Ep 5. Workman's Funky Bar & Cafe

Café Secrets season 2 episode 5 takes us to Workman's Funky Bar & Café, a unique dining establishment located in the heart of downtown. In this episode, host Patricia Richards takes on the challenge of uncovering the secret behind the funky vibes and delicious food that have earned this restaurant such a devoted following.

As soon as Patricia enters Workman's, she is struck by the eclectic décor, which features everything from vintage neon signs to repurposed machinery. The owner, Dave Workman, explains that the restaurant's aesthetic is a reflection of his love for all things old and industrial. He even shows Patricia his one-of-a-kind “trash art” collection, which he created using discarded items from his bar and other local businesses.

Old-fashioned neon diners are strewn throughout the cafe, alongside an oversized grandfather clock and antique industrial machinery, similar to that found in a steel mill. The establishment sports a seductive cocktail list and burgers that are far from ordinary. In fact, the combination of smoked confit chicken, prosciutto, and an onion jam jammed in a cheddar jalapeño bun results in a flavor explosion that leaves Patricia smacking her lips.

Next, Patricia heads to the kitchen to meet head chef, Damien Brooks, who reveals the secret behind the café's mouth-watering dishes. Brooks explains that every dish is made from scratch using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. He carefully takes Patricia through the steps of preparing his signature dish, the “Funky Fried Chicken and Waffles”. This meal looks like the perfect dish to try and replicate at home but requires patience, skill and finesse.

However, the episode is not just about the food and drinks in Workman's. We also learn the story of how the establishment came to be. Dave Workman tells the tale of how the bar came to be the hub of the local community and recounts some of the workshop projects he has worked on with his customers, including making a guitar from scratch.

The café's regulars are also instrumental to the story. From the forklift driver, who helped pick out the vintage leather seats to the musicians and DJs that keep the atmosphere lively, they all play a part in making Workman's the unforgettable destination that it is.

Throughout the episode, Patricia takes us on a journey through the vibrant history of Workman's Funky Bar and Café. We get to learn about the customer participation in the artwork around the establishment and how some of these artifacts were actually procured rather than purchased. Overall, the episode is about more than just the food and drinks at Workman's. It's about the people and the stories that make this café such a special place. Ultimately, it's a tribute to the power of community and the role that small businesses can play in bringing people together and enriching their lives.

So, whether you're a foodie, art lover, or just someone looking for a unique dining experience, this episode is sure to provide you with all the inspiration you need to explore this quirky, one-of-a-kind café.