Cornell Farms continues to stay alive during pandemic

By Mateo Sufuentes ‘21

Cornell Farms, popular lunch spot for Catlin Gabel (CGS) students, has found ways to adapt throughout the pandemic and is ready for students to come back with open arms.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused the team at Cornell Farms to ramp up their take-out offerings. However, they do also offer a heated outdoor area where clientele can safely eat their meals. 

They strictly follow the Oregon Health Authority guidelines and, like many businesses, have run into their fair share of what Executive Chef Daniel Escalle calls “discourse,” when it comes to patrons not following safety protocols in their establishment. 

In the past, the Cornell Farms Cafe, just a two-minute drive up Barnes Road, has been a common destination for CGS juniors and seniors seeking a picturesque landscape and a quaint dining room from which to enjoy vibrant comfort food.

“If you ask me, our frittata with roasted poblanos, queso Oaxaca, and spinach served with hash browns and smothered in Cotija crema, is the best thing on the menu right now,” shared Escalle. “It pairs perfectly with dark roast coffee and one of our croissants and embodies the perfect start to my morning.” See mouthwatering pictures of their food on their Instagram page at @cornellfarm.cafe.

As CGS students return to in-person learning throughout the next few months, they are encouraged to stop by and support a local business.

“No matter your age, we can all use a little grace, patience and understanding, especially in the midst of a global pandemic,” said Escalle. “We always appreciate when patrons return the favor with understanding, politeness, and kindness... Our staff works hard to ensure that they provide top-notch service with a smile, and patrons that return that kindness are truly valued.”

It is especially important to support local businesses as they have suffered economic losses during the COVID-19 pandemic. With more and more people from teachers to the elderly in our community getting vaccinated, there is reason to expect a return to semi-normalcy in the coming months. Nonetheless, practicing safe, socially distant daily habits and socialization directly impacts how quickly places like Cornell Farms can return to peak business.