Charming neighborhood cafe-bakery with standout pastries, friendly staff, and a hidden back patio; food is fresh and satisfying, though space is tight and parking can frustrate.
Uppers Cafe & Bakeshop delivers solid neighborhood cafe quality through excellent pastries and coffee paired with genuinely warm, attentive service. The hidden back patio creates genuine charm, though tight indoor seating and occasional inconsistencies in cooked items prevent it from reaching higher distinction. A reliable local favorite that exceeds typical cafe standards.
Tucked along Broadway, this cozy spot feels like a neighborhood living room with a hidden back patio where people linger over lattes and cake. Staff are repeatedly described as warm and genuinely helpful, and one diner raved, "service beyond five stars." Space inside is small, but the energy stays calm and welcoming once you settle in. On the plate it leans classic cafe with a European accent: think a fresh, light breakfast burrito, salmon bagels with proper capers, and pastries from a hands-on owner-baker. The cooking is straightforward and ingredient-first rather than flashy, with standouts like the Basque cheesecake and honey cake earning devoted followings. Portions are generous for the price, especially sandwiches and soups. Families do fine here thanks to familiar choices like French toast and croissants, a burger, and customizable egg sandwiches. Seating inside is limited, so the patio is the best bet with kids at off-peak hours; expect tight street parking and plan a short walk to the back entrance.
Area vibe: Mixed commercial-residential corridor near offices and apartments; relaxed neighborhood vibe with daytime foot traffic.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy by day; typical urban parking constraints.
What's nearby: Near Broadway office nodes, healthcare and creative firms; convenient for locals, workers, and casual meetups.