The DREAMS Shade Tree Café, a mission-driven café focused on job training for individuals with special needs, is coming soon to Broussard at 219 S Eola Road, the longtime home of the former Shade Tree Café.
The café is part of a major milestone for DREAMS Foundation of Acadiana, which officially purchased the property in October after more than 10 years of searching for a permanent home. The organization plans to use the site to expand its programs centered on employment training, life skills development, and future housing opportunities for individuals with special needs.
Located along South Eola Road, the property includes the historic 1901 house that many locals will recognize from its time as Shade Tree Café. When the café reopens in February under its new name, it will carry forward much of what made the original spot special, while introducing a renewed purpose tied directly to the foundation’s mission.
Former owners Chef Lonnie and Eric have assisted with the transition by sharing Lonnie’s recipes and operational guidance. Geri Carter, a longtime member of the original Shade Tree Café team, will remain involved, alongside Chef Brandon Gaubert, who will lead café operations. Together, they will work hands-on with individuals served by DREAMS, guiding them through food preparation and daily café operations, including the café’s well-known meat pies.
The café represents only the first phase of what DREAMS envisions for the property. Future plans include adding indoor seating for guests, hosting micro weddings and small events inside the home, creating a dedicated job training center, and developing long-term housing opportunities with supportive services for individuals with special needs…