Ebony Harrison
Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU)
Aixa Ritz
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Casa Cafe’s innovation is to create menu development and a pleasant dining experience where consumers can purchase healthier food options. In Paterson, NJ, there are not many cafes/delis that specialize in promoting cleaner and more nutritious alternatives. This helps solve UN SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) because a nutritious, well-balanced diet is one way to sustain mental health and well-being.
There is a need for a sit-down establishment on 10th Ave like Casa Cafe. Most of the bodegas and eateries on 10th Ave contain overly processed meats, fried foods, and drinks that contain high-fructose syrup, and other unhealthy food choices. Casa Cafe has options on its menu that are organic, a great source of protein, and beneficial for the body.
Before the Owner, Rickey Hernandez, opened Casa Cafe; he stated he was extremely sick due to health complications. During the interview, Rickey said, “ My doctors recommended a tremendous amount of medications that would 'help' my complications, but instead of making these medications, I began to research foods that help with inflammation and other alternatives to help with my issues.” After turning to a cleaner diet, his complications decreased over time, and he lost 40 pounds during his journey because he stopped eating foods that contained GMOs, pesticides, and overly processed meats. His results and passion for cleaner eating encouraged him to open up a cafe/deli in the heart of Paterson, NJ, so he could not only spread the knowledge of healthier alternatives but also inspire his customers that they, too, could improve their health as well. Rickey said, “Many people come into my cafe expressing their concerns about their health, and I feel as though I contribute to the community by providing them with the knowledge they’ve been searching for.”
The innovation carried out by Casa Cafe have impacted the community as a whole. By offering healthier dining options, Casa Cafe addresses a significant void in the community's culinary landscape and appeals to families and health-conscious individuals. By emphasizing fresh and nutrient-dense menu options, Casa Cafe encourages healthier eating habits in the community. This improves general well-being and lowers the incidence of diet-related health problems. This cafe also serves as a gathering place for locals to mingle and unwind.
Casa Cafe sets itself apart from competitors and draws in consumers who are curious about different food options and those who value healthy eating by providing various healthy dining options in a market where these options may be scarce. Another benefit is increased customer loyalty. Creating a warm, inviting environment benefits customers and encourages loyalty and repeat business. Because of the pleasant dining experience and cozy ambiance, customers are more inclined to recommend Casa Cafe to friends and return.
This innovation benefits the society because like many cities, Paterson has its share of problems. Improving public health can help decrease one of these problems. Access to healthy food options is crucial for promoting better health outcomes, including reducing rates of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related health issues. By offering more healthy dining options, residents have greater opportunities to make nutritious choices, contributing to overall well-being and quality of life. Casa Cafe also provides a safe environment for the consumers, which fosters a sense of community.
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Rickey Hernandez, Owner
Casa Cafe New Jersey is a small family cafe/deli that specializes in educating consumers and promoting healthier options on their menu. Many consumers who come into Casa Cafe have underlying health issues like Inflammation, Diabetes, and Kidney disease. Since they are in a knowledgeable environment, the consumer has access to food options that can improve their health issues and mental health overall. Casa Cafe provides a welcoming environment where guests can enjoy freshly prepared meals and aromatic coffee, all while creating a sense of community within the establishment. Casa Cafe has become a destination where locals and visitors can feel at home.