Washington PA Food group turns local dining into a community movement
In Washington County, food isn’t just something to eat — it’s a reason to gather, give back, and celebrate community.
Founded on July 17, 2019, Washington PA Food has grown from a simple Facebook group into a local dining phenomenon, connecting more than 36,000 members who share photos, recommendations, and a shared love of hometown flavor.
For founder Nate Mass, it all began with a craving — not just for good food, but for connection.
“I’m just like anyone else — my palate isn’t special,” Mass said. “I’m picky with certain foods, but that doesn’t mean what I don’t like is terrible. I just try to focus on the positive side of everything and remember there’s a family behind these businesses.”
Mass grew up in Washington and graduated from Trinity High School in 2003. After moving to Arizona in 2005, he returned home in 2016 — and quickly rediscovered the region’s food scene.
“I’ve always loved sharing pictures of the meals I was eating or making,” he said. “When I started the group, I just wanted to see what everyone else thought, too. I never imagined so many people would join in and share that love. It’s incredible.”
Takeovers That Make a Difference
Among the group’s most popular activities are Restaurant Takeovers — fun, community meetups where members pack a local restaurant, often during a slower time for business.
“The only rule,” Mass said with a grin, “is that the restaurant sells a sampler platter of what they’re known for during the takeover.”
Those sampler platters give diners a taste of multiple favorites, offering plenty of reasons to come back, tell a friend, or post on social media. When possible, the group also adds prize giveaways — gift cards, restaurant swag, and anything that makes the night more fun while helping promote the host restaurant.
“The Restaurant Takeovers were designed to help spread the word and show new customers something exciting,” Mass said. “It’s amazing to see how one night can make a difference for a small business.”
A Kitchen Showdown With Local Flavor
Another fan favorite is Kitchen Clash, a live cooking competition where two contestants face off in a themed culinary battle. Each contestant’s ingredients are sponsored by a local business, which gets recognition and promotion in return.
“These events can teach you a few things about cooking,” Mass said. “And we always have the best celebrity judges.”
Three local judges — often familiar faces in the community — sample each dish and select a winner.
“It’s part Iron Chef, part block party,” Mass said. “But at the end of the day, it’s about celebrating local creativity.”
Supporting Those Who Serve
The group’s enthusiasm often spills over into community service. Washington PA Food has hosted charity events benefiting the City Mission, Community Circle Food Pantry, and local police, fire, and EMS departments.
“The goal is always to give back,” Mass said. “If we can help promote a restaurant and support the people who serve our community, that’s a win for everyone.”
Building a Positive Community
Behind the laughter, food photos, and giveaways lies a strong set of group rules designed to keep things positive.
“We remind people that there’s a family behind every business,” Mass said. “I’ve seen how a negative review can hurt, but I’ve also seen how constructive criticism can help a restaurant grow. It’s all about how we talk to each other.”
The community has even become a place to learn.
“One of our members, Drew Manko, taught me that for it to be shepherd’s pie, it has to contain lamb,” Mass said. “If it’s beef, it’s cottage pie. I’ve learned a lot from this group — not just about food, but about people.”
Drew was a beloved member of the Washington PA Food community who was taken from us far too soon. His passion for food and friendship left an indelible mark on the group, and his spirit continues to inspire the community he helped shape.
Mass credits the moderators and members for maintaining the group’s welcoming atmosphere.
“We have 36,000 people helping local restaurants — for free,” he said. “That’s what makes this group special.”
Hot Sauce With a Story
Nate’s passion for food and creativity even led to an unexpected partnership with a local small business — Maestros Sauce Company.
“After starting the group, I was contacted by a new up-and-coming local hot sauce company, Maestros Sauce Company,” Mass explained. “They noticed from some of my posts that I enjoyed hot sauce and wanted my opinion on their new lineup. My wife and I agreed to meet them, and we had a wonderful, hot-sauce-filled lunch.”
After hours of tasting and talking flavor, Nate shared an idea inspired by his time in Arizona.
“When you visit Mexican restaurants in Arizona, you’re always asked if you want red or green salsa,” he said. “I loved the flavor of the green, but it lacked heat — and the red had heat but not as much flavor. So, I used to mix the two for the best of both worlds.”
The Maestros team loved the concept and turned it into a reality.
They wanted to make a spicy verde hot sauce using Carolina Reapers, based on my idea.
“They gave me the honor of naming it after me, and Maestros Mass-terpiece was born.”
Fast-forward a few years, and Maestros Sauce Company has become a regional success story — with Mass-terpiece winning awards across the country, including 1st place in the Hot Division at Old Boney Mountain Hot Summer Nights, the world’s largest charity hot sauce competition.
“It’s definitely hot, but it’s so tasty and goes great with almost anything,” Mass said. “Give it a try at maestrossauceco.com.”
Boosting Local Tourism
The group’s reach has grown far beyond Facebook, catching the attention of county leaders who see its impact on tourism and business.
“Nate and his group have had a positive impact not just on the restaurant community, but on tourism throughout Washington County,” said Chase McClain, director of marketing for Washington County Tourism and the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. “They’ve helped spotlight the unique dining experiences that make our county special.”
McClain said the group’s grassroots energy has become a model for how digital communities can strengthen real-world economies.
Finding His Way Home
For Mass, the success of Washington PA Food is about much more than numbers.
“After years away, I found my way home,” he said. “And the best part is discovering a community full of people who love this area — and its food — as much as I do.”
To join the group or learn more, visit facebook.com/groups/washpafood.
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