Needless to say Blackbird Cafe use to be a well-kept secret in Valparaiso. Bunch of good looking people running it and serving up. And the secret is no more the aliens have landed. read more

First time visit tonight. Staff was fantastic and even offered to warm the cherry chai pie for us. The grogg coffee is amazing. Atmosphere comfortable. Impromptu rendezvous with family from Chicago this evening for dinner. Blackbird is a good place for our group to continue our dinner discussion from earlier, but now over dessert. read more

Blackbird Cafe - Cherry chai pie! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Valparaiso, Indiana

My favorite coffee shop in Valparaiso. Food is consistently good, the prices are fair. A great spot to sit, relax and just hang out.

Oh, mannn--took a gamble and won. A friend and I met in Valpo for lunch. Since we are not from there, we asked a random person for a coffee shop recommendation. She suggested this one and another, which she described as more upscale. Since we were not feeling all that fancy, we headed over. The wrap I got was delicious but it could not compare at all to the tomato and red pepper soup. That was the BEST tomato soup I've had in my life and one of the best soups, overall. Can you get a good cup o' joe here? Absolutely! If you want to be wowed, though, get that soup! BONUS - they have a patio. :) read more

Cute. Cozy. Comfortable. You can tell this is a local favorite with its busy crowd on a Thursday afternoon, and I can see why! The baristas are very friendly, local photographs cover the walls, and the smell of coffee fills the air. I knew I was going to fall in love with this little coffee shop located in downtown Valpo when I immediately saw that their featured drink for the month was "Eggnog Latte." With each sip, I felt like I was drinking Christmas. To make it even better, the shop serves different pastries, sandwiches, and soups. I recommend getting the warm and delicious chicken noodle soup, especially for a cold winter day! The only con about this place is that it is pretty chilly inside. I felt like I couldn't take off my scarf or hat because I kept feeling a breeze! Overall though, if you are needing to get work done (they have fast WiFi!) or just want to relax with music/a good read, this is the place to go! read more

Blackbird Cafe - Eggnog latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Valparaiso, Indiana

So, I came here yesterday with a friend for brunch and had really been looking forward to it. I had been here once before, but it was YEARS ago. I didn't really remember anything about Blackbird other than it was a cute cafe with plenty of options to choose from. When we arrived, we picked a table and I awkwardly glanced around for a food menu. Fortunately, the girl at the counter noticed and offered one to me. They keep the food menus in a wooden box on the counter. So I grabbed one for me and one for my friend and we sat down to decide what we wanted. My friend order the fantastic breakfast sandwich and a chai tea latte, and I went with the ham and apple panini. We put in our orders, and our food came out in less than five minutes. My friend LOVED her food, me, not so much. The menu describes the panini as having a honey mustard on it, but the mustard they use tasted like straight up yellow mustard, and it was NOT my favorite. I honestly thought they put the wrong mustard on the sandwich by mistake. The flavor of it was so overpowering it ruined the sandwich. In an effort to find out if someone just used the wrong mustard, I returned to the counter and asked for an extra side of their honey mustard. They got one for me, and yeah, it was the same disgusting mustard as before. I've never tasted a "honey" mustard so lacking in honey flavor. I asked my friend to try it and she agreed it was terrible. I decided not to complain, as I had ordered this sandwich and they clearly made it as described in their menu, however, I would never recommend it to anyone, nor would I order it again. I honestly liked the coziness of the cafe and the friendliness of the staff, and would absolutely give it another go... but I think I'd be hesitant to order anything with condiments on it, for fear that what I'm accustomed to is not the same as what they supply. read more

This is in my top "go to restaurants". Love their salads and the Gorgonzola dill dressing.. so yummy. The prices are very fair and the food is so good. I like everything . Delicious sweets also. I come up from Florida often and if i eat out and its my choice, It is here or Uptown Cafe. Blackbird is always #1. read more

I met a friend and we ended up coming into Valpo for the afternoon and walked the square and hoped there was a coffee shop or something nearby. I actually stopped in another business and asked them what they recommended, and then told me about Blackbird Cafe. This place isn't what people come to expect thanks to Starbucks. It's what a coffee house used to look like before they became mass produced. Posters hang off the walls advertising local bands and weekend activities. The room is kind of dark with people sipping their lattes and using the free wifi. The menu is written in chalk and freshly made pies, homemade oreos and vegan friendly carrot cake sit waiting for someone to order them. Everything here is made in house and most of the food is either gluten free, vegan friendly, or organic. I went with a chai made with almond milk and a slice of the carrot cake bread. I intended to share the bread, but once I got started on it, there was little left to share. I did think that the center of the bread was a little dry, but that might just be me since mt friends joke that I think everything is dry. Still,. I left with a smile on my face because I found a true, authentic coffee house located in downtown Valpo. read more

