Tapestry Café lives up to its name

NETCONG - A tapestry is an article woven of many threads to produce one pleasing object, and the Tapestry Café lives up to its name. Owners Peter and Teresa Mankin’s purpose in opening the café was to create a meeting place where a family can come and be in a safe environment, inter-weaved with the concepts of music and the arts. “We wanted to go to a club where one could get a decent night’s entertainment without alcohol,” said Peter. “I love music and live entertainment. This is a place where young people can come and have a really good time without being around alcohol or drugs.” They also wanted a place where their creative juices would be utilized in an atmosphere where old-fashioned manners and courtesies would reign. Teresa, who has been a drug and alcohol counselor for 15 years and a consultant to the Sussex County Superior Court, has had direct dealings with young people. As a result of her associations, she and Peter decided to open a coffee house where there is no Internet or television, no video games or electronics; only board games, such as Scrabble, chess, checkers and Yahtzee, and a chance to socialize. The Mankins have resided in Stanhope, where Peter is a member of the board of education, for more than 14 years. Their three children, Joe, 17, Kimberly, 16, and Josh, 12, all participate in working and running the café. The space, which holds about 80 patrons, has a Victorian era touch and is enhanced by olive green velvet seats and crystal chandeliers. The ceiling is a canvas of decoupage and stenciled designs, and the wall décor will change, as Peter plans to use the space for art exhibits displaying the works of local artists. In keeping with its name, the café holds varied and unconventional activities. A knitting club is held from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. the first and third Saturday of the month. Two teachers instruct at no cost. This month’s project: scarves to be donated to Domestic Abuse Services (DAISY). A book discussion group meets from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. the first and third Wednesday of each month. Next month’s choice is Bread Givers, a story of an immigrant family in the U.S., with emphasis on the role of women. Soon to be added is a singles’ club that will meet from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday. An “open mic” is held from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday and requires a sign-up early in the evening. Everyone gets a turn. “I believe everyone should get a chance to perform,” said Peter, adding that the number of entertainers determines an artist’s time on stage. The open mic nights showcase “every sort of talent” from acoustic guitar to poetry, he added. In the planning stage is an open mic devoted exclusively to poetry reading. Friday is rock ‘n roll night, featuring as many as five local bands. Other evening entertainment may include karaoke, Broadway tunes, jazz, and recording artists. Every Sunday, Rick Mitchell, with 25 years experience, will do palm and tarot card readings. And, of course, food is served. Afternoon “Victoria Tea” includes a mini-scone served with jam, assorted finger sandwiches, “dainty desserts,” and a pot of tea. Individual sandwiches are also served, or you may choose a cheese platter. A mini platter sampler of desserts has eight of the house specialties, which may include cappuccino square (vanilla cake filled with and iced with cappuccino mousse, topped with a dot of vanilla cream); lemon, strawberry, vanilla, or chocolate petit four; caramel pecan brownie drizzled with caramel, pecans, and chocolate chips; or lemon meringue cup. Sugar-free desserts are also available. The Mankins host bridal showers, private parties, breakfast meetings and, their specialty, children’s Victorian tea parties. Victorian fashion shows are held bi-monthly. The Tapestry Café is located at 6A route 183 South, Netcong. Call 973-347-0123. Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Weds.; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thurs.-Sat.; noon to 8 p.m. Sun.; closed Mon. and Tues. Cover charge $5, Fri. and Sat.; $2 Thurs.