Destination Cafe Holds Grand Opening

Port Credit's newest gourmet coffee shop held its grand opening last Tuesday, April 10, 2007. The event was well attended and included such dignitaries as Tim Peterson, a member of the Ontario provincial parliament, Laurie Ridler, Executive Director for Supportive Housing in Peel, and a representative from General Electric, one of Destination Cafe's corporate funders. Mr. Peterson also announced that the project -- one designed to provide employment opportunities to those experiencing mental health problems -- will receive an additional $4,000 - $5,000 to help with operating expenses.

In operation for several weeks now, Destination Cafe is already showing signs that it is making an impact on local consumer awareness. Although the cafe has not yet reached the break-even point, sales of coffee products continue to climb steadily.

The mood during the grand opening event was upbeat and celebratory. The weather, though cool and cloudy, was quite conducive to what began as an outdoor event during which the ceremonial ribbon was cut by cafe staff members amid a flurry of picture-taking. After the speeches were delivered, most people retired inside to partake of coffee lattes, espressos and other drinks. In one room upstairs, one could hear the sounds of music being played by a small ensemble. To mark the occasion, gift baskets and black umbrellas were handed out to guests attending the event.

Staff at the event were without exception cheerful and relaxed, showing few signs of stress during what must have been a much-anticipated event for them. Over the next two hours, new friends and old mingled in the party-like atmosphere. All in all, it appeared that everyone had an enjoyable experience.

Destination Cafe is located in the heart of Mississauga's Port Credit Community on Lakeshore Boulevard, just east of Hurontario. It is open daily from Tuesday to Saturday.