Global Café

Global Café at Crosstown managed to do the impossible: serve shawarma that was an insult to the word “shawarma.” Two orders came out as gravy-soaked chicken dumped on pita, like someone skimmed a definition once and said, “Yeah, close enough.” ​ The burrito, asado bowl, and fajita de pollo all tasted like they’d been carefully engineered to meet the legal minimum requirement for “flavor.” The nachos were so bland that the random jazzy spice mix sprinkled on top felt more like confetti at a funeral for taste buds than actual seasoning. One star, only because zero isn’t an option. Great venue, lovely vibe, but the food is a disaster on another level.

Incredible food. Was so fast I couldn’t believe it. Very obviously authentic international food, the entire kitchen is visible through glass. All the cooks are amazing. They have a small bar with a few cool craft beers, and a nice selections of artistic cocktails.

I had the asado bowl and the pabellón, and let me tell you this is an insult to "immigrant" food. First of all both of the dishes came out cold. Second, this place clearly uses real ingredient however the lack of flavor is an insult to the ingredients used. I don't think they even put salt or pepper in any of the dishes (bare minimum) Bland beans, bland shrimp, bland shredded beef, BLAND PICO (how do you make pico taste flavorless??) And to top it off the prices are outrageous, 20$ for a steak quesadilla with boiled meat (forgot to mention I had that too) Also management is horrible Go to a real immigrant restaurant like sabor caribe, 2empanadas, tacosnganas if you want any real flavor

Food lacked any flavor and I’m so disappointed, especially for what I paid. The same can be said of the soup, which has a gritty taste. Proportions were generous but taste was incredibly lacking - I don’t have much else to say save *insert crying emoji here*

I’ve been coming to Global Cafe since they opened and it’s always been a favorite. The food usually never disappoints, and I love the variety of global cuisines. Recently, the food has been inconsistent and disappointing unfortunately. I took my mom out for dinner and she chose the Thupka and I ordered the Plantain Soup. The Thupka was way too spicy for her (she was frustrated because nowhere on the menu does it indicate that it’s spicy), and the meat was missing, so I gave her my Plantain Soup and boxed the Thupka to bring home to my partner and decided to order another Plantain Soup for myself. The first bowl of soup was overflowing with chicken and yucca root but didn’t have a single piece of plantain in it…the second bowl of soup had chicken, and not a single piece of yucca root - there were two pieces of plantain in the soup. Just a bit frustrating for the soups to be so inconsistent, in the span of 10 minutes. I’ve noticed in the past that dishes usually always come out a bit different than the time before, but to not have plantain in a soup when it’s the main event feels kind of silly. The service was also a bit disappointing compared to how it usually is - we had to ask for a box multiple times and at one point one of the staff took my mojito before I was finished drinking it. I will keep going to Global and supporting of course! Just some food for thought.

Ordered the Empanadas and all I can say is very bland and overpriced. My girlfriend got the Dama with Rous, it was dry and cold. Would NOT go back. Juan, the manager, was inattentive and unprofessional while I was waiting to place my order.

A friend recommended Global Cafe for lunch, and I’m so glad she did! It’s such a lovely spot with a relaxed atmosphere and great service. When you walk in, you place your order at the counter, then find a seat—either inside or outside—and they’ll bring your food to you. I ordered the chicken tacos paired with a fresh margarita to top if off. The food was flavorful and the margarita hit the spot. I'll definitely be back to explore more of the menu - I'm really curious to try the quesadillas! Overall, Global Cafe offers great food, a great chill vibe, and a solid dining experience. Absolutely worth a visit.

The best shrimp ceviche I’ve had!! The restaurant was packed but service was super quick, and it was absolutely delicious. Could not recommend more!

A friend recommended Global Cafe for lunch, and I'm so glad she did! It's such a lovely spot with a relaxed atmosphere and great service. When you walk in, you place your order at the counter, then find a seat--either inside or outside--and they'll bring your food to you. I ordered the chicken tacos paired with a fresh margarita to top if off. The food was flavorful and the margarita hit the spot. I'll definitely be back to explore more of the menu - I'm really curious to try the quesadillas! Overall, Global Cafe offers great food, a great chill vibe, and a solid dining experience. Absolutely worth a visit.

