In the eyes of many locals, downtown Monroe has usually been looked upon as a drab scene of diners and old shops that struggle to bring interest to anyone. Yet, over the past few years, slowly but surely, new businesses and restaurants have been popping up all along Monroe Street.

     Stores like The Book Nook that have been in business for years offer great prices in used books and the option to bring in used books and novels for store credit.

     Café Classics, located on the corner of Monroe and Front St., also has maintained steady business with the live music and wide variety of café menu items and coffee specialties.

     Some of the newer businesses that have opened include Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn, which offers a large assortment of popcorn to choose from including caramel, cheddar, white cheddar, along with chocolate almond, buckeye, white chocolate oreo, and many more.

     Cravings, located at 31 E. Front St., sells a variety of delicious treats, fulfilling anyone’s sweet tooth. From ice cream and custard to chocolate covered twinkies, rice krispie treats, strawberries, marshmallows, oreos, and cherries, Cravings has just about any treat you can think of. They also have a variety of fudge in flavors such as peanut butter, maple walnut, cherry cheesecake, and rocky road.

     Also new is the I Do wedding rentals store on Front St.

     Off Beat Productions, a music and theatre performance organization, also opened its doors restoring an old ballroom on the third floor of 105 E. Front St. The group offers voice lessons, educational camps for youth and productions for all ages.