One Year Later, Soup’s Still On at Cafe Max Soup Co. in Kalispell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kalispell, Montana, United States of America (Free-Press-Release.com) September 7, 2011 -- Maybe they wouldn’t go as far as saying soup is recession-proof, but Steve and Leisa Murry, co-owners of Cafe Max Soup Co. have been pleasantly surprised with their first year in business.

The couple purchased the Kalispell specialty soup business a little more than a year ago amid an uncertain economic climate. After some initial growing pains, Steve and Leisa have seen their new venture thrive, becoming a lunchtime staple for many local patrons.

“Our biggest challenge or concern has probably been not knowing what to expect with this first year as owners,” said Leisa, who managed Cafe Max Soup Co. for several years under the previous owners. “With the economy going up and down like it is, the unknown was our biggest concern. However, we’ve seen that our customers are very loyal to us. We often get customers that come in four or five times a week, for which we’re incredibly grateful.”

The couple attribute some of their success to sticking with what works. Their soups don’t differ by a single ingredient from the original recipes, developed by renowned local chef, Doug Day, now of Capers Restaurant. And their Master Chef, Nicole Swan, still strives to use only local ingredients whenever possible. She’s also been the creative force behind their popular new salad and chilled soup lines. In other areas though, they’ve discovered previously unrealized demands. With the introduction of Mobile Cafe Max, the Blue Cow building on the corner of Highway 93 and Commons Way is no longer the only place to sample their culinary creations. Mobile Cafe Max brings their products to a larger audience at festivals and the events they’re asked to cater throughout the Flathead Valley. They’ve also expanded to include breakfast items on their menu, and recently introduced a kid’s menu for families. Even with the expanded menu, it’s their soups that keep the customers coming, according to Leisa.

“Our big claim to fame is that we have at least one dozen made from scratch soups every day at the restaurant,” she explained. “With that kind of variety, there’s always something for everyone, especially with our new gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free choices.”

In the near future, look for the Mobile Cafe Max fleet to make an appearance at the Taste of Whitefish Festival, this Thursday, September 8, at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish. You can also find them online at their new website at cafemaxsoupmt.com.

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