Waffles, Funk and Adam Gold from Newhouse School J-Camp on Vimeo.
By Caitlin Quigley
Adam Gold wants to take over the world of waffles.
Gold is the hip co-founder of Funk ‘n Waffles, 727 South Crouse Ave. in the Syracuse University area. The café opened in January 2007 and continues to attract customers from The Hill.
“I want to make this a place for people to chill and enjoy themselves while still eating great food,” Gold says.
Funk ‘n Waffles has gained popularity throughout the city because it accepts all ages. The café doesn’t serve alcohol. “We offer an alternative place to hang out and we’re unique,” Gold says.
The café serves a variety of waffles from the classic Belgian to Fried Chicken ‘n Waffles. Other waffle specialties include the Monte Cristo, a Spinach, Feta, and Salmon and Pulled Pork.
The owners thought it would be good to sell desserts at the café, too. They offer the Brussels, Brownie Waffle Sundae and Jersey Shore, among others. The Brussels is served with a Belgian waffle and powdered sugar. The Jersey Shore is a waffle ice cream sandwich.
“I like serving dessert to people and seeing their face light up with the brownie waffle,” Gold says.
Variety is important at Funk ‘n Waffles.
“We did research on all the different types of waffles so people wouldn’t have to eat the same waffle twice,” Gold says.
They don’t stop at waffles. They also sell a variety of drinks ranging from espresso to hot chocolate. They offer hot lattes, cappuccinos and smoothies.
The prices are friendly to college students. Everything on the menu costs less than $10.
Funk ‘n Waffles sells merchandise with its logo. T-shirts are available, and during band shows it sells merchandise promoting the music.
Customers hear the music playing as they walk in. Records play on a turntable giving Funk ‘n Waffles a vibe some cafés don’t have.
The café appeals to crowds by offering musical acts about five times a week. The stage is helpful for bands looking to showcase their talent.
Most bands are local and their shows are heavily promoted by Gold and his employees. The music varies from reggae to rock to folk.
“My favorite part of the job would have to be putting on the concerts,” Gold says. “I love seeing a group full of people dancing. It really makes me feel good.”
Gold and his college friend, Kyle Corea, were juniors when they came up with the idea. They threw college parties and, Gold recalls, “loved making waffles.” They figured they would try their luck in the business.
They entered an entrepreneurial contest during their senior year. They submitted their idea of Funk ‘n Waffles and made it to the semifinals. Their recognition and small award gave them their first opportunity to begin.
“It was a new experience and when we saw people’s response we knew it was something we should pursue,” he says.
They decided they would open their own business combining music and waffles. Their “odd” idea, as Gold describes it, would soon turn successful.
Funk ‘n Waffles draws customers and music goers every night. Gold and Corea would like to continue their business and expand.
“We are looking to franchise, but it does take a lot of money and effort so we are just trying to survive for now,” Gold says.
They say they will make it through the survival period.
“People really like our shop,” Gold says. “It’s a creative atmosphere.”
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