RIO LINDA, CA – A local dream is becoming a reality! Pittador Brews Specialty Teas & Coffees, a beloved Rio Linda business, has won the prestigious Downtown Sacramento Partnership’s Calling All Dreamers competition for 2025, securing a $20,000 cash prize and a storefront in Old Sacramento Waterfront.
For nearly five years, Rio Linda residents Liliette and Stephen Freeman have been building Pittador Brews, known for its premium teas, coffees, craft beers, meads, and unique pet-themed drinks. They’ve been a familiar sight at Rio Linda events such as the Holiday Craft Fair, local farmers markets, the California State Fair, and Cosumnes River College, and have even been the house coffee brand at Rio Java. Now, they’re taking their passion to the next level.
“The Calling All Dreamers program has been an incredible opportunity,” said Liliette Freeman. “It has given us the mentorship, resources, and support needed to take our vision from dream to reality.”
The Calling All Dreamers program, produced by the Downtown Sacramento Partnership, is a six-month business incubator that helps entrepreneurs launch unique businesses. Participants receive workshops, hands-on experience, and a supportive network. Past winners, including Nash & Proper and Burnside Coffee, have become Sacramento staples.
Pittador Brews, named for the Freemans’ love of dogs and hot beverages, will bring a unique café experience to Old Sacramento. They roast coffee beans from around the world, including Malawi, Sulawesi, and Nicaragua, and source dozens of unique teas. Their mission is to create a vibrant, pet-friendly community space where people can connect over high-quality beverages.
“With our lease secured in Old Sacramento, the funds we receive will go toward staffing and upgrading to an all-electric coffee roaster, allowing us to roast in-house,” Stephen Freeman explained. “This investment will help us deliver the freshest, highest-quality coffee and tea while creating a welcoming space for the community to gather and connect.”
The new Pittador Brews location is set to open in Old Sacramento Waterfront this summer. Rio Linda residents are encouraged to follow their journey and support their local entrepreneurs as they bring their dream to life.
Photo credit: Downtown Sacramento Partnership