This was my second time eating at Global Cafe. I went on a Friday night, so of course it was packed. I got the street tacos, some hummus with pita bread, and a cold Mexican Coke to top it off. Everything hit the spot.

Decided to give taco Tuesday night a go... some pros and cons to consider. 1. The taco protein is good (we had carnitas and chicken), but the tortillas need to be tossed on a flat top. The stuffed arepa was delish and huge. 2. Juan's margarita is very orange forward vice lime, that was a negative to us. The addition of taijin to the top is nice, prefer a rimmed glass. I feel like this is a frat party fave, it's alcohol heavy but not fresh (guess that's why it is on special). 3. Cleanliness - it was insanely busy, but literally 10 tables sat there with stuff on it, and the floor is gross. You guys could use a bus boy. Hot and soapy is all you need! 4. Tortillas and salsa - really, really good. Unexpectedly good. Parking garage next door is free first two hours!

Clean and good food and staff is friendly. Felt good outside so we sat outside and enjoyed our food

I have know about Global Café for years and I finally had the chance to stop in and try them out. Everything on the menu looked so good, I wanted to try as much as possible. The environment was chill and laid back. It was also spacious and clean. You get to see your food being prepared freshly right in front of you. I am so glad that I went. The service is great as well. I will definitely be stopping back in. I went with the chips and salsa. It comes with homemade corn tortilla chips with your choice of our homemade pico de gallo, salsa verde or salsa quemada with the option to add fresh guacamole. It was delicious. The chips were coated with season, so good! I love that everything is made with fresh ingredients and healthy. The next thing I had was the Asado Bowl. It's packed with beans, rice, pico de gallo, diced avocado, lime & your choice of vegetarian/no meat, grilled chicken, carnitas, steak or shrimp. I had the chicken. It was so flavorful. The bowl is super filling. I was able to eat it for lunch and dinner. I had it with the Sudanese Mint Limeade. It is very refreshing. I am looking forward to going back!

Global Cafe is a culinary haven where different worlds of flavors collide in the most delightful way. Picture this - one space, multiple grills, and a menu that takes you on a gastronomic journey across various countries. It's a concept that's as brilliant as it is delicious. What I appreciate about Global Cafe is their commitment to catering to diverse tastes. Their menu doesn't just cover the basics; it spans the four food groups, ensuring there's something for everyone. And if you're a vegan, rejoice - they've got options that are just as flavorful and satisfying. The ordering process is simple and efficient - you place your order upfront, grab a number, and settle in at your table. The anticipation builds as you wait for your meal, and when it arrives, it's a feast for the senses. Now, let's talk specials. Global Cafe doesn't just stick to the ordinary; they spice things up with unique specials that add an extra layer of excitement to your dining experience. And here's the cherry on top - the convenience. If you're in a hurry or just prefer a cozy night in, you can order through their app and breeze in for a quick pickup. It's a splendid experience from start to finish, making Global Cafe a go-to spot for a culinary adventure that satisfies both your taste buds and your busy schedule. Parking is not fun. You may have a little walk, but it's worth it.

I got the vegan bowl and it was so delicious. The variety of well done meals was so fun and everything they brought out looked incredible. They have different specials every day and I am excited to return to try something new! The service was friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, they answered all our questions and gave recommendations of their own. It was so nice to sit out and people watch at the concourse while enjoying delicious food.

I ate here and was disappointed with the arepa. The diner who joined me had the burrito. He said it had too much rice.

This was my first meal here and I enjoyed both dishes. The wait for service and delivery to the table didn't take long. The staff was friendly. They do not stay open late so I was glad I came in before closing. GC is a small and open setup. You can see the cooks prepare the food. It's a very nice place.

Had the Kuku Paka and Pabellon on separate occasions. Out of both, the kuku paka is my favorite-not that spicy. Food is always good, and I have never had never had a problem with my order. Have never ate in the restaurant so I'm not sure how the sit down service is (why I didn't rate it 5). I love their variety on the menu. I've also tried the. empandas, which aren't my fav as they're a bit dry.

Positive vibes only! Such a great spot at the Concourse! Super friendly staff and food is incredible. Serves alcohol too (I didn't know this and I like to have a drink with dinner). Can't wait to come back.

