Meet Tim Gammons at Greenhouse Cafe

We spoke with Tim Gammons, co-owner and manager of Greenhouse Cafe and Cocktail Lounge to learn more about Tim and the restaurant.
What year did The Greenhouse Cafe and Cocktail Lounge open?
2021
How long have you owned/managed this business?  How many years of experience do you have in your line of work?
Owned/managed the cafe since January 2021 and I’ve been working in the business since 2008.


Are you an Ithaca native?  If not, where are you from and what brought you to the Ithaca area? 
I am originally from Boston, Massachusetts, but I was drawn to Ithaca to attend Ithaca College. I had previously been here as two of my three older brothers went to Ithaca College, as well.
What did you choose to own, manage, and/or create The Greenhouse Cafe and Cocktail Lounge? 
I chose to create this type of business because I thought there was a need for a cocktail lounge in Ithaca and I have a strong passion for creating unique food and beverage experiences.
What do you enjoy most about your business?  
I enjoy providing customers with a unique experience and service that is extremely personal and real. We also love to play fun, upbeat music and keep our playlists mixed to create different vibes. I also enjoy working with local community businesses to help promote the great selection of beer, wine, liquor and food from our area.
What makes The Greenhouse Cafe and Cocktail Lounge special?  i.e. Why should people shop at your store/eat at your restaurant/ or try your services?
Our vibe is unforgettable and our staff is so awesomely friendly. We would like to think that those two are the special parts, but our drinks are also incredibly special and we put a lot of effort into all of our creations.
What is your Greenhouse Cafe’s greatest accomplishment?
Creating an environment that both staff and customers enjoy equally. It may seem easy, but a lot of places sacrifice one or the other. We are young so our accomplishments will grow as we do.
What do you enjoy most about working in Downtown Ithaca?  
The people!!! We always get a great mixing of locals, travelers, and students and they’re what make our jobs really fun.
Outside of operating your business, what are some of your hobbies, passions, talents or causes?  Does it overlap with your business on a day-to-day or annual basis?  
I do own another business (The Lansing Deli) inside of the Lansing Market. I also enjoy going out on the lake in my boat, hiking, and just hanging around with friends and family.
To learn more about Greenhouse Cafe and Cocktail Lounge, visit our dining directory listing: downtownithaca.com/directory/dining/#the-greenhouse-cafe-and-cocktail-lounge

The Faces of Downtown Ithaca

Some say the best referrals come from trusted family and friends. In Downtown Ithaca, quality recommendations often come from speaking directly to our hospitable downtown business owners and managers. Afterall, who knows their business best than the business owner themselves.

Welcome to Faces of Downtown Ithaca where we’ll give you an insider’s look at downtown’s shops, let you meet your shopkeepers, and restaurateurs who provide this area with some of the finest shopping, dining, and attractions that the Finger Lakes Region has to offer.

Not only do these folks work here, but they also dine, shop, and play here. Many of them also live here, too! This is their Downtown Ithaca and now, they are sharing some of their histories with you.

#facesofdowntownithaca