May 7, 2018 – Rhode Island-based Shayna’s Place, a family-owned and operated cafe that provides employment opportunities for people with special needs, has signed a lease to open its first Texas location at Sylvan | Thirty later this year. Lou Olerio is expanding the sandwich and coffee shop, which was inspired by his cousin Shayna who has Down Syndrome. Shayna’s Place will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, including sandwiches, salads, smoothies, pastries and juices, as well as a local selection of coffee, soda, wine and beer. It is expected to open next to CiboDivino Marketplace in late summer.

“From the moment I decided to expand the family business, I was set on making Sylvan | Thirty its home because of the development’s family feel,” said owner Lou Olerio. “The area’s residents appreciate the vibe of a unique family business versus walking into another chain restaurant even if it’s just for a quick bite to eat.”

Designed by Marc Hooper, Shayna’s Place will serve as a cozy and intimate place for customers to dine either inside or outside on the spacious patio.

“Shayna’s Place contains all of the elements that make Sylvan | Thirty businesses successful — family-focused, community-oriented and healthy, local cuisine. We specifically seek out these attributes when looking for new concepts to offer in Dallas,” said Brent Jackson, President of Oaxaca Interests and developer of Sylvan | Thirty.

Last year, USA Today named their sandwich “Vinny’s Kitchen” — a classic Italian sandwich named after Shayna’s grandma Vinny —  the “Best Grinder in Rhode Island.”

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Shayna’s Place can be found online at www.shaynasplaceri.com.