New downtown business opens

Denali Dreams proprietor Shaun Bennett, at right, welcomed customers to the gallery and coffee shop in downtown Monett on Tuesday. Denali Dreams is open Tuesdays through Saturdays at 316 E. Broadway. [Times Photo by Murray Bishoff] [Click to enlarge]

On Nov. 3, Denali Dreams Gallery and Coffee Shop opened its doors for business. The business is owned by Shaun Bennett.

Located at 316 E. Broadway in the former Mansfield's store, Denali Dreams is catering to customers wanting a prepared sandwich to pick up and go. Bennett said his focus is less on having a varied eating menu and more on specialty drinks. His menu has 14 coffee drinks plus different teas, hot chocolate and smoothies.

In addition, Bennett's wife, Babe, his niece, Sabrina, and her mother, Darla, are preparing pastries and cheesecake dishes ready to be served. Jimmy St. Clair and his son, Gus, have signed on as the shop's sandwich artists.

Denali Dreams is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday and 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. A formal grand opening is planned for Nov. 13 with a ribbon cutting ceremony by the Monett Chamber of Commerce.

Part of the business operation involves exhibiting art and connecting the public with local artists. In the business's display windows are paintings by Bennett's father, Dave Bennett, who is offering oil painting classes at Denali Dreams. Also on display is furniture refinished by Bennett's mother, Tige, who is available for refinishing work.

Additional information is available by calling Bennett at 417-489-3778.