Sage Cafe

By Annabelle Goodman –

 I had just returned from the grand wedding in Chicago. The Film Festival is now on my must do list. This means 2 films a day. I have had no chance to shop and the fridge is bare. I was walking downtown for my first film of the day and spotted Sage Café. It has been a successful breakfast and lunch spot for 18 years. The establishment must have originally been a house. It has the feeling of being in an old home. The food is selected from a counter at the front. Place your order and it is delivered to your table at the back of the restaurant. The room is delightful. I really like the dark green wood trim and olive colored walls. The old fireplace adds charm. Presently there is an exquisite photography show by May Ann Kaimola.  Her photography is exquisite and worth a visit. The show is called Glimpses Of The Seasons. The pictures are exquisite and you can walk around the restaurant and see photos representing different seasons.

I arrived early and couldn’t believe the long line of patrons that were waiting to place food orders. It all works so efficiently and quickly. Many take the food out. In fact take out and catering is a big part of the business. The food is so tantalizing and the biggest problem is making a choice. The portions are huge and artfully plated.

I ordered a Caesar Salad with a scoop of tuna. Crispy baked pita pieces graced the plate. It was all so delicious. There was enough for 2 people to share but I certainly managed to finish it all.

Wraps are a big item. You can order it with a salad or soup (if you have an enormous appetite). Truly the wrap portions are unbelievable in size. There is a long list of items that can be chosen for fillers.

Specials of the day are listed on a blackboard. On this day there was a Special Quiche Of the Day and a Singapore Salad. Two Soups were listed on the board. Specialties such as Eggplant Parmesan and Fusilli Prima Vera are common daily specialties. The pastries line the counter. Everything is tasty and prepared fresh.

Everything looks so appealing. The food is superb. There is a feeling of nostalgia dining in this little old house. I understand the brunch on Saturday and Sunday is amazing. It is now on my list.

I picked up a catering list on my way out. Very impressive!

Hot Hors D’oeuvres include Mimi Tartlets with a variety of fillings. Chicken Satay Skewers, Oriental Rolls and Falafel Fritters are just a few of the tantalizing options. Appetizers are $18.00- $20.00 per dozen.

Cold appetizers include: Pita Spirals, Brochettes of pesto cheese tortellini, Tomato and Bocconcini Lollipops, as well as Salmon or Crab Cakes.

Doesn’t it make your mouth water?  A variety of Entrees and Salads are all available.

I was so impressed with this small establishment. I will go back again very soon and even try the catering. It is a reasonable place to dine on quality food in the heart of the city.