Friends gather at Cabernet's Wine Cafe over glass of wine
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

Cathy Bloom, owner of Cabernet's Wine Cafe at 9 N. Ellicott St., welcomes guests to stop in for a glass of wine. She suggests her personal favorite, a cabernet. Photo by John Rusac

Cabernet's Wine Cafe is the place "Where old friendships blossom, and new friendships bloom."

Opened in May 2006 by Cathy Bloom, the cafe features the feel of home with a choice of approximately 25 wines.

"It's like everyone's living room," she said. "That's why they like it here."

Having owned Village Wine and Spirits for 16 years, Bloom always wanted to own a wine cafe and when the rustic, quaint structure at 9 N. Ellicott St., Williamsville, was available, she knew it was the perfect opportunity.

"I have wanted to do this for six years; its all in the timing. I knew (the location) was the one. It's perfect inside and out," Bloom said. "Its a casual spot where you can come in before or after dinner for a glass of wine."

The wine list has changed almost completely three or four times with some customer favorites always available. Of course, Bloom wine is on hand.

"There are so many varieties out there," Bloom said about choosing her menu, adding that she samples the wines before selecting.

In addition to the glasses of wine and a selection of bottled beers, there are cheese and chocolate plates to accompany a patron's beverage choice.

Bloom said groups looking for a "casual, cozy, comfortable" place gather at Cabernet's Wine Cafe. From bridal showers to co-workers stopping in after work, many have found a tasty glass right in the Village of Williamsville.

In addition to serving wines, Bloom has many future plans for the cafe. She said she is looking into planning wine tours in the Dunkirk and Finger Lakes regions, as well as having tastings at the cafe.

Bloom sees endless potential in the cafe and is considering live music, Italian nights and other special events for her customers' enjoyment. She is also looking to expand her sales to include wine accessories such as glasses and candles.

A Beaujolais Nouveau tasting, wine created by Georges Duboeuf, has been planned. The wine arrives by a plane in a wooden barrel for the tasting that night at 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16.

Those who have found this wine cafe have coined the phrase, "Let's meet up at CABs." Bloom (Cathy Ann Bloom) said with cabernet being her favorite variety of wine, which she specializes in, the name fits.

Cabernet's Wine Cafe opens at 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays at 9 N. Ellicott St., Williamsville. For more information, call 631-1044.

e-mail: jfinch@beenews.com