After nearly six years serving the Shippensburg community, Jane’s Art of Pie Cafe is set to permanently close in May.
Art of Pie, located on King Street, was opened in 2020 by owner Jane Offner as part of a retirement plan. The cafe is situated in the historical Sturgis House and has been rented out to other businesses throughout the years.
The cafe has not only become a successful business, winning the “Small Business of the Year Award” from the Shippensburg Chamber of Commerce in 2025, but has also become a key attraction for Shippensburg residents and community members.
Offner noted she never had plans of opening a cafe, but that the opportunity fell into her lap at the right time.
“There was a need in Shippensburg,” said Offner. “That’s why I did it.”
When asked what her vision was for opening Art of Pie, Offner spoke about the importance of connection.
“[I wanted] someplace where people can gather,” said Offner. “Especially during the pandemic, people didn’t gather at all. They wanted to get together after not seeing each other for two years. And now it’s part of people’s routine, which is really nice, too.”
Offner noted that Art of Pie was originally part of a five-year retirement plan she had, but five years quickly turned into six. Eventually, she knew it was time to step away. She said she hopes somebody will copy what she did and start a new cafe somewhere in town.
One primary attraction in the cafe is the various art pieces decorating the walls. Offner mentioned that her artwork will continue to line the hallway for the next business that rents out the space. She also said she hopes to give classes in the future to help “revitalize downtown.”
Although the cafe may be closing, the memories and bonding of the Shippensburg community will remain.
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