In a city known for innovation, connection, and good food, few places capture the heart of Raleigh quite like A Place at the Table. It’s not just a café—it’s a symbol of what can happen when kindness and creativity meet a powerful mission.

Founded by Maggie Kane, a woman whose passion for equity and human dignity fuels everything she does, A Place at the Table is Raleigh’s first pay-what-you-can café. Since opening its doors at 300 W. Hargett Street, it has welcomed thousands of guests, providing warm, delicious meals regardless of someone’s ability to pay. And in March 2025, Maggie was rightfully recognized as WRAL’s Business Leader of the Year, a title that speaks volumes about her leadership and the impact of her work in the Triangle.

From Vision to Movement

Maggie didn’t set out to be a traditional business leader. Her journey began with a simple but radical question: What would it look like if everyone had access to a dignified meal? That question became the foundation for A Place at the Table, a café where everyone is treated with respect, where food is shared across differences, and where community always comes first.

The café serves a full menu of mouthwatering breakfast and lunch options—like flaky biscuits with sage sausage gravy, fresh-made waffles, and hearty sandwiches—but what truly fills the space is a sense of welcome. Guests pay what they can, whether that’s the suggested price, a little more to pay it forward, or a little less. No questions. No judgments.

It’s a model that works because it’s built on trust, generosity, and the belief that food has the power to unite.

A Community Celebration: The 4th Annual Food Truck Rodeo

This April, A Place at the Table is bringing their mission outdoors for one of their most anticipated annual events—the 4th Annual Pay-What-You-Can Food Truck Rodeo. On Sunday, April 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the parking lot across from the café will be transformed into a festival of flavors and community joy.

With 12 local food trucks, interactive activities, and booths from fellow nonprofits, the event is more than a chance to eat—it’s a chance to experience the Table mission in action. Just like inside the café, everyone is welcome, and everyone has a seat.

This is community in its purest form: neighbors supporting neighbors, eating together, and celebrating the simple joy of being included.

Why It Matters

What sets A Place at the Table apart isn’t just its unique business model or its buzz-worthy food—it’s the deep, lasting impact it has on people’s lives. It’s the college student grabbing coffee without worry. The parents enjoying a warm breakfast with their kids. The volunteer who finds meaning in serving others. It’s the energy Maggie Kane brings as she reminds us all that leadership means lifting others.

Her recent honor as WRAL’s Business Leader of the Year is more than an individual accolade—it’s a recognition of what inclusive, mission-driven business can look like when rooted in love.

How You Can Be Part of It

There are so many ways to support A Place at the Table. Attend the Food Truck Rodeo, dine at the café, volunteer your time, or donate to help keep this beautiful vision thriving. You can find event details and tickets on the official event page.

At A Place at the Table, everyone is welcome. Everyone is worthy. And everyone matters.

So come hungry—for food, for connection, for purpose—and discover one of Raleigh’s most meaningful places to gather.

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