New Cafe Proposed for Historic Mitchell Street
A new coffee shop application aims to transform a former bodega into a neighborhood gathering space.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Coffee
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Owner Crystal Lemmer has filed an occupancy permit application to open New Halo Cafe at 564 W. Rogers St. The proposed business would replace a former bodega located in the Historic Mitchell Street neighborhood.
Why it matters
The project aims to serve as a community hub for students, families, and local professionals. Lemmer intends to fund the business using income from a renovated neighboring residential property.
The proposed cafe will operate daily from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. with an expected staff of three employees. The building requires interior renovations to the seating area, bathroom, and prep space.
The players
Crystal Lemmer
Crystal Lemmer is the developer and business owner who submitted the occupancy permit application for the new cafe.
Milwaukee Common Council
The Milwaukee Common Council is the local legislative body currently reviewing the license application for the proposed cafe.
The details
The site at 564 W. Rogers St. currently requires internal updates to transition from its previous use as a bodega. Plans for the menu include coffee, espresso, tea, doughnuts, pastries, and bread.
Timeline
Crystal Lemmer purchased the corner parcel in 2025.
The occupancy application was submitted in October 2026.
Culture Shift
This project reflects a broader trend of small-scale commercial investment repurposing older properties to foster community interaction. It aligns with the ongoing urban revitalization of the Historic Mitchell Street neighborhood by transforming underutilized corner parcels into active social hubs.
Residents in the Historic Mitchell Street neighborhood can expect the former bodega space to transition into a public-facing cafe pending permit approval. This change will shift the availability of local food and beverage options for students and professionals in the area.
The takeaway
Repurposing neighborhood properties can provide essential gathering spaces while supporting local economic growth. Residents should monitor upcoming city council meetings for final updates regarding the establishment's opening timeline.
Further reading
Learn more about the local coffee scene in our Milwaukee Coffee section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Urban Milwaukee.
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