A new brunch spot is set to open on Rowan Boulevard this May, promising to bring an elevated dining experience to an already rapidly growing community like Glassboro, N.J.
As the paint dries and the new signage goes up, the overall development of Poppy and Pine Cafe aims to reshape the borough and carve out a niche by blending a traditional coffeehouse atmosphere with a full-service, sit-down brunch concept.
Kristina Mulligan, owner of the incoming cafe’s decision to open in Glassboro was rooted in her love for the Glassboro community. A Gloucester County native, Mulligan has watched the borough evolve over the past decade and saw an opportunity to contribute to its expanding dining scene.
“Glassboro has always been a great place, and it’s just getting better and better,” said Mulligan. “When we saw an opportunity right on the boulevard, we knew it was something we wanted to be a part of.”
Located among established businesses like Cream Cafe and High Grounds Coffee Roasters, Poppy and Pine Cafe looks to differentiate itself by offering a more immersive dining experience. While customers can still expect quick service options like coffee and sandwiches, the focus is predominantly on providing members of the community with a full brunch service with waitstaff and an elevated menu.
“There’s plenty of places to get coffee,” said Mulligan. “But there’s currently no place to sit down for brunch or grab something like a mimosa at 10 a.m. We’re hoping to fill that gap.”
The cafe plans to apply for a liquor license in the future, which would allow it to expand its brunch offerings, though it will not be available when the cafe first opens its doors.
Brandon Stallings, executive chef and general manager at Poppy and Pine Cafe, is working behind the scenes to cook up a menu that’s designed to balance both familiarity and innovation while also appealing to both Glassboro’s predominantly Rowan University student community and the residents.
“I want that first bite to feel like a surprise, but in the best way possible,” said Stallings. “Familiar enough to be comforting but elevated enough that it makes you stop and think, ‘this is different.’”
Stalling explained that the menu will feature recognizable brunch staples such as pancakes, eggs, and sandwiches while also incorporating higher-quality ingredients and refined culinary techniques. His overall goal is to create dishes that feel indulgent without being overwhelming.
“Brunch is something people think they already know,” said Stallings. “It’s about taking those nostalgic flavors and refining them with better ingredients, a cleaner execution, and making it memorable.”
The cafe’s menu will also include a mix of quick, casual items and more shareable dishes that are elaborate, allowing it to cater to a wide range of customers, from students who are grabbing a quick bite in between classes and community members seeking a sit-down meal.
Mulligan said much of the creative direction has been driven by Stallings, allowing the kitchen to highlight its strengths while aligning with the cafe’s overall vision.
“We want the best experience possible, and that comes when the chef is passionate about what he’s making,” said Mulligan.
With the cafe set to open in May, initial operating hours to start off with will be Wednesday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with plans to expand hours and potentially open seven days a week by the fall semester.
The space was formerly home to Spicy’s Bar and required minimal renovation due to its modern infrastructure. Mulligan acknowledged the previous establishment’s following, and she hopes to build on that legacy while offering something new.
“I was a big fan of Spicy’s. It’s bittersweet, but we hope to bring something different to the community,” said Mulligan.
For students like Kailey Siegel, a radio, television, and film major at Rowan University, the new addition is a welcome one.
“My friends and I have been looking for a good brunch place. We’re so happy to hear that there’s one coming close to Rowan,” said Siegel.
Looking ahead, Mulligan hopes the cafe becomes a go-to gathering space for both students and locals, a third space for casual outings and daytime dates.
“I just want it to be somewhere people can come together. A fun, welcoming spot that feels worth coming back,” said Mulligan.
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