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The Easy Otter 2: Electric Boogaloo

After 3 years of slangin' top notch Southern fried fare, I'm ready to move out of the food cart!

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The Easy Otter 2: Electric Boogaloo

The Easy Otter 2: Electric Boogaloo

The Easy Otter 2: Electric Boogaloo

The Easy Otter 2: Electric Boogaloo

The Easy Otter 2: Electric Boogaloo

After 3 years of slangin' top notch Southern fried fare, I'm ready to move out of the food cart!

After 3 years of slangin' top notch Southern fried fare, I'm ready to move out of the food cart!

After 3 years of slangin' top notch Southern fried fare, I'm ready to move out of the food cart!

After 3 years of slangin' top notch Southern fried fare, I'm ready to move out of the food cart!

Lindsay Pilapil
Lindsay Pilapil
Lindsay Pilapil
Lindsay Pilapil
2 Campaigns |
Salem, United States
$8,331 USD 112 backers
11% of $75,000 Flexible Goal Flexible Goal
Highlights
Mountain Filled 2 Projects Mountain Filled 2 Projects

You Don’t Win Friends With Salad.

Oh hi! I’m Lindsay Pilapil and I’m the owner of The Easy Otter LLC. My specialties include a variety of Southern fried chicken and beignets. Everything is scratch made and prepped to order so it’s always hot, fresh, and delicious. I moved to Salem in February 2020 right before COVID transformed my otherwise impressive resume into cannon fodder. I’d been in the industry 20 years, had no other skills, and two kids to support in a new town where I didn’t know anyone. The goal has always been to open my own spot, but at the time it seemed more like a pipe dream. So I went ahead and did it anyway. I bought a popup canopy and started slangin’ at the local Farmers Market. A few months after that I bought the smallest food cart of all time and set up shop at The Beehive Station. Not long afterwards I upgraded to a much larger cart where I remained the sole operator for the following three years. I quickly gained popularity around town and have won 4 Best of Willamette Valley awards for my hospitality and Southern Style eats. I don’t know how to put this. I’m kind of a big deal. But I’ve done all that I can by myself. I need your help!! 

Spring Forth Burly Protector.. And Save Me!! 

I’m hoping to raise $75,000, the lion’s share of that will go directly to the exhaust hood and fire suppression system that is required to pass inspection. The food cart was propane fueled and I’ll need to buy all new equipment that is natural gas compatible, including but not limited to two deep fryers, full sized range, refrigeration and freezer, three compartment sink, hand sink, commercial stand mixer, prep tables, guest tables and chairs, dishes, cutlery, etc. Additionally, the space needs to be remodeled to give restroom access to guests as well as provide adequate seating. I’ll need to secure permits and licenses required to operate. I need to update the interior lighting and areas of the flooring to commercial grade materials. I need to make minor cosmetic changes to the exterior of the building as well as purchase a new exterior sign. I have left room for incidentals and unexpected costs, as well as funds for training, and a month's worth of rent, utilities, employee wages, and cost of goods. Lastly, I’m taking into account the 5% that goes to Indiegogo for running my campaign as well as the cogs on the branded merchandise I’m offering to my campaign contributors. I’m optimistic that I’ll reach my goal, but if not, I’ve worked alone for 3.5 years, and I’m willing and ready to do it again but this time with a little extra leg room. But let’s live in the now, shall we? I have a ton of cute merch and unique dining experiences curated by yours truly. 

Twenty Dollars Can Buy Many Peanuts!

As a contributor, you will personally be responsible for stoking the flame that is the Salem food scene. In the last 3.5 years, I have tested over 150 dishes disguised as specials to see what gets Salem excited. I have narrowed it down to a handful of new items in addition to my old favorites for a practically perfect menu with a little something for everyone. I would love for Salem to be a food destination city, and as a contributor, you’ll be on the ground floor. Prior to moving to Salem, I (albeit for other people and companies I had no stake in) personally opened three successful restaurants. While at a GM level, I maintained the reputation for being the most fiscally responsible general manager at each of the restaurant groups that I’ve been a part of. So rest assured that every dollar you contribute will go towards an essential.  

Everything’s Coming Up Milhouse!

80% of restaurants close in under 5 years. I crack a lot of jokes and often risk being a little too candid. But I know what I'm doing. I’ve put in the time, I’ve done 3.5 years of on the job market research and I truly believe I have something special. I know the ins and outs of this industry. My menu is more impressive than Paul Allen’s business card. The restaurant aesthetic will be eclectic, quirky, and unlike anything Salem has ever seen! With your help, I’m positive The Easy Otter will be a one of a kind dining experience that will be a favorite in Salem until I’m old and gray. 

Hi Diddly Ho, Neighborino! 

Spread the word! Share with your friends and family! 

