Oneida’s newest cafe will be adding a bakery on June 5 after nearly a year of operation. The expansion is a result of hard work and endurance through illness by owner Lori Seef and will expand their array of Italian breads and pastries. The Cafe will now be known as Cafe and Bakery. The story of Bella Vita Cafe has resulted from a recipe of one part hard work, and equal parts hope, endurance, and the healing power of love.

Oneida native and cafe owner Seef had managed the Cazenovia Walgreen’s for 25 years. In February 2021 she developed bronchial pneumonia and which led to a COVID-19 infection. While recovering from the illness she was forced to reflect on her future.