Downtown Orlando’s daytime crowd is in for a new import, as German-born, award-winning Hawaiian café Hula Mula has locked in a 10-year lease for a 2,753-square-foot, 44-seat space at 201 S. Orange Ave, with plans for an all-day operation. City documents state the deal moved through downtown development channels and that the project qualifies for funding to help cover build-out and first-year rent costs.
The Downtown Orlando Community Redevelopment Agency agenda, filed January 28, 2026, notes that Hula Mula LLC signed the lease for Suite 105 at 201 S. Orange Ave and is planning a $772,000 build-out for the 44-seat café, according to Downtown Orlando. As reported by Orlando Business Journal, the German concept plans to serve coffee, smoothies, bagels, and other all-day café fare, and the proprietor already runs multiple locations in Europe.
About Hula Mula
Per Hula Mula, the brand operates several “fresh food & drinks” cafés across southwestern Germany and highlights smoothie bowls, bagels, sushi, and specialty coffee on its menus. The concept has also picked up industry attention for its Hawaiian-inspired approach, including a 2024 award listed by Luxlife.
City Backing And Why It Matters
The DTO Restaurant Program is designed to recruit operators who can deliver high-quality interiors and steady daytime traffic. Program staff recommended that Hula Mula qualify for reimbursement and short-term rent support to help offset the cost of the build-out, according to Downtown Orlando. The proposed funding award, which includes about $96,355 for tenant improvements and $50,000 in first-year rent assistance, is intended to close the gap between signing the lease and opening for service.
Timeline And Next Steps
There is no firm public opening date yet. As reported by Orlando Business Journal, the owner has not set an opening timeline. City approvals and permitting are next on the to-do list before construction can begin, and the final schedule will depend on build-out progress and inspections…