Autism awareness, coffee served daily at Artistas Café

TAMPA (FOX 13) - Alejandro Pacheco is a hard worker. He's one of five team members at Artistas Café.

The 35-year-old is on the autism spectrum, along with every employee at the mobile coffee shop.

"We have training in the last week, how to do it, how to move it, how to prepare the drinks," Alejandro said.

For the last seven years, the cafe operated out of a nearby car dealership, but the business is now going mobile. 

Nicknamed the Bean Mobile, the café is hitting Bay Area streets this week. Employees say they are ready to serve up coffee, blended drinks, snacks, and smoothies.

"We've booked some big events throughout the community and Tampa Bay, and we've been invited to some farmer’s markets and things like that," said Artistas Café Director Adrienne Smith.

But the services don't stop there. The café helps the baristas gain confidence along with job skills, and it's a way to bring autism education out into the community.

"We want to show that there is a joyful life with individuals with autism, they can become independent," Smith said.           

The menu at Artistas Café focuses on using natural and healthy ingredients; spreading a message and serving products that are good for the mind, body, and spirit.

"I hope people enjoy the drinks and they start to know us for the good service and good quality," said Alejandro.

The mobile café will be parked at the Autism Awareness Shop Thrift Store for the rest of the week from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

If you're interested in becoming a sponsor or booking the truck for an office building or event, visit http://www.artistascafe.com/book.