home away from home,” She stated. The goal of the cafe is to help build and grow that community. Several events a month are hosted there, such as yoga and sourdough bread classes. These serve as exciting ways for her to reach out to locals and build relationships within the neighborhood. Further, the shop works hard to honor all active and retired service members by offering them free drip coffee among other discounts. Mikaela is dedicated to having Homegrown Ice Cream and Coffee Cafe become an integral part of Lake Country’s personality. As she approaches her one year anniversary of owning the shop, she looks forward to all the fun and coffee flights to come.
