Tonya Council to Open Tonya's Cafe in Chapel Hill

Southern-Style Cafe Expands on Tonya's Cookies and Bake Shop with Classic Comfort Food

CHAPEL HILL, N.C., March 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Tonya Council, celebrated Southern entrepreneur, baker, and community advocate, is thrilled to announce the opening of Tonya's Cafe, an exciting extension of her popular Tonya's Cookies & Bake Shop in Chapel Hill, on Wednesday, March 19th. Adding 1,200 square feet of inviting space and 50 seats, the new cafe fills a long-standing void in the area with traditional Southern-style offerings and comforting classics, blending culinary excellence with heartfelt community connection. Open for lunch during the week and brunch on weekends, the cafe offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

Tonya's Cafe will feature a menu of mouthwatering dishes, including Po'Boys, Chicken Fried Steak, Smothered Pork Chops, Monte Cristo Sandwiches, Tonya's Signature Burger, a Cornbread Flight, Sweet Potato Soufflé with Pecans and a selection of soups, salads, Southern-inspired sides and decadent desserts. Guests can also enjoy coffee and other beverages, like the crowd-favorite Mango Peach Lemonade, and Tonya says she plans to introduce craft cocktails in the future.

"This cafe is something I've wanted to bring to Chapel Hill for a long time," says Tonya. "There's a need here for a space that celebrates traditional Southern flavors in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. Expanding the bake shop is a dream come true, and I'm so excited to share it with this wonderful community."

Tonya Council's culinary achievements have earned her national acclaim. She is the granddaughter of the late Mildred Council, affectionately known as Mama Dip, whose iconic Mama Dip's Kitchen remains a touchstone of Southern cooking. Inspired by her grandmother's legacy, Tonya's entrepreneurial journey began in Chapel Hill, where she honed her skills and launched her first business ventures.

Tonya's Cookies, featuring her famous Pecan Crisp Cookies and Cream Cheese Pound Cake, gained national recognition when both were named Oprah's Favorite Things. In addition to the bake shop and cafe, Tonya operates Sweet Tea & Cornbread, a retail shop in Raleigh showcasing artisanal products from small businesses across North Carolina.

Known for her extraordinary entrepreneurial spirit, Tonya's ventures go beyond great food; they reflect her commitment to uplifting her community. She regularly collaborates with local producers, supports small businesses, and champions Southern culinary traditions.

The opening of Tonya's Cafe cements her role as a vibrant leader in the local culinary scene, offering a space where delicious food and community come together.

Tonya's Cafe is located at 400 South Elliott Road, Chapel Hill. Hours: Wed-Fri 11-8 ; Sat & Sun 10-4.

About Tonya Council

Tonya Council is a celebrated baker, entrepreneur, and advocate for Southern culinary traditions. Inspired by her grandmother, the legendary Mildred "Mama Dip" Council, Tonya has built a legacy of her own, bringing joy to countless customers with her baked goods, cafe offerings, and support for local producers. From her Oprah-recognized cookies to her commitment to her Chapel Hill roots, Tonya's work exemplifies her passion for food, family, and community.

Media Contact:
Helen Patrikis
6315531370
[email protected]

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SOURCE Tonya's Cafe