Fran Arnott, Marjorie Milne and Pat Marranci recently visited Pastel on Richland in Aiken for the first time.

"We like to get together - three friends for coffee," Ms. Marranci said.

The artwork displayed in the shop was an added bonus. "We're starving artists," Ms. Arnott said, and then laughed.

Pastel on Richland, which opened in November, is patterned after Pastel on Central in Augusta. The shop features coffee, tea and pastries, many made by Philippe Chin of CuiZine. Pastel also has a selection of clothing and accessories, items for the home or garden and original works by local artists.

"We represent 45 local artists," said Cheryl Grace, who owns and operates Pastel.

She said opening the art cafe was a good move.

"Aiken's been very receptive. We had a really great Christmas season," she said.

People in Aiken have picked up on the coffee-shop aspect, she said.

"I have two groups that come in regularly on Tuesday," she said.

Ms. Grace said she hopes to add some events to the art cafe's calendar in the coming months, along with some after-hours events.

During November and December, there was a book-signing by Karin Gillespie, who wrote Bet Your Bottom Dollar.

Situated at 312 W. Richland Ave., Pastel on Richland is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

For more information, call (803) 648-5555.

Reach Charmain Z. Brackett at czbrackett@hotmail.com.