Doctor's Cave Café

Cafe · Bedford-Stuyvesant

Doctor's Cave Café

Cafe · Bedford-Stuyvesant

3

856 Marcy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216

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Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by Kate Previte
Doctor's Cave Café by Kate Previte
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null
Doctor's Cave Café by null

Highlights

Doctor’s Cave Cafe serves lovingly crafted, organic Jamaican-inspired eats—from jerk chicken sandwiches to fresh smoothies—in a cozy, family-run Bed-Stuy spot.  

Featured in The Infatuation
Featured in Grub Street

856 Marcy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216 Get directions

doctorscavecafe.com
@doctorscavecafe

$10–20 · Menu

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856 Marcy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216 Get directions

+1 718 398 4776
doctorscavecafe.com
@doctorscavecafe

$10–20 · Menu

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Last updated

Aug 2, 2025

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@infatuation

The Best Restaurants In Bed-Stuy

"The family-run cafe is our go-to spot when we need a moment of reprieve in the middle of the day. They serve sandwiches, smoothies, and baked goods, and, in a nod to the name (a beach in Montego Bay), you’ll find some Jamaican flavor on the menu. Our go-to combo here is the jerk chicken sandwich, topped with tangy chimichurri on sourdough, and Jamaican iced coffee with coconut condensed milk—but they also have a ton of vegan options, and a rotating menu of hot plate specials. They’re open from 8am-4pm on weekdays, in a cavernous space that’s half kitchen and half tables-for-two. Just don’t bring your laptop with you. There’s no wifi or outlets, so the friendly cafe functions better as a break room than a WFH station." - neha talreja, nikko duren, bryan kim

https://www.theinfatuation.com/new-york/guides/where-to-eat-in-bed-stuy
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@infatuation

Doctor's Cave Café Review - Bedford-Stuyvesant - New York - The Infatuation

"This family-run cafe is the perfect midday hideaway for when we’ve finally had enough of our inbox. They serve sandwiches, smoothies, and baked goods, and, in a nod to the name (a beach in Montego Bay), you’ll find some Jamaican flavor too. The menu changes all the time, but their best stuff is always on deck: the jerk chicken on sourdough, topped with a tangy chimichurri, and Jamaican iced coffees made with condensed coconut milk. They’re open from 8am-4pm on weekdays, in a cavernous space that’s half kitchen and half tables-for-two. Just don’t bring your laptop with you—there’s no wi-fi or outlets. Instead, sip your espresso while you chat with the chef making your sandwich, and marvel at the expertly organized kitchen behind her. " - Neha Talreja

https://www.theinfatuation.com/new-york/reviews/doctors-cave-cafe
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@coolstuff.nyc

coolstuff.nyc

"This place flies under the radar, a hidden neighborhood spot that mostly regulars in the area know about. They offer fresh food with an emphasis on nutrition which we could all use a little more of." - Sarah Nsikak

https://www.coolstuff.nyc/guides/bed-stuy-brooklyn
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Andi Günther

Google
A lovely neighborhood spot. Large menu and lots of options for everyone. The owner is kind and makes every customer feel special & remembered. Would recommend for a great time :) Note: no laptops are preferred, but 1 hour maximum limit

ghazi

Google
Everyone was incredibly sweet and helpful. You can tell they communicate well with each other and take pride in keeping standards high. I didn’t ask names because they were busy but I believe the owner was there too and she was an angel. I loved the interiors too. I ordered the jerk tofu and a blueberry smoothie with coconut milk subbed in. Loveeeee the jerk tofu. Usually baguettes hurt my mouth but this one is perfect. The sauces are also soooo good. The smoothie was not my favorite but I’m not sure if blueberries are not in season, I just cant taste them too strongly. But it’s well made and the consistency is perfect, not too runny.

Nayara Oliveira

Google
This was my third time at the restaurant, and I found the prices to be quite reasonable considering the average prices in New York. Everything is fresh, and the bakery items are delicious. I believe the staff to be very friendly, especially since I observed their friendliness with other customers. Although my interactions with them were okay, I can see they are generally friendly. I ordered a mango, orange, and apple smoothie (make your own), but it wasn't the tastiest, perhaps because I made the wrong choices in mixing. Maybe I should have opted for their pre-set options instead. However, the food, particularly the bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich, was incredibly tasty. Despite a minor hiccup when I arrived outside of breakfast hours, the BLT I had instead was also delicious. Returning during breakfast, I finally got to enjoy the bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich again, and it was just as good as I remembered. So, yeah, overall, it was a good experience.

