Jeffrey D. Lewis II is an east side business owner committed to his community, doing what he can to offer opportunity and, at times, money from his own pocket.
The Morningside Cafe owner said he was shocked to learn that a man he’d welcomed into his shop was part of a two-man crew that launched a cinderblock through his front window in late December in an attempt to break in.
On Dec. 27, Lewis arrived to open up the East Warren Avenue coffee shop and discovered the window completely shattered.
“There was glass everywhere; in the (pastry) cooler, and on the furniture. As you can imagine, I was extremely disappointed, every emotion you could think of,” he told BridgeDetroit.
Lewis said he was even more dismayed after reviewing surveillance footage of the nearly 20-minute attempt to gain entry and realized he recognized one of the men involved.
“It’s a slap in the face. He’s been here before, asking for money and side jobs. A couple of times I’ve given money out of my pocket. I try to look out for as many people as I can, but at the same time, we’re also a business – I can’t give every time someone comes in. It’s not feasible,” said Lewis, adding he’s since heard from other neighbors and businesses also victimized by vandals.
“We look out for everybody. For that to happen, and it’s someone I actually recognized and I have helped a couple of times, it’s complete disbelief, shock.”
Lewis said the Detroit Police Department is investigating. DPD did not immediately have an update Wednesday on the case.
The challenge is the latest for Lewis in his entrepreneurial journey with Morningside Cafe – he first endured delays prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic and later, a damaging fire that began in an adjacent building that halted his plans. Lewis opened in September 2023 and said he’s not letting the attempted break in slow him down.
He paid thousands of dollars to fix his window and he also launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of raising $850. Lewis has long surpassed that, with more than $7,200 in donations as of Wednesday afternoon.
“People immediately offered support, donations of whatever they could provide for us,” he said. “It shows this place is wanted.”
Lewis said the funding will aid the cafe greatly and he also intends to direct some of those dollars to the MorningSide Community Organization, including to cover the cost of some additional neighborhood signage.
The concept of Morningside Cafe began in 2016. Lewis said he wanted to create a space with soothing vibes that made patrons feel at home. His menu offers a variety of coffee drinks, including a caramel macchiato, one of Lewis’ go-to recommendations. He makes a handful of sandwiches to order and has a case full of pastries including cupcakes, cookies and muffins. He also offers a selection of pottery, clothing and jewelry from local artisans as well as merchandise and drinkware. The back room offers community space for hosting private events and meetings.
This year, he’s boosting the focus on classes and community events. He recently hosted an album release party for east side rap artists Polo 2Time$. Last week, he hosted a local DJ and from noon to 2 p.m. on Jan. 18 will host a ceramic pottery workshop with StoneCraft Studio.
Customers have been asking for more food options and for extended hours. He plans to offer events monthly and is in talks with a vendor in hopes of offering live cooking demonstrations.
In the meantime, Lewis is looking for staff. Right now, he’s essentially running the shop solo, with part-time help from a relative. Reach out to the cafe to find out more.
Lewis said he’s also encouraged by the positive momentum in the neighborhood as a whole, noting the 18-unit apartment complex, The Ribbon, which will have first-floor retail, including the tenant Little Liberia.
“The corridor is evolving every day, the streetscape is beautiful,” he said. “It’s a good time for this area that’s been kind of forgotten in a sense.”
Sarah Reid, co-owner Flavorful Creations LLC, lives nearby and sells gluten-free desserts at Morningside among other spots, like Eastern Market and at Neighborhood Grocery and The Commons.
Reid, a 15-year resident, said the cafe is a welcome addition to the community and she visits frequently with her children, eight and five. It’s an inviting space that they love coming to, she said.
“We walk down here to get hot chocolate, enjoy and chill out,” she said.
Reid said she was upset and disappointed that someone tried to vandalize the shop.
“My kids were even sad and said ‘why would you do that to Mr. Jeff’s store?’” she said. “It’s something good, uplifting and that’s nurturing our community.”
Morningside Cafe hours are 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday.