Cafe Medina

"The clink of glasses, the hissing steam of the cappuccino maker, even the shuffling back and forth to the counter by loyal patrons...Café Medina hums with activity all day long. This casual spot attracts locals who flock here for hearty Mediterranean-style fare. Mornings are especially great here—it's when egg dishes take center stage." - Kevin Chau

"The clink of glasses, the hissing steam of the cappuccino maker, even the shuffling back and forth to the counter by loyal patrons...Café Medina hums with activity all day long. This casual spot attracts locals who flock here for hearty Mediterranean-style fare. Mornings are especially great here—it's when egg dishes take center stage. The heady smell of freshly made Belgian waffles may have you trying to jump the (long) line outside, but ask nicely and they'll share a few of the hand-sized waffles while you wait. Once seated, don't waste any time deciding, as the paella is a must order. Inspired by the Spanish classic, their version is made with orzo flecked with cubes of smoky, spicy chorizo, roasted vegetables, avocado and a textbook-perfect fried egg." - Michelin Inspector

"The longest lines in the city form every day at Café Medina, a haven of Mediterranean-inspired breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch dishes in the Library District. The decor here feels like a minimalist version of 1920s Paris , with aged walls, mismatched light fixtures, and a mosaic entranceway. Equally charming, the eclectic bistro fare ranges from pistachio-rosewater Belgian waffles to halloumi couscous and a harissa burger, spiked with preserved lemon and tucked into a pita with baba ghanoush and two fried eggs. Don’t miss the blistered flatbread, ideally paired with the honey-black-pepper mascarpone side. And finish with a lavender latte, a house-made turmeric soda, or a superb craft cocktail. If you don’t want to wait, skirt the crowds by visiting Tuesdays or Wednesdays for lunch, or arriving at 2 p.m. (an hour before last call)."

"GO HERE: for the brunch spread of your dreams: Mediterranean–inspired dishes, golden Liege waffles, and citrus-forward cocktails encouraged at any hour. You’ll wish Café Medina was in your hometown. ORDER THE: fricassée, a.k.a. saucy short ribs (a Medina favorite), and the flavor-bomb harissa “burger,” a spiced meat-stuffed pita with two eggs, Parm, many garlicky sauces, and seasonal greens. Every table finishes the meal with a few waffles and dipping sauces—the white chocolate-rosewater-pistachio is a classic. THE VIBE IS: meaty and lemony. The sunny space is filled with aromas of long-simmering stews and preserved lemons, and you’ll find fresh-faced nicely coiffed friends waiting patiently in line. In other words, this is not a place for those with bad hangovers in need of cheap bacon. If you’re in need, order one of Café Medina’s famous lavender lattes (available until late afternoon) to hold you over. PRACTICAL STUFF: Open every day: Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. No reservations. Can’t wait? At the very least, ask for a coffee and a waffle to go. —Lindsay Anderson" - Condé Nast