Nicholas Qaabar opened Scout Café early this year. He says the name “Scout” refers to seeking adventures of all kinds, and the outdoors has always been an inspiration for the décor and color palette. Now, with a fenced-in outdoor dining area behind the café, coffee lovers can come together to sip, snack and collaborate in the fresh air.
@delawaretodaymagazine Scout Cafe’s new outdoor seating area is incredible! (Especially for those who know the previous state of this alley ) #wilmington #delaware #fyp #explore #travel ♬ Sail Away – lovelytheband
“I’ve been working on it for months,” Qaabar explains.
After clearing the alley of things like old tires and other discarded materials, he began working on his vision of a hidden outdoor hangout in the Wilmington neighborhood. The vision included native Delaware plants, reclaimed and recycled furnishings and plenty of cozy shaded areas for patrons to enjoy.
“We partnered with the Brandywine Zoo to choose all plants that are native to Delaware,” Qaabar says. Experts at the Brandywine Zoo helped Qaabar identify plant species that are native to Delaware and would work well in the outdoor space.
“I’d say at least 90% of the plants are native,” he adds.
With his passion for plant life, it’s no surprise that Qaabar is also a believer in sustainable practices—a passion that is ever-present throughout the new project.
A couple of benches were made of reclaimed wood from the remodel of the building that houses Scout Café. Local hobbyist woodworker Matthew Harris made some smaller tables out of wood that was previously thrown away. The larger dining table at the end of the outdoor corridor was also headed for the landfill before Qaabar saved and refinished it.
“I just want this to be an oasis for people to come hang out in the middle of the city,” he says.
With a modern boho vibe, planters throughout the space and a plenty of trees and natural plant life surrounding it, it’s easy to forget you’re still in the city once you’ve closed the garden gate behind you. Wilmington residents can now share in Qaabar’s vision of a hidden oasis on Baynard Boulevard
Scout Café | 2316 Baynard Boulevard, Wilmington | @this.is.scout.cafe | scout-cafe.com
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