Cafe Coda: Age is not an issue

Originally published Jan. 18, 2007 in The Buzz

Chico's Cafe Coda specializes in small-plate dining with a large side order of live music.

With just seven weeks under its belt, Cafe Coda is proving to be the child prodigy of Chico cafes and a promising all-ages music venue.

The venue, which opened its doors Nov. 29, shares its home with Humboldt Studios at 265 Humboldt Ave. It is no surprise the cafe took on a musical theme, being in a building that has so much music within.

The menu includes "sweet melodies" such as French toast and pancakes, "masterpieces" such as eggs benedict and wraps and single orders of "improvisations and solos."

Owner Eric Danielli, from Paradise, is also no stranger to music. Danielli, 26, was in a band called Phoenix Down, which included members of Chico's La Fin du Monde.

Originally, Danielli wanted the cafe to only operate in the mornings and focus on a breakfast menu, he said. He wanted to stay away from the bar crowd.

Thankfully, Cafe Coda is more than a place for breakfast.

Danielli decided to host music events because music is a big part of his life, he said. Besides, live music is a positive addition to the cafe atmosphere.

"It's not a dinner house, more of a gathering," he said. "Have your senses entertained."

The food takes care of the taste buds, live music comfort the ears and art on the walls please the eyes. The dim lighting and soft maroon and tan painted walls draw you to the tables, which are already set up with plates and glasses. There is also bar seating if that is your style.

To the far right lays the stage. Speakers are suspended from the ceiling, waiting to spread the love of music. Soft lights accompany the speakers, ready to shine on the next musical sensation.

While Cafe Coda has been appealing to the post-college age group, ranging from 25 to 55, the variety of live music is inviting for people of all ages, Danielli said. He is striving to make the cafe a stable music venue where age is not an issue. Considering the difficulty of sustaining an all-ages music venue in Chico and the fact that Cafe Coda sells alcohol, Danielli is aware of the tough position he could possibly be in, he said. If all goes well, underage drinking will never arise, as staff is diligent about checking IDs.

Danielli hopes the community realizes that he is simply trying to give back by making all music events open to all ages, h esaid.

"I don't want to exclude anyone," he said.

So far events have been successful and well received by the community, Danielli said. People who have stopped by for music have also been good about making food and drink purchases, which allows the cafe to make all events free from a cover charge.

The most successful shows to date featured Chico's The Yule Logs and The Secret Stolen, which show the variety of music that can be heard on any given night.

While Danielli is trying to stay away from metal and punk bands, he is open to any ideas, he said. Events will not only feature Chico bands, but also state and nationally recognized acts . However, bigger shows may call for a small cover charge.

Cafe Coda is also proving that live music is not only for night owls. Early birds can also enjoy love music on a few selected mornings.

Lukily for Cafe Coda and music lovers in Chico, music is oh so sweet at any time of the day.