PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A new immigrant-owned cafe is serving up wholesome food and good vibes.

 

Cafe Full Cup, located in the Clocktower Business Center, opened earlier this month and has been well received by the community.  Its name is inspired by optimism or looking at the glass half full instead of half empty.

 

The eatery features plant-based breakfast and lunch items, gluten-free options, and specialty drinks.

 

Owners Abigail Bravo and Giancarlo Bravo enjoy food tourism and have crafted the menu around their travels.  She was born in Moldova, and he is originally from Venezuela with heritage in Italy and Ecuador.

 

"Why we even decided to have a cafe is we're really big foodies who love to travel. We love to kind of explore the world, travel through the food, and take in the cultures from around the world through the food," Abigail explained. "And we wanted to bring little bites of the world to the Berkshires, too. We love getting inspired by different recipes, and anytime we travel, we really like to explore the places and try to foods around the areas."

 

Cafe Full Cup celebrated its grand opening on Dec 16.  Mayor Linda Tyer, Director of the Berkshire Immigrant Center Michelle Lopez, and other groups such as the 413 Latinas have visited to show their support. 

 

The bowls, which contain grains, veggies, and protein topped with dressing, have been a popular item.  Available options are the "Garden Bowl," the "Chick-a-Pea Bowl" and the "Viva La Bowl."

 

The Bravos designed their menu, storefront, and even logo by themselves.  It was important for them to focus on sustainable ingredients while making sure there is something for everyone to eat.

 

The Cafe offers plant-based versions of classic items such as a bagel and Just Egg sandwich and a no-tuna melt sandwich.

 

This is the couple's first venture, but they have a clear vision for Cafe Full Cup.

 

Giancarlo has experience as a barista and said he wanted to make sure that customers are getting a high-quality cup of joe.  This comes from a mixture of good equipment and technique.

 

"I think it's easy to lose appreciation of what goes into making a good cup of coffee," he said. "So we want to bring the craft back."

 

The duo met studying at Berkshire Community College and went on to complete degrees at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.

 

In the last five years, they have heavily focused on food through traveling and cooking for family.  The cafe came to fruition when the Bravos found the spot at The Clocktower, which was a perfect match because of the outdoor seating options and large windows.

 

The goal was to create a space that was cozy and encouraged people to come and gather.  In theme with the name, the owners wanted to create a positive environment.

 

Both MassHire and BCC provided assistance with staffing and have been a go-to source for the new business owners.  

 

The Bravos were pleased to report that since opening, their business has been supported by friends, family, former classmates, and strangers alike. 

 

Cafe Full Cup is open from 7 am to 3 pm Monday through Friday and from 8 am to 3 pm on Saturday.  Menu items can be ordered both online and in person.

 

The cafe is also on Facebook and Instagram @cafefullcup.