Essentials Cafe
A pay-wHat-you-can community cafe
Our Mission
We aspire to reduce food insecurity in the Lehigh Valley and to provide a place where friendships and understanding can flourish across all socio-economic groups.
We strive to create a place of equality where everyone, with different gifts, abilities, and resources, has the opportunity to eat, find welcome, and contribute as volunteers.
Patrons at the Café donate what they can to eat food together in a warm and hospitable environment. Volunteers work together to grow, cook, and serve food in warm and welcoming ways.





How Does It Work?
GIVE SOME
Donate What You Can
GIVE
The Suggested Donation
GIVE MORE
Pay It Forward
GIVE YOUR TIME
Volunteer
We Offer
- Great Tasting, Quality Coffee
- Homemade Baked Goods, Egg Sandwiches, French Toast Bakes and Omelettes
- Soups, Salads, Sandwiches and Daily Lunch Specials
- Convenient Location, 2 Blocks from Broad St.& 3rd Ave.
- A Warm, Friendly, Welcoming Environment
We operate on Donations and Goodwill
We do not have fixed prices. Instead, you will receive a suggested donation for your meal. You can contribute whatever you are able. If you're able to donate more, you’re helping to cover the cost of someone else’s meal.
Our dedicated volunteers will be happy to take your order at the counter and then serve you directly at your table. Every guest is treated with the same respect and care.
Our Wooden Nickel program offers an opportunity to provide a prepaid meal for someone else.
Stop by the cafe and pick up wooden nickels for a donation of $12.00 each. Each wooden nickel can be redeemed for a nourishing meal.
Our Impact in Numbers
Experience Cozy Ambiance and Delectable Delights at the Cafe
Step inside and indulge in a delightful breakfast or lunch experience with us. Settle down and take a seat at our inviting community table, where you can savor both delicious food and engaging conversations. Short on time? No worries, simply seize the opportunity to grab a delectable meal on the go.