Cafe Momentum

"“Eat, drink, and change lives” is the motto of this nonprofit eatery, primarily staffed by at-risk youth seeking a culinary education as they prepare Southern plates full of smoked fried chicken and roasted cabbage, among other compelling dishes. Led by chef Chad Houser, the menu at Cafe Momentum promises surprisingly fresh takes on many familiar dishes. The bright dining room has a Scandinavian design, with light wood tables and modern fixtures — the focus of the room is the open kitchen and pass. This location is in an awkward part of Downtown that can be hard to navigate — trust Google Maps. There is no dedicated parking, so find a nearby paid lot or garage." - Courtney E. Smith

"Order a turkey dinner for four from the cafe that’s helping kids learn a trade. It includes a sweet tea brined turkey breast, Texas Fungus mushroom gravy, sausage and apple dressing, CM biscuits, a choice of three sides, a choice of bourbon pecan or pumpkin pie, and the option to add a bottle of wine. That’s all $145, with additional add-ons available. Order online now for pickup on November 22." - Courtney E. Smith

"Café Momentum, an exceptional Dallas restaurant, will have a food truck outside State Farm Stadium in Arizona serving its signature chicken and biscuits made by youth impacted by the juvenile justice system. Café Momentum is known for providing internships to at-risk and justice-involved youth to learn about the restaurant industry — including all the hard skills of a job and soft skills in life coaching, social skills, and development." - Courtney E. Smith

"The entire team at this beautiful New American dinner spot is made up of teenagers released from juvenile delinquent facilities. Their yearlong internships at the Café give them both life and job training. The seasonal, local menu from head chef Chad Houser is fresh and original, and the vibe is in every way uplifting: One wall is devoted to a collaborative art piece titled the “I’m Thankful Plate Project,” where past interns have written about gratitude on plates from the restaurant. "

"On the evening of Saturday, March 14, 2020, the staff at Café Momentum served only seven diners. The downtown Dallas restaurant was consistently listed as one of the best in the city, but suddenly, fears about an emerging pandemic were keeping folks home. Café Momentum is more than just a restaurant, though. It is also a nonprofit that has spent 30 years training at-risk youth exiting the juvenile detention system to work in hospitality..." - Georgia Freedman