Hollis Stephenson

Google
A locally owned gem. Today was the first time that I went in there and the service was immaculate. The menu is incredible. It's very vegan friendly, so if you are plant-based you can find plenty of foods there for you. What I really liked was the ambiance. It's perfect for a daytime date or daytime hang just like a unserious decompression space. You can tell somebody Mama work here and owns it. Can't wait to go again!

Sarah Telesca

Google
One of my favourite places ever!! The food is absolutely amazing— everything is always extremely fresh and so so flavourful (the baguettes never cut your mouth). If the food wasn’t enough, the vibes are immaculate. The owners are so lovely and friendly, and the interiors are cozy, comfortable, and warm. Couldn’t recommend them more!

Ruth Hadis

Google
I can’t say enough good things about this cafe!!! The people are so kind. The music is always amazing, I’m always impressed by the deep cuts they pull out. The atmosphere is so homey and calming, you really feel like you’re in a friend’s kitchen. And of course the drinks are perfect and the pastries never disappoint. Wish they were open every day!🥲

Priscilla Fasoro

Google
This is a super cute cafe/restaurant on Marcy Ave. The owner who runs the spot is so nice; she’s always willing to talk to you about the menu and make recommendations. The same is true for all the workers; they really seem invested in the restaurant and everyone’s experience. My go-to order here is the jerk chicken sandwich. The chicken is perfectly sliced and juicy. The bread is perfect; not too thick and perfectly soft (it won’t shred the roof of your mouth or take super human strength to break apart lol!). They grill the chicken at the restaurant, which is nice. In the past, I’ve had the side of cabbage which is good. All of the ingredients are locally sourced, so sometimes they run out of items, so I suggest getting lunch on the earlier side (circa 12) otherwise they may run out of what you want. The ONLY criticism I have is that everything is on the pricier side. The chicken sandwich is FIFTEEN dollars!! And it doesn’t come with any sides. I would love to come here more often, but can’t due to the price. I do feel good patronizing this spot but the prices are definitely up there.

chad newbry

Google
Now offering a Saturday brunch pop-up from 9 AM until sold out. Highly recommend stopping by. The BEC sandwich is excellent and they offer a variety of homemade baked goods. I’ve tried their banana bread and their apple cider cake. They offer a standard menu of coffee drinks including lattes, espresso, cortados, and more. I got an iced cortado which was good, but I’d say the food is the star of the show! Run by an incredibly friendly group of staff including the owner / operator.

Aurora F.

Yelp
Great coffee! Great vibe! Owner is an absolute angel! Loves chilling outside sipping my coffee!
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Priscilla F.

Yelp
This is a super cute cafe/restaurant on Marcy Ave. The owner who runs the spot is so nice; she's always willing to talk to you about the menu and make recommendations. The same is true for all the workers; they really seem invested in the restaurant and everyone's experience. My go-to order here is the jerk chicken sandwich. The chicken is perfectly sliced and juicy. The bread is perfect; not too thick and perfectly soft (it won't shred the roof of your mouth or take super human strength to break apart lol!). They grill the chicken at the restaurant, which is nice. In the past, I've had the side of cabbage which is good. All of the ingredients are locally sourced, so sometimes they run out of items, so I suggest getting lunch on the earlier side (circa 12) otherwise they may run out of what you want. The ONLY criticism I have is that everything is on the pricier side. The chicken sandwich is FIFTEEN dollars!! And it doesn't come with any sides. I would love to come here more often, but can't due to the price. I do feel good patronizing this spot but the prices are definitely up there.

Jess B.

Yelp
Amazing vegan options ! The interior feels so cozy and relaxing . The staff is also very helpful and kind ! Outdoor seating as well!
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M. G.

Yelp
What a genuinely caring and delicious restaurant. Thank you for all the restorative lunches.
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Jerlisa N.

Yelp
Such amazing ingredients in season, My favorite is the Jerk chicken sandwich!! Ever since the day I had it, I will never forget it lol. But love the place!! Very warm and welcoming and amazing staff. I love how passionate the owners are when it comes to the satisfaction of her customers. Seems to be very known in the community. They also have a pop up on Saturdays with a menu made by the owners daughter. Everything is made from scratch down to the bread. Truly appreciate this dedication and thoughtfulness. Another beautiful staple of Brooklyn!! On Saturdays ask about the BEC!!
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Alex E.