I just realized I've never written a review despite visiting several times. Located in Crosstown Concourse, Global Cafe is an international food hall. Their team members hail from all across the globe as evidenced by the menu options. Today i had the Asado Bowl : Beans, rice, pico de gallo, diced avocado, lime & steak. Freshness and flavorful are the best ways to describe it. We also enjoyed the Juan's famous margaritas which were $3.95. Casual yet welcoming environment for dining loved by many. The staff are super friendly and check in during your dining experience.

This is my favorite place to eat in Memphis! It was my go-to for dining out while in school, offering good portions of diverse foods make by individuals from all around the world! I greatly enjoy trying new items every time I go. It is an order-at-the-counter style restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating available. Service is always friendly, and it is clear everyone cooking there loves what they do! I highly recommend the chicken Shawarma (my personal favorite). In the summer, they do amazing mango margaritas (topped with a whole sliced mango/tajin/hot sauce)... it is something else!

From food, service, to ambiance, we will be back for sure to try some meat dishes from the African menu. We tried South American fusion/ Baja California fusion dishes. The food came out hot, fairly fast and fresh. I would recommend coming for a happy hour or breakfast next time if you would like to mingle and meet some more people. We came around 2 pm during the weekend, it was not crowded. The place was clean, it is dog friendly and there is outdoor seating. I love the wide variety of drinks the bar has and will be back to try some margarita specials. My partner doesn't drink, and I love to people watch and mingle. This review will be short since we had vegan options which were easily great! (You can't mess that up) I will be back for the meat LOL

I recently visited and had such a great experience with their delicious food. I love the concept of rotating authentic and genuine dishes from different countries. The idea of bringing together immigrant and refugee cooks to share their food is amazing. This really is an outstanding local spot with a wonderful goal. Ordering was straightforward and the ambience was nice. The entrance is at the outdoor frontside of the Concourse, not from the inside. The Dama with Rous (Sudanese) was excellent, and it's made me want to come back for more. It's tough, because I want to try other things too!

The food is amazing! If I was rating based on food alone I would give 5 stars. However the service from some of the workers should be worked on. The cashier who was a young lady in braids was amazing nothing wrong with her! The man making the drinks who I believe is the owner was okay. He seemed to be annoyed but it was a busy day for them so I get that. But the lady passing out the food. She was completely rude! When she came to give us the food she simply looked at us very dead pan and didn't greet us just left the food on the table took the stand with the number and walked away. She looked very annoyed. I get the store is busy but a simple have a good day or a simple smile would have sufficed. Other than that very good place!

I got the spaghetti which was decent. The sauce was a bit too bitter for me but the plantains were cooked just right! Everyone was very friendly and our servers were prompt. We sat outside which was quite nice. Inside the restaurant, there were plenty of people eating and talking.

Stopped in for fast dining. It hit the mark for fast and good. I ordered the tacos, vegetarian. Those were nothing to write home about it. They were basically an explosion of black beans and cilantro. I did also get the hummus with pita and it was amazing. Probably the best hummus ive had in a while. I also got sambusa which was delicious. The vibe here is beyond causal. At the time there was only one person serving the entire place. She was super apologetic and sweet so I didn't mind the wait and she told me right when I walked in that she was all by herself so I appreciated the transparency. Would recommend this place if you want something amazing and a little different from the American bar and grill.

