The EAT Cafe in Philadelphia operates on a pay-what-you-can basis to ensure families and individuals have a safe space to enjoy a meal, regardless of income, or ability to pay.
EAT stands for "Everyone At the Table" and is a partnership among a collection of groups, including Drexel’s Center for Hunger-Free Communities, Drexel’s Center for Hospitality & Sport Management and the Vetri Community Partnership.
The menu consists of a three course meal, and the suggested price per person is $15, however the restaurant relies on the generosity of those who can afford to pay a little more to supplement those who pay less, or can't afford to pay at all.
The Italian-focused menu changes weekly and aims to provide a meaningful social experience for all, regardless of what's in customers' wallets.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Pay-what-you-can Restaurants
- Creating inclusive dining experiences through flexible payment models.
- Community Dining Spaces
- Developing non-profit restaurant models to offer affordable meals and foster social ties among diverse groups.
- Healthy and Sustainable Menus
- Offering affordable, healthy and environmentally responsible eating options to low-income neighborhoods and food deserts.
Where This Applies
- Non-profit Sector
- Developing funding models and partnerships to support non-profit restaurants as a sustainable solution to poverty and hunger.
- Food and Hospitality
- Exploring new business models and partnerships to provide inclusive dining experiences and socially responsible menus.
- Community Development
- Partnering with government agencies and community organizations to create sustainable food solutions and promote community well-being.
