STEPH JUDGEMENT: Fresh, homemade Indian and Indian fusion goodness in the unlikeliest of places. I'm so glad the LB Post recently did a story about these guys, otherwise I would've totally forgotten about them, even though I'd bookmarked them months ago based on some friends' reviews. I ended up ordering quite a bit for me and my husband, but I was counting on plenty of leftovers: maharaja and maharani burritos, large mushroom soup, paneer tikka masala with side order of turmeric rice, and their lemongrass chai, which was indeed unusual and delicious! Everything was delish, but the paneer tikka masala was my favorite--rich and packed with flavor. Dr. V was wonderfully solicitous and helpful with suggestions, and I wish his family and business continued success. Looking forward to my next visit to try more items! read more

I've been hearing buzz about this place for literally years, but they're only open for lunch, and until quite recently, only on weekdays, which is a pretty big request. Well, they're open Saturdays now, so clearly I couldn't wait any longer to try them! We checked them out the first Saturday they were open, and yeah, it's legit. Pulling into the parking lot was exactly as weird as I expected, but there it was, one picnic table outside and a little sign pointing to the back door of the medical office building. We parked and picked up our order - we'd called in an order ahead on the way, and our order was ready just a few minutes after they said it would be. It was drizzling off and on, though, so we were lucky it wasn't raining at the time, because their one outdoor table doesn't have an umbrella! Funny enough, I was the most excited to try their fusion burrito concept, since I'm a huge fan of pretty much *anything* wrapped in a tortilla. I tried the non-vegan burrito, which I absolutely did enjoy, I just wasn't completely blown away like I thought I would be. It was still delicious, I think my expectations were just too high from waiting so long to try it, haha. It had plenty of flavor, I just felt like, as a carnivore, it could have really used some chicken or something! I thought it'd be a monster, too - it's pretty normal burrito-sized, and kinda flat! (But again, don't get me wrong, it was still great.) On the other hand, the samosa chaat bowl was probably the best I've had, and I've had a lot of really good samosa chaat (it's one of my favorite Indian dishes. I dunno if I can say it was my *top* favorite, but I've had a lot of great samosa chaat - it's definitely top three, though.) Two large samosas, perfectly crunchy, drenched in some of the most flavorful sauces I've had. Absolutely does *not* need any meat - I'd come back just for that (but I also want to try the rest of the menu.) Anyway, I hadn't noticed the fine print on the yelp check-in promo until we'd called in the order - that there was a minimum $20 purchase to get the complimentary chai. Turns out we were happy about that anyway, because I'd also wanted to try the mushroom soup, but we'd thought three dishes would be too much for just two of us. We were going to try the cardamom chai anyway, though, so it was a no-brainer to get a bowl of mushroom soup for not that much more than the chai, and a free chai... turns out the burrito, as I mentioned, wasn't as huge as I was expecting, and we were pretty hungry, so we devoured all three of them, and agreed we were both full with like one bite of each left. And yeah, the mushroom soup is absolutely as great as people say, too. That one doesn't need meat either, it's stuffed full of mushrooms, doesn't get more umami than that! Slightly spicy, and creamy from the coconut, it actually reminded us a bit of tom kha, just more mushroom-focused! I'd 100% get that again next time, too. (And the cardamom chai was delicious, too, but it's harder to mess that up.) read more

The only thing against this place is the setting, there just isn't a comfortable place to enjoy the delicious meal. I am not vegetarian, but I enjoy a tasty meal no matter the presence of meat. The owner took the time to get me up to speed on the place, made recommendations and was beyond attentive and informative. I'd love to know the story behind the location, I guess I could just ask, because in a traditional spot, with some seating and atmosphere, it would seem like an automatic 5 stars. read more

Finally, we were able to come to this place and we'll come back very soon, food omg delicious and service exceptional! Appu's Cafe Very happy we found this flavor is everything thanks for great Service and quality food read more

Appu's Cafe - Potato tacos delicious - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