If you want a healthy option in Memphis this place might work. The Crosstown Concourse, where this place is located, is this spectacular landmark a short distance from downtown and is the opposite of a skyscraper in that it is longer than taller and looks more like a gigantic air craft carrier in the middle of the city. In front of this majestic work of architecture is a shaded parking lot. To get to Global Café, follow the sign that points to the West Atrium and do not enter the building as this place is on the first level in front before you enter the building. This place offers a lot of items and as global as they make themselves out to be, they don't go far enough to indicate where everything is from unless it is from a country where you normally cannot find cuisine for. We'll, with the exception of Korean. What I mean is that there are many Sudanese dishes for some reason, and Kenyan and a couple of Venezuelan options for some reason; but the street tacos for example aren't from Guatemala or Belize for some reason; and the Vegan plate with Pico de Gallo isn't from Peru or The Netherlands Antillies. Just thought it was silly to pick out a few countries and stop at that. All of that said let's talk about the food which was pretty darned good. My buddy and I were starving so we ordered everything except the Uzbekistanian Kitchen sink: First of all: there was a proper bar! Thankfully they didn't get too hipster and eliminate the bare essentials like booze. Had a vodka and a Corona and they didn't skim, even at 5pm on a late weekday afternoon. Food wise, had the following: 1. Ground beef Sambusas (aren't the made in Bangladesh??? The menu didn't indicate which country inspired that dish for some reason, hmmm) excellent by the way (5/5); very warm, crispy, crunchy, meaty and filling; 2. The Chicken Schwarma (a Levantine dish but not noted) 4/5 excellent serving size with lots of olives chicken and bell peppers; very hearty thought the pita was soggy from it being overstuffed (not complaining as I was starving) 3. Street Tacos (a little dry) (3/5) 4. Korean Lettuce Wrap (4.5/5) yummy 5. Mandu (4/5)

Shawarma wasnt shawarma like and the sour cream to make it edible was an upcharge. Otherwise the server was nice

The staff here is super nice and the margaritas are strong! I loved the African peanut stew and the kuku paka (chicken in a coconut curry sauce). The dama with rous, sambusas, and empanadas are also delicious! I found the fried chicken a little too heavily spiced in their heavy breading but idk if that's the way it always is and although their burrito is giant, it's a bit bland so I'd recommend an actual Mexican restaurant for a tasty burrito. Prices are a tad high for some of the items but it's a fun spot for dining outside Crosstown Concourse! And maybe grabbing a mangorita?

From a road-tripping perspective, I must say that anyone who thinks Tennessee is all the same is mistaken. For one thing, in Nashville there was an enormous variety of vegetarian restaurants, whereas in Memphis I selected this out of much more limited options (and neither city is as pretty as Chattanooga). This place offers a wide variety of reasonably vegetarian-friendly cuisine. It is a sort of cafeteria-like setting as part of a large complex, and despite the fact that this place has its own seating, food seems to be served in to-go containers by default. My arepa, while not the best I've ever had, was fresh and satisfying. What they call a sambusa looks rather like an egg roll but with a spiced potato filling and a delicious set of garnishes and a sauce that had mustard I think (?). Interesting stuff, and filling. I doubt this place is competing with any dedicated Venezuelan restaurants (or Sudanese, or any of the other cuisines they're doing). The good was global, as were the staff and the customers. I'd say they're doing a pretty good job.

Incredible food selection, variety is great, all great quality and delicious. As someone who loves food and rarely thinks food is AMAZING, this food met that expectation with flavor, quantity, texture, etc. Friendly staff and reasonable prices. Can't wait to come back more often with or without people! Also great patio/outside seating.

Delicious! It smells amazing in here and there is such a robust variety of cuisines offered. Great experience. I loved the pollo guisado!

I'm just not a fan. I liked it 1st time I went but have been several times now & it hasn't been good. Main complaint is everything is way over salted. The elote was so salty, I couldn't eat it. Same with the hummus. On one visit I had peanut soup which was very thick & gummy & I was sick to my stomach afterwards. To me, cocktails look better than they taste. The outside tables are nice but the interior is crowded with too many tables & feels like a school cafeteria. It's not a place for me. But people seem to like it so one should try it for themselves.

Global Café has a variety of dishes, from falafel, to arepas, to Somali spaghetti. Everything I've tried here has been excellent, and I get something different every time! They also have a wonderful mission to employ immigrants and refugees and empower them to be successful. You will be satisfied every time you come here.

I got the Doma it wasn't exactly the best I've had it wasn't fresh an then rice was a bit hard an dry. So it was my fault to try this place first then an actual authentic food for the first time. I will be taking home to make a bit better cause I'm not wasting any food. It was a nice portion I give them that needed more umph to it

Extremely expensive, overpriced and no quality to the food. I got asada tacos and my husband go the asada bowl, the "asada" meat is a cheap taco meat from the store, takes like brick, spent $45 for not being full, portions are small and do not satisfy. Place looks nice and all but taste and quality is not there.

