Newly opened in an older but recently restored factory, Farm to Toast is a gourmet toast and wellness cafe within Dublin, Pennsylvania. The building is home to The Square; consisting of several smaller shops in one center and is involved in the up and coming Dublin Town Center investment that is revamping the heart of town. Its owner is Robyn Anderson has previously lived in Hawaii for more than 15 years. A goal of hers is bringing Hawaiian flavors to her menu which currently consist of options for toast, smoothies, acai, fruit, quinoa, Mediterranean bowls, coffee, teas, matcha, and lattes. 

Anderson’s interest in this business came from her teenage years when she found an adoration for coffee shops and owning one herself. She was inspired by Dublin’s lack of one and the opening of The Square drove her decision. As a local, I can say that this new place to stop into is definitely exciting, because in most cases I’m reaching outside of town to get food or do any kind of shopping. The healthiness of the menu has been appreciated by the likes of the mayor and overall reception has been good, with a lot of social media attention. All of those who work inside the building now have an additional spot for lunch as well. 

Walking into the café, my eyes were drawn to the large mural on the wall to the left. I had read interviews before visiting, so I gathered from employee Thomas Reid that the space was open with big windows that let plenty of light in. He described a warm atmosphere that is complemented by the artistic nature of the mural. Having seen it myself, I definitely agree with his consensus. There is also a large painted chalkboard opposite the counter you order from so that you can browse the menu. Thomas says work there is fun and their busiest hours surround lunch time and 9 am on weekends.

One of the best parts about the cafe are the ingredients for the menu options, which are locally sourced complete with coffee from a Philadelphia roaster and bread by Nord Bread, a Doylestown sourdough maker who sells at the Perkasie farmers market. Robyn Anderson has been influenced by traveling and eating around the world and likes to combine distinctive items like their beet tahini toast. When I came in, I ordered their avocado toast and a cold brew milkshake, both of which I thought were reasonably priced for a cafe that presented so nicely and provided the healthy choices it does, along with being very delicious. Anderson’s goal is to host a place where people feel welcome; she wants it apparent that it’s an inclusive space for everyone and I definitely got that feeling when I came in and was immediately greeted. She plans to include an outdoor area soon and makes everything easy to pick up for those who don’t eat in. Overall, I really enjoyed a fresh experience like this in Dublin. Having grown up here, it never felt like there was much to do, but I can see myself stopping by frequently on my own or with friends.