One World Spokane is closing.

The progressive cafe that allows diners to pay what they can for local, organic fare will close its doors Saturday, according to an email message from owners Janice and Keith Raschko.

The couple brought the One World concept to Spokane almost four years ago, with the dream of access to organic, sustainable, local foods for everyone, no matter what they could afford to pay. They allowed people to volunteer hours instead of paying cash and let diners choose their portions and price.

One World volunteers grew a community garden. They worked hard to be a zero-waste restaurant. They invited local chefs to cook and hosted local music acts.

Despite it all, they struggled. They simply needed more diners coming through the doors to make the restaurant work.

The Rashkos said in their note to customers they always intended to bring the movement to Spokane and hoped to someday turn it over to the community. Now, they say they have taken things as far as they can go and will close the cafe, 1804 E. Sprague Ave., after lunch on Saturday.

The chef from the One World restaurant in Salt Lake City is here cooking for the final week. Just as he came to cook the week the restaurant opened. One World will be open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

It may not be the end of One World in Spokane. The Raschkos say they are working with some young people who have vision, ambition and enthusiasm. They may be giving One World a new home. The promised to share that information once it is confirmed.

Until then, One World information can be found on their website or Facebook page.

---

---