Yelp
Great food, great smoothies. Lovely owner that makes you feel a member of a beloved community and not just a customer. Check the hours before you go!

Lisa L.

Yelp
Excellent!! The people are really nice. You must try the citrusade and bacon egg & cheese

Joey D.

Yelp
Honestly my favorite place to go on a morning off. The food is the best, only to be outdone by the incredible family that opens and operates it. I love their vibe and them standing up for others! 5/5 hands down!
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Alex S.

Yelp
Great local spot for breakfast and lunch...we carried away 3 different sandwiches and all were quite good! My mother especially liked the grilled cheese. Hope to be back sometime soon to eat in and try other items on the menu!
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Katie A.

Yelp
I am visiting in the neighborhood and was looking for a coffee place. This was a nice gem to find. Got an iced oat milk latte and the pumpkin salad. I love how many vegan and whole food options there are. The woman seemed nice and the staff had fun banter between each other. I was quickly in and out, but will likely go and spend more time while I'm here.

Claire F.

Yelp
A great little neighborhood cafe that I stumbled upon by accident. I just needed a place to sit down take a break and have a little nosh. Warm and inviting atmosphere,it's obviously a neighborhood favorite,as the proprietor knew several guests by name. She is a warm and considerate hostess. I had a cup of herbal tea with honey and a toasted cheese sandwich with. a Jamaican twist, plantains and peppers I've never seen before. It closes at 4pm so it's mostly lunch. They have a pretty good assortment on jerk dishes as well. Put it on your "To Do" list.

J. A. S.

Yelp
Great little spot in the neighborhood; food was bursting with freshness. Very delicious! Friendly staff.
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Michael J.

Yelp
This place is the absolute best. Family owned and run, they're just the most friendly lovely people, passionate about what they do. Everything is freshly made on-prem., and great selection. Even have great tunes playing in the background. I stop by every morning for breakfast and coffee. Oh, did I mention they've a phenomenal espresso machine too! Open Tuesday-Friday from 8am. Definitely check it out, it'll become your new fav spot in the neighborhood.

Aleksei T.

Yelp
It was quite an amusing experience. I was strolling down the street when I noticed their sign. As I walked past the café, the barista caught my eye. I decided to turn back and give it a try. I ordered a black coffee and asked if they had any pastries. She immediately recommended one, and I readily agreed. They served the coffee and pastry promptly, and I was delighted to have stopped by. Great place!
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Michael R.

Yelp
I was just finishing a job in Bed-Stuy and happened upon this really nice hole-in-the-wall local family owned café. My omelette is amazing the coffee is fresh and good and the woman that runs the place is really nice. I asked how she came up with the name for her place and she said she is Jamaican and that she met her husband on a beach there called Doctor's Cave. Nice story. Definitely check this place out guys!
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Joseph T.

Yelp
I stopped in for a quick smoothie to go. The cafe is very cozy. They have offer some sandwich as well as some comforting breakfast / lunch items. The smoothies are all built to order. They don't have any premade options but the staff was kind enough to put together a smoothie with papaya and bananas for me. The smoothie was reasonably priced at about $6.50. The service was quick and friendly.
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Risa S.

Yelp
I come here often for lunch and am always satisfied with my meals! I love the fresh ingredients and unique, ever-changing menu. The flavour and authentic recipes are mouth-watering! The employees are very friendly and personable, and overall there is a great, positive vibe in the cafe. One thing to know is that in order to use their restroom, you have to go outside and around to the back door, behind the kitchen. It's a little inconvenient but not really a damper on the place as a whole. They accept applepay which is very quick and convenient! The portions are on the smaller side for the price. For me, however, it's perfect and I'd rather have quality than quantity. I'm getting hungry just thinking about their soups and sandwiches! Can't wait till next time I visit to see what's cooking!

Jasmine P.

Yelp
I really want to like this place, but unfortunately I do not. I was excited that a place so close to my job had matcha but its really not worth the $7. I tried it 3x and unfortunately I do not need a 4th cup or the attitude of the woman in charge. I try to support small businesses especially when they are run by black women, but honestly the matcha is better and they're nicer at the nearest Starbucks.
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Tim M.

Yelp
Fantastic. Fantastic food fantastic everything. Always brightens my day to go to doctors cave cafe
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Cynthia G.

