Jerome Lauck and his daughterJerome Lauck, now the full owner of Sosta Café, was born in the French Provence region in the South of France to Alsatian parents, who were raised in the wine and cheese region of the North of France. During our conversation, Jerome recalled his childhood, watching as his young mother mastered the allure of Provence style cooking. Jerome explained that in Provence, you rely on what he labels, “a master simplicity” to bring out and highlight the individual tastes of a long list of excellent regional ingredients.
This philosophy continues today at Sosta Cafe where Jerome extends this simple perfection to his sandwiches, coffee, lunch offerings- and even beverages.
I understood Jerome’s comment because I grew up in Geneva, finding Provence with its extended shores on the Mediterranean a lovely and exciting summer destination. It is accurate that this region champions culinary simplicity, especially when it is measured against the neighboring Lyonnais region. The complementary natural ingredients typical of this region make the culinary experience remarkably memorable. I asked Jerome how he managed to find ingredients from a several mile radius of the region where he was born, and he admitted that it is now slightly easier than when he started 6 years ago. He says that boutique suppliers are willing to make a small profit to support a number of culinary establishments in the area.
The name “Sosta” means “a restful break” and that truly captures the cafe’s philosophy. The cafe provides continuous service and a full menu from 8 AM to 4 PM, with an added focus on good art and truly enjoyable, unique music. To me, it’s filled with personality and a feast for the senses. Sosta has also added a very interesting catering menu to further serve its customers.
Sosta Cafe, 130 E Davie Street (Progress Energy Bldg)Jerome’s personal touch, greeting and serving his customers, makes the Cafe Sosta a welcoming oasis in Downtown Raleigh. An advocate of Downtown Living, Jerome lives in Boylan Height and walks to work every day. When I asked him about the Downtown scene he answered, “We have a beautiful Downtown that we need to make into a destination.” He pointed out the paradox of how much effort is vested these days in shopping malls meant to mirror a Downtown feeling. Jerome adds that we should have easy and affordable parking solutions, and looks forward to the regional and light rail development, citing that they will provide even easier and safer access to Downtown.
Drop by and introduce yourself to Jerome. You’ll enjoy the flavor, style and hospitality of Provence in your own neighborhood!
This is our second post on Sosta Cafe. Click here to read our previous post published last year.
When's he gonna offer dinner hours? I keep hearing about how great this place is, but with the early hours, I have never had the chance to try it.