Collegiate Times

Tucked away among the buzzing college streets of downtown Blacksburg, there survives, and thrives, Bollo’s Cafe and Bakery.

While the area has slowly transformed to accommodate the busy lives of a growing student population, Bollo’s still manages to capture that small-town feel.

The cafe is nestled along Draper Road, which is just off College Avenue. Bollo’s is a conveniently located a short distance from campus, offering students an alternative to Au Bon Pain or Starbucks.

Bollo’s began in 1994 with Ranae Bolognese Gillie’s vision of expanding her cuisine from Gillie’s restaurant, according to the cafe’s website. She wanted to provide people with gourmet coffee and baked goods that weren’t offered at Gillie’s.

After hearing about Bollo’s tremendous atmosphere and quality food, I decided to check it out for myself.

Upon entering the cafe, I was immediately at ease in its warm, comforting atmosphere. It reminded me of St. Elmo’s, a similar small town coffee shop I used to go to with my parents in Alexandria — what a refreshing relief compared to the modern and mundane interiors of today’s typical coffee shops. The sound of smooth jazz and chatter from nearby customers calmed my mood. 

However, my good mood was soon countered by a bold sign reading, “Cash and Checks Only.” As I felt around my pockets searching for some cash, I was relieved when I found a few dollar bills behind my credit card. I had eagerly awaited the intimate atmosphere, but the lack of modernization almost drove me, albeit unwillingly, out the door.

As I approached the counter, I was at a loss for what to order, probably still frazzled by the sign. With the guidance of a friendly employee, I boldly ordered a hot chocolate, and my curiosity drove me to complement the beverage with a blueberry lemon poppy seed muffin. 

I sat down for my mid-afternoon snack and found that I was thoroughly satisfied. The hot chocolate was rich and creamy, and as I held the warm cup between my hands I reminisced of cold winter days as a child, sipping hot cocoa by the fire. The muffin was a pleasant surprise — warm, soft and unlike any muffin I’ve ever had.

Needless to say, the overall experience was a good one. The atmosphere was comforting, the other customers and employees were friendly, and the food was tasty and reasonably priced. I found myself enjoying a local business without burning a hole in my pocket, which we all know is of the utmost importance for college students.

I will definitely remember my experience at Bollo’s the next time I am craving a warm cup of coffee or other hot drink in a few months when Blacksburg is met with harsh winter weather.

It was definitely nice to see that remnants of Blacksburg’s small-town vibe is alive and can be shared with locals and students. Although I normally gravitate more toward the fast-paced, modern businesses that facilitate my busy lifestyle, it was a breath of fresh air to actually sit down, relax and enjoy the experience.

If you aren’t interested in that kind of atmosphere and just want to grab your coffee on the go, or enjoy the convenience of using your credit card or Hokie passport, then Bollo’s might not be the place for you. 

However, if you are looking for a getaway from the stressful college lifestyle — maybe a place to study, read or just relax, while enjoying gourmet coffee and fresh pastries — then Bollo’s is a great option for you.

A version of this article appeared in the Aug 31 issue of the Collegiate Times.