Introducing the Canaseraga Soup and Coffee Company
By Mary Gardner-Ruch
Canaseraga Soup and Coffee Company, “The Pot Stop”, will bring Allegany, Steuben, and Livingston Counties together for a new dining experience. Renovations are taking place now at 64 Main Street in the historic Canaserga district and will continue over the next few months, according to Jason Milburn, owner, and Chef. The building was built in 1895 and needed lots of remodeling to get ready for the opening of this new establishment.
Jason came to the area 14 years ago from Philadelphia, PA with his partner, Josie Kozlowski. Her family is from the Burns area. Jason has held a number of positions in different areas of his chosen field that have prepared him for this venture. As an executive Chef, his expertise is in fine dining. For the last 8 years, he worked at Alfred University as their Executive Chef. Jason has a love for art and expresses himself through the food that he creates. He plans to serve artisan soups, salads, sandwiches, bread, Charcuterie, pizzas, and pastries.
Josie Kozlowski started her career in food service as a young mother trying to earn a paycheck. Her love for cooking and event planning has carried her to her most recent positions as Director of Catering and General Manager for large-scale dining operations at Alfred University. She loves cooking from scratch and making her clients feel special. Josie is also a Chef and Owner at the “Pot Spot” along with Jason.
Hannah Young is the Barista at the “Pot Spot.” She began her career as a server/bartender. She is currently a food and beverage manager at Swain Ski Resort. Hannah has a love for coffee and espresso creations. She will be making real expresso, not the kind where you push a button and it comes out of the machine.
Together, the three have over 50 years of professional food service experience.
They are serve-safe certified and allergen trained.
Other plans for the “Pot Spot” include first Friday gallery showings where an artist will be highlighted. It will also be an opportunity for the artist to sell their work. Music will be provided at the art shows, as well as open-mic nights. Jason is also hoping to provide cooking classes. His mother bought the building across the street and plans to open a boutique.
If you are looking forward to the grand opening of the Canaseraga Soup and Coffee Company and its special events, you can follow them on Facebook. Stay tuned for good food, art, and music in Canaseraga!