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The smell of food caught my attention as I was walking down to the parking lot. The lady working behind the counter was so welcoming and friendly. She offered samples of their soups and I was sold on the Garbanzo bean (this one had a slight spicy flavor to it), which I loved. I also ordered the mushroom soup. It was my first time trying a mango Lassi which tasted very delicious and refreshing. I received a free lemon grass chai latte for spending over $20, and checking in on Yelp. read more

Appu's Cafe - Mushroom soup added rice - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

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A MUST TRY GEM IN LONG BEACH. Honestly, I highly recommend everything on the menu! I love the Doctors Special burrito (curried potatoes with egg, cheese, and chef's special sauce) and you HAVE TO TRY THE MUSHROOM SOUP! Get it with turmeric rice. They offer breakfast, paninis, burgers, tacos, salads, and bowls! . The Maharajá burrito is also a favorite. Please support this delicious local restaurant, small businesses need your help! HOURS HAVE EXTENDED :D read more

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I'm always on the lookout for good vegan food. The food at Appu's Cafe isn't good... it's phenomenal!!! My meat eating husband and I stopped at Appu's Cafe for the first time this week. We shared potato tacos which were fusion Indian and Mexican. Interesting combination for sure! We also shared the Bhaji Pav and lemon grass chai. Everything was FANTASTIC!!! There are so many delectable items on the menu. Doug and I will definitely be back for more. read more

Appu's Cafe - Potato tacos with turmeric potatoes and cumin rice - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

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i don't understand the rave reviews. perhaps it's good for the vegetarian indian community, but i've had better. simple as that. i wish i could like it more. the veggie quesadilla: meh. more on the veggie side, not so much on the queso. mushroom soup: alright. hoping it had all the flavors but it didn't. maharaja burrito: super carb heavy. yelp check in gets you a free chai which is nice. read more

EVERYTHING here is good! I especially love the lemongrass soup. I could eat a barrel of it. The service is great. Very nice people. We did take out so I'm not sure if there were places to sit somewhere inside or not. But, it didn't matter because I could throw my feet up and eat that soup on a rainy day and I preferred it that way. Soooo good and clean tasting! read more

I was craving Indian food and was astonished that this place called Appu's Cafe had such spectacular ratings! And they were only about a ten minute drive away! As a result, I decided to check them out; it being my first time. I ended up ordering the MAHARAJA BURRITO, MUSHROOM SOUP, and LEMONGRASS CHAI (which is only available hot) for takeout. I ordered over the phone and the lady who took the order gave me an estimate for pickup. When the time came for pickup, my order was piping hot and ready. The wonderful owner even waited to prepare my LEMONGRASS CHAI until I came (the process where they pour from high-on-up over and over into an alternating cup)--so cool to watch. The LEMONGRASS CHAI was so flavorful and relaxing. The lemongrass flavor was subtle enough to enhance the flavor of the chai, but not overpower it. My only suggestion is if you could double-cup for take out because my fingers were about to burn off because the cup was so hot but I didn't want to waste my money in dropping it. The MAHARAJA BURRITO definitely had a unique taste that could summarize all of India's flavors mixed together and wrapped in a tortilla. It's definitely pumped full of flavor and so big, I was able to have it for lunch and dinner. The MUSHROOM SOUP was also just as amazing. The creamy-milkiness of the soup paired well with plain white rice (which was what I had for leftovers the next day). The only downside was the small layer of oil/fat floating on top (which was no biggie because I scooped it out). Would definitely love to come back and maybe try a panini! read more

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Upon making a lab delivery last week to an office in the same building as Appu's Cafe, I was intrigued by the delicious smells. I decided to check out the menu & give them a try. Bring it was my first time, I inquired for a recommendation from the young man working. He suggested an entree called vegan mushroom masala. It was AMAZING. To my surprise they don't use grease or hot plates to heat up or cook their food. Instead they use a cooking method called induction cooking which keeps the glycemic levels low in all of their food. I decided to go back today, the owner was there & recommended I try the Saag Aloo Paneer which is now a new favorite of mine! They craft delicious beverages as well, today I enjoyed the mango laasi- delicious. read more