Yelp
This is a nice little cafe that feels cozy and homely. I am from the south and have come here two days in a row just to feel some authentic warmth. The owner, Mrs. Gene, is a sweet Caribbean lady who makes every guest feel like they're her favorite. I would recommend going for the wonderful service alone but the food is divine. Cooked with love & its good for you too!
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Edith D.

Yelp
I used to live in Bed Stuy from 2000-2005 before my family and I moved to Scotland. We are back 15 years later and I searched out the Dr'Cave with my fingers crossed that this pioneer was till in the neighborhood: I was thrilled to find them. Of course they were open even in those funny hours mid afternoon and my guests-- namely my son who was a tot when we left and is now headed to U Mich (go blue!) and his lovely girlfriend --were so happy to soak in the deep brownstone aesthetic of a huge kitchen made with dark woods and permanent fixtures. The menu is simple, honest and creatively homemade -- they had watermelon juice and I had ice tea with basil: super refreshing and made by hand. We had sandwiches and omelette a between us and left happy and healthy. What's more, you won't have to drop $20 for a lovingly prepared meal. Try the beet salad, the fried chicken, the omelette a la carte ... delicious.
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Thomas T.

Yelp
The food, coffee, smoothies, and proximity to my apartment are reason enough to love the Cave. But it's the friendly staff, dope music, and relaxing environment that make it so special. This place is the best.
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Eric Y.

Yelp
Cute cafe with great food and coffee. Staffs all have huge smiles and looks happy cooking and preparing delicious food for customers. This place almost blends in with the same colored wall building but luckily I noticed the yellow bench outside. I tried coffee, pizza, watermelon lemonade, Pastries, and cave's plate with chicken thigh, potatoes, and cave's salad. And the best thing for me was eating great food while watching them making it in the kitchen. Glad to find this place during my stay in Brooklyn.
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Moles B.

Yelp
Fantastic family run place. Great simple sandwiches, smoothies and some baked goods. Probably the most organized and beautiful kitchen anywhere in New York. The hours are limited and they are not open on weekends but that assures that you always get consistent good service. Everything here is made with love and a hope that you will truly enjoy it. I feel like the world is a better place because of this little gem. If I could give it 6 stars I would.
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Katharine D.

Yelp
Cozy, cute, and delicious (plus great coffee!). Had the tofu sandwich and I highly recommend it.
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Gabriel F.

Yelp
Awesome family owned cafe. Gorgeous food, natural and organic. Can't recommend enough!
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Zenzi B.

Yelp
Very cute and cozy spot, right around the corner. Had the grilled cheese, very tasty. I wish they were open late evenings or weekends, but I do get to visit when I'm working from home.
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Andrew R.

Yelp
Awesome neighborhood spot with the friendliest staff that really cares about the food they serve. I go by for the food and the friendly atmosphere!
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David N.

Yelp
This place is a neighborhood favorite of mine. Discovering this place was a true blessing when I first moved to Bed Stuy and trying to find a place that serves healthy food. Doctors Cave has been around for 10 years, much longer than the current sweep of new businesses that are transforming the neighborhood (see nearby Tompkins Ave) Tim and Jean are the owners. Lovely couple, very friendly and both serve excellent food. Everything is made from natural and organic ingredients that are hand picked by Tim and Jean. They scour the farmers markets on the weekend to get the best produce, and it shows. Everything is hand prepared while you wait. It's fresh and tasty. Check them out if you take the Bed Stuy house tour. They are right on the corner of the Boys High School. I really cannot emphasize the difference in taste, with even just a simple food from here compared to other places. They cook with love and it comes out in the taste. Doctors Cave reminds you what food REALLY tastes like.
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Clare B.

Yelp
The Doctor's Cave is an awesome little cafe in Bed Stuy. Located in the ground floor of a brownstone on the corner of Marcy and Putnam, it is easy to miss. Inside, it's about half kitchen, half seating (4-5 tables, plus three chairs at a counter in the window). I'm not totally sure, but it seems like this is actually the kitchen for the building above and that the proprietors are the residents. The menu is limited - basic sandwiches, salad platters, sides, and a soup of the day, but there are also various specials that are not on the menu. Also, there is a varying selection of excellent baked goods and French Toast and crepes for breakfast. The prices are very reasonable - ranging from $3.50 - $4.25 for sandwiches and $5 - $6.50 for the more substantial platters. Everything is fresh and made there. The Doctor's Cave Cafe has VERY limited hours - Monday through Friday only and they close at 5:30 p.m., but if you are ever looking for weekday breakfast or lunch in Bed Stuy, definitely check it out!
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Tara B.

