My name is Gwen TerHaar and I’m raising funds to help renowned Chef Jordan Short keep Cafe Manna in Brookfield, WI up and running. It will be closing its doors on March 14, 2026, after 18 years of feeding our community!
Cafe Manna is a local, award-winning vegetarian and vegan restaurant. The current owners have retired and have left the recipes to Chef Jordan and his incredible staff to continue on. Thank goodness!
I am trying to raise the capital to help them open a new place. They will be losing the lease where they currently are now and do have to move, and that requires cash!
On a personal note, this place has been home for my family and me every week for the past four years. The Chef and crew are family. We cannot imagine our community without them, which is what brought me to create this GoFundMe.
A word from the Chef...
As a well-rounded chef, I have acquired a diverse culinary background through my extensive experience working with various chefs throughout Southeastern Wisconsin.
Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated my leadership and teaching abilities. I take great pride in witnessing the growth and development of my staff, guiding them to become both leaders and educators. My employees are highly motivated and enjoy learning from me and collaborating with me. We maintain a strong sense of teamwork and are always committed to delivering exceptional service to our guests.
I believe in empowering my staff by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to excel in their roles without resorting to micromanagement. For instance, our staff at Cafe Manna operates efficiently and collaboratively, consistently striving to achieve their goals and provide an exceptional dining experience for our guests.
My culinary expertise spans a wide range of cuisines, and I am constantly seeking to expand my knowledge and skills. I have achieved significant success in vegetarian and vegan cuisine, seafood, and various other culinary specialties throughout my 38-year career. I am particularly passionate about creating innovative dishes that maximize the flavor potential of ingredients, ensuring that each meal is a memorable and enjoyable experience.
A word from the team...
From Jade:
I love working at Cafe Manna because it feels like more than just a job. My coworkers are supportive, hardworking, and always ready to help, making each day enjoyable.
I also love our guests. Getting to know the regulars and being part of their day means a lot to me. It's a welcoming place filled with kindness, teamwork, and community, and I'm grateful to be part of it.
From Theresa:
I am so grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of Cafe Manna for almost 10 years. The people I have made relationships with are more than just coworkers and customers; they are close friends and family. Every single one of you has made an impact on us. The bonds we have all built are far and few between. Thank you for all the kind words and support, from the bottom of my heart. I am looking forward to what the future may bring to all of us. “It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later!”
Please consider a donation, of any size. Help this fresh, healthy, delicious, nourishing restaurant continue to shine!