CEDAR CITY - The Grind coffee shop is under new ownership. New owner A.J. Baruffi took over July 1 and has plans to expand both the menu and the weekend entertainment offerings.

The Grind will continue to offer cabaret on Thursdays during the Utah Shakespearean Festival season, and vaudeville acts by Southern Utah University students on Thursdays during the school year.

Friday and Saturday night comedy will also remain on the playbill, and Baruffi is adding an open mic night on Wednesday that will feature local talent.

Baruffi, a four-year resident of Cedar City, has upgraded the 100-seat venue's stage, lighting and sound system.

The Grind serves coffee from the Portland Roasting Company. All Grind baristas were recently recertified and Baruffi says to look for additions to the menu in the future.

For more information on entertainment at The Grind check out the page at www.myspace.com/thegrindcoffeehouse. A new Web site, www.groovinatthegrind.com, is in the works.