Coffee, gelato and sweet shop Melt next up in Midtown

Of the many (and there are indeed many) new restaurants and retailers opening in Midtown this year, it appears that Melt is going to be the next one to open.
 
Melt is a coffee, gelato, and sweet shop located at 4150 Cass (at Willis). Owner Aaron Haithcock has wanted to open a candy shop since he was a kid, but decided to diversify his concept to include coffee and gelato to support a steadier clientele base, a model he saw work while employed at a candy store in Chicago that also sold cakes and ice cream.
 
Haithcock has been developing the concept for Melt since 2010. What felt like a three-year setback – due to the recession, Haithcock struggled to find a space and secure funding – now seems like serendipity. Midtown is thriving, and the Cass Corridor is quickly becoming one of the most densely developed retail corridors in the city. The owners of this long-vacant building, previously a party store, began renovations in 2008 but had to stop for a few years due to financing issues. With the help of Sue Mosey and Midtown, Inc., they are now able to complete the renovations. The building is split into three retail storefronts – the other two are still available for rent. Haithcock finally found an available storefront suited to his needs, and it seems like the delay may actually have been a recipe for long-term success (so to speak).
 
The menu at Melt will include signature coffee and gelato drinks using different fruits, syrups, and candies, and customers can also create their own milkshake-like dessert drinks. There will also be a full espresso bar for traditional coffee beverages like cappuccinos and lattes. Melt will carry all Illy brand Italian coffee and espresso. The gelato will come from Palazzolo's in Fennville, Michigan. Melt will also sell candies from popular local brands like Alinosi Chocolates and classic candies like Swedish Fish and gummy bears.
 
There is limited room for seating inside with a couple of additional seats on the patio. Haithcock hopes to have a full patio next year. He aims to be open by the end of August.
 
Source: Aaron Haithcock, owner of Melt
Writer: Nicole Rupersburg

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