In the heart of Treaty 6 territory, Kakio Studio Café is creating a safe and inclusive space where Indigenous culture and art can thrive alongside community connection.
The new business is a collaboration between three-time world champion hoop dancer Dallas Arcand and Curtis Cardinal, the creator of Tee Pee Treat which is authentic Indigenous cuisine.
“The Cree word “Kakio” means all or everyone,” explains Arcand, whose company Kakio Productions Inc. focuses on producing events, venues, content and community engagement. “The concept around the café is to include a safe space for Indigenous culture and art to coexist together in a business model that is friendly and inviting to the general public.”
Inside the space you’ll find a professional production studio, event space for performances, workshops and community gatherings. That complements Arcand’s arts background as an award-winning music producer, and a musician as a traditional flute musician.
The food comes from Tee Pee Treats which proudly offers bannock burgers, Indigenous tacos, maple salmon salad, homemade soup with bannock and more.
Some may be familiar with Tee Pee Treats which started catering in 2018, expanding to take out and delivery at a variety of locations, as well as dine-in location at CO*LAB – Community Arts Laboratory.
Cardinal’s personal journey
When Cardinal moved to Edmonton in 1993, he was addicted to drugs and alcohol and was homeless couch surfing. It was in 2012 that he went to rehab at Poundmaker’s Lodge and after three visits he stayed sober.
“Once I became sober good things started to happen in my life,” said Cardinal. “I met my partner and had kids and started Tee Pee Treats.
“I learned how to cook at a young age and once I started cooking full time, I was able to do what I loved to do. Throughout my life, I always turned to cooking because it helped me become sober and made me a better person.”
Visit the café
The Café has played host to a variety of events, including hoop dancing lessons, and plans to provide more programming on a weekly basis. Currently, Kakio Studio Café has an open mic jam Mondays from 6 – 10 p.m., as well as poetry night on Tuesdays from 7-9 p.m.
“Any person that comes into our space can expect to be greeted to a welcoming space that offers world-class hospitality,” said Arcand.
You can visit the café at 10219- 106 St.