Sit a Spell

The Fox Den In Albion

Embodies Cozy Cafe Culture

Imagine taking a tremendous leap of faith, not quite knowing exactly how or where you’ll land. Yet you’re secure in knowing that there will be a legion of folks waiting to not only catch you, but to raise you up as well.

That is not only the definition of a community.

That is family.

Those who’ve spent any time with Amy Leedy, owner and proprietor of The Fox Den in downtown Albion, will come away understanding this sentiment. Leedy is positively lyrical in the way she speaks about her journey to this rural hamlet in Noble County. And the chorus of her story is best summarized in one word, a word she expresses often - blessed.

In just two years’ time, The Fox Den has become a buzzy, vibrant hot spot, situated in historic downtown Albion, where the majestic sight of the Noble County Courthouse can be seen outside the massive bank of the shop’s windows. The spacious and sun-dappled nook is a welcoming place to sample a wide variety of coffee-infused beverages, novelty drinks and freshly prepared baked goods, all true indulgences for both the palate and the spirit. Leedy notes that The Fox Den’s muffins and blueberry scones are popular menu items, along with a bacon cheddar pastry with a biscuits-and-gravy flair.

The baristas are swift and prompt in their attention to detail and to customers, moving fluidly through the cafe with an abundance of smiles and pleasantries.

Leedy herself is in a state of perpetual motion as she talks, greeting many of her guests by name, glancing around as if captivated by her awe and gratitude.

Her employees even have a say in what’s included on the varying menu, as each of their names are colorfully, artfully drawn on a festive dry-erase board, with their favorite drink combinations and other menu selections.

Leedy is well-prepared for her leadership role at The Fox Den. A native of Warsaw, she also resided in Fort Wayne, and along the way earned an education in banking and finance. When an opportunity to purchase a historic cornerstone building in the heart of the Albion town square arose, a group of folks connected to Leedy through friendship stepped up to seal the deal. There was a strong consensus that Leedy, with her strong background, would be a perfect choice to manage a new business.

The inspiration for the coffee shop did not take long to reveal itself, as Albion did not have a particular place for a warm and sophisticated coffee-shop niche. The name was drawn from a beautiful local landmark - a hand-painted mural that adorns the side of a nearby building, featuring a spry and graceful fox.

And so The Fox Den, a suitable title to capture that cozy and comfortable ambience that Leedy was striving for, was on its way.

The space needed a bit of renovation and restoration at the onset, and in the process, charming historical details were reclaimed, such as the original tin ceiling, previously hidden under false dropped ceilings. There were rustic, weathered hardwood floors, refinished and revealed after decades spent beneath subflooring.

Initially, Leedy had envisioned herself in a more background role. Before long she realized that she desired a more intimate setting in which she could interact with her guests each day. She has been working closely with regional artisans to create a network of connection and camaraderie.

The Fox Den will soon have a “mug club,” and the current logo for the business was designed by a local artist. There is a Little Free Library on the premises, and at virtually every vantage point there are foxes peeking around, many of which were gifted to The Fox Den from delighted customers. Leedy also has plans to enclose a section of the interior space for the purpose of a meeting room.

To experience the charm of The Fox Den, head down to 100 East Main Street in Albion and arrive ready to sit a spell. To place carry-out orders or to view their full menu, call 260-239-4336 or check out foxdencoffeeshop.com.