City officials formally welcomed Willy Beans, the newest addition to Lewiston’s burgeoning café scene, to their home in the Bates Mill Complex in a ribbon cutting ceremony today. Proprietors Michael Lemieux and William Hall, both Lewiston natives with a longtime dream of opening a coffee shop, found the perfect spot to realize that dream right here in their hometown.
 

Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce President Chip Morrison; Willy Beans co-owner William Hall; Lewiston Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert Sr.; Willy Beans co-owner Michael Lemieux; and State Representative Michael Carey.

Coffee shops are often associated with decadent treats and extravagant specialty drinks these days. And while Willy Beans offers just that, they do so with a twist—most of Willy Beans’ menu offerings are “heart healthy” and nutritious. With one co-owner, Michael, a successful cardiologist at Inland Hospital in Waterville (and formerly of Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston), and the other, William, a former professional dancer, it is no surprise that healthy choices abound at Willy Beans!

In addition to excellent coffee, specialty drinks, pastries and desserts, Willy Beans features a fully menu of soups, panini sandwiches, and wraps to choose from. Willy Beans is also proud to serve a limited selection of fine wines and beers for those customers looking to unwind by their cozy wood stove during the afternoon or evening.

The café also offers Wi-Fi internet access for business people and students working on the go. A conference room will also be opening shortly that will cater to organizations looking for a convenient off-site location to hold meetings or seminars.
 

During the ceremony, Mayor Gilbert remarked on the growing trend of successful businessmen and women originally from Lewiston who are returning to their roots. “It seems that I am often asked to speak at ribbon cuttings that represent the homecoming of a Lewiston native returning to invest in our community,” he noted. “We are indeed truly blessed to have seen many of Lewiston's sons and daughters—who’ve made their way throughout the world—return home to make this community an even better place in which to live, work, and raise a family.”

Co-owner Michael Lemieux is also very glad to have found this superb location for his café here in his native Lewiston. “Even though I am a cardiologist by trade, my first love has always been food, and my dream was always to open an establishment like this,” Michael said. “While I was never sure when or where it would happen, there is something very fitting about Will and I being able to do it here in our hometown of Lewiston. We are certainly excited to be a part of the community once again.”

For further information contact: Michael Lemieux or William Hall, Willy Beans, 207-777-1111 or Mark McComas, Deputy Director, Economic & Community Development Department (207) 513-3000 x3232
 

FOR MORE INFO on any Press Releases contact:
Dot Perham-Whittier - Community Relations Coordinator
Lewiston City Hall
513-3000 - Extension 3205
dottie@ci.lewiston.me.us