Century-old Brigham City cafe reopens

The historic Idle Isle Cafe in Brigham City has officially reopened its doors following an extensive restoration project. The cafe, which has served as a community staple for over a century, was purchased by Danni Rawls and her parents, Mike and Julie Ross, who sought to preserve the building’s heritage after the property went up for sale last year.

During the restoration process, the family worked to strip away modern renovations, such as later layers of wallpaper and flooring, to reveal the original architectural elements beneath. Mike Ross played a key role in the manual labor, restoring the original hardwood floors and showcasing historical equipment like antique Coke fountains and citrus juicers to maintain the establishment's classic atmosphere.

The reopening was met with enthusiasm from long-time residents who hold deep personal connections to the cafe, having celebrated generations of birthdays and community events within its walls. For the owners, the project was a labor of love intended to keep a significant piece of Brigham City’s history alive for future generations to enjoy.