Caffè Far Bella

Love the small business, family vibes here. Got the absolute best lox sandwich I've had in well over a year here today, and I'm happy to announce I'll be visiting again simply for the sandwich. Jackson has always been incredibly kind and quick to acknowledge a new presence, even if he can't immediately serve. Great person to chat with! 4 stars for atmosphere is because there is currently a sign that says no computer use in the cafe. If you watch the video attached to my review, you can hear me be surprised by the amount of salmon on the bagel. Honestly, it was so good that I'm thinking about going back tomorrow for another one.

I really enjoyed my visit here. The atmosphere and staff were welcoming. Restaurant was very clean. The food was good. I had the bean chili, cheddar broccoli quiche and cafe au lait. I want to place an emphasis on how great the customer service is. It must have been the owner who helped me because he was very pleasant and genuinely glad to be there. I can’t remember the gentleman’s name but he was very kind, patient, and helpful (without being overbearing). I can’t wait to go back!

This little gem cafe, tucked right in downtown SCS, is a perfect stop for homemade soups, sandwiches, coffee, and baked goodies! Jack and Karen, the owners, are the nicest people and so hardworking to provide the best quality food and atmosphere! I did the soup/sandwich combo with chicken noodle and the club sandwich (on panini bread); both were fresh and delicious! I also had the white chocolate caramel mocha which was also wonderful!

Swung by for a BEC bagel sandwich and came back the next day for another. Most other places either try too hard and change up the classic, or use marginal ingredients. This BEC was high quality and classic. Loved it!

I would absolutely recommend this location. The quiche is always amazing. The drinks are different - but the owners want you to be happy and will make/remake to your liking. It just has a family feel here and they are a great part of the community. The portabella panini with pesto is so delicious!

Today was my first time coming here and they have some of the friendliest staff for any business I’ve ever been in. I ended up getting the corned beef panini and an iced Mexican latte. They both turned out perfect.

Coffee was awful. Just sugar packets and creamer cups available. Got a muffin that was dry and incredibly dense like a protein bar. Didn't try the food but it's not a place to go just for a quick coffee.

The owner is a pleasant man, the food is good and decor is relaxing. The service is a bit slow because there are only a few people (mom and pop biz) working. I ordered a soup at lunch and it took longer than my friends sandwich to arrive. Quite a bit of broth in my chicken noodle as well...but it was tasty, and the bread it was served with was delicious! Worth a visit, but have some extra time and patience.

This is a delightful, welcoming place that features mostly soups, salads & sandwiches at lunch and what I might call light fare at breakfast. Jack is your convivial "front of house" host who aims to please & is always friendly & accommodating. His wife, Karen, does the homemade cooking on soups & desserts. Paninis, roll-ups & regular sandwiches are all delicious. Have never tried her desserts but they look delectable!!

Good food, but a bit pricey for what you get. Soup is always offered, again pricey for a Gordon's product. Owners are nice, very accommodating Don't even think of bringing your computer, owner told me to read sign posted! Also they close at 3, so watch your clock!!!

Would love to have given this an actual review. I came to this place for a sandwich and soup and to work on my computer, thinking a quiet coffee shop would be a great place to get my work done. Only to find a sign on the door saying no computers allowed. Wasted my gas for nothing. Don't plan to come here if you're just looking for a place to work and eat.

This little gem cafe, tucked right in downtown SCS, is a perfect stop for homemade soups, sandwiches, coffee, and baked goodies! Jack and Karen, the owners, are the nicest people and so hardworking to provide the best quality food and atmosphere! I did the soup/sandwich combo with chicken noodle and the club sandwich (on panini bread); both were fresh and delicious! I also had the white chocolate caramel mocha which was also wonderful!

First time visiting Caffe Far Bella today...we will definitely be back. Huge menu, great breakfast sandwich, and terrific coffee. Cute ambiance and reasonable prices. The owner (Jack) is super friendly and engaging. We loved it!

Saint Clair Shores hidden gem! This is the best place to go for breakfast and lunch. Not only do they have dozens of options for food but they have almost every kind of syrup flavor that you can add to your coffee! The owners are so personable and will make you feel the most welcomed. A great place for sit down or carry out.

