Pay As You Go: A New Concept In Fine Dining

I had heard so many wonderful things about an otherwise “infamous” steakhouse that I suggested my husband take his parents there for a special savory treat.

While the ambiance was undeniably part of the appeal, he noted that despite it’s reputation the food was NOT worth the cost. And, incidentally this has been the case on several occasion and with several “praised” restaurants, most of them upscale eateries with a hefty price tag

Well, in response some have come up with a delicious dining idea, one that will actually allow EVERYONE to enjoy a meal and at a price that’s appealing to them.

They are a new brand of dinning Café, where it’s left up to each patron to decide what the meal is worth based on their palate and on their pocketbook. In fact, patrons who have no cash are encouraged to eat anyway in exchange for an hour of service.

On the other hand, patrons who are well-off are encouraged to either pick up the tab for someone else or leave a bit extra to help offset the costs.

They started the venture after having spent several years helping out in soup pantries and homeless shelter as a means of fulfilling their passion for cooking AND for serving the community. And, since its inception, they’ve had more than 25 inquiries from around the country from others interested in similar projects and recently launched a nonprofit www.oneworldeverybodyeats.com gears toward helping others follow in their footsteps.

The eatery, with its eclectic menu has attracted a diversity of patrons and has even won favor among the more well to do locals. And, it even attracted one homeless man as a “regular” who simply “stumbles” in each day, not to eat, but to pass along his “blessings” by leaving money on the county each day.

Also because customers dictate their portion size, combined with the fact that most food is fresh, there is very little waste.

However this pay by honor system has resulted in some problems for similar restaurants in big cities, including Manhattan where some choose to exploit and take advantage of the no set price approach. In fact, it has forced some restaurateurs to start “charging”.

And, for those who honesty want to enjoy such an eating experience, experts suggest paying based on what you eat, how much, and how much you’d pay elsewhere for a comparable meal, as well as what you can (comfortably) afford.