one world

   When we got a bit, er, sidetracked we did managed to discover a truly outstanding place to eat.  Before we reached the more-happening-than-anywhere-else-around city of Spokane, Washington we haphazardly researched places to eat.  Impatient, hungry and desperate to be in Seattle already, we went with the first    decent-sounding place on the search.  We barely cared what or where we ate, but One World Spokane nourished us in more than one way.  We were heartened and enchanted by what we found in this small community-run kitchen.  The concept is so simple: one world is a non-profit organic community kitchen where chefs and volunteers cook up delicious and mostly vegetarian meals for anyone who is hungry.  It is like being at a big family dinner or event, the menu is a small compared to a restaurant, but there is plenty of food and all options are delicious. 

   The hearty lentil soup with fresh mango slices, lime and cilantro on top was so delicious we had to go back for second helpings.  Chels sampled the fish dish and Zach tried out the corn medley.  All were tasty and served by friendly cheerful people.  The whole place had a very connected feeling about it, children flitted around from table to table and then back to the kitchen to where a parent was working, people greeted one another like they knew each other well, lively conversations went on around the room and everyone worked, ate and enjoyed together.  Those who were working the “kitchen” a buffet-style line of tables, also took turns sitting down and eating or clearing plates.  We happened to hit One World on the right night (Friday) to hear live music .   The band was pleasant and everyone clapped appreciatively .  We polished off the whole pleasant experience with a fruit strudel and homemade ice cream.  Yum!

   Then our bellies full and spirits restored, we felt ready to take on the road again.  As we went to pay we were once again pleasantly surprised by One World.  We found that it is “pay what you can”.  They have a list of suggested prices for reference, but it is not rigid or you can volunteer with them and earn meals.  We all wondered at the wonderfulness, paid what we knew we could easily afford and hoped there are more places like this, preferably in the next place any of us choose to live, wherever that may be.

must haves on the menu:
the whole place!

must learn how to make:
that lentil soup