Who we are?
This community wide effort became a reality when the Depot opened in June of 2013. Of course it took the board of directors six years of hard work before that to get the ball rolling. Today the After 26 Project, a tax exempt 501(c)(3) corporation, employs 19 ‘Project Workers’ that perform various job tasks around the restaurant. Typical job responsibilities include greeting customers, taking water to tables, washing dishes, busing & cleaning tables, cleaning menus, janitorial duties, and related tasks.The Depot is overseen by a volunteer board of directors, with daily operations handled by a general manager.
Why do this?
Taya V
While passing through Cadillac we wanted to stop for breakfast. We chose this place based on reviews and the menu available online. Once we got there, we realized they have a mission associated with providing training and work for those with cognitive delays, which we thought was very wholesome and special. Our service was fast and friendly, the food was fantastic, prices are fair. If we lived around here, we would definitely come back.
… moreBenjamin Norton
Warm hearts and hot chow//
Your home cooked meal comes with cozy settings and enchanting views – a reclaimed train depot situated beside a majestic lake.
Be patient with the staff, who do their best to serve within their capacity, and both the food and hands that provide it bring warmth to your soul.
… moreAudra Schuler
If I could give ZERO stars I would. It was the worst experience I’ve ever had a restaurant. They do not tell you its first come first serve for seating so when my group of 3 was told 20mins we walked around to waste some time. As they were cleaning the table for us, they sat another party at that table. There was another table opening that we were able to get. A waitress did come over and got our drinks and food order, but then disappeared. We couldn’t even get water refills for over 30mins. I had ordered a cinnamon roll but what I got was 3 cold from the tube cinnamon rolls with cold frosting and we had been sitting there for 45mins at that point. After further looking around I noticed a Tupperware container with the cinnamon rolls next to a microwave. We still were trying to give them the benefit of a doubt and waited for our food. The plates arrived close to another 15 minutes after the cinnamon rolls. We ordered omelets which were $14 on the menu. It came out looking like scrambled eggs with 2 sausage links cut up for the meat. It was terrible. I approached the assistant manager and explained everything, she didn’t even look surprised. We did not eat nor pay for anything. In total we spent about an hour and a half from arriving to leaving. I will not recommend or go back.
… moreAustin Brunner
We got there right as they opened and the staff was kind, the food was great, and the coffee was hot. Love the vibes of this place! Would absolutely go again. Those Sweet Potato Tots though!
… moreBreanna I.
Never been here before, was the first time for 4 of us. The portions were filling but nothing over the top. The pancakes were insanely burnt, also ordered a side of hash browns and the portion was only like 3 bites and it was complete concrete with how hard it was- not even edible. Probably will not be returning
… moreJ and B
Tried this place out for breakfast today! So good! The omelettes were amazing! Loved the vibe and atmosphere! The view of the lake added to the over experience! Close to downtown!
… moreJamie Rader
We held a baby shower here and it was amazing from start to finish! The workers were so incredibly nice and accommodating (Shout out to Donny! We adored him and his smiles made our entire day!). We are from out of state, but have family in the area, and were a bit nervous about not seeing the location beforehand but it ended up being perfect. The building is beautiful, the food was tasty, and location was incredibly convenient, but what really sold us is what they stand for at After 26. I highly recommend people to visit their website and read all about this place.
… moreJack Pinewood
What a wonderful project! This Cafe makes Cadillac head and shoulders above other communities, it shows how loving and caring our people are. God Bless the Cadillac Makers Market, they support the Cafe with their sales and booth fees. It does your heart good to visit the Cafe and Market without drama and politics, just good people doing good things…..
… moreLindsey Loo
Beautiful restaurant with a heart warming mission. I ordered the adult grilled cheese with tomato bisque soup and they were both very flavorful! I will definitely be back again to help support this business.
… moreDanielle Connor
In love with the mission of the restaurant, with all of the kind people working there, and with the food I was served. I live about 45 minutes away and I’d been wanting to try this and am so, so glad I did. One of the best breakfasts (& cinnamon rolls) I’ve ever had- definitely going back the next time I’m in Cadillac. Very welcoming, inclusive / friendly for everyone.
… more