How the Cottage Tearoom and Fare became reality

The inspiration for the Cottage Tearoom & Fare came during the Northfield Minnesota River Market 2021. During this duration of the weekly Market, residents of Northfield, Minnesota, expressed great interest in the idea of having afternoon tea parties at the Contented Cottage Bed and Breakfast, which Lisa and Steven have in operation. Lisa and Steve always dreamed of someday opening and operating a tearoom and café in the Northfield Downtown business district.  Cottage Tearoom & Fare began planning in January 2022 for opening in August 2022. 

About the Owners

Steve and Lisa came to live in Northfield, MN, in 2009 and opened their bed and breakfast (Contented Cottage) in 2015. They have been married for over 40 years and have two grown children and five grandchildren who also reside in Northfield.

Lisa was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, and at a young age, her family moved back to Minnesota, where her mother was raised. Lisa’s major career was in the Nursing/CMA field. In September 2022. Lisa retired from her 30 + years in the medical field to dedicate her attention to the Cottage Tearoom & Fare and the Contented Cottage Bed and Breakfast businesses. Lisa enjoys home decorating and various creative projects like soap making, knitting, and sewing when she has the time; otherwise, spending time with family and friends is most important to her.

Steve was born and raised in Minnesota. Steve has 10+ years in the food service and hospitality industry. Most of Steve’s 30-year career life was in the Information Technology industry with an emphasis on Hospitality Technology Engineering. Steve uses his food service cooking skills as his method of relaxation and culinary art expression. Steve has since retired in August of 2022 to dedicate his skills and experience to the Cottage Tearoom & Fare and the Contented Cottage Bed and Breakfast.