A hidden gem with bold flavor and heartfelt service, tucked inside the walls of EvergreenHealth Monroe
In Monroe, Washington, something remarkable is happening in hospital dining, and the community is taking notice. The Trax Café, operated by Thomas Cuisine and led by Chef Ryan Hymel and Sous Chef Karla Ramirez, is redefining expectations for hospital foodservice.
This café isn’t just feeding patients and hospital staff. It’s attracting visitors from the surrounding area who choose to stop in for a satisfying, chef-made meal. Yes, you read that right. Locals are coming to the hospital for lunch.
Redefining Hospital Foodservice in Washington and Across the Country
When it comes to foodservice for hospitals, the standard shouldn’t be bland or boring. At Thomas Cuisine, we believe in something better. Our scratch-made, nutrient-dense meals are crafted with care and rooted in our REAL food philosophy: robust flavor, exceptional ingredients, avoiding additives, and meals loaded with nutrients.
At the Trax Café, that philosophy comes to life every day through globally inspired offerings like:
- Chimichurri steak with roasted potatoes
- Tom kha gai, a comforting Thai coconut soup
- Crawfish étouffée packed with spice and soul
- Tuscan salmon served over asparagus and scratch-made pasta
It’s food that fuels recovery and invites connection, whether you’re a patient, visitor, or part of the local community.
These reviews, shared in response to a Facebook spotlight from the City of Monroe, capture the passion and pride surrounding this space. Community members chimed in with favorites like breakfast burritos, Thai chicken noodle soup, and cinnamon rolls. Each one is a testament to the culinary creativity and consistency that Thomas Cuisine brings to hospital kitchens.
Why It Matters: The Power of Food in Healthcare
For hospitals across Washington and throughout the country, Trax Café offers a compelling case study in the power of REAL food. High-quality, in-house foodservice management isn’t just about nutrition. It’s about elevating the entire care experience.
When Thomas Cuisine partners with healthcare organizations, we bring:
- A scratch-made culinary program tailored to your patients and region
- Seasonally inspired menus created by passionate, trained chefs
- Collaborative leadership that works with hospital teams for seamless integration
- Transparent operations and flexible management grounded in trust
Our team doesn’t just serve food. We create a dining culture that energizes staff, comforts patients, and strengthens community trust.
Serving 15 States and Growing
Thomas Cuisine currently provides foodservice management in 15 U.S. states, supporting a wide range of industries, including:
- Healthcare
- Senior Living
- Independent Schools
- Corporate Dining
From hospital cafés like Trax to full-scale senior living and corporate dining programs, we tailor every partnership to reflect the needs of each community we serve.
Looking to transform your foodservice program?
Reach out to learn how we can serve your region and bring the REAL food difference to your organization.
