What to expect at Carpe Diem Cafe; a non-profit focused on hiring people who have special needs

A new coffee shop called Carpe Diem Cafe celebrated their grand opening over the weekend. What makes this one different from many of the other cafes is that they are focused on hiring people who have special needs and/or special circumstances. They are located in a strip center at 8643 W. Central Avenue, which is behind the INTRUST Bank off Central. It’s kind of tucked away and most easily accessed from Robin Road by Jerry’s Bar & Grill.

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8643 W Central Ave, Wichita, KS 67212
316-282-3401

Monday – Tuesday: 6am – 8pm
Wednesday: 9am – 8pm
Thursday – Friday: 6am – 8pm
Saturday – Sunday: 7am – 8pm

Website | Facebook
Cash/Card Accepted
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Here’s their mission straight from the website that I’m 100% for:

The Carpe Diem Café is a nonprofit business that has a focus on hiring people who have special needs and/or special circumstances that make it difficult for them to obtain and maintain employment. Our program is devoted to establishing a training program that will assist them with current and future employment.

As many of you know, I’m not in the business of reviewing coffee. We did stop by, though, for a coffee and a smoothie, which came out promptly. My daughter was loving the whipped cream on the smoothie. I didn’t get to enjoy that portion, but I did finish the smoothie for her.

From there and unfortunately, Carpe Diem Cafe, went through a lot of first day issues. They had issues with the internet, tickets not making it to the kitchen, and equipment issues. It was one of those openings, where I’d probably advise people to allow them some time to get the kinks out.

We ordered some donuts and a waffle breakfast dog. The owner brought them out and was extremely apologetic, saying they had many issues in the kitchen. He did let us know our waffle breakfast dog, which was supposed to contain a sausage, accidentally had a hot dog. He said he would bring out more donuts and another waffle breakfast dog. I thanked him for letting us know but passed on the additional food. What we received was enough and we didn’t want extra food that would potentially go to waste if we were full.

After a few bites of everything, the food was undercooked. The exterior of the waffle and donuts were very soft; they could have used a little more time in the fryer. This was feedback we passed on to the owner, who was willing to correct everything. But like before, I didn’t think it was necessary. Carpe Diem Cafe was properly staffed that afternoon, so it just comes down to training and a bit of luck to make sure other issues don’t arise.

Their mission is worthwhile and I promise I’ll be back sooner than later.

Here’s their menu.

Happy Dining,
Eddy

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