Eva Maes? Big Ben Cafe?

Are both closed? I haven't seen any activity as I have driven by on my scenic route home. (Love taking River Road home. Might add 7 minutes but so much nicer than stop and go on 71 north.)
I wasn't drawn to Big Ben because it was counter service. Digital menu board that changed quickly. Small bar in the back that I didn't notice until another visit. Out door area looked inviting but I just wasn't drawn.
May try Verbena one weekend morning for breakfast. That's such a busy time for us. Curious about the full service bakery coming soon in Nortons. (We like walking around Nortons because it reminds us of Seaside FL:-)
Eva Maes was alright the time or two we went. Prefered being near the creek. Lost something moving to a land locked area.
Would like a Paul's in that area. After the road is widened maybe they can determine a good location for that.

[Robin Garr]

I heard Big Ben had a new chef and was trying to turn things around, so I would be surprised if it went down that quickly. Prior to that, my early experiences were about the same as yours.

On Oct 29, Big Ben's Facebook page indicated they were "Closed for Remodeling" - I know that's code in the business for "Closed For Ever", but let's hope not - hate to see another place go down!

On Oct 29, Big Ben's Facebook page indicated they were "Closed for Remodeling" - I know that's code in the business for "Closed For Ever", but let's hope not - hate to see another place go down!

Yea, that is really stupid, especially since the place is brand new and they just opened months ago...

Big Ben's cafe IS CLOSED FOR REMODELING. It is not closed forever. I am a reliable source on this one, and I assure they will come back full swing.

That is really weird that they would close for remodeling since everything was brand new. I still say it doesn't make sense....

I'll believe it when I see it....

I'll be the optimist to the pessimism, and hope so, too. Please keep us in the loop!

I've also heard that they are closed for remodeling and do plan on reopening. The remodeling involves expanding the bar area and making a few other changes.

If you've got to close down to remodel, it would make sense to do it during a slower season (winter) than during a busier time... so that might be why they've decided to do it now. Or maybe they realized the bar was too small and want to get it right as soon as possible.

Either way, the food was pretty good so I hope they reopen soon.

Is Verbena open and where are they at? I was just in Norton Commons a few weeks ago and didn't see them. Seeing that we will be going to Costco on a more frequent basis, would be a good breakfast stop.

Now open in Norton Commons! Verbena Café, owned by Michael and Laurie Cortino, opened its doors in mid September at 10639 Meeting Street in Norton Commons. Verbena Café is a new breakfast and lunch concept developed by the Cortino’s based on recipes used by restaurants owned and operated by Mike’s family in the Chicago area. The extensive breakfast and lunch menu is served all day and includes, omelets, pancakes & waffles, crepes & blintzes, salads, deli sandwiches, hot sandwiches and burgers and “the best eggs benedict in town”. Verbena Café is open Tuesday thru Friday from 6:30am-2:30pm, Saturday and Sunday from 7:00am-3:30pm, closed on Mondays.

here's verbena's website with menu:
http://verbenacafe.com/

This menu looks really good. I cannot wait for a breakfast there.

Eva Maes is relocating downtown in the neighborhood of 5th and Jefferson.

Big Ben's IS in transition. Currently a training kitchen for soon to be opened, completely different operation, again downtown.

here's verbena's website with menu:
http://verbenacafe.com/

This menu looks really good. I cannot wait for a breakfast there.

They're great, seriously.

Big Ben's IS in transition. Currently a training kitchen for soon to be opened, completely different operation, again downtown.

They're going to move downtown also? I said they were going to reopen in Norton Commons.