Episode 12: Arthur Gordon

In 1975, with the help of two friends and $18,000.00, Arthur Gordon moved into a building in Raleigh, NC to open his dream restaurant, Irregardless Cafe, the first vegetarian restaurant in the region. In this episode, we learn how Arthur led with passion and followed his bliss to create this highly successful single-unit concept. He shares his approach to managing staff that has led to 30 years’ continuous employment for a number of his staff, and respect in the community. After a fire in 1994 closed the cafe for nearly a year, Arthur kept on payroll a significant number of staff, who agreed to volunteer their time at a local nonprofit. Irregardless Cafe has maintained its plant-based menu while accommodating all guests by also offering selected non-vegetarian items. After selling his restaurant last year, Arthur continues to follow his bliss by keeping a hand in hospitality and serving Raleigh from his Well Fed Community Garden.