Tallahassee Bids Farewell to Black Dog Café’s Founder Carla Reid

News Summary

Carla Reid, founder of Tallahassee’s Black Dog Café, announces her retirement after 27 years of serving the community. Passing ownership to longtime manager Hannah Cummings, Reid reflects on the café’s legacy of connection and community. The café will continue its operations, preserving the warm atmosphere Reid has cultivated over the years.

Tallahassee Bids Farewell to Black Dog Café’s Founder Carla Reid

After an incredible 27-year journey, Carla Reid has announced her retirement from Black Dog Café, Tallahassee’s beloved independent coffeehouse. The café has been a staple of the community, nestled in the back of the American Legion hall at Lake Ella. Reid has decided to pass the torch to her longtime manager, Hannah Cummings, marking the end of an era while also ensuring the café’s enduring spirit will continue.

A Bittersweet Goodbye

The announcement came via a heartfelt post on social media, where Reid expressed a mix of emotions about her departure. While she’s excited about what retirement holds, the decision was far from easy. Reid has created not just a business, but a community around Black Dog Café, and the relationships she’s formed over the years are undoubtedly priceless. With a strong commitment to fostering community bonds, Reid hopes that Cummings will carry on this tradition, maintaining the same warm and inviting atmosphere that regulars have grown to love.

The Story Behind Black Dog Café

Reid, who originally hails from Chicago, opened the café after moving to Tallahassee, inspired by cherished memories of strolling with her dog at Lake Ella. What began as a small venture with just one employee has blossomed into a thriving gathering spot for locals, new moms, and busy professionals alike. In its first year, Reid faced daunting challenges, striving to achieve a daily revenue target of just $100 to keep the business afloat. Fast forward to today, and the café has become a cherished community hub.

Making Memories Together

Throughout the years, Black Dog Café became a place where countless unforgettable moments unfolded. Regulars affectionately known by name, such as Phil, Ed, and Jeff, have transformed the café into a second home. There have been countless stories shared over a cup of coffee, including amusing incidents like a man being chased by a goose—an anecdote that’s sure to go down in local lore!

Reid also spearheaded the first ‘New Moms Club’ back in 1997, which attracted a wave of new customers who later returned with their families in tow. It’s this emphasis on community and connection that has kept people coming back for decades.

Looking to the Future

As Reid prepares for her next chapter, which involves caring for her three horses and possibly teaching yoga, she reflects on all that Black Dog Café has achieved. Cummings has been a part of the café family for over 12 years and is ready to embrace her new role as owner. Reid has taken the time to train Cummings in the business’s operations to ensure a seamless transition. Starting January 1, Cummings aims to continue providing the high-quality coffee and community focus that has defined the café’s reputation.

What Lies Ahead for Black Dog Café

For those still craving their daily caffeine fix, the café will continue operating with its usual hours: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. With an enticing menu featuring a variety of drinks, seasonal specials, and freshly baked goods, there’s something for everyone at Black Dog Café.

As the community wraps its arms around both Reid and Cummings during this transition, it’s clear that the café’s legacy will live on. The outpouring of gratitude from customers is a testament to Reid’s invaluable role in shaping not just a coffee shop, but a cherished community gathering space. Black Dog Café has withstood the test of time, and with Cummings at the helm, it promises to be a haven for many years to come.