On a tranquil Sunday morning in Oak Cliff, patrons at Trades Delicatessen are experiencing a unique fusion of culinary and musical enjoyment. House music fills the air, creating an atmosphere where customers are not just eating, but dancing with baguettes held high like totems. Bread pieces become confetti, flying around the space as a DJ spins tracks behind the register.
This unexpected but delightful scene impressed many when videos of the Sunday morning deli rave gained popularity on Instagram. It all began when Noely Paniagua, Trades’ executive assistant and a passionate raver, proposed the idea after noticing a similar event in a European deli online.
At first, the owners of Trades were wary, concerned that such an unconventional event might disrupt regular sales. However, after some persuasion, they decided to give it a shot. To their surprise, the outcome was overwhelmingly positive, with Paniagua noting that it turned out to be Trades’ most profitable Sunday to date.
“We got to see our cooks on the line dancing, and that was wonderful,” Paniagua remarked, highlighting the joy it brought to staff as well.
Trades Deli isn’t alone in this newfound approach to nightlife. Other local establishments, such as Common Good and Wayward Coffee Co., are also embracing the concept of dance parties. This trend represents a broader transformation within the club scene.
DJs Rami Ackerman and Stephen Carmona have partnered with Wayward Coffee Co. to create a monthly event called Labor of Love, which kicks off after regular store hours at 8 p.m. A DJ setup is positioned just behind the coffee bar, providing ample space for a dance floor under a glittering disco ball. During the event, attendees can enjoy a variety of beverages—wine, beer, or juices—served from the same counter that typically offers espressos and matcha, all while engaging in a more relaxed social environment compared to a crowded bar.
The festivities wind down by midnight, giving participants a chance to dance and still have a reasonable bedtime. Ackerman, who often performs at traditional nightclubs, appreciates this different tempo. “I enjoy having earlier sets,” he said. “It’s nice to come home and not have to deal with that late-night routine.”
For Ackerman, these coffee shop gigs offer a chance to experiment with his musical style. “It’s like a blank canvas where we can express ourselves and connect with individuals who appreciate unique music,” he explained.
Carmona views these events as a way to reimagine the nightlife landscape in Dallas. “This is an exciting alternative to the usual late-night scene you typically encounter between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.,” he shared. “We aim to start earlier and play music that you might not hear at a bar, all while encouraging people to dance.”
This fresh approach has resonated with attendees like Britney Orina, who participated in Labor of Love. Orina characterizes her generation, particularly millennials and Gen Z, as weary of the conventional nightlife experiences that often revolve around expensive venues. “Traditional clubs can really drain your wallet, what with cover charges and pricey drinks,” she stated, pointing out that a night could easily lead to bills of $15 to $20 per cocktail.
In contrast, coffee shop parties provide a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere. “There’s no dress code, no cover fees, and no overwhelming crowds—just good music and good vibes,” Orina explained.
Wayward Coffee Co. intends to keep hosting Labor of Love events, with aspirations for expansion. On the other hand, Trades Delicatessen is set to host another deli rave on June 22, with Carmona optimistic that more local businesses will consider hosting similar events. “Whether it’s a coffee shop, deli, barbershop, or even an auto repair shop—any venue willing to let us come in and play music could benefit from this trend,” he concluded.
Arts Access continues to spotlight innovative cultural experiences, driven by the collaboration between The Dallas Morning News and KERA.
image source from：https://www.dallasnews.com/arts-entertainment/music/2025/06/09/dallas-djs-coffee-shop-raves/