Yelp
Love this place! From the wall art to the smells wafting in from the kitchen, this truly feels like a homey cafe made by people who care about their customers and food.
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Jah M.

Yelp
An absolute must. The only place I found that serves all organic, farm fresh food. It's small but mighty. Delicious food!
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Markus P.

Yelp
Cute little place! Friendly and fun atmosphere. Small menu but delicious food. I had a tomato and cheese omelet which is exactly what I needed this morning! It had a bit of a 'kick' which I like! Highly recommend.
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Natascha M.

Yelp
The food here is made fresh right in front of you. It is perfectly seasoned and delicious. The egg sandwich was seasoned with basil and thyme and amazing. The service is friendly, welcoming and helpful. It is a pleasure coming here.
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Chris R.

Yelp
Cute family owned cafe. Homemade sandwiches, eggs, soups- you name it! Nice place to unwind and enjoy something yummy.
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Candice E.

Yelp
I love this place! The food is always great and the atmosphere warm and friendly. It truly is like visiting your favorite sister- you know the food is fresh and prepared with love. It's a gem.
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Par S.

Yelp
Cozy little cafe with smoothies, sandwiches, pastries. I stopped in after an event at the school down the block and found the staff to be so lovely and welcoming. Egg salad sandwich came out to $7 and was very fresh with crisp lettuce and bright condiments. Tasty and healthy, wrapped to go in simple wholesome craft paper. Nothing flashy overall and yet I came away feeling very good about this spot. Quality!
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Joseph G.

Yelp
They also have 1 lunch plate every day that is always organic and amazing! Their sandwiches are great as well. You won't get a lot of variety, but what you do get is really good!

Julian R.

Yelp
Doctor's Cave Cafe is an amazing, beautiful gem in the neighborhood. The space and people are so welcoming. The best omelet I've ever had hands down!

Sunny M.

Yelp
nice sandwiches and coffee. if you're looking for simple but well-made breakfast in Brooklyn, here is the place where to go. And the service was really nice :)
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Jennifer A.

Yelp
So good and tastes fresh. Had an omelette with spinach, mushrooms, and peppers with some freshly squeezed orange juice. Took a little while to make, but it was worth it! Staff is friendly and welcoming. The atmosphere is very cozy and the place feels rustic. Awesome place - would definitely recommend!
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Robb W.

Yelp
Its like having mom make your lunch for school. Everything is delicious and simple and made with love. It reminds of a time when new york was new york and not its current manifestation of over priced eateries with no soul. I come often for both the service and the food.

Jennie S.

Yelp
Awesome Family business- Jean holds down the fort, with her brilliant seasonal baking- and Pure Healthy Down Home Farm to Table... done Jamacian style- NOT to be missed- the way New York was, and should always be!
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Darragh D.

Yelp
You must go here. Incredible fresh food made with a lot of love. Affordable, intimate atmosphere with a lovely, accommodating staff.

Kelly T.

Yelp
This cafe is the way all of life should be: simple, unpretentious, high quality, healthy, amazing. I normally get the smoked tofu sandwich, but got the tuna sandwich and it literally has made my day. It was so delicious. Thank you for serving such loving and essential food!
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Jen W.

Yelp
A sweet little spot for the neighborhood. I had lunch there and chose one of three proteins and two out of six sides. I had the grilled chicken thighs, kale and potatoes agrautin. They were super friendly, I'll be back!
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David H.

Yelp
Had the (sustainably caught!**) Tuna salad on 8 grain and was blown away, tasting flavors I never expected [they will tell you the ingredients if you ask, but I won't reveal their secrets ) also enjoying a blend of their Pineapple-ginger juice with their mango lemonade. Mmmmmm think I'll take home some banana loaf ~ so glad I found this spot (:

David C.

Yelp
Jean is the absolute best!!! Went here everyday for lunch when I worked next to the Cafe and never had a bad experience. The menu changes daily based on what is fresh! The falafel and salmon burgers are personal favorites of mine. Oh, and the brownies are dangerous (probably the best I've ever had).
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Jeffrey K.

Yelp
Amazing locally sourced food, delicious! Lovely and friendly staff/owners. Cannot recommend highly enough :-)