A year ago, I said I'd never introduce QR ordering at Lilac Oak. To me, cafés are about warm conversations, familiar faces and genuine human connection. So what changed? After five years, we had to migrate to a new POS system—and saw an opportunity to introduce rewards, advance ordering and a little more convenience, while keeping everything that matters the same. QR codes are new, but our heart isn't. 💜

At Lilac Oak, we’ve always believed that food is more than just what’s on the plate — it’s about people, community, and connection. Yet, in the heart of every café, beyond the smiles and aroma of coffee, there’s a side of the service industry that often goes unseen. One that, at times, can feel bruising.