Nestled in the heart of cowboy town Hempstead, Texas, Citizen’s Cafe is all set to bring a vintage charm coupled with a delightful blend of coffee, wine, and gastronomic adventures. Owner Kenneth Pilcher envisions the cafe to be a haven for coffee enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs alike, set against the historic backdrop of a town founded in 1858. The cafe, located at 841 12th St, promises to be a novel addition to a town predominantly known for ranches and agriculture.
Citizen’s Cafe draws its name and heritage from the building it calls home – once the Citizens State Bank. This homage to the town’s history is not just in name, as Pilcher plans to maintain the vintage and retro aesthetics throughout the cafe, including preserving the old vault door which will lead to a wine grotto. This unique feature will house an eclectic collection of cool art pieces while the exterior of the building will showcase a 1950s black awning, creating an atmosphere that is both classy and understated.
Adjacent to the vault, patrons will find a speakeasy lounge, adding a layer of intrigue and allure to the establishment. The cafe plans to open its first phase, focusing on coffee and a bakery, set to be led by a yet-to-be-announced New York chef. The mornings at Citizen’s Cafe will witness the aroma of fresh baked bread and breakfast delights, while the evenings will introduce a Happy Hour for those looking to unwind.
Phase Two will bring about a lunch menu prior to Phase Three, which will introduce its dinner offerings. Adding a touch of excitement to the dining experience, the cafe will initially feature pop-up chefs and themed dinner nights, ranging from Texas Steak Night to a journey through Italian culinary landscapes. This dynamic approach to dinner service aims to keep the evenings ever-changing before settling on a full-time chef and a curated menu.
Recognizing the scarcity of great coffee spots in the area, Citizen’s Cafe endeavors to fill this void by offering not only high-quality beverages and meals, but also a space that exudes a retro and vintage ambiance.
With eyes already set on expansion, Citizen’s Cafe symbolizes not only a tribute to Hempstead’s history, but also a step towards culinary innovation and diverse dining experiences. The blend of nostalgia and novelty is bound to make Citizen’s Cafe a cherished spot for locals and visitors, elevating Hempstead’s dining scene to new heights.
For those looking to take a piece of Citizen’s Cafe home, light retail and merch, including their own branded coffee, will be available. Fans and future patrons can follow the cafe’s journey on Instagram (@enjoycitizens), Facebook (enjoycitizens), and their official website, www.enjoycitizens.com.
Phase one of the opening is set for the first quarter of 2024.
