Photo courtesy PR NEWSWIRE
Denver’s SAME Cafe has been chosen for a 2012 makeover by the RFMA Gives Program.
The Restaurant Facility Management Association recently announced Denver’s SAME Café as the recipient of the annual RFMA Gives program for 2012. Through the program, SAME Café will receive a kitchen remodel, provided by the contributions of RFMA member companies and individuals.
The restaurant, which stands for So All May Eat, was founded by Brad and Libby Birky in 2006 and operates under a unique concept: no set menu or set prices. The couple opened SAME café with the desire to serve everyone, even if some patrons may not have the sufficient funds to pay for their meals. Guests pay for what they can afford, or they work at SAME Café in exchange for their meals.
“Our philosophy is that everyone, regardless of economic status, deserves the chance to eat healthy, organic food while being treated with dignity,” says owner Brad Birky. “Customers who have no money are encouraged to exchange one hour of service — sweep, wash the dishes, weed the organic garden — for a meal. Likewise, guests who have money are encouraged to leave a little extra to offset the meals of those who have less to give.”
The makeover involves adding a 60-inch double oven with a griddle top, a 10-foot center island prep table and an under-counter dishwasher. The restaurant’s design will also be remodeled to add more space and productivity.
Locally-based facility managers will oversee the 2012 project, and RFMA vendor member companies will donate much-needed new and used equipment while providing labor and material at no cost.
“I anticipate the RFMA community will once again embrace this project with time, labor and money,” says RFMA Executive Director Tracy Tomson. “The RFMA Gives Program enables RFMA members the opportunity to really make a difference.”
To learn more about SAME Café, click here. To learn more about the Restaurant Facility Management Association, click here.
