A members-first coffee bar and creative studio is taking over a converted machine shop just east of downtown Ferndale. The Cafe at MOTO is slated to kick off members-only service next Saturday, with the team aiming for a soft opening before the end of spring.
Members-only start and soft-opening plans
According to MOTO's site, the Cafe at MOTO will operate at 721 E Saratoga St., at the corner of E Saratoga Avenue and Hilton Road, just east of Ferndale’s downtown. What Now Detroit reports that the cafe plans to open to members on May 16 and is targeting a soft opening by the end of spring. MOTO describes the project as a social club and coffee roastery and notes that regular open-house events are planned for neighbors who want a look inside.
Who’s behind the cafe
Managing partner Hunter Erdman, owner of MOTO’s machine-shop operation, is teaming up with Andy French to run the new cafe. Erdman told What Now Detroit, "We've been spitballing the idea for a long time." French is experimenting with syrups as he builds out the drink menu, and the team says offerings will include a range of fresh roasts, grab-and-go charcuterie, and European-style sandwiches on baguette or ciabatta.
Space, membership perks and Sunday open house
MOTO's site lays out the venue as a social club and roastery housed in a converted aerospace machine shop that spans roughly 14,000 square feet. Member perks include access to a tool suite, a photo studio, and discounts on events. The group also hosts a weekly "Sunday Service" cars-and-coffee open house from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., giving locals a standing chance to check out the roastery and sample coffee ahead of regular hours.
