Murmuration Eatery to Open in City Market, Blending History and Innovation
The upcoming Murmuration Eatery & Cocktail Bar in City Market is already making waves with its distinctive marbled teal and salmon floor—an accidental discovery by owner Nikole Ammer. Hidden beneath layers of old paint from previous tenants, the pattern perfectly matched Murmuration’s copper patina aesthetic. Ammer spent 36 hours meticulously uncovering it with an angle grinder, preserving the design as a fitting symbol of her project’s rebirth.
Murmuration is the latest venture by Ammer, who has operated City Market Coffee Roasters for 18 years. The space, which merges the coffee shop with its neighboring unit after crews removed a dividing wall, aims to create a vibrant community hub. “I want this to be a place where people feel welcome,” Ammer says.
The eatery will focus on reimagined breakfast favorites, reflecting Ammer’s love for the meal. Highlights include elevated versions of breakfast burritos and sandwiches already popular at City Market Coffee, as well as new creations like The Pile—a hearty, open-faced sandwich stacked with meat, greens, tater tots, fries, and a perfectly cooked over-medium egg.
Other menu items will include “walking food” like mini waffles and tornado fries, alongside sit-down options such as reubens and fresh salads.
With Murmuration handling the bulk of food offerings, City Market Coffee will update its menu to focus more on beverages. Plans include a full bar addition featuring craft cocktails, including what Ammer hopes will be “the best espresso martini.”
The two businesses will share a register, a pickup window, and seating, enabling customers to order from either menu and dine on either side of the combined space. Both locations will also operate on extended hours, from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., allowing opportunities for events like live music and collaborations with local vendors.
City Market has seen numerous businesses come and go from the space over the years, but Ammer is determined to make Murmuration a lasting success. Extensive renovations aim to give both ventures a distinct identity. Ammer hopes this effort, combined with the unique concept, will set Murmuration apart from predecessors who struggled with challenges such as pandemic disruptions or the space’s less-visible signage.
Murmuration is scheduled to open in January, easing into operations during the slower winter months. By summer, when as many as 6,000 visitors flood City Market on busy days, Ammer hopes Murmuration will have established itself as a must-visit destination for food, drinks, and community gatherings.
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