The Works features two concepts—Waffler and FORKlift—that offer fun, fast-casual and trendy food (waffles and burritos). The Steampunk design mixes modern and industrial, heavy in metals and other touches reminiscent of a 19th-century steam-powered factory. Steampunk, first known for science fiction, has moved into fashion, design and art.
There are 40 seats inside the actual restaurant, but the lounge area provides 40 additional seats. The existing lobby of the Fitzgerald Building was preserved and its modern industrial feel was linked to the Steampunk design inside The Works.
Small touches like these stools convey the overall theme. Webb Culinary Design was tasked with creating a comfortable and inviting space that was also genuine and unique. The firm presented the Steampunk idea and was chosen to execute the plan.
Waffles, a popular item at trendy restaurants and food trucks, are made in an exposed kitchen revealing more industrial décor.
Wafflerz, sporting an ‘N’ and Wolfpack logo, are freshly steamed and pressed by members of the “Steam Crew.” When the waffle s’more dessert is cooked with a blow torch, the Crew yells “Fire in the Hole.”
Many of the furnishings are reclaimed and timeless industrial pieces.
The staff—aka Steam Crew—dresses the part and Meyer says many of them came to interviews in character and clothes like this. They can wear the “uniforms” or dress in their own Steampunk gear if they have it. Meyer says they didn’t hire based on experience: “We can teach these kids food, so we hired for personality.” The service, he adds, has been great.
FORKlift provides healthy and hearty choices, with Barbacoa beef, honey maple pulled pork, freshly roasted lime chile chicken, grilled veggies and more as options.
The all daypart Wafflerz sandwiches come from chef-driven house-made recipes. Honey Chile Lime Drizzle on the Atomic Chicken Sandwich and Cranberry Garlic Mayo on the Turkey Avo Bacon Club, “punked” with the specialty Bacon Candy, are evidence.
