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2013-08-09
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Where else can you go on a lazy Sunday afternoon but a cozy cafe to chillout with friends or a book? Cali Cafe tucked in the brand new Rochester Mall is a perfect place to unwind, away from the hustle and bustle from the horrible weekend crowd in town. Situated just beside Ben & Jerry's, the Cali Cafe is a California cafe/bistro that serves up a good variety of main courses, drinks, finger food and pastries perfect for the office crowd on weekdays and residents/shoppers who prefers to enjoy th
Upon entering Cali Cafe, I was enticed by the artistic paintings hung up on the wall. It changes the atmosphere with a chic and laid-back feel. The place was very clean, comfortable and it is definitely better than the crowded and noisy Starbucks cafe nearby. I was greeted by the friendly waiter who was so attentive to serve us ice water, taking note that it was a hot afternoon out there.
I didn't know what to order initially as I had a filling lunch before that. Hence, he recommended me to go for their Afternoon Tea Set ($8.50++) which comprises of a cup of coffee/tea and a slice of cake. Great news that it is available from 3-6pm daily, unlike many other cafes which afternoon tea sets are only available on weekdays!The waiter whom is also the staff preparing the drinks, recommended me Cafe Latte, Cafe Mocha, Cappuccino... I thought those are really common and I made a special request to have something nutty and ordered a Macadamia Cappuccino. Without any hesitation, he agreed to my special order without any additional cost or questions asked. Bravo Service!!
There were 2 choices of cakes available and the staff mentioned that they are imported from France. I had the Extreme Choc Cake as he mentioned that it is made using dark chocolates (my weak spot for dark chocs). Hence, I had that and I am sure fans of chocolate will be so in love with it. Rich, smooth and creamy with a nice wafer crunch in the middle. This is surely not for the faint hearted. It becomes overpowering after a few mouthfuls so it is best to share the love around.
My friend had the Triple Berries Cake. The outlook of it looks attractive and colourful unlike my choc cake. I thought the blueberries and cranberries within gives it a good citrus burst of flavour but the sponge layer was a tad dry and tough to the bite. The cake could have been frozen for too long, hence the lost in texture. If you like something sour and tantalizing, this will make a good choice though.Overall, the ambiance and service was great but the food can be further improved as the price point for the a la carte items on the menu is slightly higher compared to other casual dining cafes like Beanstro and TCC.
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