Small Business Spotlight: Brim Café & Coffee

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Brim Cafe & Coffee has a wonderful mission – create a space where people can be comfortable and offer food and beverages that are nourishing and craveable. We talked to owner Kate Sidoti about her vision for Brim, local sourcing (check the extensive list!) and expansion to other locations. Make a plan to visit the original Brim at 2919 Knox Avenue S, or in Edina if you’re out in the suburbs.

Q:  What inspired you to open Brim, and how did your vision for it take shape?

A:  Brim was born from a simple desire: to create a space that brings people together over food that makes them feel good - inside and out. I wanted to prove that wholesome, nourishing meals could still be craveable, vibrant, and full of flavor. The vision started with how I’d to cook for my private chef clients and events - fresh, seasonal ingredients, real food made from scratch, and a menu that celebrates balance rather than restriction.

Kate SidotiQ:  How did you choose the name Brim for your business?

A:  The name Brim came from the idea of fullness - not just a full plate, but a full life. It represents abundance, community, and the joy that comes from sharing good food. We wanted a name that felt warm, optimistic, and welcoming - something that invites you to fill your cup, literally and figuratively.

Q:  That’s such a lovely description - how has Brim evolved since it first opened?

A:  When we opened our first location, the goal was to serve wholesome food that didn’t compromise on flavor. Over time, Brim has grown into a community spot - a place where people linger, students study, neighbors connect, and feel at home. We’ve refined our menu, built lasting relationships with local farmers, and expanded into a second location, but the heart of Brim has stayed the same: simple, intentional food made with care.

Q:  Can you talk more about your approach to sourcing ingredients and working with local farms?

A:  We believe good food starts with good ingredients. That’s why we partner with local farmers and producers who share our values around sustainability and quality. We love working and ordering directly with Larry Schultz Farms for our poultry and eggs, Hmong Farmers Association for our vegetables in the summer and Red Lake Nations for our wild rice. The greens in our salads and the herbs in our sauces are from Revol Greens in Medford, Minnesota from their indoor greenhouses year round. Supporting local not only keeps our menu fresh and flavorful but also strengthens the community that supports us.

Q:  What’s your process for developing new dishes or seasonal menu items?

A:  Our menu evolves with the seasons. We start with what’s growing locally, then build around those ingredients with creativity and balance in mind. It’s a collaborative process - our kitchen team tests, tastes, and refines until each dish feels true to Brim: fresh, nourishing, and satisfying. We love finding ways to surprise guests with something new while keeping our core favorites that people come back for.

Q:  What kind of atmosphere or feeling do you want guests to experience when they walk in?

A:  Warm, calm, and connected. We designed our new Edina Brim to feel like greenhouse and a living room - a place where you can slow down, recharge, and enjoy food that fuels you. The natural light, greenery, and earthy tones are intentional; they mirror the kind of food we serve - clean and grounded.

Q:  You mention the new location in Edina - are there other sites you’re reviewing and what have you learned about being a small business owner in Minneapolis?

A:  Expanding to Edina was a big milestone for us, and we’re so grateful for the support that made it possible. Right now, we’re focused on nurturing both locations and staying true to what makes Brim special before we think about what’s next. Being a small business owner in Minneapolis has taught me the power of community - how much people want to see local businesses thrive, and how important it is to stay adaptable and consistent in your values.

Q:  Are there any new projects, collaborations, or menu directions you’re excited about?

A:  Always! We’re exploring more collaborations with local makers - from our own Brim Cafe Coffee and new offerings with collaboration from Heaven Gluten Free Sourdough to wellness pop up events - to create experiences that go beyond the cafe. On the menu side, we’re leaning into even family friendly seasonal dishes and a few exciting brunch additions that highlight our favorite fall and winter ingredients.

Q:  We are all going to want to know more about these fall and winter ingredient menu additions - how may we stay up to date with your news?

A:  Please follow us on Instagram for the latest updates, new menu additions, and collaborations.