Appu's has two cafe's. I love the original cafe (on Woodruff) ! And the new cafe ("Tumeric Cafe" on Palos Verdes near CSULB) which has a some of the dishes of the original and some new deliciousness! Everything tastes so wonderful! The owner VR and his team are so kind, friendly and amazing. They go out of their way to make you feel special and like you are apart of the family. No matter how difficult my day has been, I know they will provide Indian fusion healthy taste delights, friendly service and smiles. I always leave smiling. When you go, definitely try the tacos! My favorites are the potato tacos (Woodruff), paneer tikka tacos (Woodruff and Palos Verdes) and saag paneer tacos (Palos Verdes). I also love the mango lassi (Woodruff and Palos Verdes) and cardamom chai (Woodruff). I love gulab jamun that they offer at Palos Verdes but haven't had a chance to try it yet due to gluten sensitivities. But when I was a kid I never passed up a chance to get at this desert. If you can, try it and let me know what an incredible experience experience you had. As you can tell I am a HUGE fan, and I never miss an opportunity to go, and now it's easier then ever because the Tumeric Cafe on Palos Verdes is usually on my way from running errands. Big thank you to all my friends at Appu's! I'll see you soon. read more

The oddest thing it is behind the medical building not easy to see. But wow this is a gem. Vegi and Vegan. If your Edge come and get some. XXX read more

Appu's Cafe - Such nice folks. - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

Great service, great food! I had their vegan mushroom masala. Yum. Will be back asap. read more

I tried four different entrees and a mango banana smoothie, and everything was delicious. The Health Mex Burrito was probably my favorite. They made it with biryani instead of plain rice, which gave it a great flavor with an Indian twist. The Maharaja Burrito was a close runner-up. I've never tasted a burrito that compares to this and highly recommended it. The Spinach Enchiladas were good. My two-year-old and four-year-old devoured the biryani that came with it. The Taco Salad was interesting and more citric than I expected, but adding two spoonfuls of black beans toned it down and made it just right for me. I would not order it again because I prefer the Black Bean Avocado Salad. read more

Who would have ever thought one of the best Indian restaurants would be tucked away inside the local Woodruff community hospital, Over 700 five star reviews, worth The Visit read more

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I like this place and the friendly people who run it. I will give it five stars when they have expanded their menu.

Absolutely incredible! Delicious food spot! Highly recommend! I love the inconspicuous location, hidden in the back of a medical building, as soon as we walked up they greeted us and kindly suggested something to order since we told them it was our first time. I ordered mushroom soup, Saag Aloo Paneer, Vegan Yellow Lentil Soup and flat bread, omg the flat bread! I really wanted to order more but had to hold back, will definitely come back and try other delicious dishes. Left this place feeling so good and so happy. read more

Appu's Cafe - Mushroom soup - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

Appu's Cafe is the definition of a hole in a wall. Hidden storefront, check. 1 woman show, check. Prices that put fast food "deals" to shame, check. And most importantly, there's a line! I was skeptical upon walking in as prior to that, Google directed me into a lot that only contained a medical building - no cafe in sight. But after looping around the back, I had an "aha" moment. Google WAS telling the truth. Despite being in the back of a medical office, make no mistake, Appu's Cafe does not serve typical hospital food with a kitchen run by dreary staff members. 1 lady, and 1 lady only was running the entire kitchen/cash register in a cheery demeaner, and despite not being ethnically Indian (I think), she could cook some legit Indian food. Let us start with the soups - the spinach/mushroom soup ($5ish for a bowl) mixed together packed a punch. It was quite creamy and curry spiced to perfection, with a considerable amount of veggies. Since it was our first visit too, the lady offered us soup samples and honestly, I could say you can't go wrong with any of them. Get some sourdough bread on the side to dip into it and you got yourself a meal. Or better yet, add a bowl of soup to any meal to use as a kind of dipping sauce for extra flavor explosion! Though the eggplant panini ($7ish) didn't really fall into the Indian cuisine category, I'd say get it anyway! Who knew that a sandwich, let alone a vegetarian one, could ever taste this delish?! With mozzarella, tomatoes, and breaded eggplant, it was essentially a eggplant parmesan in sandwich form, and I couldn't agree with it any more. Paired with a salad, it was more than enough for one person. I also got to try the Maharaja burrito ($7ish) which was again, flavored nicely with Indian spices, but honestly had a bit too much rice for my liking. And I could go on about how this lady had mad talent on spinning the most ordinary lunch foods into something extraordinary in flavor, but her talents don't end there. She was a great host and multitasker from the very start - providing recommendations on the spot, checking in to see if the food was alright, and staying calm and courteous as the line grew longer. And this was all as she continued cooking on the single stovetop that somehow made all the dishes that flew out of this kitchen. Talk about impressive. Appu's Cafe is essentially your mother's kitchen if she could cook some mean Indian food, and so if you're looking for a solid lunch option made with love and care, don't turn away from this spot! Just make sure you got some time, as naturally with one burner, dishes can only be made so quickly. P.S. Most dishes are vegetarian here so if your New Year's resolution is to eat more plant-based then here ya go! read more

