Spring always has referenced ideas of rebirth, rejuvenation, renewal, resurrection and regrowth. Did you know that Carleton Place’s very own Tiffany Nixon brings us whispers of Spring each day? Tiffany is owner of the Ginger Cafe in the old historic train station on Coleman Street, as well as Hamsa Yoga in the same building.
Tiffany views her life with two different mindsets. Actually, you can probably see her sporting two different hats every single day. Born and raised in Carleton Place, her cozy little Ginger Cafe not only has a full service coffee bar, but is host to a whole lot more on the healthy eating scale. They serve a pay-per-weight vegetarian buffet, soups, sandwiches, smoothies and fresh pressed juices. They also have vegan and gluten free options.
Anyone I have interviewed has repeated almost the same thing. Like most people Tiffany tired of her high-tech marketing job and wanted to change directions. She is also very honest and admitted she had no restaurant training. That’s right, she did not “work the line” prepping for years before she opened The Ginger Cafe. She approached the former tenant The Lanark Moonshine Cafe, managed for a spell, and then took it over lock, stock, and barrel.
Tiffany slid into the organic driver’s seat and learned as she went along. Education is important, and her staff are also well versed in what they sell, and what’s good for you.
Their menu is constantly evolving based upon the seasonality of produce and their chef’s creativity. They use quality, fresh ingredients in all their dishes, and although they may not be 100% organic, organic ingredients are used when possible.
If you’re a regular, you know that there are a few ‘standards’ in the buffet, but for the most part, there are new dishes each time you visit. Tiffany wants to personally make sure you feel great after you dine at The Ginger Cafe. Eating vegetarian doesn’t mean you have to eat boring, humdrum dishes. There are no hardcore divisions anymore. It’s also a means towards reducing both human and animal suffering and leaving a habitable planet to future generations.
Whether it be the fresh pressed smoothies, juices, or those much ballyhooed desserts, your Mum could not do much better feeding you. Their sweets are home baked with quality ingredients and love. The selection changes daily but you’ll usually find cookies, squares, tarts, scones, and muffins. They are also participating in the Taste of Maple. Warning: a maple overdose may have been experienced when perfecting their maple latte!
In discussing Tiffany’s other hat, Hamsa Yoga promotes well being for men and women. No one is perfect, but her Yoga classes teach you to seek and find all the barriers within yourself. As I watched her coach one of her clients, I saw how she was emphasizing the union of the body to match your consciousness. You can’t always change what is going on in life outside, but Tiffany helps you change your inside.
Her two businesses sum up a balanced personal attitude in day to day life. It’s called “getting to know yourself”. She says since she began her journey on Coleman Street she has personally changed. She is more patient, and finds she seldom passes judgment anymore, which is a feat for anyone these days.
If she had a magic wand Tiffany wishes our citizens of Carleton Place would shop locally, as we have everything here that you need. When you visit any one of Tiffany’s establishments you will feel comfortable, eat healthy, and deal with a friendly fantastic staff. After all “beautiful minds” inspire others!
Ginger Cafe
location
132 coleman street
carleton place, on, k7c 4m7
visit them
monday-wednesday 9am-4pm
thursday & friday 9am-8pm
saturday 10am-4pm
sunday closed
get in touch
613.492.1345
info@gingercafe.ca
Hamsa Yoga
Address: 132 Coleman Street, Carleton Place ON, K7C4M7
Call: (613) 451-3200
Email: info@hamsayogastudio.ca
Ladies Who Lunch
You have met Amanda McNeely, and Teri White, who are part of our working team for your Ladies Who Lunch date on June 6th. This is another one of our members ready to put this shindig all together. When we have all the details a formal announcement will be made.
lindaseccaspina 