entertain

In our time of fast food and drive-thrus, you would be hard-pressed to find a coffee shop that serves up tasty organic and local fare on real dishes in a gorgeous garden, right? Welcome to Bazaar Cafe. This quaint little shop is nestled in the residential Richmond District, between 21st and 22nd Avenues on California Street, and locals consider it a neighborhood gem.

Unlike many of its contenders, Bazaar Cafe is known not only for the food, but for the atmosphere as well. The cafe is furnished with comfy couches and armchairs, has a listening station that features CDs of local musicians, an “instrument corner” with a piano, violin, and two guitars, and paintings and photographs by local artists hanging on the walls. Located just outside the back door is a luxurious garden, complete with lawn gnomes and statues. This is a favorite place of customers to relax as they enjoy some of the best coffee in town. As stated on the Bazaar Cafe website, www.bazaarcafe.com, the garden is “a peaceful haven adorned with beautiful plants and whimsical art,” and “has become an oasis of peace and a favorite gathering spot.”

Coffee, however, is by far not the star of the Bazaar Cafe menu. Along with sandwiches, soups, and salads, the menu boasts specials such as quiche and homemade curry. And the carrot cake is to die for! Not only is the food varied and tasty, much of it is organic or locally produced. All the quiches, pies, and soups are delivered a few times a week by Aunt Nettie’s Bakery and Kitchen in Santa Cruz, and the cakes and pastries are from Blissful Bites in the city.

You might just be looking for a nice place to do your homework or browse the Net, plug in your laptop and connect to the free wireless Internet offered at Bazaar Cafe. In addition to the delicious food and vibrant atmosphere, Bazaar Cafe hosts an impressive array of nightly entertainment. Stop by in the evening for a live performance! With musicians, “Ask a Scientist” nights, and “Study Halls,” there is something fun going on at Bazaar Cafe every single night of the week!