Appu's Cafe - Eggplant panini - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

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I first heard about this place on Atlas obscura, and over the years people have told me to come. I've never really made it because their hours were limited, but I stopped in for lunch today and was impressed. The food was very good, but the care that the owner clearly puts into the place is just over the top. Five Stars -- and these are the kind of five stars that mean truly exceptional. I'll be back again and again. read more

OMG! Everything is wonderful. Located in the back of the building. The hours changed but definitely for the better. The drinks are so good so listen to them if they offer a special tea blend, it's good. read more

My husband and I have quickly become regulars at Appu's. For years when I was a vegan I had meant to try out this quaint cafe, but I never got around to it. Now that I'm just a regular eater I've come to love this place and am happy that EVERYONE will find something they like. While the Maharaja has a cult following, I'm starting the next cult following for the Dr.'s Special breakfast burrito. A MUST try if you're new to this place. My husband branches out a little more than I do and has come to love their veggie quesadilla, Nelly's protein bowl, and their croissant omelet (HIGHLY RECOMMEND). I think as someone who has never grown up around Indian cuisine, this fusion cafe is the best introduction and I'm now finding myself seeking more spices and vegetable options. Also a note: if you can try ordering through their website, it makes everything more convenient. Happy eating! Update: adding another photo just to better show off their new 911 Chutney side. Despite the name it is not too spicy, just a perfect blend of spices and herbs that go well on ALL of their items! I even diluted mine in the Pico de Gallo juice to save for other foods later. read more

Appu's Cafe - Croissant Omelet, Doctors Special Burrito, 911 Chutney, Pico de Gallo - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

Dr. VR is an excellent chef w a wonderful personality. Had the mushroom soup last wk & yellow lentil soup today. Both times w turmeric rice & flat bread. Highly recommended read more

Appu's Cafe - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

Very good and healthy food. Call 15 min prior to pick up for it to be ready, because it gets busy. My favorite is the veggie quesadilla with rice and beans. read more

Appu's Cafe - Veggie quesadilla platter - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

THIS PLACE IS A HIDDEN GEM!!! Their appu panini and the house salad with a mango Lassy is always my go to order! Can't go wrong with this little hole in the wall. read more

