Finally got to try out this neighborhood spot! I always drive by this spot and it's always bustling with people and I can tell why. It's the perfect place to catch up with your friends and family, study or do work, or simply grabbing a quick bite. It gave me very a warm fuzzy community feeling. As for food, I'd say it was secondary to the feeling and experience this spot gave me. Food was mediocre. Feels kinda like something you can spin up in your mom's kitchen, but it does the job! It's like grabbing a homemade bite. I got the breakfast sandwich and it was way too much bread, not enough filling, and no seasoning...like something I'd quickly throw together at home. I wouldn't exactly say I recommend this place for delicious and scrumptious flavors, but definitely a lazy Sunday morning spot! read more

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This place used to be great But my last trip in the pastries were small and day old and the prices were higher Lesser food higher price is not a winning combo These guys never had really warm service but that's also not a stand out It's too bad read more

I hadn't been to Blue Dot in years and I am thrilled to say, not much has changed. Good vibes, great food, fast service and a clean welcoming space. There are yummy grab and go baked goods and made to order breakfast options. Bathroom was clean, coffee was hot and the avocado toast was DELICIOUS! read more

Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar - Avocado Toast- so yummy! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Alameda, California

The Blue Dot salad is just always delicious and filling. I cannot bring myself to stray. Coffee and iced teas are likewise divine. Easy seating inside & out. read more

Coffee is great, it's a good place to get work done when you need to get out of the house on a rainy - or not rainy day. Service is quick. They play a lot of good music. read more

they should definitely stop selling coffee. literally selling hot black water as coffee. but the atmosphere and banana bread is 10/10. read more

Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Alameda, California

Fun neighborhood breakfast coffee shop. We ordered the salad and avocado toast and they were kind enough to split the dishes. read more

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Blue Dot is the bomb! they never disappoint. Coffee is bold, food is delicious, and atmosphere is cozy/chill. I can even bring my kids here because they've got a kids menu and high chairs for babies. Great community coffee spot and hang out spot in Alameda. Service was polite and quick! We got our food within 5 min of ordering. Sandwiches are great for lunch. I've never tried their breakfast but it looks tasty. The tuna sandwich had dill which was a surprisingly nice touch. The baked goods are extra tempting and delicious too. I'm a latte girl, so I'm glad they have a lot of different flavors depending on my mood. Honey cinnamon or lavender is my favorite. Skip basic coffee spots like Starbucks or Peet's and come here instead! read more

Blue Dot is a neighborhood gem serving up delicious breakfast and lunch options in the heart of Alameda. Their food is always fresh and delicious and great for a quick bite or for take out. I highly recommend their Chilaquiles Verdes w/ 2 Poached Eggs (available Tuesday thru Friday) and Poached Egg Sandwich w/ bacon & pepper jack. Their tasty pastry options are absolutely delicious and freshly made and are not too sweet. You can't come here and not order a pastry. Just don't do it. My favorite is the toasted almond and current scones made to perfection. A perfect option with their delicious coffee. If you eat there you get free refills so I'd recommend getting a small coffee to go with your pastry. This cafe is owned operated by a couple and the wife is always there assisting her staff and clearing the counters. This place you order your food at the counter and take a seat and someone will bring you your food. Not a restaurant where you have a personal server. But best believe the wife and staff are super friendly and accommodating and make your experience very pleasant. The average cost for 2 people is about $40 but I think the quality of food and service are worth it. The cafe is brightly decorated with art from local artists which makes it fun to admire the art while you eat. They have plenty of seating indoors and patio seating outside in front of the cafe. I've been coming here for years and I always leave feeling happy and full! read more

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Mediocre coffee, sandwiches are mostly bread with little filling. The staff is gloomy and completely unfriendly. Rare to come across something like this read more

Unpleasant and Unprofessional Experience I truly don't understand how this business continues to operate. The owners and staff were consistently rude--so much so that it felt like they intentionally hire people who mirror their demeanor just to normalize the hostility. I've never had to record interactions at a store before, but this place left me no choice. Each time I calmly stated I was recording, their behavior escalated instead of improving. They also overcharge, and when questioned, they respond with even more attitude. I've documented multiple incidents and will be sharing these videos publicly to raise awareness--not out of spite, but because the community deserves transparency. Alameda has many wonderful businesses. Sadly, this is not one of them. It was the most unpleasant experience I've had in our city. read more

