A Milwood Institution After Nearly Four Decades
*KALAMAZOO, MI — An institution in Kalamazoo's Milwood neighborhood for 38 years, the Summer Thyme Cafe & Bakery is set to close permanently on Friday, March 27, 2026*.
The last day at the cafe, located at 3928 Portage St., will see its doors close after serving fresh-baked pies, lunch, and dinner options to loyal customers who have called it home for nearly four decades.
"We've told tables as they've come in, just to let them know," said Steve Markwart, who co-owns the business with partner Chris Belson. "There were plenty of good times and we got to know so many customers that have become friends. We've been to their homes. And we're still going to stay in touch with many of them. It just won't be there."
New Owners, Same Culinary Tradition
Markwart and Belson purchased the cafe in 2023 from longtime owner Jeff Wagner, but had been regulars themselves before the purchase, often stopping in for lunch during their time at Stryker.
Markwart, who had just recently retired from a career at Stryker before taking it over, grew up around the corner from Summer Thyme. He and Belson — who also worked at Stryker previously — live just a block away from the cafe, which is open for lunch and dinner.
"We've decided that we need to leave this chapter and we're going to start a new chapter," Markwart said. "We're moving on to other opportunities."
It's too early to share what those opportunities are, according to Markwart.
Emotional Goodbyes as Closure Spreads
Before that next chapter begins, however, this one still has a few pages left. And as word has slowly spread about the cafe's pending closure amongst longtime patrons, Markwart said some have come in crying.
"If somebody wanted it, they could have come forward," he said.
No one has, however. So, the cozy cafe, known for its fresh-baked pies, signature sandwiches, paninis, salads and comfort food will close.
The Menu to Remember
Those looking to get one last slice of peanut butter pie drizzled in chocolate with whipped cream, or enjoy one more birdie, big bleu sandwich or French dip, have but a week to come in and say goodbye.
The cafe will remain open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday until its last day of business.
A Community Loss
Summer Thyme has become a beloved fixture in Kalamazoo's Milwood neighborhood, serving as more than just a place to grab a bite. It has been a gathering spot for families, a place where neighbors connect, and a culinary destination known for its exceptional pies and sandwiches.
The cafe's signature offerings include:
- Birdie sandwich — a fan favorite that has become synonymous with the establishment
- Peanut butter pie — drizzled with chocolate and topped with whipped cream
- Big bleu sandwich — a hearty option for lunch crowds
- French dip — perfect for those seeking a classic comfort food experience
- Fresh-baked pies — the cafe's claim to fame
- Paninis and salads — diverse lunch options
What's Next for the Owners
Markwart declined to provide specific details about what the couple will do next, but indicated they are moving on to other opportunities in their careers. The exact nature of these new ventures remains under wraps for now.
The decision to close comes without specific reasons beyond circumstances that the owners describe as being beyond their control.
"We've been to their homes," Markwart said of their customers. "And we're still going to stay in touch with many of them."
A Final Week
For now, the cafe will operate its regular hours through Friday, March 27. Those who have enjoyed meals at Summer Thyme over the years are encouraged to come in one final time for their favorite pie or sandwich before the doors close forever.
The Milwood neighborhood will certainly miss this culinary institution, but the owners promise they will remain in touch with their beloved customers and the community they served for nearly four decades.