LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – The Breakfast Gallery in East Lubbock functions as both dining spot and educational space.
Owner Jada Taylor brings eight years of teaching experience to her innovative concept, including time at Estacado High School and work with students in alternative educational settings.
“For the last year or so, I’ve predominantly worked at LCJJC so the students there are incarcerated and often times they talk about their experience, coming out of the situation not being able to find a job filling like an outcast or not having an environment where they feel safe,” Taylor said.
Taylor’s background influenced how she designed the restaurant. Young people handle customer service, oversee dining room operations, and participate in daily business management while developing transferable workplace skills.
“It’s important whenever the consumer comes in to greet them with a smile. We’ll either say good morning or welcome either or. Let me hear it, good morning. Better than that, louder. Good morning. Good morning. Good,” Taylor instructs her team during training.
Tommilee Dixon, an Estacado High School graduate working the front counter, has noticed personal growth through the experience.
“It’s helping me work with people sometimes. I’m not a people person but working here, it’s helping me a lot with getting better with that,” Dixon said.
Azanaya McGee, still attending high school, helps coordinate team activities and shares advice with newer staff members.
“Whatever y’all do, do it the best way possible. Be good at it, don’t have a bad view on it, have an open mind and do it with a passion,” McGee said.
Taylor considers these young people the heart of her operation. Her vision extends beyond food service to creating a welcoming space that encourages repeat visits.
“I remind my students that every day is a fresh start. I want this space to be an example of that. You get to wake up, you can have good food, good atmosphere, music and you can go on with your day and be a new person,” Taylor said.
The restaurant serves as a place where young people can develop professionally while contributing to their community.
The Breakfast Gallery is located at 2510 M.L.K. Jr Blvd.
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