When the coffee drinks are as lovingly crafted as they are at Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar, then they must be celebrated. Located on a busy stretch of Encinal Avenue in the heart of central Alameda, Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar is so named after the concept of astronauts taking a picture of planet earth from their space shuttle and referring to our planet as nothing more than a "blue dot". It was from this image that astronomer Carl Sagan spoke about "our responsibility to deal more kindly and compassionately with one another and to preserve and cherish that pale blue dot, the only home we've ever known." And it is with this thought that the genesis of Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar was conceptualized, since the owners are members of the special community of Alameda on this wonderful planet we call earth, their goal was to have every patron that entered Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar to feel welcome and connected. To them, Blue Dot is to be the ultimate gathering place for breakfast and lunchtime meals between friends and family, while also enjoying their specialty handcrafted coffee drinks on top of safe working spaces. On a recent visit on a weekday afternoon, I can honestly say that they have succeeded on all of their goals. After enjoying a nice hearty lunch with a friend on Webster Street, I asked if they wanted to enjoy a quick coffee before we both headed back to work for the day, and the first place that came to their mind was Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar. I asked why they selected this place out of the numerous coffee shops in the island city, they responded with "you'll see once you go," and with that intriguing statement we were off to Encinal Avenue. By the time we arrived, it was actually later in the day, and closing time was on the horizon, but the place both inside and outside their cafe was popping with customers taking in their charming interior with bright flowers and pictures from local artists dotting their walls. Since we came for just two coffees, we knew we wouldn't be long, and the staff at Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar was so plentiful that they crafted our order in no time so we could enjoy inside their cafe while they were still open. Although Coffee Bar is in their name, in addition to various coffees, they also sell various juices and teas, and even a little daytime libations in mimosas. In addition to beverages, they have quite the robust Breakfast and Lunch menu with traditional brunch entrées being served and a number of deliciously described sandwiches for the lunch hour. Since we had already eaten lunch we came for one thing only today: coffee, and they certainly have a lot of options, my friend ordered their Cappuccino, while I ordered their White Mocha, and was immediately asked if I wanted whipped cream on top of my Mocha, of which I obliged. Our total bill for two drinks was $9.63 before gratuity was added in, which was totally reasonable. As we waited for our drinks to be crafted, we were lucky to find two open seats in their communal table that was smack dab in the middle of their main dining room, in which my friend and I were able to take in all of the sights and sounds of this bustling local business. People were on their laptops typing away, while others were still enjoying their sandwiches, which was nice because technically Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar was closing soon, so this proved they were still willing to serve and were not in a rush to close. Eventually our drinks were presented to us where we were sitting by their hardworking staff, and I loved the overall flavor of my rich drink, which wasn't too sweet and was enhanced by the delectable whipped cream, which made my mocha feel more like a hot chocolate than a coffee. I cannot wait to return to Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar, as they are as local you can get and if you can judge a locally run business on just their drinks, then you are going to be alright in dining here as well, as my friend says their Bahn Cubano is a real winner and sounded amazing. Here's to the continued success of Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar, may their goals of connectedness and being a welcoming presence in the island city be realized for decades to come! read more

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Family member came in and ordered bakery items and the person who rung them up put the wrong items in the bag. We called to explain about the mistake and the person who answered immediately put the blame on my family member. My family member knows what they ordered. Called back to speak to the owner and she tells us we are making it a problem when there isn't one. We didn't say there was a problem but it was a mistake. The interaction with both of them put a bad taste in our mouths so not going back. And my family member feels unwelcome when they come in as the entire place stops what they are doing when they walk in. Don't need to pay for discomfort. read more

This morning I had arguably the best lox and bagel (with capers, diced red onion, lettuce and tomato) that I've ever had. I mentioned to owner Megan that it was even better than the classic Ratner's and Rappoport's, epic deli's from New York's Lower East Side back in the day. Accompanied by a great latte and a flakey-fresh cherry scone, I learned it was baked at the Blue Dot and politely suggested she quit her day job:-} Everything about the cafe is spot-on. The young staff are totally on their game, and the place simply has good vibes with all the families and little kids providing a lively soundtrack. James and Megan have the work of excellent local artists up on the walls and I'm always surprised that there isn't a non-stop line out the door. Business is always brisk, but this place deserves to be so crowded they'd need to think about franchising. read more

I bought a caramel latte from here. The coffee was delicious and the service was amazing. Nice location and beautiful cafe.

