Northwest Indiana Business Magazine has been shining a light on Northwest and North Central Indiana's business community for 35 years. To celebrate, we started a series on entrepreneurship. In the this installment we feature Mirahida Kindig and Zahira Montoya, co-owners of The Harvest Hangout Play Café in Goodland.
The founders opened the cafe in September 2025 at 309 S. Newton St., Goodland. They employ three team members, with two others on call.
Question: What is your mission statement?
Answer: “The Harvest Hangout is a place for people to gather, relax and feel welcome — whether you’re coming with kids, friends or on your own. We focus on high-quality drinks, house-made café items, and creating a space that feels easy to enjoy. By partnering with local businesses and hosting community-driven events, we aim to bring people together and strengthen our community.”
Q: What was the catalyst for the business?
A: “The catalyst for The Harvest Hangout came from a simple realization: we didn’t have a space like this close to home. Instead of driving 45 minutes or more, we wanted to build a welcoming place right here — focused on quality food and drinks, community and creating meaningful connections for people of all ages.”
Q: What is your background/education?
A: “Both of us come from health care, where helping people and leading teams has always been at the heart of what we do. Mirahida worked her way up from dental assistant to leadership roles, managing projects, creating systems and guiding teams to help offices grow. Zahira worked as a vascular ultrasound technologist, training other technologists and supporting complex procedures. Beyond work, we’ve always loved to cook and host gatherings in our homes, bringing people together around food and connection.”
Q: What is a goal for the future?
A: Our goal is to continue growing The Harvest Hangout as a community hub by expanding partnerships with local businesses, hosting creative and inclusive events, and continually elevating the quality of our offerings — while staying rooted in connection and community impact.”
Q: What goal have you accomplished so far?
A: “One of our biggest accomplishments has been building strong community relationships even before opening. Through volunteering and collaboration with our church, local library and community organizations, we’ve been able to create a space that already feels supported, connected and reflective of the community it serves. … The best part has been meeting so many people in our town! We love getting to know neighbors on a first-name basis, making friends and seeing our space become a true hub for connection.”
Q: Who helped you along the way?
A: “We’ve been incredibly supported by our families, friends, local leaders and community members who encouraged us, volunteered their time and believed in our vision. Organizations like the Newton County Economic Development Commission, the Northwest Indiana Small Business Development Center and the Goodland Town Council have also guided and supported us along the way. Their involvement and trust, combined with the personal support from our community, have been foundational to The Harvest Hangout.”
Q: A book, movie, TV show that inspired you?
A: “‘Gilmore Girls' inspired us with its sense of community and connection. Like Stars Hollow, we wanted to create a welcoming spot where people can gather, enjoy good food and drinks, and feel at home.”
Q: Favorite inspirational quote?
A: “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
“This reminds us every day to trust the process, follow our dreams, and keep building a space that brings people together.”
Our Entrepreneurship Q&A spotlights the bold thinkers and doers shaping the future of the Region. We hear from local entrepreneurs who are turning ideas into impact — sharing their insights, challenges and the stories behind their businesses. The column celebrates innovation right here at home. To nominate an entrepreneur, email the editor at news@nwindianabusiness.com.
