Breakfast Menu "Old City Cafe & Grill" Cranford
Middle Eastern sandwiches & entrees served in comfortable, compact quarters with sidewalk seating.
Old City Cafe & Grill, 20 N Union Ave, Cranford, NJ 07016
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User Reviews
My husband and I came to this restaurant years ago when we were just dating. We decided to go back as a family now with our 9 month old for an early dinner. When we walked in we were seated right away. My husband and I started to settle all of the babies stuff in place so that we could eat comfortably. I notice that the owner (I’m assuming) was telling the staff consistently why they had sat a “party of 2” in a table that could’ve seated 4. Eventually as I suspected after we had almost finished arranging our things the owner walks over. She asked me “if it was only a party of 2” in which I replied “yes”. She then proceeded to tell me since I have a stroller I needed to move to a table for two (the smallest tables) in which I responded “ we would not be moving as the highchair for my son clips onto the table and we would not have any room for our plates and my son would grab anything within reach”. She then said “oh okay it’s a party of 2 1/2”. She realized that I would not be easily moved and said “ I needed to move my stroller” in which I replied “I would be doing so in just a few seconds” luckily I have a travel stroller which folds nicely and placed it on a chair. As a mother who wanted to have a quiet dinner with her family I sincerely don’t understand why I was made to feel like a bother with my son as the restaurant wasn’t even full and various tables were available and soon to be available as well. The service was mediocre and the lamb and chicken platters were dry and flavorless. Each plate was around $22-25 plus the hummus appetizer we ordered. I will end this review with the following since I’ve read other reviews and clearly it’s a “vibe” here. If you happen to be someone of color or Hispanic you will not be receiving “best service” at this establishment. To each their own but there are way better restaurants in Cranford to spend your money at.
Beyond having the best conversation with Rafael, each plate we ordered was absolutely on point, from flavor, spices, and delight. The plating was eye-catching as well. The family atmosphere and the service were excellent. This will become one of my favorite Lebanese restaurants in Cranford.
We visited this place couple times. I always ordered sandwiches which is very good and my husband had kabab dish. I think their sauce is really good. One time, I ordered coffee and their cup is very cute and unique. The coffee is not my type but my husband liked it. I like their bag, too. When we pick up some food there, they gave us the food in their logo bag that is really good quality and reusable haha.
We ordered the old city mix (combo grill for two). Lamb chops and chicken were pretty good. Attentive service.
All was good until we felt a bit rushed to pay the bill. It wasn’t busy. Then when we paid , we were told there’s a 4% surcharge if paid by card. And no surcharge for cash. This is to offset their operating expense. Let me say, this is tacky. If you have issues operating then increase prices as necessary. The surcharge bandwagon is infuriating and makes your business look tacky. I won’t frequent this business in the future. Food was good. But I just don’t think this is the way to treat your customers. Please …. Get off the surcharge bandwagon.
Old City Cafe and Grill in Cranford is a super cozy Mediterranean spot where you can kick back, enjoy amazing food, and get some top-notch service. As soon as you step inside, you'll feel right at home. Their menu is packed with tasty treats, like their famous hummus and mouthwatering shawarma platter. The staff is friendly and knows their stuff, and the vibe is chill and inviting. Whether you're hanging out with friends or having a romantic date night, Old City Cafe and Grill is the place to be in Cranford.
I'll say that if you are going for the falafel, you won't be disappointed. I got the falafel lunch special and they were definitely the highlight. Fried just right and flavorful, not dry at all. However, the rest of the food was bland and just didn't taste like much. Would love to go back to try again.
Ordered both the Swish Tawook & Spicy Swish Tawook Platter (marinated chicken medallions with the best garlic sauce on the side). BYOB so we were able to enjoy with a nice bottle of white wine. Service was great, got personal tips from the chef himself. Wish I had room for dessert. Not my first or last time at this lovely restaurant.