What a cute cafe! I really enjoyed the local vibe here. Everyone is asked to bus their own tables, and the drinks were very good. I ordered an Americano. I would say that the breakfasts are not exactly worth the cost. We ordered an egg, toast, and sausage breakfast and that was something easily made at home for like 1/10 the cost lol. I'd come here to hangout and get drinks though! read more

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Came in during my break from work (10am ish on a weekday). There was no line. Lots of seated areas to study and/or relax. Got a matcha latte and spinach/cheese scone. Loved the scone, it was delicious. The matcha, was decent for the price. Reasonably priced considering others in the area. Parking can be tough depending on what time you go. It's near a couple of schools. read more

I just enjoyed one of the BEST chai lattes I can remember! The spinach bacon was also a delicious treat with eggs. Now on my list of go-to places for breakfast in Alameda. read more

Love this place, can't believe i haven't written a review. This was a hang out spot for hanging out with neighbors and friends. Few weeks ago for Father's Day,, finally brought my husband who hadn't been here before along with the two teen kids and the pup and we had such a great time. Great vibe and good food. One kid wanted waffles from Ole's (this did the trick without the loonnng line!) and one of us ordered the Eggs Benedict and one order the Blackstone Benedict and one ordered the Avocado Toast. read more

Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar - Waffle! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Alameda, California

Food is great, service is awesome and friendly!! You order at counter and thry bring it to you. The food is fresh and delicious read more

Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar - Black Currant Scone....so good! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Alameda, California

We saw on yelp that they had Eggs Benedict. We went specifically to try the Eggs Benedict. We were disappointed to find it wasn't on the menu. We ordered a Cubano and BAT sandwiches. We've had better sandwiches on the island. They were good but didn't "wow" us. We probably won't return. read more

Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar - Menu on 1/7/2023 - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Alameda, California

Love this place! It's wonderful to have a good coffee place in the neighborhood but they need to stay open later for me to get there on a regular basis. read more

Nice place to get some coffee, study or hang out. I've met friends for breakfast here and the lattes and breakfast sandwiches are pretty good. It can get crowded in the morning (both on weekdays and weekends) so I'd suggest coming around 8 if you want to avoid a long line on weekends, and perhaps around 9 on weekdays. One drawback is that their wifi is pretty slow. The last time I was here, I couldn't connect to their network at all. I checked with the cashier to make sure the password I had was correct. She told me that the issue might be because "a lot of people are online right now." There were only about 6 people on their laptops at the moment. I've been to many cafes and rarely run into an issue like this, so it was disappointing. read more

All the California restaurants I miss since I had to move away. Not enough meals in the day! Blue Dot Café in Alameda. Definitely my favorite coffee shop ever. No place in Virginia compares. The French Toast Strata rules. Coffee is good too. Schelle loved it also, her favorite was the levain toast with real butter and jam. read more

Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar - Latte - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Alameda, California

Prefer to spend my money at a small business but I will not return to this place as the employees are rude. I'd rather just go to Starbucks, at least they can say good morning or reply to thank you. Watery Coffee read more

I stop by Blue Dot about twice a month. I've tried the scones, chilaquiles, and lattes. The blueberry scone is by far my favorite. It's not too sweet, but just sweet enough. Service is always friendly which I appreciate. There is seating in the main room as well as a smaller space on the side. I've never had a problem finding somewhere to sit and have done some work on my laptop with no issues. Parking is easily found on the surrounding streets. I definitely recommend the Blue Dot Cafe. read more

Friendly, Fresh and Delicious! Wished they stayed open later. Comfortable lounge atmosphere

Shockingly terrible food. How do you mess up a poached egg with bacon, cheese and pesto spread breakfast sandwich? - hard boil the eggs - burn the bacon, - omit both the cheese and pesto - serve ensuing dry, flavorless chalk on a hard roll *not even hot sauce could save this mess* The kids eggs were good, but over cooked, hard cold toast was just a waste. 2 grapes and a dried out orange slice was the side of fruit. Really? Do better or don't bother Blue Dot. read more

Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar - Remnants of dry, tasteless breakfast sandwich I was too hungry not to try to eat. Complete waste of $$. Avoid. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Alameda, California

