Our Story

At “We Don’t Work for Free,” our journey is a testament to the unwavering spirit of those who’ve dedicated their time, talent, and hard work to establishments like Tavern On Lagrange, Tavern At The Row, and Tavern At Midway. These venues were built on dreams and driven by passion. Yet, for many of our team members, these dreams were met with broken promises, missed paychecks, and the heavy toll of unpaid work.

We’ve seen our friends and colleagues suffer evictions, bank account closures, and the painful reality of choosing between their families and their livelihood. We’ve felt the struggle firsthand, and we are determined to bring change.

Our mission is to ensure that no one in the industry ever faces such hardships again. “We Don’t Work for Free” stands up for every bartender, cook, server, manager, and staff member who believes in the value of their work. It’s our collective voice, demanding respect, dignity, and fair compensation in an industry we love.

Join us on this journey to redefine the standards of our profession, to foster an environment of fairness, and to ensure that everyone is rewarded for the hard work they put in. Together, we will build a better, more equitable future for the entire hospitality community.

Join us in our quest for fairness, dignity, and the end of unpaid labor.

Embrace the Power of Unity
We understand that true strength lies in unity.

Together, we form an unbreakable bond that transcends job titles, roles, and positions. It's not just about individuals; it's about a collective force of passion, hard work, and a shared vision. We stand side by side, committed to rewriting the narrative of unpaid labor in the hospitality industry. Let us be the change we wish to see. Join our team, our family, and our movement, and together, we'll shape a brighter, fairer future for all.