A popular downtown breakfast-and-lunch cafe with fast, friendly service, generous portions, strong coffee, and excellent value, though its small dining room can fill quickly.
Cannella Cafe delivers solid food quality anchored by well-executed breakfast staples, generous portions, and reliable coffee, supported by notably attentive service that keeps diners returning. The downtown location and pleasant, recently renovated setting enhance its appeal as a neighborhood gathering spot. Consistency remains strong overall, though occasional preparation lapses and limited specialized menu knowledge prevent a higher tier.
Cannella Cafe is a busy, polished downtown breakfast-and-lunch spot where the welcome is as dependable as the coffee. Reviews describe quick seating, hot food, cheerful servers, and a loyal local crowd; one out-of-town diner noticed that nearly everyone seemed to know everyone else. The room is attractive and clean, but its popularity means Saturday lines and tight seating are part of the bargain. The cooking is classic American cafe fare with a few playful upgrades rather than chef-driven experimentation. Pancakes, home fries, eggs Benedict, country-fried steak, salads, sandwiches, and espresso drinks cover a broad range, with cinnamon roll pancakes and banana bread French toast providing the signature flourishes. Portions are generous and current menu prices are notably approachable, making this a particularly strong choice for a filling breakfast or efficient lunch. Families should have an easy time here: the menu includes pancakes, French toast, waffles, chicken tenders, burgers, fries, fruit, and familiar breakfast platters. Vegetarian choices are plentiful, while gluten-sensitive diners should note that reviews specifically mention no gluten-free bread or pancakes. The small dining room and busy late-morning periods may be the main family inconvenience, not the food selection.
Area vibe: College town downtown with a relaxed, service-oriented vibe.
Safety: Generally safe in daytime and evenings with moderate foot traffic near campus; quiet late at night.
What's nearby: Near Indiana University of Pennsylvania campus, courthouse, small shops and local restaurants along Philadelphia St.
Signature-leaning breakfast choices include Cinnamon Roll Pancakes and Banana Bread French Toast, while lunch has several dependable sandwiches and salads.
Plan around peak periods and parking, and note that gluten-free bread and pancakes are not available despite the broad menu.
Expect a clean, friendly neighborhood cafe atmosphere with quick service, local regulars, and a small room that gets crowded at peak times.