There’s something special brewing in Avondale! The Workshops Empowerment Inc. Cafe has opened its doors, offering a welcoming space for the community to enjoy delicious food, fresh coffee, and a mission worth supporting. Whether you're stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or a midday coffee break, this café is more than just a place to eat—it’s a place where lives are empowered.

Breakfast Plate at Workshops Empowerment Cafe.

A Café with a Purpose

When you visit the Workshops Empowerment Inc. Cafe, you’re doing more than just grabbing a meal—you’re supporting a mission. The café is part of Workshops Empowerment Inc., an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities and employment barriers by providing meaningful job opportunities. Workshops Empowerment Inc. has been operating in Birmingham for 120 years! This is just the newest facet of an organization that has helped so many individuals find meaningful employment.  Every cup of coffee poured and every plate served helps create sustainable employment and skill-building opportunities for people in our community.

"The Benny" Breakfast Plate.

Delicious Menu Offerings

The cafe serves up a delightful Early Risers and Second Breakfast menu, along with a tasty lunch selection to keep you fueled throughout the day. Whether you’re craving a hearty morning meal or a satisfying lunch, there’s something on the menu for everyone. And, of course, no café experience is complete without a well-brewed cup of coffee! 

We went and ordered the “Benny,” and Eggs Benedict dish served with bacon and a tomato hollandaise. It was so flavorful!  We also had the “Old School Breakfast Plate,” and absolutely love the grits and biscuits and gravy!  If breakfast is any indication, we can’t wait to try their lunch options.

Workshops Empowerment Cafe: Interior Shot

A Space for Everyone

Designed with comfort and connection in mind, the café offers a relaxing atmosphere with plenty of seating, making it the perfect spot to catch up with friends, hold meetings, or simply enjoy a quiet moment with your coffee. Need a more private setting? The café features a side room ideal for meetings and small gatherings. Plus, the friendly staff and phenomenal chef make every visit feel like home.

Happenin's in the Ham visits the Empowerment Cafe.

Plan Your Visit!

The Empowerment Café is open Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 2 PM, so make sure to stop by and experience this inspiring new addition to the Avondale neighborhood. Your visit directly supports individuals working toward greater independence and success. They also have fun new merchandise available for purchase! 

Great Birmingham Bake Off 2025

Don’t Miss the Great Birmingham Bake Off!

Want to show even more support for Workshops Empowerment Inc.? Mark your calendars for the Great Birmingham Bake Off on Saturday, April 5th, from 2 PM to 4 PM at Cahaba Brewing Company! This exciting event brings together teams competing to bake the best sides and desserts using WEmade branded baking mixes—which are made right at the Workshops Empowerment building. Even better? These mixes are available for purchase online and at the Empowerment Cafe, so you can recreate the magic in your own kitchen!

Amber and I have had the privilege of being judges for the Bake Off and everything we tried was so incredibly delicious! (If we could, we'd totally be professional food judges!) 

By attending the Bake Off, you’re not just indulging in delicious treats—you’re directly supporting the mission of Workshops Empowerment Inc. Get your tickets today and be part of something sweet!

Empowerment Cafe Breakfast Menu March 2025

A Meal that Makes a Difference

Be sure to check out this café where great food meets a great cause. Whether you come for a meal, a meeting, or a cup of coffee, you’ll leave knowing you’ve contributed to something truly meaningful. The café is open Monday-Friday from 7am-2pm!

Don’t forget to visit the Workshops Empowerment Inc. website today and grab your tickets for the Great Birmingham Bake Off!