April 15, 2009
English writer, Aldous Huxley, once wrote, “Facts do not cease to exist just because they are ignored.” The fact remains that Café Aspen is still here. Fort Worth has seen its share of eateries come and go. The only thing Café Aspen has done over the last 20 years is expand in size and maintain its fan base. With the 747 (approximation) new restaurants either already opened or planning to open this year on the west side of Fort Worth, the odds are stacked against them. To be open 20 years in the restaurant industry is impressive.
What started off as a small restaurant on West Seventh Street exactly 20 years ago is now an established fixture on Camp Bowie. Like many businesses, it has gone through several overhauls. It has arguably one of the most quaint, romantic bar areas in town. Also impressive is their newest addition added a few years back, their outdoor patio/bar.
Back to the facts. The fact that owner, David Rotman, is not from Fort Worth should not be held against him. Originally from Austin, he’s more or less a Fort Worthian. I’m not sure we could get rid of him if we tried. He was not only a TCU Horned Frog, but, a little known fact is that David was a cheerleader while attending. GO FROGS! The fact that Rotman has an amazing support system around him also speaks volumes for Café Aspen. Dedicated and loyal staff…check. Loving and amazing wife, Andrea…check. Beautiful and adorable daughter, Lucinda…check. You can’t argue with the facts.
Since this week marks a milestone for Café Aspen and Mr. Rotman, David has decided to give back to the community as a sign of appreciation for 20 years of patronage. Through April 18 you can get the Pepper Crusted Beef Tenderloin for only $12.95. One of Aspen’s best sellers, the menu describes this beef dish as “Pepper crusted beef tenderloin, pan seared and finished in the oven. Topped with a roasted garlic and bleu cheese sauce. Paired with grilled portabello mushrooms and roasted fingerling potatoes.” If this alone doesn’t draw you two in for this week’s Date Night, I’m not sure what will.
Since April 17 is the actual anniversary date of Café Aspen, there is also this one-day offer that is equally generous. Friday only, all entrees are 20 percent off. Let me repeat that. All entrees are 20 percent off. This doesn’t mean the total bill, drinks, desserts, T-shirts or anything else. Just the entrees. Also, there will be no double-dipping. If you take advantage of the $12.95 beef tenderloin, you cannot take 20 percent off that. David is generous; he’s not stupid.
If you have never been to Café Aspen or it has been a while, please stop by and give it a try. At the least, congratulate David Rotman on an accomplishment that very few in this town have been able to achieve. Not many people stay in their jobs for 20 years. Most marriages don’t last 20 years. And, we all know the usual fate of a new restaurant. But, Café Aspen has done it. And, done it with class, grace and consistency. Great job, David! Salud!
