"There was definitely a need for more food in the neighborhood," says chef Jonathan Power. "The response has been great so far. People are really loving it."
Power teamed up with Crema owner Noah Price earlier this year with the intention of filling that need, and the two friends got to work building the kitchen themselves and planting a supplemental garden in back.For the past few weeks, Power has been using that kitchen to serve breakfast and lunch to regulars of the eclectic coffee shop, as well as a growing crowd of newcomers. The menu is both simple and impressive, with sweets, sandwiches, salads and daily specials inspired by the garden, all with a unique Power twist.
"I wanted to make really fun, really good food that didn't overshadow what Noah has done with Crema. Basically, I was thinking creative cafe fare," explains Power, who's spent his fair share of time in other kitchens, most recently at Justin Cucci's innovative Root Down.
Power is essentially a one-man show these days, though, with Price chipping in during busy times. "I like to be social," he says, "so it's nice to hang out with the baristas and interact with patrons, but at the same time, it feels good to do things my way."Crema currently serves breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends; there are plans to further expand Crema's culinary offerings. Power, one of the masterminds behind the underground Noble Swine Supper Club, has plenty of tricks up his sleeve, and now that he's partnered with the equally adventurous Price, he aims to see them through.
