New year, new hope. The promise of a fresh start is what makes January 1st something to celebrate. There is no better time, then, to talk about a downtown Fresno cafe coming in early 2016 that encompasses the hope of a new year. Steve and Carolyn Ocheltree will soon open the doors to Tree of Life, bringing farm-fresh dishes to diners and employment to men and women looking to restart their lives after completing drug and alcohol treatment programs. A fresh start for customers and employees alike.
Although the Ocheltree’s have long thought about starting a business that would help people leaving treatment programs, their plan became personal a few years ago when their son entered the Fresno Rescue Mission’s recovery program to treat an addiction to meth. Now clean and attending school locally, he’s helping his parents plan (and taste test) the menu for Tree of Life.
Speaking of the menu, Carolyn is currently hard at work creating homemade soups, salads, breads and other hearty dishes using locally sourced ingredients, a nod to a childhood of “gleaning” fruits from local orchards. She hopes to include many vegetarian options and eventually branch out into wholesale jams and jellies.
And while the couple has no previous experience operating a restaurant, Carolyn says that raising four sons “I’ve always run a bed and breakfast.”
Here, the Ocheltree’s talk about their family’s long history with the Fresno Rescue Mission, their vision for Tree of Life and how helping people and serving Valley-grown food can be the perfect combination.
- FresYes vs the Anaconda Burrito - December 10, 2016
- Fresno + Etsy = Easy Online Local Shopping for Christmas - December 3, 2016
- Friendsgiving Memories From Around the Valley - November 19, 2016
This is the second time I’ve heard of this cafe and have had some friends query me about going there. However, I’ve yet to see the location or actual opening date. Can we get THAT information in these news releases?
I just reached out to Carolyn and got the scoop – opening in the historic Hotel Virginia at 2139 Kern St., next door to The Downtown Bistro and across the street from The Republican (formerly The Downtown Club). They look at a spring 2016 opening date: March or April.
Thanks ever so much for the update. That’s a good spot and I look forward to the opening. Just as I am awaiting the reopening of Mabel’s in BizWerks’ new building.
Let’s grab lunch there Jay! You’re buying right? lol
Sounds good time me 🙂