Mexican food is more than just spicy, try something with Mole and dishes with honey or Tamarind. The service was excellent and a nice casual Ambiance, with reasonable prices.

Delicious food that doesn't make you feel heavy or tired afterwards because it's actually healthy! I'm normally not a fan of chicken at all unless it is battered and deep fried, but their chicken was so juicy and packed with flavor. The veggies were smoky and the tzatziki pulled it all together. It was a large gyro for sure, took me forever to finish it. It felt like the filling was never ending. But if you're not hungry, you must at least try one of their specialty cocktails. They are s t r o n g and dangerous. They are so delicious that you think you're just having a tropical drink until you try to stand up. That huge watermelon drink was $12 and took 3 of us to finish it and we all felt it. Cheapest specialty drinks in memphis for sure, and honestly my favorite. You get a large amount of alcohol but you don't taste it because the real fruit they put in masks it all. I feel like I'm at the beach when I drink here. 10/10 recommend!

Juan is very rude, even to his employees. What I witnessed yesterday was horrible...Hearing him say "f**k me" and roll his eyes when our party walked was too much. I've heard him say it before when people walked in but to have it happen when we make sure to tip well and support their mission. The way he harshly berated one of his employees while she stayed calm and very professional broke my heart to see. The owner should be ashamed of Juan's behavior and give him a much needed permanent break since he hates the customers, employees, and his job so much. So I can't in good conscience eat there ever again

Mostly positive things to say about GC- I had heard from various people to try it out, and for the most part, it lived up to the positive reviews I've heard and seen. The reason why this rating is 4 stars and not 5 stars is actually due to the customer service as opposed to the quality of the food and drink (I loved my Jamaica drink!). I don't often say this, but I found the servers to be rude - they made a mistake with my order number (delaying my food to be given to me as it was just sitting in the back), and when I asked what the status of my order was (after about a 25 minute wait for a to-go order), it was handed to me with a blunt explanation, but no apology or smile. It was somewhat bothersome, but overall I liked the quality of the food and drink.

Freaky fast! Freaky good! Come and try a variety of foods from wonderful people. Clean, quick service.

Let me say, mango margs! But really, great food, quick, and the staff is amazing. Can't wait to go back.

The food here is amazing. I recently had the Asado Bowl after signing up for the mailing list and getting a BOGO offer. It was delicious- full of fresh, healthy ingredients and super filling. Juan's margarita packs a punch and is not too sweet. The menu is so diverse, I want to eat here every night to try it all!

I see that the mango Margaritas are back so why not post about my multiple experiences at global Cafe! Crosstown concourse has so many gems and things for you to get into but the food has to be my favorite! Global Cafe is always a delightful experience with many different options for you to try! The options are also native to particular countries allowing us to travel without leaving the city! Everything is always fresh and flavorful with everyone there giving great service and recommendations! There are plenty of meals for you to try and they also have a full bar so go with some friends and explore! I personally love sitting out on the patio with some good food and a great cocktail! The atmosphere at Crosstown Concourse is just so vibrant! If you haven't been I highly recommend stopping by! I know I'll be back there soon!

Spicy Kenyan chicken curry with coconut rice flavors! Wow! Top quality food, great service and Gia makes the best MangoRita!! I'll be back!!

This place is wonderful however... they have changed their systems & no longer offer ordering via QR code at the tables. I loved this about ordering... take a seat, place my own order & food is right out correctly. Great Sunday brunch, but today... the QR codes are gone due to a new system. I had to place my order at the counter.... No big deal... I even asked about the burrito I ordered being vegetarian. I received a different item than I ordered. What I received was loaded with chorizo. I took it back to the lady at the counter who assured me the "chorizo" was egg. I had to take her to the menu to the item I ordered & question every ingredient... if this is egg where is the jalepeño? Where is the avocado? Where is the tomato? Finally she realized I received the wrong item. I need a new brunch place? Any suggestions?

The Thursday lunch special carnitas torta is as good or better than any I've had and I've had lots coming from Southern California. The pan was fresh with a slight crisp. The carnitas was moist and tasty. The beans and other additions were perfect. The salsa verde has a nice little kick with a lots of flavor. I was so stoked to find this place on a cross country trip. It was like I was back home eating at a Mexican bakery. Loved every bite.

