The Reel Coffee House, located at 2506 W Pioneer Pkwy in Dalworthington Gardens, is a vibrant new destination that combines the love of cinema with the enjoyment of coffee. Operating from 9 AM to 6 PM on weekdays and 9 AM to 4 PM on Saturdays, this establishment has quickly become a favorite among locals.
Co-founded by filmmakers Fatimah Jawad and Arturo Mohammad, The Reel Coffee House emerged from a unique concept. Jawad initially utilized the space for her film set of “Shift Happens,” which is set to be showcased at the Urbanworld Film Festival in New York later this month. Mohammad previously made waves with his 2015 film “Carter High,” which is based on true events.
Although owning a coffee shop was not Jawad’s lifelong dream, inspiration struck when she noticed that coffee is a staple for crew members on film sets. She humorously considered naming the café “Grind House” but opted for “Reel Coffee House” to better reflect its cinematic theme. Transforming a former driving school into a coffee shop required significant adjustments, including learning about necessary equipment. The opening date was postponed from May to August, but Jawad has since infused the space with movie memorabilia, encouraging patrons to engage with the artifacts and immerse themselves in a Hollywood-like atmosphere.
The interior is adorned with artistic movie-themed decorations, including spoof posters, custom merchandise, and a unique DVD exchange wall reminiscent of Blockbuster, where visitors can trade films. “So far, over 25 DVD trades have been made,” Jawad noted.
The menu boasts creatively named items that are as enjoyable as they are delicious. Standout offerings include the Director’s Cut (20 oz) Pop Fiction drink, as well as Trailer-sized (16 oz) beverages. Other enticing options are titled “There’s Something About Dulce,” “Mo Better Butterscotch,” “Mean Girls Matcha,” “Devil Wears Pistachio,” and “Caramel Macchiato X.” A crowd favorite, the cinnamon rolls received high praise for their delightful texture, and every drink is accompanied by a complimentary small bag of popcorn.
Beyond the coffee and treats, a dedicated merchandise area features a selfie wall and an impressive collection of movie posters. The space also includes vintage media and puzzles for guests to explore, with a standout attraction being original scripts signed by the casts of iconic films such as “Jaws” and “Scream.”
The Reel Coffee House serves as a haven for movie enthusiasts, honoring the art of filmmaking with an operational 8mm projector in the selfie room. Visitors can enjoy classic cartoons while perusing vintage casting books and film equipment. The café also features a real screening room equipped with comfortable movie seats, where patrons can watch films throughout the day while savoring their coffee.
Believing that film fosters community, Jawad welcomes filmmakers to submit their works for monthly screenings at no cost. She is also keen on hosting speakers and workshops. The café’s atmosphere is enhanced by photography from actual events and murals created by local artists.
In a manner reminiscent of her film “Shift Happens,” Jawad’s journey to opening a coffee shop embodies themes of belonging, resilience, and perseverance, reflecting on the importance of moving forward, one step at a time.