Blackbird Cafe is an excellent place to study, relax, and hang out with friends. They are almost always packed on the weekends and the staff is very welcoming. I especially like their iced mocha because it's not watered down with ice like most places. read more

Driving from Chicago to Western PA and needed some serious breakfast sandwiches for our trip and this place did not disappoint. Both my sister and I ordered the fantastic breakfast sandwich with arugula, roasted red peppers, cheese and pesto plus added ham. Also we subbed bagels for the sourdough. They we're so delicious, egg was fresh, and the toppings were all delicious. If I lived here I'd be here all the time! read more

Blackbird Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Valparaiso, Indiana

I love to stop in here and the only problem is I have trouble deciding on the menu. This week, I had fresh homemade peach pie for lunch- Why not? So delicious. But I like the Quiche and the sandwiches and the salads- all reasonable pricing! read more

Blackbird is my favorite spot when traveling through Valparaiso. They have a huge variety of lunch items from sandwiches and wraps to salads and soups. I'm not a huge coffee drinker, but they have one of my favorite iced lattes. downside- it's a little loud inside (but manageable) and I don't love their bakery items. The cookies are a little dry... My favorites are the harvest salad and the hummus wrap. read more

Blackbird Cafe - Harvest salad - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Valparaiso, Indiana

This going to be short and sweet theirvApple Pie Chai drink is the bomb. To bad I don't live here because this place I would frequent regular just to get my fix. read more

my favorite coffee house!! I go here almost every week with friends and family! the best environment & they have amazing art work read more

Great quality, price, and vibes! The red eye was spot on. The blackbird omelet sandwich on a bagel was great. I would order both again.

Went there with my mom and her cousin because I remembered getting one of Blackbird Cafe's chocolate chip cookies at a farmers market once. Very tasty. My mom had a panini that had chicken and pesto. I tried a bite and it was pretty good. Her cousin and I had the pulled pork and it was decent enough. Not the best I have ever had but still good. They sell soda by the can so no refills. Plenty of really good drinks though. One thing I did notice but thought strange is that before we left I got a small mocha and my moms cousin got a large. The same amount of coffee was put in both. My small was super strong which was fine but I couldn't taste the mocha. In the large it was just fine! read more

Blackbird Cafe - Gluten and vegan items here!! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Valparaiso, Indiana

Very fine selection of coffees and pastries. Impressed with their selection of alternative milks. Enjoyed the vegan zucchini bread. Indoor and outdoor seating. Gathering place for locals. Minus 1 star for the somewhat grody condition of their bathroom. read more

This is the best little place to hangout and chat with friends in valpo. The place has a fantastic atmosphere and the servers are great. I have no real complaints other than they need a bigger flat. If you like coffee this is where you should go in valpo. Their chi tea is also incredible. read more

Blackbird Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Valparaiso, Indiana

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I'm one of those people that order the same thing over and over from every restaurant because every time I try something new I am disappointed. Blackbird is the only place I've ever been that I'm pleased any time I try something new. This is where my loyalty has been since it opened, and I will continue to do so. We are so lucky. Also every time I buy coffee in a place I feel like I have to buy a fancy drink because I feel like I can make coffee at home. But their regular coffee is so good in itself that that is what I usually get. Although their specialty drinks are also amazing. Also their tea is amazing. read more

Great harvest salad- fresh with healthy toppings and great scones! Parking during week days is hard to get, but it's a great place for breakfast or lunch. read more

I love this cafe! The ambiance gives you a cozy feeling! the food is amazing, best part is we get vegetarian food here. Yay!! The menu has a variety of food selection from amazing hot soups to hot/cold sandwiches to pastries! And everything that I've had till now has been delicious! The cafe is always filled and crowded, but it's worth it. The cabbage and tomato soup was really good, I which comes with a side of bread. Good for the cold weather. I've tried the tomato mozzarella panini and veggie burger, which comes with either a side Salad or fruit salad or chips (your choice) . Both the entree's were delicious! I've also tried the banana walnut bread, which is gluten free and scrumptious! Overall I love this cafe! One of my favorites at valpo! read more

Delicious sandwiches, awesome selection of baked goods, amazing coffee, relaxed and comfortable atmosphere...easily my favorite place in Valpo! read more

Made a quick stop on a Chicago-Fort Wayne trip. Good pastry selection, good coffee, nice people. Will be back next time I am driving by!

