Downtown Arlington Cafe Satisfies Appetite through a Local Movement

Potager Cafe Celebrates 5 years in business

On Saturday, January 18, 2014 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Potager Cafe is hosting a party to celebrate 5 successful years in Downtown Arlington. Owner and cook, Cynthia Chippindale, is known for serving up local, fresh, handmade meals on the pay-what-you-think-is-fair concept. Guests are surprised daily with a different menu, depending on what is available and in season and then pay according to what they believe the meal is worth. Portions are small so food isn't wasted, but second servings are welcomed.

Since the party's mention on Facebook, fans have shown their excitement. Cynthia asked for favorite meal requests but some were satisfied with anything the Canadian hippie whips up.

Facebook Fan Misty Iam said, "I've never had a bad meal at your place! Cook whatever and I'll eat it!"

Potager's success wouldn't be possible without the local farmers. Burgundy Pasture Beef, known for raising 100% grass-fed beef in North Texas, will be there to celebrate. Mary Tedei of Eden's Organic Farming Center and Community Supported Agriculture program will also be there.

“They underestimated, first, how good people are in Arlington. And how much people would respond to food that actually tasted like food and didn’t come out of an industrial kitchen,” said Cynthia.

Taylor Cooper of Livestock First Ranch raises chicken, beef and pork and goes into great detail on his website and will stop by. Nanci Taylor, good friend and publisher of Edible Dallas & Fort Worth, will also attend. Partners of Potager Cafe are much more than a business arrangement. They are brought together by a common belief and a philosophy.

Guests are invited to purchase wine and beer at Potager's Other stuff, located across the street at 208 S Mesquite St., or BYOB. The only rule is "no nasty soft drinks! We want you to be healthy!" according to the website. Please remember to bring cash or checks, as credit and debit cards are not accepted. Potager's Other Stuff is also expected to begin serving organic coffee and pastries soon, opening at 7 a.m.

 “We are so thankful to have Potager in Downtown Arlington,” said Tony Rutigliano, CEO of Downtown Arlington Management Corp. “Cynthia’s passion for cooking and support for the local farming community has created a wonderfully unique dining experience that fits perfectly here in Downtown.”