Dockside Cafe Contract Extended

Customers walking into the in the are likely to hear the sound of hamburgers sizzling on the grill, lettuce being chopped for freshly made salads and even a lively debate over politics.

The cafe, owned by residents Niki and Louie Economopoulos, has been open for three years and has been building a customer base at the library and through catering for locations as far away as Southfield.

"We have worked hard to get it where it is today," said Economopoulous, whose customer base includes library patrons, residents and city employees. "Customer loyalty is very important to us ... we treat every customer like gold."

The literal mom-and-pop restaurant will continue serving up items after City Council recently approved a three-year contract renewal for the local couple to continue operating Dockside Cafe. The city is charging $700 month rent for the next two years. The third year will be negotiated and may be increased to a maximum of $800 a month.

Described by Mayor Kip Walby as an "amenity to the users of the library," the cafe often hosts art displays by the Lakeside Pallette Club, knitting clubs and by State Rep. Anthony Forlini.

Menu items also change by season including Mackinac Island Creamery ice cream in the summer for library patrons and swimmers from the city pool, and homemade chili in the winter.

"We are always looking for something fresh and new," Economopoulous said.

In addition to homemade items, Dockside also offers local products including Better Made Potato Chips; cookies and scones from Jen's Scone & Treat Company in Roseville; and bagels from.

For city workers, including Cathy Fournier, the cafe is a convenient location to pick up a snack, or meal, on breaks.

"We work next door and can call Louie and he has it ready for us," Fournier said.

In the coming month Economopoulous said he will be adding a few more sandwiches along paninis.

He also will continue his specials, which change by the day.

"When I walk in at 6 a.m., it is an adventure," he said.