Embers Bakery & Cafe ignites a new chapter: Honoring 67 years of tradition with fresh expansions and community spirit

Alix and Andrew Ambriz owners of Embers Bakery & Cafe, share big news at ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Kyle Kinne/McCook Chamber of Commerce

McCOOK Neb.- In a heartfelt ribbon-cutting ceremony held recently at McCook’s beloved Sehnerts Bakery, Andrew and Alix Ambriz, the dedicated owners, proudly announced an exciting transformation for the iconic establishment. After three years of nurturing the bakery’s legacy, they unveiled a name change and plans for two new locations, marking a significant step forward for this community hub.

According to a Facebook announcement, “This fall you’ll find us expanding to the old Daylight Donuts-Oz Tex building at 801 West C Street with a drive-thru location here in McCook! We’ll serve a selection of donuts, a streamlined breakfast and lunch menu, and your favorite coffee, espresso, smoothie, teas and more at Embers Drive Thru!

“Next year about this time, you’ll find us heading east! The Younes family approached us earlier this year about joining the businesses in Younes Plaza. Next year you’ll find us across the lake from Cunninghams on the Lake in the middle of an exciting new development at Younes Landing!”

Having served McCook for 67 years, Sehnerts Bakery has been a staple in the local landscape, offering sweet treats and a warm gathering place for friends and families. During the recent ribbon-cutting event with the McCook Chamber of Commerce, Andrew expressed his gratitude to the community, stating, “We’ve spent time getting to know this business, our team, and this community. We’re so grateful that you’ve given us the grace to try new things and experiment.”

The major announcement of the day was revealed with heartfelt enthusiasm: the bakery will now be known as “Embers Bakery & Cafe” This new name reflects the couple’s vision of continuing the legacy of comfort and warmth Sehnerts Bakery has provided over the decades. In a passionate speech, Andrew elaborated on the inspiration behind the name, likening it to the enduring flame of a campfire where memories are made and stories shared. He remarked, “As the fire continues and the flames subside, those embers continue to glow and represent what we see here: 67 years of history, gathering, and making memories.”

One of Andrew and Alix’s primary goals is to ensure that while the name and decor may evolve, the heart and soul of the bakery will remain intact. “The products you love—the donuts, the drinks—will not change,” Andrew reassured loyal customers. While we’re experimenting with new menu items, we want you to find the same things you remember, alongside some new flavors to try.”

Despite the significant changes, Andrew emphasized their commitment to maintaining the quality and experience that patrons have come to expect. “We’re hyper-focused on ensuring that everything stays consistent as we expand. We don’t want you to feel like anything is lost in translation as we grow,” said Andrew.

Addressing concerns about the bakery’s future, Andrew elaborated on how the name change merely reflects the business’s evolution. He stated, “This isn’t about changing everything you know and love; it’s about bolstering it and inviting a new generation to join in the experience.”

The metaphor of Embers reminds us that although the previous ownership has changed, the warmth and community spirit remain alive. Andrew noted that their journey has gained invaluable insights into what makes this bakery unique. Andrew shared, “Every board, every wall, every seat holds pieces of history. We’re here to throw more wood on the fire and brighten the flame.”

The excitement of this new chapter for Embers Bakery & Cafe extends beyond just the name. Customers can look forward to a renewed atmosphere, new menu experiments, and the same friendly faces they’ve come to know. Andrew concluded, “We hope you will join us in this next era. You are as much a part of this journey as we are, and we can’t wait to create more memories with you.”

With its new name and vision, Embers Bakery and Cafe’ is ready to ignite a fresh sense of community and culinary adventure while honoring the rich history that has touched many lives over the past 67 years.