A cute little place downtown Valpo has to offer. It's a very tiny, hole in the wall kind of place. They do have pretty good coffee, and the snacks really didn't look all that appetizing. I would come again for the french press Kona. But to me its kind of dirty inside and the inside hasn't been updated in many years. read more

Excellent place to meet, study, and eat. The owners and staff are knowledgeable and friendly. The quiche is divine! They are constantly developing new recipes, as well as showcasing family favorites. Different art is displayed on the walls, always giving the cafe a fresh new look. There is plenty of space to spread out to work or study, get together with friends, or anything! It is my favorite place in the area to meet with clients! They are also totally flexible! I needed to feed 25 people at a meeting, but had forgotten to place my order ahead of time. They had a gorgeous assortment of muffins and scones ready by the time I pulled up, and everyone was thrilled! I'm over Starbucks and you should be too! read more

It's nice in that it's an independent coffee shop. I like the exposed brick and it's a comfortable atmosphere. Sometimes it's pretty crowded so no chance to have a seat, which is unfortunate, but a good problem to have, I guess. Service? Fine, if you know the people that work behind the counter, apparently. I was there with what looked like a new gal behind the counter (no problem there; if someone's new there's no problem with a learning curve), but when someone came up to help her out, rather than talk to the next person in line (me), I was ignored and the gal behind me got to place her order before I could. Makes you feel important!! read more

Stopped in here one morning for a quick bite. Walking in, we didn't really know whether to sit and wait or go up to the counter and order...nothing is marked. No one greeted us when we came in either... Finally, just went up to the counter and ordered a muffin and a slice of quiche with an iced coffee. I explained to the woman working there that we'd never been there before and she still offered no help. The muffin was dry and boring...the quiche was soggy and water logged on the bottom, but had potential...the iced coffee was far too strong but tasty enough to finish. Forgettable and boring...kind of sad. read more

Outstanding food for a coffee shop. Pretzel roll BLT is the hottest innovation in the game. Best pretzel roll I have had in ages, and not too thick in relation to the other ingredients. The mayo also has a nice, subtle kick to it. Atmosphere is fairly contemporary, yet warm and inviting with exposed brick walls, handpainted art work, abundant tables, and couch seating. Blackbird would be a legit coffee shop in any city, not just Valparaiso. read more

This place is well-named. They have food as well as coffee. The space is long and narrow, with many small tables to accommodate the many solo patrons. There's also sofa seating up front, so your Nietzsche discussion group can really get it on. I've tried a few of their gluten-free pastries, and gawked at the ginormous home-made oreos on the case. Those could probably instantly make you diabetic. The coffee I had was good. They give you a cup and you can self-serve from the set out carafes. I've also tried a well-made latte, served in a large mug for in-store consumption. I expect more visits in the future... read more

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First review of 2015! I can think of nothing better than kicking off the new Yelp year with one of my favorite hang-outs. As cafes go, Blackbird is not the most original or exceptional coffeehouse I've ever been to, but it's definitely the best place in Valpo for coffee and a comfortable workspace. First off, the coffee is great. In addition to a solid house blend, they also have decent dark and mild roasts. All of their mixed drinks I have ever had have been spot on, and they also have a pretty good selection of loose-leaf teas. On top of solid brew, Blackbird also has great bistro food--homemade sandwiches, soups, pastries, and a good breakfast menu. There are a lot worse places you can go to get a bite to eat. The atmosphere is very typical cafe--a few well-worn sofas and about a dozen simple tables. The place is cozy with a somewhat eclectic decor. It does get a bit loud during peak hours, but it is still a decent place to meet friends or get some work done. read more

Blackbird is a solid coffee shop in the heart of Valpo. I really enjoy having them there as it breaks up the monotony that is lincolnway with something cool and a spot to stop, collaborate and listen. Coffee was good, however I think there were too many food options. The food we had was pretty tasty, but I think if they honed in on exactly what they are offering and specialize in that, they could be very very successful! Keep it up! read more

Stood at the counter for minutes being ignored by two staff members standing w their backs turned in the kitchen gabbing and playing on their phones. When I said "excuse me" one turned around and lazily said I'll be right with you and continued texting and closing apps. No thanks, I'll take my business elsewhere. What a joke. read more

We came for desert and we were very happy with the choices. I had a sugar free rice milk latte. It was very good! They have gluten free options too. Cute place and friendly staff- I'd go back. read more

Blackbird Cafe - Entrance - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Valparaiso, Indiana

