Truly special place in Paoli! Welcoming staff, delicious sandwiches and homemade soups. And a great selection of prepared foods, local meats, eggs and produce. I love the dill cucumber salad, cheesy potato soup and the chicken salad sandwich. The bulk spice wall is awesome! I buy all my spice refills here. Great place to grab lunch.
Overview
Located at 26 Library St, Paoli, IN, Lost River Co-Op & Cafe has become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. With its cozy, welcoming atmosphere and commitment to serving delicious, locally sourced meals, it's no wonder this cafe has garnered a loyal following.
The cafe’s charm lies not only in its inviting ambiance but also in its unique menu, which celebrates wholesome, sustainable ingredients. Whether you're craving a fresh salad, a hearty sandwich, or a flavorful cup of coffee, Lost River Co-Op & Cafe offers a little something for everyone. The cafe prides itself on using locally grown produce, much of which is sourced directly from nearby farms, ensuring that every dish is as fresh as possible.
A favorite among regulars is their seasonal menu, which changes based on the availability of fresh ingredients. The dishes are crafted with care, showcasing the best of what local farms have to offer. For breakfast lovers, the homemade pastries, eggs, and local jams are a must-try. Meanwhile, for lunch, the sandwiches made with fresh bread and organic vegetables, paired with one of their freshly brewed beverages, are a perfect option for those looking for a satisfying yet light meal.
The vibe at Lost River Co-Op & Cafe is laid-back and friendly, with a cozy interior that makes you feel right at home. The cafe features a variety of seating options, whether you prefer a quiet corner to read or a communal table where you can chat with friends. The relaxed atmosphere, paired with the exceptional food, makes it the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon or enjoy a quick bite before exploring the charming town of Paoli.
What sets this cafe apart is not just the food, but the sense of community that it fosters. The Lost River Co-Op & Cafe is also a co-op, meaning that it’s owned by the very people who support it-its members. This model helps to create a sense of shared ownership and responsibility among the people who frequent it, making it a true gathering place for those who value both quality food and a sense of community. This cooperative approach also means that the cafe has a close relationship with its suppliers, allowing them to source food that is not only fresh but also ethically produced.
Another great aspect of Lost River Co-Op & Cafe is the variety of beverages they offer. In addition to their expertly brewed coffee, the cafe also serves a selection of teas and smoothies, perfect for those who are looking for something a little lighter or more refreshing. Their signature hot chocolate, made with rich, locally sourced chocolate, is a popular treat during the colder months.
What really makes Lost River Co-Op & Cafe stand out is its dedication to sustainability. The cafe is mindful of its environmental impact, opting for eco-friendly packaging and supporting local, small-scale producers. Whether you’re enjoying a meal at the cafe or taking some of their freshly baked goods to go, you can feel good knowing that your choices are supporting both local farmers and the environment.
For anyone visiting Paoli, Lost River Co-Op & Cafe is a must-visit. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a leisurely meal, this cafe offers the perfect combination of delicious food, a cozy atmosphere, and a sense of community. With its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients and promoting sustainability, it’s clear that this is more than just a cafe-it’s a place where people can come together, enjoy great food, and support the values that matter most.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ On-site services âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inHighlights
âś“ Great coffee âś“ Great dessert âś“ Serves local specialtyPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Solo dining âś“ Good for working on laptopAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Coffee âś“ Comfort food âś“ Healthy options âś“ Organic dishes âś“ Prepared foods âś“ Quick bite âś“ Small plates âś“ Vegan options âś“ Vegetarian optionsDining options
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Gender-neutral toilets âś“ Toilet âś“ Wi-Fi âś“ Wi-FiAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ Cosy âś“ Quiet âś“ TrendyCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ LGBTQ+ friendly âś“ Tourists âś“ Transgender safe spacePayments
âś“ Cheques âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ SNAP/EBTChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ High chairs âś“ Kids' menuParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lotPhotos
Location
Reviews
Have you checked out Lost River Market and Deli since the remodel?!? It’s spacious and inviting with even more healthy options including fresh, made to order sandwiches! Go see Gabe at the deli counter! I ordered the roast beef and cheddar on sourdough and it was delish! They also have outdoor seating and a brand new, private gathering space in the back! A must stop for anyone who wants a healthy option and friendly experience!!
Lost River Co-op and Deli is fantastic! As a first-time visitor, I was treated like family. The sandwiches and coffee were delicious, and the bulk dry goods section is impressive. Don't miss the local, homemade ice cream. Highly recommend!
Awesome and original store. One gets not only fruits and vegetables and rare items, but also fresh, prepared food that can be eaten on site or taken home. Great place!!!
I love stopping in the Lost River co-op when I am staying in town or just driving through. Whether Im grabbing a cup of coffee and muffin in the morning or a bag of groceries when I plan to stay for a bit. They carry dairy, breads, fruit, vegetables, and meats from small local farms. I am always happy with the service. The workers are friendly and just salt of the earth folks. What a treasure to have in small town Indiana.
One of my favorite places to go when I visit Paoli! I always grab a nice lunch and some snacks, never a disappointment. I love that I can sit down and eat there if I want, indoor or outdoor seating. Staff are very friendly and helpful!
This is our midway stop on the way to Bloomington from Louisville. Great food choices. The sandwiches were delicious. I'm not sure what happened to the soup. Usually, it's amazing, but it was watery and unappealing this time.