When I say that this place exceeds all expectations.... That is an understatement. My father heard about this place on NPR and so for his birthday, we went. When we pulled up, we were a bit confused but we saw a sign in the back of the building that read, "Appu's cafe" towards a non-descript door. We entered the building and started reading the menu that was in the hallway of his hospital building. A man calls out to us since we were standing at the entrance of the restaurant (there were chairs that were blocking the entrance, dine-in was not allowed at this establishment which is fine because there were tables outside!) and greets us. We tell him that we heard his restaurant was on NPR, he thanks us and offers us tastes of his soup that way the coule recommend the proper dishes for us since we were first-timers. We each chose a sample of the soup that he has (I got the mushroom soup) and tried it and we were immediately hooked. Each of the soups had so much flavor (the BEST one was the mushroom soup!) and he began telling us what dishes we should order. Not only that, he encouraged us to get more bread than we already ordered (we were skeptical, but we listened). We ordered: The Maharaja - burrito w/mushroom masala, saang paneer, cheese & secret sauce Crunchy Vegan Samosa Potato Tacos Paneer Tikka Masala 4 pieces of flat bread The Maharaja is a MUST order. So flavorful & delicious - I honestly forgot that it didn't have meat in it. Crunchy Vegan Samosa - I have to say that I'm not a fan of samosas, but after eating his, I think my mind has absolutely changed. It was inside this kind of soup substance that paired absolutely well with it. My father ordered the potato tacos and they were incredible. My favorite: the paneer tikka masala came in a bowl with a side of turmeric rice. So delightfully creamy, just the right amount of spiciness, and the fluffiest rice I've ever eaten. Not only that, the bread? WOW. If you've never had bread that practically melts in your mouth, congrats. It'll be your first time. If he suggests ordering more bread than what you're ordering, LISTEN TO HIM. We regretted not ordering at least five more pieces. Ignore the price - it's completely worth it. 1000% coming back. Do NOT be deceived by the way this restaurant looks. It's a wonderful place and we plan to make the drive to come back here again soon. read more

The food here really is a good as everyone says it is. And the people who work here are super, super friendly. It's a bit hard to find being part of a medical center building that's 8-9 stories tall? Had the mango lassi, the Maharaja, and the mushroom soup. It's all really quite good. And super filling. Will definitely come back to try other things on the menu. Covid was serendipitous for them as their business boomed during covid. read more

My son and I stopped by Appu's cafe for an afternoon snack today. (He had noticed the aromas from the kitchen while visiting a doctor in the same building and was convinced there was something to discover). And what a discovery !! The food is - in one word - special. Really only something you're going to get in the unique cultural melting pot of So Cal. I'm of Indian origin so I am specially demanding - this combination of Indian and Mexican fusion lived up to its promise. I had the Samosa chaat and my son had the mushroom speciality with cumin rice and flat bread. We both loved the taste and highly recommend it. The owner is a former doctor who pays attention to masking and hygiene. Which was much appreciated. He is also very helpful in deciding what to get and he has retired into this passion - which shows. He also focuses on veg / vegan and the result is great. I finally found a place that does a lactose free mango lassi which I got to taste and will go back for. The lemongrass Chai was sensational - it's specially milled by the owner I understand. The owner is very engaging - this is a great find and my only hesitation now is that everyone is going to discover it :-) Having to find the location on the ground floor of a medical services building makes the experience even more of a pleasurable discovery. read more

One of us ordered tacos, and the other had a burrito. The food is fresh, and the burrito was pretty big. Their menu is fairly limited, but that should not stop you from trying them out as a healthy option when dining out. read more

The food and customer service is 10/10! If you're looking for a healthy breakfast that tastes flavorful, look no further. I add cheese and avocado to my omelette croissant and it never disappoints. read more

Appu's Cafe - Doctors Special Burrito and Croissant Omelette are my absolute favorites! - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

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There's a reason this place has 5 stars and 700 reviews. So delicious!!!! If you're looking for cheap, healthy Indian food, come here! Definitely will be back. Get the blend of the mushroom and spinach soup! Creamy and filling. Great for CSULB students ! Super close by. read more

Appu's Cafe - King burrito - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

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The food is such a delight and the company of the lady making the food makes it even better! She's from Mexico but makes some mean Vegan Indian food I had a bowl of garbanzo soup and an eggplant panini, and as I was eating my sandwich, people keep walking in from all around to pick up the same thing... a maharajah burrito, which she told me was her number one seller. Oooooh that soup was devilishly spicy, but I loved every bit of it through my tears. Initially I was going to just have black lentil soup but she insisted I try all her soups first: the mushroom soup, then the yellow lentil and finally the garbanzo soup. It was like a little wine tasting...she gave me a little cup of each, and they got progressively spicier. As I sat, we chatted about how she came to be making Indian food in a medical building. She had fallen into the job, learning from the owner after initially taking care of his kids. As we talked, people came and picked up food, and it turned out that the people in the medical bldg didn't like the smell of curry and were more interested in meat dishes, which meant most of her clients were yelpers. Ironic, as the business just inside the door is a "colon health" place: black beans and lentils are probably just about the healthiest food you can have if you're looking out for your colon's health. Thanks but I'd rather stick with healthy food now than have to stop by colon place to get a coffee enema... read more

