Brian Lester, who co-owns the coming-soon breakfast and lunch eatery Squash Blossom with wife Carrie, tells me he isn't concerned about his restaurant being located across the street from the popular Matt's Big Breakfast in Central Phoenix.
"I always see a line out the door," he tells me. "Maybe some of those people will come over and see what we're all about. And then, hopefully, they'll come back."
The couple, who have spent years in the catering business, are hoping to open Squash Blossom in the former Pasta Bar space by mid-July. And Lester says his "local urban grill" will focus on breakfast and lunch dishes featuring many locally sourced products -- including the ones being grown on he restaurant's patio.
Lester, who manages the business while wife Carrie does the cooking, says Squash Blossom's dishes will include zucchini soup, pumpkin pancakes, specialty burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
"We're close to the farmers market, so it's perfect," he adds.
In addition to a coffee bar and patio, the restaurant will also sport local artwork, be dog-friendly, and in the future, turn into a wine bar at night.
Squash Blossom 705 North First Street, Phoenix