I love the place! I haven't personally tried the food but I have had the cookies and the Italian soda and it's very good! The workers were very helpful and the shop is so cozy! Definitely worth it!

GREAT customer service! The food is top notch, and the coffee was excellent. I will absolutely be back.

This is a little cafe where you can go and sit with a cup of coffee and a light sandwich or a salad. Delicious by the way. They take your order then you go sit and they will bring it to you. A nice relaxing place to go. I highly recommend you try this place.

This is a cute little spot that we stopped in to have a quick breakfast and some coffee. I was working in grosse pointe and he decided to meet me for breakfast. That always makes my day start off on a good note. This is a fairly small cafe but the food was amazing. The coffee was great, and the company even better.

Far Bella - "FAR" are the 1st initials of 3 of the owners' relatives. The place is right across from Shores Inn. They celebrate the holidays with great decorations cleverly reusing them for Halloween Thanksgiving and Christmas. Come in for a view stay for a meal and or coffee!

I love this place! The cutest cafe in downtown SCS with a very large menu. They have something for everyone. The owners are incredible kind and the service is always good. I highly recommend the Lobster Bisque soup and the rest of the menu too!

A cafe that won't let you use your computer. What a joke. Tried to spend money and have lunch with a bit of work and they wouldn't allow me to use my computer. Go spend your money somewhere else if you're trying to enjoy coffee and food while being productive.

OOOHHHHH yes!!! I'd give this shop another five stars if I could! Caffe Far Bella came on trusted recommendation and with a little help from Yelp. I wanted to start the early afternoon with a new coffee shop experience. This shop definitely lives up to its excellent name! I met the owner, Jack, shortly after arrival and he seems like one who never has a bad day and you immediately feel the warm welcome mat from him. This shop has been at this location for around five years and seems like a pillar in this shopping area. In looking at the chalked-up classic blackboard menu, the eyes popped open with joy when Mexican mocha was on this list! When I asked Jack if this was from a powder, he duly and proudly informed me that its a Michigan Mex mocha and then bean-counted the ingredients to me one by one - and I said, Cool!! OK folks! This is serious! Real coffee lovers like to taste the coffee in their speciality drinks, rather than have it taste like it's five full scoops of sugar with two ounces of espresso. Pardon the hyperbole! I didn't have this problem at CFB! I was elated at the taste of the Mex mocha mix and could fully taste the coffee - in fact it was dominant taste in a good way! The way it should be. Jack got the Elite treatment in my compliments during my visit!! But this wasn't the last one! Hungry guy then wanted a sandwich, which also came with a choice of side. I am not a tomato soup fan, never have been. I have no explanation as to why I chose the tomato basil bisque, but it was only available on Mondays and felt like a perfect compliment to the Italian pesto panini I chose as the main course. Well, I lost my case of the Mondays instantly after the first scoop! The texture, spicing, etc. were spot on! Look forward to a do-again someday! The panini mainly consisted of ham, salami, provolone cheese, and a terrific pesto blend. It was delicious! And it was cut in three parts and is a good size, so much so that you will be filled by the time you finish! Many thanks to Jack for caring about the customer! Keeping a clean shop all areas including the restroom (among the cleanest I've seen)! In the end, and this is a long Rev-iew!, What I enjoyed most today was watching an owner who loved his work and it's there for all of us here to see! Having a rough day? Head to Far Bella's and tell Jack to "Go ahead - make my day!" With the coffee that is! Easily a stellar go-to shop with tremendous atmosphere, service, food, and many coffee selections to choose from! Bookmark now! Make the visit too! Recommend: VERY HIGH

I have been going to this place for over 10 years Jack and Karen are two of the most sweetest people you will ever meet in your lifetime. They truly care about their business. And the community. Some of their food that I would recommend is the quiche it is amazing and to die for not to mention their grilled cheese with their sliced tomato and tomato basil soup. And my son just loves the regular grilled cheese and they even cut the crust off for him :-) They've watched both of my children grow up and the two of them just love coming here. It's such a Hometown Cafe feel in the perfect neighborhood... if I could give this place 10 Stars I would. They make the best coffee drinks and will even customize it to however you wish. The smoothies Jack makes are amazing too. I will go out of my way to come to this Cafe over any other one and I suggest you do the same to support small businesses :-)

Great cafe in heart of downClair Shores. Great variety of daily soups, sandwiches and pastries with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Recommend trying a panini and/or soup of day won't be disappointed. If looking for a dessert try a Cinnamon bun or one of the other delicious pastries being offered.

