Uptown Cafe

II was hooked the moment I walked in. The Uptown Café, located in historical downtown Lawrenceville is charming in every way. Sam and Jimmi, a husband and wife team, greeted me with a smile like we’d been friends for years. In fact, they knew virtually everyone who came through the doors of their quaint, little restaurant. Knew them by name. Knew them by story from babies to surgeries.

I was comfortable from the start in this tiny Mediterranean grill. It serves up an eclectic atmosphere as well as savory dishes with aromas of garlic and onion welcoming you to the first available table. There are only four, each seating two patrons with five bar stools along the opposite wall for single dining. My taste buds were on heightened alert as I perused the menu. And what a menu! Mediterranean delights like hummus, baklava, lentil soup and many dishes I’d never heard of (but am destined to try.)

Sam invited me to experience his spinach pie with a crust he’d been perfecting “for years.” After his description of wheat dough stuffed with spinach, feta cheese and onion then baked to a rich brown, I decided to go for it. You won’t find this jewel on the menu but if you call Sam in advance of your visit, he’ll make one just for you. I was fortunate to be there on the heels of a repeat customer who’d done just that so there was enough for me to have one too. But I wasn’t through. The grilled chicken breast marinated in olive oil and garlic played my heartstrings, and since I have an ongoing, passionate relationship with garlic, I felt the need to order that dish as well.

As I sipped Jimmi’s crisp mint iced tea and enjoyed my meal I pondered, “How do they do it?” Sam and Jimmi have no staff, yet they never miss a beat. They are clearly dedicated to food presentation, customer satisfaction and interaction. And on top of that, the food was delightful, aromatic and very tasty. It’s the perfect place to take a client for something different. The dress is casual and priced reasonably with nothing over $15.00. Alcohol is not served however there are a variety of sodas, (both Pepsi and Coke) as well as Perrier and my recommendation, mint iced tea. Give them a visit, you’ll feel right at home!

117 Perry Street
Lawrenceville, 30045

770-995-0805