Dixie Café serving up lunch and more

By Denice Thibodeau

Published: November 18, 2008

Dixie Bags & More has added a new eatery with specialty coffees, homemade soups and sandwiches that have a touch of gourmet seasonings.

Dixie Café opened Monday, with seating for about two dozen, but the entire menu also is available for takeout.

Those who choose to eat in the café are surrounded by the store’s wares, one-of-a-kind items including jewelry, pottery and the store’s signature handbags hand made by Virginia craftspeople.

Many of Dixie Café’s menu items are made with gourmet mustards (the chicken salad gets a nice bite and a touch of sweetness from Champagne Mustard), jellies and seasonings available in the store’s specialty food section.

Owners Michelle and Gary Bender said they have incorporated items they sell into the menu whenever possible, including the specialty coffees and chai.

They said they have tried to not only make the menu tasty, but healthy as well, by using sourdough instead of white bread and berry wheat instead of plain wheat bread.

“Our food is not bland,” Gary said. “It’s spiced appropriately to make it interesting and delicious.”

Pastries, muffins and bagels are on the breakfast menu, and desserts include homemade cookies, crème brulle and soft-serve ice cream.

“We will be adding a daily hot lunch special soon,” Michelle said.

Dixie Café is located in Dixie Bags & More, 136 S. Ridge St., and is open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Takeout orders can be by calling (434) 793-5842.

Contact Denice Thibodeau at or (434) 791-7985.