It's hard to give a low review for this place - but I have to. No Wi-Fi for fear of people working in the caffe. Instead it's empty. Makes it not welcoming. Good coffee. Good food. But not connected to what folks look for in a coffee shop. If you don't want people talking on Zoom - either but up signs asking they use headsets or no video calls. Put time limits on tables. But to throw the baby out w the bath water and say "no Wi-Fi for you!" doesn't seem like the most prudent business plan. Wish them continued luck and a change of heart. Not sure I'll be going back anytime soon. :(

Love this little coffee shop!! The owners are so friendly and fast! The food is delicious as is the coffee!

We found this place looking for lunch and couldn't be happier the owner and staff go above and beyond to welcome you. The food is fresh fast and delicious. We come as often as possible! So happy and friendly - April and jeff

So happy to see my fav coffee shop back to sit down service. Don't bring your lap top to camp out, that is the new "rule". these folks need your eat in business and we need to keep them going after the difficult two years they had to be closed! Glad they have the ability to get back!!

Easy breezy curbside service and friendly staff! We called in our order and it was ready very quickly. The staff was extremely polite and took all safety precautions during this tough time. The coffee, scones, and muffins we got were delicious. They also have breakfast sandwiches that we'll be back to try. Highly recommend!

Good food, the wife is always rude. Jack is a great guy. I like their soups and sandwiches, but her poor attitude deters me from going back. I'm not a fan of rude people.

The lox bagel is astounding! It's ample lox and capers, fresh crunchy bagels, truly delicious! I ordered the buffalo chicken salad today and other than a few pieces of inedible chicken, the flavor was really great!! I've never had that experience here before, it's always been delicious food! Really awesome atmosphere and very kind owners!

Did not sample the food because of the discriminatory attitude of the owner. I saw that there was a group of very young women knitting in a group. I asked if I could bring my small group of retired women in to knit and he told me there was no room for us. Not ADA compliant. Will continue to go to Genevieve and Pierre's instead on the other side of town in a much more progressive county.

Lucky to live within walking distance to this place. Have tried the cappuccinos, lattes, muffins, scones, soups and Mac and cheese. Everything has been great- the Mac and cheese is amazing! We got a cup of the lobster bid question the other day that was just as good, can't wait to try more soups! Definitely recommend!

Not a friendly staff. Plus this place does not let you work on a tablet or laptop. No wonder the place was empty when I stopped there.

I thought I'd try this coffee spot since it is close to home and ...well, because coffee. On my first visit, I didn't even order yet; I was second in line and I already knew I'd be coming back. You hear that? I did not drink a sip of coffee or taste anything on their menu yet but the guy behind the counter was SO DANG PLEASANT, he seriously made my day brighter. I'm serious. BRIGHTER. And it was cold and gloomy that day. Anyway, I ordered a fancy coffee (skinny caramel macchiato)...it was good. (Did I mention the guy's whole entire demeanor was just freaking awesome?) I wish all human beings were this happy to help you. I've tried their quiche of the day on another occasion and another fancy coffee (skinny milky way) they heated the quiche for me since I was taking it to go. I ate all the delicious egg, sausage and cheddar filling but I didn't eat all the pastry crust, some parts were over done/ not as flaky as it should but maybe the steam from being in the to-go container was the cause of that.. I plan on giving it another go when I have the time to dine in. I like quiche. Overall: good coffee, good vibes.

Great cafe for coffee, sandwiches and soup. The service is good, however there is a very angry employee who works the counter. I've been to the shop about five times and been yelled at by that employee about six times. The employee heavily pushes the health code and adherence to it, however it is done in a very rude way. I've been kicked out due to bringing in an independent water bottle into the store. Overall not a bad place, but be prepared to get hollered at by angry staff member.

I was there at 11am and there was zero people sitting in the cafe at that moment. I was told to sit in a small table if I will work in my computer or the high table in the back, just because it might get crowded. I just needed a coffee and relax for 30 minutes before going to work. I think he assumed I will stay for hours and occupy the table. Even though he told me in a nicer way, I felt unwelcome. I liked the quiche and milkyway. But I dont feel like going there again. Will find a place where I can sit wherever I want.

