Kekuli Cafe, the first Indigenous food franchise in Canada, currently in Westbank, Kelowna, Merritt, and Kamloops, is more than just an award-winning coffee shop delivering gourmet vegan bannock. At Kekuli,  food, community, and cultural celebration combine to create a home away from home where staff is family and guests experience the rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures in BC.

Kwukwscemxw | Thank You

Authentic Indigenous recognizes Kekuli Cafe for its groundbreaking business acumen, practice of First Nations values in the workplace, and heartful approach to scaling up Indigenous business, creating a blueprint for Indigenous entrepreneurs to bring this cafe and cultural hub to communities around BC. Awarded BC Green Business Gold Standards for 2024, Kekuli Cafe promotes environmental stewardship and economic and personal development for Indigenous Peoples and First Nations communities. It provides a storytelling hub where customers can learn about Indigenous cultures.

The cafe’s name, Kekuli, refers to a traditional underground dwelling used by local First Nations, symbolizing a deep respect for their history and traditions. Kekuli Cafe educates customers about Indigenous culture through its menu, decor, and storytelling, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous heritage.

Kekuli Cafe is deeply committed to respecting local Indigenous values and adhering to local protocols. Their menu features traditional ingredients like salmon, venison, and Saskatoon berries in modern dishes rooted in Indigenous culinary heritage, ensuring that the food is authentic and culturally significant. 

By integrating these practices, Kekuli Cafe respects and reflects local Indigenous values and actively contributes to preserving and celebrating First Nations communities in British Columbia and Indigenous cultures everywhere.

The cafe is designed to be a storytelling hub where customers can learn about Indigenous culture through the stories behind the dishes, the decor, and one-on-one interactions with staff. The cafe collaborates with Indigenous artists to showcase their work, providing a platform for artists to share their culture and creativity with a broader audience. 

The cafe’s ambiance, decor, and overall atmosphere are designed to immerse guests in Indigenous culture, creating a unique and memorable dining experience. Kekuli hosts events celebrating Indigenous culture, such as art exhibitions and cultural and business workshops, creating a space for community gatherings and cultural exchange. 

Kekuli Cafe actively engages with local First Nations communities to understand their needs and preferences. This includes collaborating with Indigenous artists for decor and hosting community events to celebrate Indigenous culture. Their menu prioritizes locally sourced ingredients and products, which supports local farmers, suppliers, and Indigenous entrepreneurs and promotes sustainability while ensuring the freshness and quality of the food. 

The cafe provides job opportunities for community members, focusing on hiring Indigenous individuals. This boosts the local job market and empowers First Nations people and communities by providing opportunities to gain valuable skills and experience.

Kekuli Cafe hosts various events and fundraisers that unite Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members. These events often celebrate Indigenous culture and traditions while raising awareness and funds for important initiatives. Committed to giving back to the community, Kekuli supports local causes and initiatives through donations, sponsorships, and volunteer efforts that positively impact local communities. 

An active supporter of Indigenous youth programs and mentorship opportunities, Kekuli helps young community members develop skills and build confidence. By investing in the next generation, Kekuli Cafe contributes to the long-term growth and success of the community. 

The cafe engages in educational outreach programs to educate the broader public about Indigenous culture, history, and contemporary issues. This helps foster a greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous communities.

Kekuli Cafe collaborates with First Nations communities to promote traditional land stewardship practices and align business with environmental sustainability. By incorporating these sustainability efforts, Kekuli Cafe contributes to environmental protection and ensures its operations harmonize with Indigenous values and cultural preservation.

The cafe incorporates energy-efficient appliances and lighting to minimize its carbon footprint and strives to reduce energy consumption by optimizing its operations. Kekuli Cafe uses biodegradable and compostable packaging for their takeout orders, reducing waste in landfills and implementing water-saving practices in their kitchens, including the use of low-flow faucets and regular monitoring of water usage to ensure efficiency. 

Kekuli Cafe minimizes waste by implementing recycling programs,  donates food to local food banks and other organizations, and prioritizes local and sustainable ingredients. Awarded the BC Green Business Gold Standards for 2024, the cafe engages in educational initiatives to raise awareness about sustainability and environmental protection within the community, including hosting workshops and events focused on sustainable practices.