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I was very intrigued by the reviews and love supporting a good mom-and-pop business. The reviews & pin location helped me find the cafe as well. I was surprised to see such a small space though. I guess they don't need much as they mostly cater to the employees & patients of the hospital. The owner was so warm and inviting, letting us know about today's specials. I ordered the Lemongrass Chai Tea, which I Loved, and the Rice Bowl with mushroom soup. I didn't realize till I got my order that the mushroom soup is poured into the bowl. I liked how the bowl was topped with a little cheese and baked. The mild, yet flavorful spices made each bite a delight to the last morsel! My bf got Appu's Panini with tomato, mozzarella and basil. The chef/owner even added a complimentary salad. Both were delicious and just the right portion, too! Definitely 5 stars for the food and service. It's not exactly a spot you want to come to with a bunch of friends, or a first date, though. There are only a couple small tables outside and a row of about 5 seats inside with a short counter and that hospital, fluorescent lighting. read more

Appu's Cafe - The Rice Bowl with Mushroom Soup - Recommend! - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

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Wow, such a hole-in-the wall place that is somewhat hard to find and not a typical place one would even see walking around. As mentioned in all of the other reviews, this little cafe is indeed inside of a medical office, but please don't let that discourage you from coming in and trying it. Their soups are delicious, their Maharaja is amazing, and I feel like anything else you'd find in the menu would be just as good. I've been meaning to come here for a long time, especially since I've been watching what I eat, and it's so close to my home. Well, I finally got to try it, and the hype is all there. The lady working behind the counter was so friendly, and let me try the spinach soup before deciding on it. Will definitely be returning soon, and am very happy to know that this place exists in our neighborhood. Will be back! read more

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Everything was so good. Was definitely worth the wait. I really enjoyed the protein bowl. Super flavorful and without meat. read more

Appu's Cafe - Protein bowl - Vegan Near Me - Long Beach, California

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You should definitely come here and try their mango smoothie or their wraps. Their service is above and beyond. There is a nice little spot outside that is perfect to eat a meal. read more

Stopped here randomly and happy I did. The front staff was so knowledgeable about all their items and products gave me lots of information and feedback on their foods and what I like and dislike. read more

Occasionally I fine that one dish that tantalizes my taste buds, and I can't stop thinking about it. It doesn't happen very often, but I've found it at Appu's Café. The Samosa Chat for only $8.25 is heavenly comfort food in a cup. This vegan dish consists of a baked samosa submerged in a spicy garbanzo soup, topped with tamarind and mint chutney and garnished with cilantro. The samosa pastry shell soaks up the soup, yet maintains just enough crunch on the corners to balance the textures. I can't wait to have it again. The cardamom chai tea is also worth a try for those who enjoy some of the more pronounced flavors of India. This version made with plant based milk brought back memories of street side tea in Kolkata. I loved it! 5 stars of love for this hidden gem and it's peculiar location in the back side of a medical building. read more

I had the Maharaja burrito, spicy Cali style today. Definitely will be going back. The ingredients were fresh and the flavor was wonderful. As someone who is not afraid to try different cuisines, I can tell you it amply surpassed my expectations of a vegan burrito. The texture, tortilla filling capacity and construction was perfect, with a nice,flat panini-type press sear on the exterior. It has a nice spice/heat to it without detracting from the flavor. No surprise it's the n00b choice for a first visit. Park in the back of the medical building parking lot. The cafe is nestled right in the back. read more

Good clean food, filling but not heavy. Staff is super friendly. I will be coming back for more. It's hard to feel full and satisfied and not like I've eaten unhealthily. Great place. This is my third visit in a few years and I'll remember to return more often. I had the FreshMex burrito this time and some of their more traditional dishes previously. Everything was tasty. TIP: Order ahead, the wait was 30 minutes today read more