The Mermaid Café is the lifelong dream of Leah Meyer — a passionate cook, joyful spirit, and an individual with Down Syndrome who always believed in the magic of food bringing people together. Since she was a little girl, Leah has talked about owning a café where everyone is welcome, everyone belongs, and everyone contributes.
That dream never wavered. No matter how many years passed, the name stayed the same. The vision stayed the same. And the heart behind it only grew stronger.
The Mermaid Café was brought to life by Leah and her family; her parents Karen and Drew, and sister Anna and brother Kane. With Karen’s background as a speech-language pathologist and Drew’s experience managing food trucks, they knew they had the tools to support Leah’s dream — and to build something truly special for the San Antonio community.
As a family, they’ve poured their hearts (and savings!) into creating a space that redefines what’s possible for people with disabilities — not just in the kitchen, but in the workplace and in the world.
At The Mermaid Café, every latte, pastry, and sandwich is made with intention and joy by a team of individuals with disabilities, empowered by meaningful employment and adaptive training. We’re one of San Antonio’s only disabilities-first cafés — built entirely around inclusion, accessibility, and the belief that people are more alike than different.
From custom equipment designed for all ability levels to communication supports like visual task guides, we’re building a workplace that works for everyone — and a community that celebrates every kind of talent.
Our team is led by people of all abilities, with roles across food prep, service, management, and more.
We use accessible equipment, simplified processes, and visual supports to promote independence and success.
Built from Leah’s dream and powered by local love, every sip and smile supports something greater.
We’re challenging outdated ideas about what people with disabilities can do — one shift, one job, one coffee at a time.
The Mermaid Café is more than a business — it’s a movement for inclusion, dignity, and joy. Every time you visit, you’re helping us prove that everyone has something meaningful to contribute.
Whether you’re grabbing your morning coffee, ordering a custom cake, or just stopping by to say hi — you’re part of our story.