This was my first time there today great phenomenon superior customer service. The food is phenomenal and the white chocolate mocha coffee hot could put Starbucks to Shame. Go why do your way to go there you will not be disappointed.

First thing you feel when you walk in is warm, cozy and welcome! There are a group of "usuals" at the large round table talking and enjoying each others company which is great. The guy(can't remember his name) that takes your order is so energetic! There is Always a plethora of goodies its so hard to choose. The breakfast croissant was Fantabolous, it was pressed with a panini maker and had a slightly crisp to the edges. I love going here for that Cafe feel. Definitely not Starbucks!

I appreciate a lot of things about this place. First of all, the almond milk mocha, made with Ghirardelli chocolate, is delicious. Secondly, they serve breakfast all day, and you can create your own wrap, so when you're in the mood for an egg and cheese wrap at 2 pm, you can have it. Finally, and most importantly, I like the environment they've created. This place is family owned and operated, and it was my first time in, but as I was there eating I saw the owners chatting with regulars, hugging families who came in, regulars bringing their kids in to meet the owners, the owners smiling when kids were ordering, etc. That kind of stuff goes a long way (and the great food and coffee help, too).

Great atmosphere to relax and there are endless options of food and beverages. I would say the staff is 85% friendly which tops many restaurants in the area. If you're on a time constraint I wouldn't suggest ordering food. Or maybe try ordering something cold? I was on a time constraint and after 15mins I notified the staff I had somewhere to be. There where maybe 6 people in the caffe (most of which appeared to have been served) and was told there are orders In front of me. I understood, but I did grow inpatient once I saw only 1/3 of the people working actually making the food. Maybe I was startled by the tone used to tell me "ya know there are other orders in front of you" or maybe it was the lack of concern for others time. I really want to visit this cafe again, it's the best in the area. But I have an unpleasant taste in my mouth from the customer service received.

I met a friend up here that was in the area. I didn't even know this place existed until she said to meet her here and it was her first time walking in also. This little cafe was definitely a cute little place that I wasn't expecting to be tucked away in the this area of Saint Clair Shores. They have everything from sandwiches to soups to pretty much desserts and lots of coffee. I stuck with having a Panini. So did my friend. I was shocked how delicious that Panini was I just went with it traditional ham and a few other things on it. The atmosphere of this place was just really down to earth and relaxing and you can joy sitting and talking and not feel rushed to get pushed out of this place. The person behind the counter was very polite and just a really good cook. Even brought our food to our table which I felt like was an extra step of awesome. I for sure want to check out this place again here in the near future and take another friend to enjoy the food.

Hometown Panera... but better. Cute home town cafe. Really delicious smoothies, fresh sandwiches and amazing soup. Friendly owners as well!

One of my favorite places! Super cozy atmosphere and friendly service. Great choices of soups and sandwiches. I also LOVE the lavender latte. I absolutely recommend this place

I stopped into this place a few years ago and was impressed. Been stopping in for a few years and now they are in a larger location down the road. The food is good. I suggest a breakfast sandwich or a bowl of soup which is always fantastic. All business success starts and ends with the ownership. The gentleman that owns and operates this business is remarkable. He is the business and lives and breathes the essence of a patron having an incredible experience. He gets you to want to come back and that is the definition of a successful leader/business owner. I do have to say that the other employee is the counterweight to him. Doesn't seem that enthusiastic. And for that, I can't give this place a 5 star rating. We really love this place and will keep going back.

The best tuna pita I've ever had. Small location but loaded with great eats! Family owned and very personable. They treat customers like family. Great food, drink and hospitality so what more do you need?

Yes five stars! Wonderful owners that treat you like family. If you need a lil Bite to eat and a coffee this is the place. Thursday's mushroom bisque is amazing . Friday's lobster bisque is heaven. Everyday a different delicious soup. They have a wide array of wraps, Sammy's and my favorite the panini . Always fresh, always on point. Pop in with a friend for a bite and a chat over a delicious warm beverages. They have WIFI if you were wondering? All I can say is ICaffe Far Bella!

