Groovin' at the Grove

When I lived in Edo over a year ago, I was extremely lucky to welcome a new restaurant to the neighborhood. The Grove opened its doors exactly a block away from me (on Central just east of Edith) and sent out a broadcast: "Alexa, come hither, try our glorious food!" Who can ignore such temptation? A cafe within walking distance? A quaint one at that? I'm so there.

And I was there. Almost every day. For months. I might as well have worked for them because I knew everyone and they knew me- and I was basically just handing them my paycheck. Needless to say, the Grove is awesome.

They are open for breakfast and lunch (oh how I wish they'd just succumb and make me dinner too!), and also have a little wine menu for mid afternoon drinks. I tend to ignore the alcohol, though, because their espresso is just so damn divine. Andrew, the brother of the owner, whips up a mean coffee drink and is one of those people who successfully creates "foam art." His drinks are almost too pretty to drink...but make sure you do, because these babies are fantastic. Mochas at the Grove are pure magic- just what a mocha ought to be.

In choosing between breakfast or lunch here, I'd have to go with breakfast...but keep in mind that they serve breakfast all day. I basically lived off of their Croque Madam when I was frequenting the Grove daily- Gruyere cheese, ham and tomato atop farm bread and then all topped with a fried egg- it's orgasmic. The pancakes are also fabulous, especially since they're more like crepes and come served with fresh fruit. When I'm feeling virtuous, I'll order their homemade granola with yogurt and fruit.

For lunch, the Grove serves salads and hot and cold sandwiches. I tend to choose their sandwiches over the salads, if only for the little homemade pickle slices that come with. I have a love affair with the Beef (a cold sammie featuring arugula, caramelized onions and horseradish), but when I stray, the Tuna Toastie and the Veggie sandwich are equally delightful.

The Grove also features a few fresh baked goodies to round out the meal. They make their own cookies and cupcakes, all of which are delicious. Try their chocolate chip ginger cookie, or a chocolate banana cupcake. They also make their own english muffins...so if you've never thought anything of them, try a Grove-baked one, and you'll be singing a different tune.

You order up at the counter, and are given a card so they can bring the food out. I often leave my card at my table and peruse their little market of tasty treasures. The Grove sells all sorts of little gourmet confections including jams, good cookies and crackers, interesting chocolates, honey, cookbooks, etc. They even have a little cooler section of interesting cheeses for sale. This is the perfect place to find gifts for your foodie friends (hint hint!).

Though I have since moved away from my beloved Grove, I still frequent them when I can. With such tasty food and amazingly delicious caffeine, it's hard to resist.