McHenry Times

The Village of Huntley Board of Trustees heard a business proposal for a wine and coffee bar at a recent meeting.

Though the board members did not vote on the project, many expressed excitement about the proposal and pledged to support it as the project goes through the approval process. The project was proposed by Chris and Barb Lincoln, who own Lincoln Farmstead. They want to buy a building at 11808 Main St. to create the Lincoln House and Company.

"I'm excited that you're coming because you're adding to the charm of the square, and the fact we have a tea shop and now we have this is perfect," trustee Ronda Goldman said. "That's the way I look at it."

Barb and Savannah Lincoln were at the meeting to discuss the project with the board. They said the building will require interior renovations and work on the outdoor area. The changes will qualify them for renovation and small business grants that they plan to apply for. 

The women discussed their vision for the proposed business and said they want it to be the new favorite go-to coffee shop in the area. The building they want to move into was previously a coffee shop. The idea is to focus on a cafe aspect and branch off into wine and food, "making it the kind of the place where you can start your day and end your day, depending on how you're feeling," Savannah Lincoln said. "The whole point is that we want to be different than our competitors."

Their competitors include businesses such as Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts. The proposed business will not have a drive-through window. The owners will emphasize coming in to hang out, work, and connect with friends. They plan to offer items like charcuterie boards and snacks to pair with the wine menu, differentiating themselves from any other spots in the community. 

During the presentation, the Lincolns said they plan to offer meals for people with diet restrictions plus vegetarians and vegans. They showed the Board of Trustees a vision board for their planned renovations of the interior and exterior of the building. They hope to attain or be able to use the next-door courtyard and open the business by May or June.