The Q …Is a Tasty Secret
By Rachel Shuster
The meaning behind the name might be a secret, but the refreshing choices provided by The Q are undeniable. Located at 362 Chandler Street in Worcester, The Q is a newly opened café with much to offer the city. Opening only this past August, the café is an eclectic mix of art, music, healthy food and drink, and community. Owner Emile Poulin is proud to have finally opened up her own place, having entertained the idea since high school.
Although a part-time nanny, Poulin's "baby" is The Q. She devotes herself to keeping it all together and pleasing every type of customer. "Anyone can come in to find something to eat. Carnivores, vegans, vegetarians, etc. We provide options, choices ~ that's really important," Poulin says. Hearing from the community means a lot to The Q. Every month Poulin pulls customer suggestions from a fish bowl placed on the counter to read comments. "If there is a common suggestion or comment for sandwiches or something by a certain customer, we will name that sandwich after them," Poulin adds.
Local artwork placed perfectly on the walls, soft lighting, candles on small tables and a serene and relaxing atmosphere make for a pleasurable and cozy experience. Poulin likes to keep the uniqueness alive by making changes daily. Whether it be different music playing, different art on the walls, moving the furniture around or creating new items for the menu, Poulin and her crew always try to keep it fresh.
"I don't want to contribute to the health concerns in the world," Poulin says confidently. The choice to focus on the healthy side of things is very important. The Q provides freshly brewed coffees, smoothies, fresh squeezed juice, sandwiches, bagels, and homemade bakery items. Poulin suggests trying the popular Caramel Mocha (which I indulged in and loved!). Closed on Sundays, open Mon through Wed 11am-12am and Thurs - Sat 11am-3am, The Q serves lunch and dinner and will most likely have breakfast in the future.
The Q isn't just about great food, but also great involvement of the Worcester community. Tuesdays are open mic poetry readings, Thursdays are open mic music acts, and the busiest nights ~ Fridays and Saturdays ~ feature upcoming and live bands.
So whether you want to dine in or out, have access to the internet or simply are just in the mood for good food, good music, good drink, good art, or good company, The Q has it all. See you there!
More "Qs" for The Q?…Call 508-757-0411 or email Emilie Poulin at emilie@theqma.com.