I wanted to like this place, but food was mediocre at best. Food came out half frozen (didn't leave in fryer long enough I guess) and it took over 30 minutes to get everything we ordered. My husband got the spicy Kenyan chicken and the chicken was extremely gritty and flavorless. Definitely not worth the price.

Delightful place with a great vibe, very trendy design and open stall style concept. My understanding is that all the employees are refugees from the different countries which they offer culinary experience from. I sat on the patio and enjoyed the sunlight and fresh air. I personally went with the Vegan Plate which consist of rice, black beans, plantain, and veggies. I loved everything about it. I'll be coming back to try the other counters.

Fantastic food selection! The Kuku Paka is memorable! Love the service and the environment was clean and fun for a group. I will be back! Highly recommended!

Honestly I can say this place is so amazing, but that would be a understatement I ask the cashier for a recommendation and I didn't regret it was so good. Thank you Sky for providing me with excellent service !!!! There was no wait and my food came out 2 mins later after my drink was made what more could you ask for !!!!!!!! Highly recommend !!!!!!

Would not accept a perfectly valid gift card. Who is pocketing money from gift cards and turning them away no problem? Feels like a grift to me.

The food is amazing!! Go get food here. Quality of food, tastiness, price ... all great AND THEN GET A MANGORITA!! Oh is this drink good!!! Juan uses a whole mango "flower" per drink. Bring your friends! This drink is serious.

Don't even know where to start! I've been in Memphis for almost 4 years, and finally tried Global Cafe's food. I wish I had come years before! Their specials (Ceviche and Cerveza Wednesday and Torta Thursday) are the way to go. Their Margs are 2.95 and SO good during these specials. The Torta was huge. And the ceviche was fresh. I can't wait to go back!

If you love authentic foods and have an appreciation for cultures, you must try Global Café in Crosstown! I love Global Café because it brings together foodies from various cultures and from all different walks of life. If you want an enriching cultural experience, and want the closest taste to "home", visit Chef Maria at Global Café Memphis. Chef Maria makes the best empanadas . #SOMOS901

As a disclaimer, I've been lucky to live in a bunch of places with easy access to lots of authentic, ethnic food! So comparing the food at Global Cafe to that, but it may not be a fair comparison since there are fewer options in Memphis! Situated in the Crosstown Concource, Global Cafe is such a great concept! With super affordable prices and a rotating menu featuring food from around the world, it's a fun spot to check out. The chefs are all friendly and it has a casual vibe where you just go and order the food directly from each station. My friends and I came and decided to share dishes from each station. We had the: -Empanadas (chicken, beef, and potatoes and cheese): we universally liked the empanadas the most! In particular the beef and potatoes and cheese ones, which featured well-textured, crispy shells and well-seasoned and moist insides. -Stuffed Cheese Potato Bread: you don't have to order the soup to have the bread! It was nice and soft, but we didn't love something in the potato that was on the bottom half of the bread. The top of the bread was really yummy though -Mixed Grilled Vegetables with Tzatziki Sauce: lots of nicely grilled-vegetables, with probably the best rice of our three entree dishes. Some of the vegetables had a bit too much garlic for me, but was generally tasty -Chicken Shawarma: the chicken was a little dry, but was well-seasoned and the vegetables in this dish were delicious. It did have our least favorite rice of the three entree dishes, but the pita was nice! -Asado Negro Beef in Black Adobo Sauce with Rice and Fried Plantain: the sauce was too salty for me and the beef was really dry (though I usually feel this way about Asado Beef). The plantains added a nice touch, and the rice helped get rid of some of the saltiness The dishes didn't blow my mind, but Global Cafe is a nice spot with a wonderful mission! Would love to come back for the next menu switch, or for more of those tasty empanadas!

I really enjoyed my meals from here. The Thursday special was a great buy. It came with a torta which was huge! I like that fact that they hollowed out the bread since it was so big. It also came with a free dessert and I was able to add a horchata for .95! On another occasion I ordered the fried chicken with mashed potatoes. It was full of flavors! The mashed potatoes did not taste like the traditional ones, but still very tasty. They also offer free delivery if you are within a certain distance. I would try more from them.