#United States #Atlanta #community #MetroFresh #Mitchell Anderson

MetroFresh Celebrates 20 Years of Community and Culinary Creativity

MetroFresh, a cherished café located in Midtown Atlanta, is celebrating a remarkable milestone—its 20th anniversary. Founded by actor-turned-chef Mitchell Anderson on October 10, 2005, MetroFresh has been the heart and soul of the neighborhood, nurturing both local residents and a vibrant community spirit through innovative cuisine and genuine connection.

Since its inception, MetroFresh has become synonymous with fresh, flavorful meals, particularly celebrated for its inventive daily soups, salads, and specials. Customers have lovingly coined themselves the “MetroFreshuals,” embodying the rapport and loyalty that the café has cultivated. The café has established itself as more than just a restaurant; it serves as a welcoming dining space for artists, professionals, families, and neighbors, all sharing a passion for quality food and community engagement.

Mitchell Anderson reflects on this journey, stating, "Reaching 20 years in the restaurant business is not just a milestone; it signifies MetroFresh's integral role in Atlanta's fabric—a gathering place for creating cherished memories and giving back to those in need."

Supporting Community Initiatives

MetroFresh's impact extends beyond its delicious offerings. The café has actively forged partnerships with various local and international non-profits, reinforcing its mission to serve the community. Some noteworthy collaborations include:

• - DIG Development in Gardening: An Atlanta-based organization focusing on improving nutrition and livelihoods through regenerative gardening practices.
• - World Central Kitchen: Known for providing meals during emergencies, it exemplifies MetroFresh's commitment to global support.
• - Atlanta's vibrant theatre community: The café continuously supports local productions and artists, with many performances held at or connected to MetroFresh, making it a crucial player in Atlanta's artistic scene.

As Anderson eloquently states, "Food is at the heart of community. Whether we’re nourishing families through DIG or inviting audiences after a theater performance, our aim remains the same—to cultivate joy, nourishment, and connection."

A Festive Reflection and Future Goals

As MetroFresh approaches this significant anniversary, it plans an evening celebration with loyal customers, staff alumni, and friends, honoring the myriad meals served and remarkable lives engaged over the past two decades. Alongside delightful dishes, the event will feature live music from Ben Deignan, a favorite performer whose connection with MetroFresh spans many years.

Anderson emphasizes that while this official gathering is pivotal, the essence of the celebration unfolds daily through each patron who walks through the café's doors. He remains positive about the future, maintaining a focus on what distinguishes MetroFresh: a commitment to fresh, carefully crafted food alongside creativity and an unwavering dedication to community service.

A Legacy in Culinary Arts

Over the years, MetroFresh has thrived in tandem with Atlanta’s dynamic Beltline, inspiring a cookbook titled “Food Thought” and even hosting a Collective Soul album cover shoot within its walls. Richie Arpino, a famous local hair stylist and personal companion of Anderson, captured the essence of the establishment through his lens.

Reflecting on MetroFresh's impact, Ed Roland, the frontman of Collective Soul, remarked on its 10th anniversary, highlighting Anderson's dedication and love for the craft. "Mitchell has worked incredibly hard, pouring spirit into everything he does. Those daily menu emails have infused MetroFresh with vibrant passion and soul—it transforms the dining experience into a sense of being home," he said.

As MetroFresh embarks on its next chapter, Anderson is filled with pride for what has been built over the years. "After two decades in the business, I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve created together. Here's to many more years of serving our beloved community!"