"I jumped in my car with only 20 minutes til closing time, hoping all the way of my 5 minute drive, they would still give me a takeout order. Even though it took me 6 minutes to get there, I ran in and asked if I could still get an order To Go. The 2 very sweet girls at the counter looked at each other and then they both nodded at me, Yes . I could still place an order To Go. Thank goodness! I ordered the Mediterranean Platter, a wonderful Medley of Hummus, Beet Salad, Baba Ganouj, 3 Falafel Patties, 3 Stuffed Grape Leaves, Tabbouleh and a generous serving of Pita Bread. I went back and forth on the Black Bean Chili and finally decided to add it to my order... and I'm sure glad I did because it was absolutely hands-down delicious! It had caught my eye on the menu because it said Oil-Free Chili. I can tell you I am definitely coming back for the Chili and the Falafels... Well, the Hummus was really excellent and so was the Beet Salad, another winner! Okay, maybe I'd better just cover all my bases and say, Everything... I mean EVERYTHING... was absolutely delicious! The Tahini was so creamy and light you are just floating on air when you eat it. I also love the special Vegetarian section on the menu and they can make your meal Vegan too with a few food omissions. If you like Mediterranean Food, I think you'd better put this cafe at the top of your list, because I sure am. Every time we're in Santa Rosa, I'm going to make it a point to stop at the East West Cafe. Not only is the food good, but you should see the gorgeous desserts they have in their display case (See Photo). The only thing I will do differently next visit is to dine-in! It feels so good in there, with extra high ceilings and intriguing wall hangings. I couldn't help noticing the several small interesting turquoise plaques grouped on the wall by the door, and similar groupings also on several other walls. I was told by one of the girls who took my order that each turquoise plaque was a different prayer. They are so interesting and individually beautiful in their own unique way, you will want to have a closer look at each wall grouping when you come in. And the service here is so hospitable that these precious ladies offered me a glass of water while I waited for my Takeout order. She even thought about the fact that I was just coming from a movie, on our way to Santa Rosa from Novato, and confirmed with me that I would indeed need forks and spoons with napkins for my Takeout meal. I really like that kind of thoughtfulness. It makes you feel like they really care about you... AND what you'll need to have a pleasant experience while eating THEIR food... even if it's Takeout. So, although I could not dine-in the cafe tonight, I am definitely coming back for the full-service experience next time... because I can already tell from their conscienious, genuine old-world hospitality, it's going to be a phenomenal meal in a spiritually significant environment served by kind, wonderfully present individuals. Thank you so much wonderful chefs and staff in restaurant service here... And special thanks to the owners of this spiritually-driven culinary cafe for creating this refined dining experience for your appreciative patrons!"
