Why this Coventry cafe has no prices on its menu

[dutchman]

Wood End cafe The Eating Place is unique in Coventry



There’s just one rule for diners at this Coventry cafe; pay what you can, but only if you can.

The Eating Place, in Wood End, is an eaterie like no other because it doesn’t have prices on its menu.

But it’s big-hearted owners say there are as many people donating more for their meal as there are who pay nothing.

Coventry City Mission began the scheme as a pilot project about this time last year to help people suffering from loneliness or poverty.

A total of 900 meals were served up in 30 sessions and it’s now grown from two hours a week to three days a week from September. In the last seven weeks, 750 meals have been polished off by customers from all backgrounds.

Darren Burgess, executive director of Coventry City Mission, said: “Our menu has no prices so we don’t set a price on anything.

“There’s a donations box on the counter, people have a choice to pay nothing if they can’t afford it, to make a donation of some sort, or if they feel they’re in a financial place where they’re better off they can pay for their own but also for somebody else’s.

“There are as many people donating more as there are not paying.”

One woman who was dining at the cafe said: “I only get my money once a month, I have to stretch it as long as I can stretch it.

“That last few days can be a bit difficult till I get my money again.

“But we manage. I’ve just about managed by the skin of my teeth.

“I’ll probably donate a pound. When I’ve got a bit more money on me I’ve put a little bit more in the box.”

The cafe is open Tuesday to Thursday between 9am and 2pm.

Customers can enjoy breakfast, lunch or both.

Darren, who hopes the scheme could spread to other parts of the city, added: “I just wanted to give people hope, self-esteem and worth. Coming together for food is quite special. We wanted to create somewhere that was peaceful.

“Eating together is a natural thing but for some people it doesn’t happen because of loneliness or poverty.”

[rebbonk]

I like and admire the concept. I hope it's sustainable.