East of Africa Update. Waffles, Coffee, And Tea On South State.
Paving began over the weekend along the section of roadway extending from the roundabout that connects Hoff Road to the new road between Africa Road and Polaris Parkway. Most of the paving work was completed on Saturday.
Rain over the weekend and snowfall on Monday delayed plans to expand the paving project. Work will resume once the weather clears and the surface is dry enough for equipment.
Construction continues on a bridge over Alkyre Run, part of the new road linking Westar Boulevard to Africa Road. Beneath the bridge, crews will install a rectangular concrete culvert that transitions into a round, eight-foot-diameter concrete culvert carrying Alkyre Run beneath a gravel-and-dirt bridge. This older bridge connects the western acres of Yarnell Farm to the farmhouse and barns.
A 12-inch water main has also been installed, running from Africa Road to Westar Boulevard.
Waffle Way Cafe Opens, Later Than Planned
What was promised in April has finally arrived. The Waffle Way Cafe features a lineup of waffles, including minis, OGs, waffle fries, cakes, and fruit-topped waffle balls. Toppings include chocolate, caramel, and maple syrups, along with a house-made Waffle Way syrup for the adventurous. All are dusted with powdered sugar.
The restaurant is located in the new mixed-use building just south of the post office and COhatch on South State Street. Construction began in April this year, but delays moved the opening to the end of October.
I ate my way through waffle balls covered in every fruit and syrup, except maple. The balls are soft, airy puffs that look like doughnut holes more than traditional waffles. However, the dough is definitely not a doughnut hole. It is a textured, flavorful blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a few secret ingredients, according to the chef.
They come in a deep tray with a paper sleeve that keeps them warm for takeout. Opening the tray also makes for a visually appealing reveal.
Only after finishing my tray of balls I was told that each waffle tastes different because it's made in a dedicated waffle iron. Mini-waffles have their own iron and are the crispiest, thanks to their smaller size. Minis could easily be finger food.
The OG waffles are the classics, as you’d expect.
I had planned to try the waffle fries, the crispiest choice, but after finishing the waffle balls, I was stuffed. However, fluffy chocolate-covered waffle cakes nearly made it into my takeout order.
Dine-in guests can choose from a full coffee menu and an extensive tea selection. The dining room is bright and spacious, and in warmer weather, a patio catches the morning sun. Parking on the street or behind the building.
The menu is flexible for the first couple of weeks as the staff becomes familiar with recipes, equipment, and customer needs.
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