Been here so many times that I'm pretty much oblig...

Been here so many times that I'm pretty much obliged to post a review. Like many other East End residents, I'm kind of obsessed with Square Cafe. Sherree and her crew are friendly, patient, and attentive, and the dining area has a colorful, chatty ambiance. The specialty coffee drinks are amazing, and oh my goodness.... such FABULOUS, inventive local food! I live within reasonable walking distance, so every time someone visits from out of town I feel obliged to bring them here.

My favorite dishes are the brussels sprout grits and the white bean skillet, although because I go so often, I normally order one of the delicious seasonal/rotating menu recipes. Recently I tried their blood orange pancakes, which were equal parts weird and dreamy. The meals are generously portioned, and since I rarely have room for a milkshake or smoothie at the end of the meal, I usually take a Zesty Knitter (raspberry and chocolate) milkshake to go.

The restaurant does get very crowded on Saturday, Sunday, and holiday mornings... but even when I've arrived late (11:30~12:30) or brought a large party, I've never waited more than 15-20 minutes. The only time I've had a bad experience at Square Cafe was on an unusually crowded weekday afternoon, when my friend tried to custom-order something they didn't even have, and our server got really flustered. But even last time I went, when the barista made me the wrong milkshake, he just said "d'oh!" and apologized, then immediately whipped up a replacement, even though the restaurant was hella busy.

Basically, if you're looking for an inexpensive "greasy-spoon" breakfast/brunch, this won't be your best choice... but Square Cafe is perfect for the adventurous brunch enthusiast! It's also a very kid-friendly space.