Monticello woman grounded in her Filipino roots, set to open community café

MONTICELLO, Ill. (WAND) — A new café is brewing excitement in Monticello, promising not just coffee but a strong sense of community.

KayBee Community Cafe, is set to open on Mother's Day. It is the latest venture by owner-manager Aundie Owens, who has been serving premium coffee in the area for over a year. Now, she's ready to take the next step with a brick-and-mortar location, creating a welcoming space where neighbors can connect over food and conversation.

"We want it to feel like you're walking into someone's living room," Owens said. "Somewhere cozy where you can sit down for a meal, have casual meetings, or find a nice study spot in town."

Owens' journey into the coffee business started with her mother in an online operation. It quickly gained traction. As her business grew, she knew a space in the community would be the perfect option to expand.

"It's been a long but exciting process," she said. "We've worked closely with the city and local businesses."

Owens envisions KayBee Community Cafe as more than just a coffee shop. She wants to host events or have a space where people can come to have a meeting or study. Owens also wants to fill a gap in Monticello's dining scene, offering a much-needed breakfast and brunch spot. She hopes it will become a go-to destination for locals, including churchgoers looking for a Sunday morning meal without having to leave town.

"When people walk in, we want them to feel welcome like they're part of something special," she said.

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