In the heart of Bethlehem, New Hampshire, there’s a quiet revolution happening on Main Street. While most coffee shops are designed to move people in and out as quickly as possible, The Place Above the Notch is doing something radically different. They aren’t just selling lattes and New York-style bagels; they are selling space, connection, and a new way to do business in the White Mountains.
Founded by Angie and Steve Cleveland, this isn’t your average “grab-and-go” cafe. It’s a community hub that serves as a living room, a professional office, and a high-end roastery all under one roof.
A Business Built on “The Space”
The most innovative part of their business model is The Space Above the Notch, a dedicated coworking wing designed specifically for the modern professional.
In a world where remote work is the new norm, many North Country residents find themselves stuck between a lonely home office and a noisy public cafe. The Place Above the Notch bridges that gap by offering:
- Professional Amenities: High-speed internet that actually works (a luxury in the mountains!) and a sound-resistant “Telephone Booth” for private Zoom calls or sensitive client meetings.
- Flexible Access: You can book “Just Give Me a Day” for a quick $20 drop-in or opt for 10 and 20-visit monthly subscriptions.
- Collaborative Vibes: By bringing together freelancers, entrepreneurs, and creators, they’ve created a “water cooler” effect where local business owners can network organically over a morning brew.
The “Living Room” Experience
While the coworking side handles the “hustle,” the cafe side handles the “heart.” The shop features an eclectic, cozy atmosphere with comfortable couches and a layout that encourages you to stay a while.
Whether you’re meeting a friend to catch up, playing a board game during one of their community nights, or browsing their selection of local artisan goods, there is zero pressure to rush. They’ve successfully cultivated a “third place”—that essential spot outside of home and work where community actually happens.
Quality with a Conscience
The Clevelands aren’t just innovators in real estate; they are masters of the craft. They roast their own beans in-house using a Diedrich IR-5 roaster, focusing on fair-trade, shade-grown beans.
Their menu is a love letter to the Northeast, featuring:
- Brooklyn-style Bagels: Real-deal New York bagels with creative cream cheeses.
- Local Pastries: Sourced from the Polish Princess Bakery.
- The Bethlehem Bento Box: A curated charcuterie spread designed for hikers and skiers heading into the Notch.
Why It Matters
The Place Above the Notch is a Registered Benefits Corporation (B-Corp), meaning they prioritize social and environmental responsibility alongside profit. By offering a workspace for local businesses and a welcoming area for friends to gather, they are proving that a coffee shop can be the economic and social engine of a small town.
In Bethlehem, business isn’t just about transactions anymore—it’s about shared space and shared success. Check them out at…https://www.theplaceabovethenotch.com/


