It’s always fun to hear the reaction when you tell someone there’s a business that works on bikes and makes world-class burritos. A combination of two awesome things, Bike & Bean keeps bikes on the road all the while providing a healthy, farm-fresh source of flavor. But similar to The Gin Mill, Bike & Bean simply outgrew their space.
Dennis Baldwin, a prolific mountain biker and lover of all things two wheels, bought the bike business from Mud, Sweat n’ Gears in 2007 before opening Bike & Bean in 2013. Previously at 30 Washington Street, Baldwin has been hard at work getting the new location ready at 11 Martha Street (the site of the former Agway).
“There’s space in here for what we want to do, and it fit really well,” he said. “We needed more room. The fact that this space was fresh and could be built out the way we wanted made the decision a lot easier. In the old spot, it was put together in a way we couldn’t really change, but now the flow will be way better.”
Anymore, Ellicottville gets enough traction where it’s not critical for a business to be nestled on the main drag. One of the biggest advantages of the move? Parking. As any visitor knows, finding a parking spot on a busy weekend can be a nightmare. Having the ability for patrons — especially ones who want their bikes serviced — will be able to find a spot hassle free.
“It’s a cool vibe over here,” he said. “Having parking will make it easier for people to get their bikes in, or not have to double park if they order out.”
The wide open concept of the section Baldwin is working on will allow for a repair area, bathroom, prep area and kitchen. In a few weeks, he’ll place three big tables along the windows that get lots of natural light, plus an outside dining area as well.
“With a little more kitchen space, we can expand the menu,” he said. “And we’ve sent in our application for a beer & wine license, so people can enjoy a drink with their food.”
Which brings us to the name. With the addition of new beverage offerings, Bike and Bean will transform into “Burritos Bikes and Brews”. Bicycle repairs and sales will still remain a great focus of Baldwin’s business, but coupled with the return of his delicious burritos and the addition of a tasty craft brew to wash it down, the new name fits the bill.
Baldwin will stock a small selection of bikes, while still offering his repair and assembly services. All of the accessory stuff you need — helmets, locks, gloves, parts, etc. — will also be available in the coming weeks.
“Right now, the tentative opening is Summer Festival Weekend (the 4th of July), when we can open the doors. We’re planning on having a grand opening later in the summer when we’ll hopefully be humming along.”
Burritos Bikes and Brews invites you to ride with them in their Monday night shop rides (meet at the shop at 6 o’clock sharp) and to stay tuned to opening updates on Facebook/Instagram (@evillebikeandbean).
“It’s exciting,” Baldwin said. “We’ll maintain the same vibe over here. Adding the beer and outside seating will make for a nice addition after a day on the bike or skis/snowboards. It’s going to be fun.”
