The City of Richardson is excited for the upcoming opening of Dream Café, a popular eatery celebrated for its healthy comfort food in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Soon to be located at 520 Lockwood Drive, the new venue will open for breakfast and lunch by the holiday season this year, with dinner service and wrap around patio set to come in 2025.

Dream Café has grown to become a favorite brunch and lunch destination that emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, offering a mix of American and international-inspired dishes that cater to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

"The addition of Dream Café is a perfect fit for The CORE District and the welcoming ambiance we aim to cultivate across the District," said City Manager Don Magner. "This new addition will fill a unique niche in the Lockwood Neighborhood, complementing our signature mix of lunch and evening destinations that draw people seeking fresh, memorable experiences."

The CORE District features an internationally renowned culinary scene, with Dream Café set to join popular names like Kirin Court, Partenope Ristorante, Lockwood Distilling Co., and more.

"We continue to see interest in The CORE District and particularly from locally successful small business operators looking for unique environments to open new locations," said Manasseh Durkin, president of Durkin Properties. "The mix of restaurants and retailers available there provides a draw for people across the region, especially for those looking to experience authentic cuisines and surroundings."

Dream Café was originally founded in Dallas in 1985 on Knox Street by siblings Mary and Grady O’Brien, and moved to Dallas’ Uptown district at the Quadrangle in 1988, where it is currently located on McKinney Ave.

The Richardson location will be owner Christine Lott’s second store as she opened her first franchise location on Mockingbird Lane in 2015.

"We are excited about opening a new location in The CORE District and look forward to getting to know our new neighbors there," said Dream Café co-owner Christine Lott. "The City of Richardson and Durkin Properties have been especially helpful in meeting our goals, and we look forward to opening day and becoming part of The CORE District community."

While the Dream Café and Durkin Properties have not requested economic development incentives for the project, the restaurant will be taking over the lease from a previous occupant which did receive incentives for renovation.

The new Dream Café in Lockwood will feature an expansive dog-friendly outdoor patio and additional parking next to the iconic Richardson water tower.