I met up with the Cafe Euphoria team to hear about this exciting and groundbreaking space that is currently in development for downtown Troy, New York. Cafe Euphoria is a trans* worker owned and operated cafe / restaurant, curated thrift store, event and co-working space. CE’s aim is to cultivate a more gender-inclusive landscape in the Capital Region by encouraging folks to bring and nourish their whole selves.
I asked the Cafe Euphoria leadership team…
“Why is Cafe Euphoria important to you?”
Atsushi: General Manager and Co-Founder
“I’ve always been into creating community, and it was my thought, given the politics of the times, that the transgender community needed a safe space, and a place to gather and connect, like this one. I hope we succeed!”
Riley: IT Director and Co-Founder
“I can’t wait to open our space. I’m tired of cis people telling me how to express my gender. My coworker-owners and I are creating this as much for ourselves as we are for others.”
Tucker: Executive Chef
“Cafe Euphoria is a space where I can explore my craft and my identity. As someone who fell in love with food at a young age, it means the world to me that I can pursue this passion as my authentic self. Cafe Euphoria is the perfect place for me to prove myself and hopefully act as a role model for trans folks who want to work in the restaurant industry. I’m eager to put my skills to the test!”
Stevie: Kitchen Unit Manager
“I’ve thought for a long time that there should be safe spaces for queer and marginalized folk within the Capital Region that aren’t just bars. I’m excited to be providing that space served with tasty food!”
Robin: Development Director
“From the moment I heard about this project, I knew I had to be involved. In this moment of unparalleled visibility for the trans community — for good and ill — I can think of no worthier endeavor than creating a safe, affirming, joyful space for trans and gender non-conforming folx and our allies to find support, community, and solidarity (not to mention a cute outfit and a delicious meal!). I couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of this venture.”
Ryah: Finance Director
“As a Capital Region native, I fully believe forming a community for transgender and gnc (gender nonconforming) individuals is needed. I want to help create a space where every individual can discover themselves while feeling comfortable and safe.”
Rio: Programs Coordinator and Marketing Director
“Cafe Euphoria is important to me because of its potential to cultivate local trans/gnc community and celebratory visibility. When folks are welcomed to show up fully in their gender expression, everyone is extended the opportunity to heal and grow.”
EDITORS NOTE: Opening FALL 2021.
Cafe Euphoria will have a table at our July 28th event in Troy, you can register for the event here. Make sure to drop by their table to meet the team, sign up for the mailing list and give support.
Connect with Cafe Euphoria on social:
WEB: www.cafeeuphoria.org
FB & IG: @cafeeuphoria518