Kalisi, meaning "together" in Telugu, embodies the heart of our story. Born from humble beginnings, Kalisi Cafe was inspired by the incredible warmth and support of the Telugu community and the kind-hearted people around us during challenging times. Their spirit reminded us that community holds immense power—when we come together, anything is possible. Kalisi Cafe and its cherished subsidiary, Kalisi Kids, were created to nurture that sense of togetherness, offering a safe, inclusive space where everyone feels seen, supported, and celebrated
Founded in July 2025 in Crofton, BC, Kalisi Cafe was brought to life by Bonnie Park, David Chung, and Creative Director Lindsey. Inspired by the Telugu word “Kalisi,” meaning togetherness, Bonnie and David envisioned a warm, community-driven cafe serving Squamish-sourced coffee and David’s authentic French pastries, like madeleines. Lindsey’s neurodivergent-inclusive Kalisi Kids area, designed for children aged 0–9, adds a playful, sensory-friendly space with curated events like playgroups and birthday parties. Together, they’ve created a phone-free haven where families connect, kids thrive, and community flourishes.
Vision:
A Vibrant Sanctuary of Togetherness
Kalisi Cafe & Kids envisions a warm, inclusive hub where families, friends, and neighbors connect in the Telugu spirit of “Kalisi” (togetherness). Bonnie and David’s dream of a cozy cafe serving Squamish-sourced coffee and French pastries blends with Lindsey’s sensory-friendly play space for children aged 0–9, fostering belonging, joy, and emotional growth for all, especially neurodivergent kids.
Mission:
Crafting Connection and Joy
At Kalisi Cafe & Kids, we create a phone-free haven in Crofton, serving Squamish-sourced coffee and David’s French pastries, like madeleines, alongside a neurodivergent-inclusive play space designed by Creative Director Lindsey for children aged 0–9. With sensory-friendly amenities like noise-cancelling earmuffs, baby-friendly high chairs, and pet-friendly outdoor dog treats, we encourage presence through craft nights, playgroups, and inclusive gatherings, building a supportive community where everyone thrives.
Goal:
To Be Crofton’s Heart of Community
We aim to establish Kalisi Cafe & Kids as Crofton’s cornerstone for connection, blending Bonnie and David’s warm hospitality with Lindsey’s sensory-friendly events, like Wednesday playgroups and birthday celebrations, to support neurodivergent families, foster unplugged moments, and create lasting memories for all.
