Chatters Cafe & Market Chosen Rising Star Business

The Bollinger County Chamber of Commerce Rising Star Business of the second quarter is Chatter's Cafe & Market, located at 110 Hwy 34W, Chatters has been serving up great food in Bollinger County for a year now. The owner Lena Harris's aunt and uncle owned a store at this location in Glen Allen for 47 years. Lena says, "When it came time to close the doors, I couldn't imagine it simply closing so I decided to start a store of my own." Lena's husband came up with the idea to serve food. After the decision to sell food was made there was a need to decide what to call the restaurant. Lena says, "We all know about talk in a small town. I had people asking me about purchasing the store before I was even certain I was buying it. After finally getting a plan together, I racked my brain for a name. I came across Chit Chat one day, and thought hmm... what can I do with that? So Chatters it was! Even though my Father will tell you it's because I like to "chat."

Today Chatters is a very successful family friendly restaurant that also carries convenience items and seasonal locally grown produce. Everything is made fresh when ordered. The BBQ Sandwich is still the most popular item on the menu; other menu items include Burgers, Chicken Salads, chicken strips, and some other Chatters favorites are: fried cauliflower, jalapeño poppers, mozzarella cheese sticks, egg rolls, and much more! Depending on the day, there is usually some type of sweets. Right now, you can have a delicious, huge, cinnamon roll or a piece of strawberry pie.

Lena attributes her success at Chatters to, good food, good service, word of mouth, and loyal customers. Lena says," I continue to see new faces almost daily so word of mouth must be working in my favor. We have something for everyone.

Lena's says her favorite part of Chatters is talking to people. "Whether it is first time customers, returning customers, or family, there is always someone to talk to. I also love the location. I am close to home, close to my children's school and because it is in my hometown, I am surrounded by family; some of my biggest supporters."

When asked what challenges she faces in the restaurant business Lena said," As with all restaurants, consistency is a must. It only takes one bad experience to lose what could have been a lifetime customer. Also, maintaining customer interest is a challenge. I am constantly looking for something new to add to the menu without taking away from our current menu selections."

The next time you are looking for something good to eat stop by Chatters Cafe & Market. Chatters is open for business Monday-Friday from 8am-7pm and on Saturday from 10am-7pm. Give them a call at 573-238-3326.