Have been a customer for years. Today I went and just ordered coffee, as I am fasting. I was surprised when the owner came over and loudly said, you have been here only drinking coffee, this is not a cafe. First, yes it actually is a cafe, as it is in the title. And many people are here right now just for beverages. Second, I eat here frequently. I've politely spent a lot of money on food, and tips. I nearly always get something to eat, and often get food to go. Trust me, you make money off of me. Third, there are many effective and non-aggressive ways to express yourself. This is not it. If you want to have a policy for customers, state it, for gods sake don't act like people should have known, and then be discriminatory. I am stunned because I've literally been coming for years. I really had no idea what to say, but I am incredibly offended and disappointed. She said "well, I have to be honest". Actually, being an adult means you can discern what is appropriate. The other people around me just stared and watched. Including the woman at the table behind me who was, yes, just drinking coffee. Of course i got up and left. So much for the community vibe that is so strongly pushed. The owner calls everyone 'Babe' and loudly has personal conversations across the cafe floor. Yes it's a cafe, no there is no minimum order or table limit. Today was uncalled for. I actually came by during the pandemic to support the business. I was a regular customer for five years. Now I wish they would go out of business so a better place for the community would replace this. read more

This place has the best scones I've ever eaten. I highly recommend. On my last visit, I picked up a strawberry scone, a ham and Gruyère scone and an almond croissant, plus the Cuban bang mi sandwich. Everything was delicious but the stats were the scones. read more

Coffee was good. Food was good.Service was terrible. The owner was not friendly. Maybe I am an Asian.

Love this place. Everyone is friendly, lots of places to sit. Great food. Great place for kiddos too!!! The simple poached egg breakfast is wonderful, eggs poached to perfection, bacon, and spinach instead of toast for me. Hubs gets toast with his eggs (instead of spinach) and it is delicious too! Thanks Blue Dot!!! read more

Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Alameda, California

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POSSIBLY NOT minority friendly. when I first came in IT WAS SO UNWELCOMING. No hi or smiles. Not only that a lot of rude white people looking at me. Mean mugging me especially this one woman who was STARING at me. I ended up leaving and not ordering. even the staff sounded rude. read more

Nice welcoming friendly spot. Open wi fi, extensive menu. Well organized coffee bar with everything labeled and metal stirrers. Great bread. I had an egg scramble with pesto and mozzarella cheese, I eliminated the meat. It was tasty, the bread was excellent. The eggs a little too salty for my taste. I was pleasantly surprised by the fruit medley on the side which included blueberries, pineapple, strawberries, pineapple, cantaloupe and an orange slice. Community feel, great decor. read more

Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar - Scrambled egg with pesto and mozzarella - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Alameda, California

Staff had no common sense or just plain stupid. She decided to clean the glass door while my infant and I was sitting next to the door enjoying my latte. She literally looked at me in the eye before cleaning the door. I mean, it couldn't wait?? The door looked perfectly clean to me. The spray has chemicals and it probably went into my latte so I stop drinking it and left. My baby doesn't need to be inhaling it either. I won't be coming back. read more

If I had to use one word to describe this place it would be comforting. Relaxed music at just the right volume, not too loud, not too soft. Wide assortment of drinks and food, all well prepared. Considerate and friendly staff. Art covering the walls, and lots of open space around the many comfortable chairs and tables. Outdoor seating too, next to a telephone pole with yarn and plants on it. So glad we had a chance to stop in on our visit. As out of Towner's, we felt right at home here. read more

Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Alameda, California

Convenient neighborhood café with good, consistent eats. However, if you enter one half hour before closing expect to be harshly reminded, "We close at one-thirty!" This announcement is barked as one enters, not kindly reminded at the counter after one is first pleasantly greeted. The feeling that you are being extended a privilege to be allowed to use counter service is unwelcoming and a turn off. One can decide if he/she/they have enough time to eat. Reminder: The time open is for the customers. read more

Bland but convenient. Nothing else is around so I settle. I would love more bold flavors

Things you should never assume...that the egg in the egg breakfast sandwich are over hard or scrambled. We noticed after we got our meal that the eggs on the egg sandwich are poached....no good for someone who hates runny eggs Yes, I realized after the fact that there is a sign on the menu but clearly we were new at this place and it would've been kind to advise us. Food was good, coffee was strong. Place is a bit tight inside, but we made the best of it. read more

Blue Dot Cafe and Coffee Bar - Eggs with levain toast, spinach, bacon. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Alameda, California

Food Quality = B+ Food Selections = B Service = A - Ambiance = B Overall = B+.... very consistent with fair prices. Always a safe bet for a good breakfast out. read more