Living in a charming town like Nashville, Indiana nestled in the rolling hills of Brown County often means that even the locals can feel like tourists when exploring their own backyard.

Recently, I took on the role of a visitor to dive into a local gem: the Olde Bartley House. This spot isn’t just a café; it’s a delightful fusion of history, artistry, and culinary magic that embodies the spirit of our town. Here’s a peek into what makes this place so special.

The Inspiration Behind Olde Bartley House

If you’ve ever wondered what inspired the Olde Bartley House, it’s a story rooted in creativity. For years, the vision for this unique coffee and donut shop was inspired by the renowned photographer Frank Hohenberger, who once lived and had his studio in this very building. His artistic legacy influenced the shop’s design and ambiance, adding a layer of historical richness to every visit.

A Café with a Historical Twist

Built in 1886, the Olde Bartley House began as a private residence. It earned its name from the Bartley family, who called it home from 1904 until around 1920. The iconic photographer Frank Hohenberger lived here from 1948 to 1963. Since then, the house has transformed into a series of retail and gift shops. Now, it stands as a beautifully restored café, blending history with modern-day charm.

What’s special about Olde Bartley House isn’t just the food and drink. It’s the effort put into restoring and preserving this historical landmark. Over three and a half years, more than 100 local craftsmen worked tirelessly to renovate the building. As a result, the café stands as both a tribute to Frank Hohenberger and a living museum of our town’s rich history.

Signature Donut and Coffee Pairings

One of the highlights at Olde Bartley House is their signature volant, a delightful creation called the Brown County Breakfast. This treat is a layered donut, reminiscent of a cronut, and it’s by far their biggest seller. Alongside it, you’ll find a range of exquisite coffees. The café’s commitment to quality is evident as they brought in experts from the Seattle Barista Academy to train their staff. The result is a coffee experience that’s truly exceptional.

Must-Try Menu Items

When it comes to what to order, the Brown County Breakfast Volant is a must-try. It’s a standout among the 18 varieties of volant offered. Don’t miss out on their Monte Cristo sandwich either—it pairs perfectly with their rich coffees.

Olde Bartley House also offers a rotating seasonal menu that’s sure to delight. For fall, you can savor a Gingerbread Latte, Pumpkin Spice Latte, or Pumpkin Cold Foam. The Pumpkin Queen, an iced white mocha with pumpkin spice cold foam, is a personal favorite. Other seasonal treats include Viva Los Lobos—a honey, chocolate, cinnamon, and cayenne blend—and Spiced Cider with caramel. The Pumpkin Spice Latte Volant is also a seasonal hit.

Visit Us and Share Your Experience!

The Olde Bartley House is more than just a café—it’s a piece of living history and a testament to local craftsmanship and creativity. As you enjoy their delicious coffee, unique donuts, and charming ambiance, we’d love for you to share your visit with us and fellow fans.

For a complete Brown County experience, don’t miss the quaint town itself with over 200 shops and the picturesque Brown County State Park. The park is a favorite among the 4 million annual visitors and showcases the natural beauty of our area.

Snap a photo, share your favorite treat, and don’t forget to tag us with #ilovebrowncounty on social media. Your posts help celebrate and spread the word about our unique spots in Brown County. We can’t wait to see your moments and stories!