I had the pleasure of having a phone interview with Kirsten Moore to get a little back story on how Magpie went from idea to a coming soon restaurant. I found myself fully immersed in Kirsten’s vision of this harmonious space. Like putting down a good novel, it’s almost jarring to imagine the corner of W Gay and N Liberty still being home to Big L Tires and not be Magpie: the natural evolution of the space and Kirsten’s career. I highly recommend you listen to the full interview with Kirsten to feel the passion and hear the story first hand.
Recorded June 3rd, 2020.
Nestled in a historic building surrounded by iconic Harrisonburg sights, Kirsten’s vision intertwines with so much of what is Harrisonburg. By mixing a co-working space with a diner, Magpie and the Perch seeks to build relationships between the businesses, non-profits, creators, and restaurant patrons all while eating or breathing in the smell of fresh bread baking at Magpie Bakery and fresh coffee roasting at Chestnut Ridge Coffee Roasters. What’s more local than that?
Speaking of local, Magpie stepped up during the pandemic to connect the community to the local farmers and businesses through a drive through á le cart farmers market. They seek to continue that sentiment by selling local goods in the restaurant. Tables are crafted by locally owned Rocktown Urban Wood out of the Ash trees from Westover park.
As for the restaurant, Magpie invites you into a familiar but modern diner setting. The smells of fresh bread, coffee, and bacon will give you the comfort of familiarity. However, the menu will also be exciting and invites you to challenge your pallet by trying something new; maybe a special like “Fig and Gruyere Egg Sando?”
So, when will it open? Magpie is in the finishing stages of getting ready and is excited to open their doors early July. With seating for 24 on the patio, 12 bar seats, 44 booths and table seats and garage doors that open, Magpie is well equipped to serve patrons in any phase.
The Perch
Next to the front counter of Magpie is the original stairs that lead you to one side of The Perch. The Perch offers co-working space including private offices, dedicated desks, and general space. There will be at least one large conference room and refreshment area. The main entrance of the Perch is on the back end of the building. If you have interest in renting space, sign up through their Facebook page as there is already a waiting list for individual office space.
As any townie can tell you, Downtown Harrisonburg has transitioned into a vibrant destination filled with amazing food and businesses. Magpie will expand that theme by marrying amazing local food, coffee, and co-working.
