Meagan Woestman
We like the local food and coffee offered at the cafe. They have a chalkboard wall kids can draw on while they wait for food. Portions ‘s are nice sizes. Not too big but not tiny. Prices were moderate. Coffee is always great there (I get lattes).
… moreDeb H
So pleased to say that this wonderful neighborhood cafe has expanded, now featuring a small dining/sitting area.
They take great pride in their espresso, and it shows. The soups are excellent, as are the breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Good vegetarian options, and eggs are free-range organic.
… moreRobert Phetteplace
I just moved down the block and this place is my new favorite haunt! I love their Banh-Meatless (and no, I’m not a vegetarian thank you). Their lemongrass tofu is killer! The staff is really nice and the outdoor seating is great.
… moreMichelle Livanos
I have since returned – and needed to come back again. I had lunch; it was very delicious and tasty, made with fresh ingredients. It made my stomache very happy. I had to go back for more the following week. (I think there has been a change of owners.)
Charging $2.75 for a 12 oz. cup of iced coffee, fair trade or not, is a bit steep – considering that most of it is ice – however, the clincher was when the owner, or was it the manager – not sure, held the door open for me for only a split second when I had my hands full and was going to sit outside and then allowed the door to slam on my back, thus spilling my coffee. No apology, no nothing. The baristas were friendly and did their job well. I felt bad for them working in such a hot kitchen. The coffee’s good. Customer service from management level is lacking. Oh yeah, and their punch card is 1 punch per “purchase,” not per drink. Stingy much?
… moreMartha Gaines
The best food, coffee, teas, atmosphere, staff — this place is a treasure, a real find. All home made soups and sandwiches, all home made bakery — much of it made in house and, what’s not is carefully chosen from the best bakeries in town. Sit by the window and watch the world go by, read, catch up with old friends. This is a place you can take your grandmother, your kids or your new sweetie — it’s perfect for everyone. Tired of that chain, chrome, coffee shop feeling? The Free Trade, gentle-on-the-earth Mermaid is your slice of heaven…
… moreSimon Puleo
Bahn Thai sandwich and the rice bowls make a tasty lunch. Also the turmeric carrot soup – spicy and warm. I like the lemonade on a sweltering day. The hours are limited so call ahead it is worth it. Not a chain like collectivo or bartiques. Good food, thoughtful caring owner.
… moreEric Schafer
Good drinks, friendly staff, comfortable dining area. They make real whip cream for their drinks! I haven’t eaten here in awhile, but last time I did, it was quite good.
… moreAbbigail Westerdale
The food was very good. The people working there were friendly and pleasant. We went around brunch time and there was plenty of seating and no wait. You have to park on the street but there were a number of available spaces.
… moreJelena Predaina
Cute and cozy establishment that serves up tasty beverages. The prices are comparable to hip coffee shops in Madison. I also buy my local honey at this location!
… moreChase S.
Love this spot. Delicious food for under $6 a plate. The Isis sandwich and the Meyer Lemon Pancakes are my favorites.
… more