 



 

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Choose your Perk

Easy Otter Sticker

Easy Otter Sticker

$10 USD
This Easy Otter sticker is more of a thank you for your $10 contribution but also like super cute!
Included Items
  • Easy Otter Sticker
Estimated Shipping
January 2024
4 claimed
Ships worldwide.
Easy Otter Chipotle Aioli

Easy Otter Chipotle Aioli

$10 USD
Started as a key element in the oo-de-lally sandwich, my homemade chipotle aioli is my most popular savory sauce and the stuff dreams are made of. 8oz jar. Salem residents only!
Included Items
  • Chipotle Aioli
Estimated Shipping
January 2024
5 claimed
Easy Otter Frozen Beignet Kit

Easy Otter Frozen Beignet Kit

$25 USD
Turn your beignet fantasy into reality day or night with my Easy Otter Frozen Beignet Kit! Yields 20-25. Salem residents only!!
Included Items
  • Beignet Kit
Estimated Shipping
January 2024
4 claimed
Easy Otter Mug

Easy Otter Mug

$30 USD
Don't talk to me before I've had my coffee, amiright? Sip in style with this hot hot branded Easy Otter mug. Not thirsty but still want to showcase your keen eye for style and class? I've got news for you. Pencils fit comfortably inside. Don't anticipate being thirsty for a while? It makes aa perfect planter! The applications are limitless!
Included Items
  • Enamel Mug
Estimated Shipping
January 2024
9 claimed
Ships to United States of America
Easy Otter Knight Tee

Easy Otter Knight Tee

$35 USD
Can't decide whether to showcase your passion for cooking or the Renaissance? Finally, you don't have to choose! (And not a moment too soon!) This branded t-shirt is emblazoned with an otter who knows his way around the kitchen as well as the jousting arena. Guaranteed to be the only t-shirt you'll ever need!
Included Items
  • Knight Tee Adult
Estimated Shipping
January 2024
14 claimed
Ships to United States of America
Easy Otter Pub Shirt

Easy Otter Pub Shirt

$45 USD
Fool friends, family, and onlookers alike into thinking you're a world traveler with this British Pubster Easy Otter Ragland Tee. Sure to be a real conversation starter. How could you not ooze confidence in this hot little number?
Included Items
  • Ragland T
Estimated Shipping
January 2024
9 claimed
Ships to United States of America
Beignets for Days

Beignets for Days

$75 USD $105 USD (28% off)
Satisfy your sweet tooth 15 times with this Easy Otter beignet punch card! Each order comes with 3 girthy beignets. Any flavor! Sky's the limit! You're sure to be the envy of every Jerry and Jane on the block! (Do ya girl a favor and let me know the day before if you plan to use 10 or more in one shot.)
Included Items
  • 15 orders of beignets
Estimated Shipping
January 2024
18 claimed
Easy Otter Gift Certificate

Easy Otter Gift Certificate

$75 USD $100 USD (25% off)
Get $100 worth of Easy Otter for only $75! It's a veritable Seal Deal!
Included Items
  • Gift Card
Estimated Shipping
January 2024
17 claimed
Last Minute Preview Party

Last Minute Preview Party

$150 USD $250 USD (40% off)
Less than two days left!! This perk will get you one ticket to one of my preview parties, where you'll get to get a first look at the new space, a taste of everything on the menu, and an Easy Otter thank you gift at the end of the night. You can DM me and request a particular day, but not guaranteed.
Included Items
  • Preview Party
Estimated Shipping
April 2024
0 out of 60 of claimed
Preview Party for 2 (Friday)

Preview Party for 2 (Friday)

$500 USD
Get a sneak peak at the new space and get a chance to sample the new menu in it's entirety. It'll be a feast fit for kings to be sure. You'll also leave with an Easy Otter tote bag stuffed with exclusive merch and togo boxes for when I inevitably do that thing I do and make way too much food. Exact date TBD but I will give you a month's notice.
Included Items
  • Preview Party
Estimated Shipping
January 2024
1 out of 14 of claimed
Preview Party for 2 (Saturday)

Preview Party for 2 (Saturday)

$500 USD
Get a sneak peak at the new space and get a chance to sample the new menu in it's entirety. It'll be a feast fit for kings to be sure. You'll also leave with an Easy Otter tote bag stuffed with exclusive merch and togo boxes for when I inevitably do that thing I do and make way too much food. Exact date TBD but I will give you a month's notice.
Included Items
  • Preview Party
Estimated Shipping
January 2024
2 out of 14 of claimed
Preview Party for 2 (Sunday)

Preview Party for 2 (Sunday)

$500 USD
Get a sneak peak at the new space and get a chance to sample the new menu in it's entirety. It'll be a feast fit for kings to be sure. You'll also leave with an Easy Otter tote bag stuffed with exclusive merch and togo boxes for when I inevitably do that thing I do and make way too much food. Exact date TBD but I will give you a month's notice.
Included Items
  • Preview Party
Estimated Shipping
January 2024
0 out of 14 of claimed
Private Party for up to 25

Private Party for up to 25

$5,000 USD
This is for a private party for up to 25 guests in the new space. All menu items will be available and customizable. Date and time will be coordinated after the opening date is announced. If you're like me and like to plan years in advance, perfect, this perk doesn't expire. I'm easy like Sunday morning and can adjust if your plans change.
Included Items
  • Private Catered Party for 25
0 out of 10 of claimed

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