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Kelli Simko and John Walker: Statesville
- Mar 12
- 1 min read
2025 NC Main Street Champion
When John Walker and Kelli Simko opened 220 (two-twenty) Café in downtown Statesville in 2010, they weren’t just starting a restaurant, they were planting roots.
“I like what I do, and I like Statesville,” John says simply. “I come into work, I do what I do, and I see happy faces. It doesn’t seem hard.”
Kelli recalls falling in love with the heart of the city: “That’s what pulled me in: the second you get downtown, the row of trees, the old buildings… makes me feel like coming home.”
Together, they’ve watched that home transform. “From 2010 to current day, it took a long time... but downtown is busier now.” Through 220 Café, John and Kelli have become pillars of community life—hosting local art, live music, and supporting events from Balloonfest to the Heart Ball.
“We built a lot of great relationships, and we’ve worked really hard,” Kelli says, reflecting on years of effort that earned the café multiple awards and a loyal following. The couple remains humble. “I love the people, the community, and watching it grow,” Kelli adds.
For their commitment to downtown, Statesville is proud to name Kelli Simko and John Walker as their 2025 Main Street Champions.