I came in on a weekday around 11am. First time. They have a breakfast and lunch menu plus soups, gelato, variety of espresso drinks. I ordered a lox bagel and coffee. First good impression was about the service. The man behind the counter introduced himself and his colleague as owners and welcomed the man in front of me in line to the cafe. When it was my turn, he asked me if I am familiar with their coffees, took me to the self serve coffee stand and walked me through the options. Lots of smiles and good vibes here. They seem to know a lot of clients by names and are very friendly. The coffee is average. The bagel and lox were fresh and tasted great. That came with tomatoes, onions and capers. The ambiance is simple but welcoming. There are quite a few tables and enough space for larger parties. I will certainly be back and recommend to others.

5 stars for decor...love the old fashioned wooden screen door on the front. 5 stars for yummy beverages, including chai tea. 1 star for a Spinach-Bacon Quiche that was dry and flavorless. Another SCS restaurant to check off my list. I won't be back.

A small diner / sandwich place that I didn't know existed. You order at the counter, but they bring the food to your table - so a combo kind of place, I like that, not having to stand around waiting for my food to be handed to me. I thought their prices were really reasonable - for $6.95 I got 1/2 pannini of turkey, mozz cheese, roasted red pepper & pesto and a cup of lobster bisque. Both were delicious. My friend got something similar and loved hers. They had a lot of good sounding sandwich choices and soups. The person that waited on us, an older guy, was really personable and made the experience nice just by being pleasant. They also had desserts but we were too full. I'll be back to give other things a try.

This place is a super cozy, family run place that makes for a great lunch or coffee spot. The corned beef panini was crispy but not too greasy--it came with an option for broccoli slaw or sauerkraut topping. The staff were so warm and friendly...they even offered to fill up my coffee with fresh brewed coffee before I left.

I originally walked into the old location out of curiosity and was pleasantly surprised. The soup and sandwiches were great and the service was top notch. I soon learned that this was a hands on family business. I've been a regular for the past 2 years now and EVERY time I walk in they make me feel like family and they know exactly what I want. The only question is how many bowls today? The atmosphere reminds me of a small Italian cafe and it is very clean and comfortable. My favorite menu items.... The lobster bisque on Fridays and the ham and swiss croissant. The coffee is always hot and fresh too!

Great atmosphere and the food is ALWAYS amazing. My daughter is a huge fan of the Tomato Basil Bisque soup and just like any great owners would do they make sure it's available for her whenever. Five stars!!!

Honestly I have never felt so at home at a cafe before, and I frequent a lot! Jack, Karen, and Maesyn are all SO sweet. They always recognize you and I've never had a complaint. If I don't know what I want, they always have excellent suggestions! I'm always in and out on my 30 minute lunch break, and they're starting to feel like family! I only wish they were open a little longer to satisfy my urge for an after work coffee!!! Great smoothies, coffee, wraps, and even soups! I recommend everyone try CFB at least once. Jack is always so energetic and honestly one of the nicest people I've ever met, even when I've just woken up and can't remember how words work! Karen is super sweet, and loves to hear how life is going, feel free to ask her! Maesyn is super talented and charismatic. Love this place!

Really cute coffee shop with quality food. It's a small family owned business in St Clair Shores. Owners are very nice and its a comfortable, pleasant atmosphere. The quiche is awesome and they have a large variety homemade food and baked goods made daily.

Enjoyed several times... until I experienced horrible service by the husband and wife team. Was incredibly rudely told to move my seat (we had a group coming) becauae it was lunch time (was a bit after 1) and they were busy with people "coming to eat". Three other tables (small 2 person tables) nearby were available. I had only ordered a drink becauseI had eaten at home, but my significant other was ordering food when the exchange happened and I told him to cancel. We ended up going elsewhere and havent been back since. When this happened, coffee shops were lacking in SCS, but thankfully now theres Journeys End, Eos and Billy's Blends.. so its no longer an issue. Baked goods were typically dry, but ok. Food was really slow, but there weren't a ton of employees so I get it. Environment in the former location was clean.

Super cute!!! Staff was very polite and friendly! Lobster bisque amazing, turkey provolone sandwich was fresh and delicious. This place is a hidden GEM! Highly recommend.