‘Putting positivity out into the world’: Charlotte drag brunches raise $60K+ for charity
What started as a way to keep Charlotte drag queens employed during the early stages of the pandemic has turned into a community fundraiser that’s collected more than $60,000 for local charities over the past two years.
Each month, The Artisan’s Palate — NoDa’s only restaurant, bar and art gallery — hosts a drag brunch to raise money for local organizations, with the next one set for April 29 to support Charlotte Street Art Collaborative.
“It’s always been our mission to be more than just a restaurant and bar. We wanted to find a way to give back to the community, and these drag brunches are just such a fun, positive way to do something good,” said Christa Csoka, owner and chef.
After being shuttered for four months at the onset of COVID, Csoka and the team at The Artisan’s Palate shifted gears and expanded their outdoor seating options to create a safe space for people to gather. But the nightclub next door, Chasers, was unable to open at the time, leaving many drag queens out of work.
That’s when Csoka got the idea for the monthly drag brunches. Originally, all proceeds went to the club and drag queens, but as the world began to re-open, Csoka expanded the program’s outreach to donate to local charities that speak to her heart.
Brunch for a good cause
“Every month we pick a new charity to support, particularly those that help women, the arts and the LGBTQ+ community,” said Csoka, noting that previous charities have included Families Forward Charlotte and Carolina Breast Friends.
The Artisan’s Palate’s mission is to be an inclusive destination where all are welcome.
“There’s a lot of hate going on in this world, which I just don’t understand,” she said. “But here, it’s just a fun time. The queens make funny jokes throughout the shows. It’s entertaining and energetic, and it’s putting positivity out into the world. The queens really love that they’re doing something for good.”
With a plethora of drag brunches picking up momentum around the Queen City, Csoka noted that The Artisan’s Palate’s shows stand out for their charitable aspect and monthly themes.
“We make it very personal and go all out to decorate the space for the theme,” Csoka said, adding that this month’s theme is April Showers and is sure to include fan favorite song, “It’s Raining Men,” and lots of umbrellas around the restaurant.
“Sometimes customers come dressed up for the theme. … People want to have a good time, especially given the last year. These shows are just always entertaining with a cool vibe and cool energy.”
Two seatings are available for April 29 shows at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets are required for admission and cost $24.86 per person. Attendees must be 18 or older.
The drag brunch includes an eclectic but streamlined mix of menu items, including artisan sandwiches, smoked salmon boards and biscuits and gravy, along with specialty cocktails, $5 mimosas and the usual selection of beer and wine.
The Artisan’s Palate
Location: 1218 E 36th St A, Charlotte, NC 28205
Cuisine: Small plates
Instagram: @theartisanspalate
