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Embracing Accessibility: L'Oca d'Oro's Pay What You Will Initiative
In an inspiring move that blends culinary delight with community accessibility, L'Oca d'Oro, a beloved Italian restaurant in Austin, has decided to extend its revolutionary "Pay What You Will" initiative indefinitely starting in 2026. Launched in December, this program allows patrons to choose their own price for meals from a flexible à la carte menu, significantly expanding access to high-quality dining for all Austinites.
The Philosophy Behind Pay What You Will
Co-owner Adam Orman articulates the ethos driving this initiative: "We know there are so many people in Austin—hospitality workers, teachers, healthcare workers—who help make this city great but can’t always afford to eat out at places like L’Oca d’Oro. We don’t like that. So we’re creating one night a week when everyone can enjoy the full L’Oca d’Oro experience on their own terms.” This philosophy underpins not just the restaurant's pricing model but also its commitment to fair wages and an inclusive dining experience.
How It Works: More Than Just a Meal
Every Tuesday from 4-9:30 PM, diners are invited to indulge in a meal with no set cost. Initially structured as a three-course offering, the program has now opened the floodgates to allow diners to order as they please without any recommended amount. Guests are still required to pay full price for drinks, but the essence of accessibility permeates the entire experience. Upon receiving the check, patrons will write down what they feel comfortable paying, an innovative approach designed to empower guests in their dining choices.
Supporting the Program: Community Contributions
To sustain this initiative, L'Oca d'Oro encourages diners to pay more if they can, ensuring the program is sustainable long-term. Extra contributions can also be made through donations during regular hours or through a dedicated GoFundMe page. While the latter has seen modest funds raised so far, it reflects the willingness of the Austin community to support initiatives that promote inclusivity and equality. Chef-owner Fiore Tedesco III expresses excitement about the unknowns of the program, stating, "Let’s see what happens. This will tell us a lot about Austin, about restaurants, and about L’Oca d’Oro—and we’re excited to find out what that is.”
Looking Beyond the Dinner Plate
Beyond merely providing flexible dining options, L'Oca d'Oro is distinguished by its holistic approach to hospitality. The restaurant pioneers various programs, from providing direct primary care for employees to ongoing training and support in immigration advocacy. These factors contribute to a workplace culture that fosters security and well-being among staff, setting a standard for the industry in Texas.
Moving Forward: A Model for Other Businesses?
As more restaurants in Austin consider the Pay What You Will model, L'Oca d'Oro stands as a testament to the potential for compassionate business practices that prioritize community well-being alongside profitability. The unique dining experience combined with proactive employee support can serve as an inspiration for other local businesses wishing to connect deeply with their customers. This initiative suggests that it is not only possible to run a profitable restaurant, but also to enhance the living standards of the surrounding community.
Get Involved: Support Local Businesses
As Austin continues to champion local legends like L'Oca d'Oro, residents are encouraged to support such innovative community-focused businesses. Whether it's dining at L'Oca d'Oro or contributing to their initiatives, there are myriad ways to celebrate and uplift Austin's vibrant local culture. Discover how Austin brands and local creators stay connected with customers—try our AI-powered tools for free.
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