Our table was in the narrow hallway in back of the front counter and the mod-style furniture was close enough across the aisle for me to eavesdrop in on the nearest conversation without even moving. The booth we sat at in particular was a formica-covered throwback to the 60s and behind us was displayed a large piece of local art that kept me searching for all the tiny details hidden within for the better part of the dining experience. So yes, Coca Cafe is also part-gallery.

 

We ordered the Four Cheese Omelet (w/ham) and the Chicken Curry Salad. Both were good-sized portions well-presented on big bistro-style plates and the wait was very short. The Four Cheese Omelet features jarlsberg, cheddar, goat, and muenster cheeses and was very savoury with just the right amount of goo from the cheese. This was served with thick toast and orange.

 

My Chicken Curry Salad was presented on a bed of field greens with apple slices. Very tasty indeed, the spice was quite balanced and bland enough for my partner to have a try but spiced enough for me to enjoy as well. My only complaint about this dish was the proliferation of raisins. I’m not a raisin fan so points to the Cafe for creating a dish I ate nearly all of- my plate was decorated with a little mound of picked out raisins when I finished.

 

So, the lowdown: Coca Cafe is perfect for the art crowd, students and just about anybody else looking for a relaxed lunch or breakfast (which they serve both of all day long, our friendly waitress informed us). Their website http://www.cocacafe.net/index.html is clean and easy to navigate (an absolute plus) and includes the menu and prices (more points from me). Most menu items range from $4- $8 so I thought that was quite affordable and there’s quite a variety. Vegetarians are also welcome and can substitute tofu in most dishes for meat and gourmets will enjoy selections such as Sundried Tomato Pesto Omelet and Turkey Rachel. (But there’s plenty of down-home goodies for everyone too). And check this out- Coca Cafe caters, too. Overall a relaxed and tasty dining experience, my one suggestion would be a little more organization for seating- we weren’t sure if we had to wait, sign in, flag someone?

Hours: Tues-Fri 7-3

Saturday 9-3

Sunday Brunch 10-3