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FareStart restaurant with counter service + guest chefs reopened in Seattle

FareStart is a social-enterprise nonprofit focused on job training and employment to disrupt poverty — all while serving up delicious dishes, of course.

July 19, 2024 • 
Madeline Ewing
A rendering of the interior of FareStart features a food counter with people standing and ordering. Sunlight is spilling into the space from large windows, and the materials of the flooring and walls is predominantly a lightwashed wood. The counter and tiling of the counter service area is a slate gray and plants decorate the menu displays on the wall behind the counter.

FareStart operates as a restaurant, training space, and host for private events.

Rendering by NBBJ, via FareStart

FareStart is up and running again with full business operations including a counter service concept, Guest Chef Nights, and ongoing on-the-job training for food service skills.

The James Beard Award-winning model for this unique dining venue started with a mission to teach people job and self-empowerment skills + feed the community while generating revenue.

In the past 30 years, the minds behind FareStart have helped nearly 15,000 youth and adults via job training programs + served 19 million meals to local nonprofits, shelters, respite centers, and more community outlets.

FareStart’s next guest chef experience is on Thursday, Aug.1 — Kristen Watts Schumacher of Carnation Farms will whip up a three-course meal served by local volunteers.

At $50 per person, you can feast on gazpacho, chili-rubbed pork tenderloin, and blackberry Eton Mess. All revenue and donations benefit FareStart’s job training and placement program.

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