Blackbird Cafe catered my friend's wedding this past weekend. I think that's worth noting at the beginning of my review because I can only speak to the food at the wedding. During pre-dinner cocktails, we had grilled flatbread, hummus, a veggie spread, and artichoke dip. The grilled flatbread was light, but had the texture and density of a thicker rustic cracker. They were topped (infused, most likely) with a delicate pesto. The artichoke dip was true to its base ingredients and didn't taste like a jar of mayo. The hummus was thick and balanced, but without any overacting from tahini or cumin (the usual culprits). It was some of the best hummus I've had in a long time. Our meal was comprised of couscous with walnuts and dried cranberries; a black bean and red onion salad; a mixed greens salad with toppings of walnuts, apples, and gorgonzola (and three different dressings to choose from: italian and herb; balsamic vinaigrette; and gorgonzola); we were also given the option of chicken or veggie pot pie. The pot pies were prepared in large tins with a crossed puff pastry topping. The couscous was a game changer. It was delicate, but firm; the perfect al dente. It was an exercise in texture contrasts, as the walnuts provided a crunch for the chewiness of the cranberry and the soft couscous. The pot pie was incredible. The crust was flaky but forgiving (I would guess it was made with lard or crisco and not butter). The crust was firm enough to maintain the structural integrity of the pie, but light enough that it easily pressed apart with the push of a fork. The pie had perfectly cooked chicken breast and a light gravy that brought the varied vegetable flavors together. For dessert, we had a key lime tart, an apple pie, and a dark chocolate tart. The apple pie crust was phenomenal, but the pie could have used more filling. I should say that the apple pie was not just a vehicle for cinnamon and sugar (which is too often the case). The key lime tart and the dark chocolate tart each had a beautiful crust and a delicate, whipped (but set and firm) filling. The only thing stopping me from going to Blackbird Cafe in the near future is geography. Valparaiso has a hidden gem. read more

Neat atmosphere, and lots of good coffees to choose from! If you're looking for a Starbucks, you might want to look elsewhere, since they don't seem to have very many things like syrup to add to their espresso drinks, but what they have, is great. The staff here is pretty friendly, and there's something on the menu for everyone. There's also a book exchange along the back wall that I'm a huge fan of these places having. Will return again. read more

Was in area recently and had a taste for a sandwich. I passed by one cafe on Lincolnway but as I approached downtown Valpo, I saw this place and was curious as I saw on the window sandwiches and coffee. Walked in and got a good vibe about the place......saw the varied menu and decided to try a blue reuben sandwich (blue cheese instead of russian/thousand island). They gave me the choice of a side salad, regular potato chips, or kettle chips. To drink I decided on an iced coffee. Found a place to sit down after doctoring up my coffee and shortly thereafter, they served my sandwich. Good portions (nice sized sandwich and a generous amount of chips). Nice way to spend a summer Saturday afternoon in smaller town USA. There is a great variety of food here (sandwiches and wraps, breakfasty type foods, and bakery) and drinks (hot/cold from sodas to coffee to specialty drinks). If ever in the area and the mood strikes, I will give this place another try. read more

I was ecstatic to find a mom & pop coffeehouse near me once I moved away from the city. Blackbird hits the spot. In fact, it is almost too much like the coffee shops in Chicago, and that is the crowds and inconsistent service. These are the reasons I did not give them 5 stars. I love the food, the coffee, even the ambience (when it is not prime time), but too often I find myself unable to find a place to sit, and the noise can get overwhelming during their busy hours, as well. The service is usually polite, but often curt and rushed. Occasionally, I have felt like my order is an imposition. It is probably that the baristas and bakers are overworked. I feel like I see them advertising for help all too often. They could use a better system for the food and drink service. They want me to listen for my name, but I cannot always hear over the noise, and it is often cramped or too crowded to get to my drink. This is one of those places that suffers a bit for its popularity. They would benefit greatly from expansion. I love that they always have local art in rotation on the walls, free books to peruse, and (usually) good music playing. The patrons here have always been polite, offering to share space at their table or, in once instance, one man gave up his table up for myself, my disabled mother and my baby. Truly awesome. It has been a few months since I have been back. It's just far enough from home that I have to make an effort to get over there. I wish I had more time, money, and energy to visit the cafe more often (and during their slower hours). read more

Busy neat place. Lots of desserts and foods. I ordered an espresso drink, not my favorite flavor of espresso, but decent read more

I am a regular there at Blackbird Cafe. I'm glad it is close to my office because when I don't have time to bring my food to work or go elsewhere; I always know I can get good quality food and service there. It is why I'm a regular. read more

Good coffee, good service, and wonderful pastries. I really like Blackbird's atmosphere. The staff was always wonderful and refreshing. I usually could have a good music conversation while getting coffee. The tea selection is pretty amazing as well. Blackbird Cafe was a great retreat for my year in Valpo. read more