The Chic Guide: What is Café Alma and what’s the inspiration behind it?
Lainey Richler, Co-Owner of Café Alma: After living a significant time in Israel and traveling the world, we wanted to bring something different but authentic to Cincinnati. We love entertaining and welcoming people into our home, and we felt that we could create an extension of ourselves through this café where people would just walk in and feel right at home. We are passionate about food, health and customer experience, so what better business to get into?
The Chic Guide: Who’s behind it?
Richler: My husband, Yair Richler, and myself Lainey Paul Richler are the owners and visionaries behind the birth of Café Alma. While we have never really been in the restaurant industry in the past, we had a very clear vision of what we wanted and needed to be a part of this cafe. Since opening, we now have an entire team behind this operation, dedicated to the success and continuity of our brand. Most notably, our chef, Maynor Hernandez, has tirelessly helped us perfect the menu and continues everyday to challenge our creativity and make the most incredible food you’ve ever had.
The Chic Guide: What’s on the menu?
Richler: Most noteworthy, the Shakshuka. This is a traditional Middle Eastern dish where eggs are poached in a tomato sauce base. We have 4 unique varieties that are truly special and an authentic representation of what we would eat almost everyday back in Israel. We want our menu to transport you somewhere else. To a small Parisian Café with our Café Miel and a fresh butter croissant, or an Argentinian Finca (farm) by drinking our Yerbe Maté tea out of the traditional chalice, or of course, to the beach in Tel Aviv with a classic hummus bowl, tabbouleh salad and a light, summery cocktail.
The Chic Guide: What makes Café Alma unique?
Richler: We have a very eclectic menu where the Mediterranean and Middle East meet classic American Brunch. We feel passionate about bringing incredible flavor while promoting a balanced lifestyle, focusing on a vegetarian diet with whole foods and natural ingredients. Even our French Toast! We pride ourselves in being a scratch kitchen where, 99.9% of our menu is made in house, fresh, everyday.
The Chic Guide: Is there anything new on the horizon?
Richler: We have recently expanded into Happy Hour on Fridays where we have extended our operating hours until 7:00 PM. We offer $2 off all of our beer, wine, and house cocktails as well as a special apps menu. Our shakshukas and lunch specials are available as well for those that want more dinner style options. Additionally, Trivia will be starting Friday evenings from 5-7pm!
The Chic Guide: Where are you located?
Richler: Readers can find us at 6111 Montgomery Road in Pleasant Ridge, almost on the corner of Ridge and Montgomery. The big white building with gorgeous flower boxes! You can’t miss us!
The Chic Guide: Where can readers go to learn more and follow along?
Richler: We stay most up-to-date on our Instagram, so I would encourage you to start there!