"What a fantastic spot! Not only is everything gluten-free, but they also cater to many common allergens and are extremely vegan-friendly. The focus on health is evident in their unique grain mixes and a variety of creative drinks. However, it doesn't feel like a typical health food bar; instead, it exudes a warm, intimate, and somewhat quirky café atmosphere. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, eagerly addressing all my questions. You order at the counter, and they bring the food to your table. While the service isn't slow, they certainly take their time preparing everything, so this isn't the place for a quick bite. Drinks come out much quicker, and if you order a baked good, they’ll get it for you right on site.
I tried the Red Pepper Reuben with coleslaw, a carrot cupcake, and a Chaga latte. I opted for the vegan version of the Reuben; initially, I feared the vegan cheese might be generic, but to my delight, they offered various flavors including cheddar, Swiss, and provolone, allowing for a solid substitute for the traditional cheese. The sandwich itself was delicious! It was a bit messy due to the juicy roasted peppers and sauerkraut, which I think was amplified by the vegan cheese not holding everything together like regular cheese would, but the flavor made it worthwhile. The gluten-free bread was good, though it wasn't as delicate as traditional bread, yet it had a lovely, wholesome taste. The coleslaw was intriguing, possibly made with tahini in the dressing, and I really enjoyed it. The carrot cupcake was delightful, with the coconut frosting being especially tasty. Finally, my latte made with hemp milk was a pleasant change; I’m not sure how much of the subtle nutty flavor came from the Chaga versus the hemp, but it was a nice departure from my usual hot drinks.
The only downside I noticed is that they don’t offer any reusable cups for those dining in—everything else was served on ceramic plates, so it was a bit disappointing to receive my drink in a disposable cup. Overall, this was a wonderful experience, and although I might not have the chance to stop in Mt. Vernon again soon, I will definitely make a point to visit this place when I can!"
