When you think of a hidden gem, you imagine a shiny ruby at the end of a rainbow, surrounded by lush gardens and trickling waterfalls. In the food world, a hidden gem is a little local spot you never knew existed, offering unique, tasty and sometimes rare treats. It’s a spot you wished you had learned about long ago, but are happy to discover is right in your backyard.
Owner and chef Daniel Quezada realized a need in the area for a restaurant with late hours. With the intent to provide the overnight community a healthier alternative to 24-hour diners and fast-food chains, Quezada opened up
This counter-service cafe has tables on one side and a cozier area on the right side, set up more for lounging. The music playing is new wave and chill, more instrumental with an easy beat. Inspired by Quezada’s backpacking trips through western Europe,
From 11 to 3 p.m.,
Fresh juices designed to give you that extra pep in your step are available for $5 to $7. The Heart Beet, noted to help with heart disease, is a gorgeous ruby-red elixir made with beets, blackberries,
Brews and smoothies are available, including a $4 Tres Amigos with ginger, lime and honey to ease your sore throat. The Palo Azul Carafe is described as a “top class diuretic and kidney cleanser." The Morning After is an invigorating concoction of carbonated mineral water, Guatemalan chile, lime, baking soda to help alkaline your body, and sea salt. Whole young coconut is available for $5. Grab a straw and drink sweet coconut water after munching on the tender piece of coconut on top.
One section of the menu is titled Well Eats. Fresh vegetarian items are listed. Choose from a simple dish of pita bread with creamy hummus or a plate of salted edamame.
For a more filling meal, try the palak paneer — masala-spiced spinach, tomato and garlic dip with paneer cheese and naan. Or try a beautiful stack of crispy potato
Classic Grubs include gravlax, which is a gorgeous platter of in-house dill-cured wild-caught salmon, fresh seasonal berries, and crispy rye toast. Pad thai, tuna sashimi and an "umami bomb," wild mushrooms and seaweeds in a unique miso-
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. Friday 11 a.m. to 5 a.m. Saturday, 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. Sunday, 5 p.m. to 3 a.m.