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Cafe Midi
Categories: Restaurants French Restaurants Salad Restaurants Breakfast & Brunch French, Salad, Breakfast & Brunch
148 S La Brea AveLos Angeles, CA 90036
Neighborhood: Mid-City West
(323) 939-9860
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 10 am - 7 pm
Sun 12 am - 7 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street, Validated
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Dogs Allowed:
- Yes
104 reviews for Cafe Midi
Review Highlights
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"com/sipsavor/cafe-midi-at-american-rag." In 22 reviews -
"...it comes with cajun chicken and avocado stuffed with..." In 3 reviews -
"...for the food, I tried the gnocchi with garlic cream sauce." In 3 reviews
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104 reviews in English
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Review from Phyllis M.
Beverly Hills, CA
3/18/2012
The food is delicious (try the banana bread with dark melted chocolate on it or the hot chocolate!) and the service was great.
We sat at the counter and got to talk a little with the owner. Very nice person who offers excellent customer service. We also highly recommend the Dover sole. -
Review from Loni L.
5/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
This cafe is very unique. They have an outside patio area where most people sit, or if you choose to sit inside, you are seated in a small section with a couple of booths and one a few tables. Our group of 8 took the "few tables" area, as we joined them together for our large party. It is located next to American Rag store and connects from the inside. You feel like you are inside a retail store while you are eating since the restaurant is separated very discreetly. Kinda cool, a bit different, nothing that will get in your way of enjoying a good meal!
Would recommend this place for brunch. Everything here is good... especially their steak salad! However, I do not recommend their Chai Tea Latte. It does not come sweetened which is completely fine but it was not the best I have had. I think Blu Jam cafe still holds the #1 spot in my books for the yummiest Chai Tea Latte.
The service here is exceptional and the owner of Cafe Midi went to each and every customer to make sure they were happy and feeling satiated. -
Review from Jay V.
Santa Monica, CA
3/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
While the food quality is excellent, the wait at lunchtime to order and after ordering was very long. I realize the kitchen is tiny.
In addition, I ordered a salad minus chicken and still got charged for the chicken. I inquired with the waitress and she said she agrees that it's not fair, but that's the way the owner does it.
Done, done, on to the next one. -
Review from Ryan H.
Los Angeles, CA
5/16/2012
I eat here about 3 times a week. The food is delicious and leaves me feeling full of energy. This is very helpful as I am able to continue a long day of work because the energy of the food here is high and doesn't weigh me down like many other places. The service is pleasant and always accomodating. The menu is huge and during the past 5 years that I have come to Cafe Midi I have been happy with everything that I have ordered. In my opinion, this place is the best dining experience in LA.
-Ryan -
Review from Randy B.
2/18/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Right in the heart of entertainment and production studios, and near the popular tourist destination of La Brea & Wilshire, is a small restaurant with an amazing menu, Café Midi. Strangely, outside dining is not very common in this area of town. Café Midi offers two choices of seating at street side for about 30 people, and enough room inside for about 40. The outdoor dining is a wonderful choice on a warm and sunny day, and so "LA". For 13 years, Café Midi has been operating in the back area just inside of Maison et Cafe, with a shared entrance to American Rag. It's fairly hard to notice when driving by, and personally, I've been amiss and passed it for many years. No matter, they've gone on to do just fine without me.
Edouard Moyal, owner and head chef, greets his customers warmly with hugs and a great smile. From my view, Café Midi is well-managed, and doesn't try to gouge customers with high prices...and in this area of Los Angeles, he certainly could. The former head chef at The Playboy Club @2020 Sunset, Le Chardonnay, Intermezzo, and others, has created something special here.
On this day of my experience, it was slightly rainy and grey, so I sat inside, and it wasn't a problem at all. I had a quick and easy flight to France for an afternoon. Surrounded by photos, artwork, authentic walk-up bar with brass and dark wood, this bistro has been invaded by the French. Imported fabrics and dishware for sale by Maison Midi surround, just add to the feeling. Soft music, casual, and relaxed service make a non-rushed, and friendly place to enjoy a lovely breakfast or lunch, meet your agent, or to have a cup of coffee with friends. It's also kid-friendly, and offers high-chairs, if needed.
While other places around LA and the US may have a similar feel, it's the menu that is truly remarkable...especially for a small café as this. They offer 45 kinds of salads, 14 burgers, 30 sandwiches, breakfast all day, and fresh soups, quiches, and all kinds of other items. That's a lot of choices, even for a larger establishment. Chef Moyal caters to his regular clientele, keeping their favorites, while expanding into new tastes and flavors to keep the menu anew. In addition to the incredible assortment, the flavor and texture combinations are intentional and well-thought, reviving a lost science in food sensory and physics.
This is, after all, a menu that combines the best of a salad/burger/deli joint. Thankfully, they were aware of my arrival to review, so as a guest, I was able to try an assortment of items. I chose a signature burger, a unique salad, a protein drink, and an array of desserts.
TASTERS/SALAD/DRINK -- As a starter, I tried a green protein drink: parsley, chive, lemon juice, banana, and apple - so different and refreshing. For the salad, I tried the Chopped Broccoli Salad with Fresh Apple, Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado, Fresh Basil & Vinaigrette - is a fine example of both interesting flavor and texture combinations.
BURGERS -- The Edouard Burger is the bomb. Ground sirloin, chopped bacon, caramelized onions, melted brie, then served on a light and soft, freshly sliced focaccia bread square. This burger rocked me, and easily makes my top 5 of burgers in LA (see my Yelp list, "Berger knows Burgers"). The meat was well-seasoned, and all the ingredients used were top-notch quality. Featured burgers also include: Turkey, Maryland Crab, Veggie, special combinations like Gorgonzola, Caramelized Onions, Zucchini and Eggplant, or the incredibly interesting: Burger Provencal with Horseradish, Grapefruit, Tomato, & Caramelized Onion. A ton of shoestring fries are served alongside.
DESSERTS --- With a continual rotation of 4-8 items on display...everything is always kept super fresh, and if I must say so again, super interesting! I tried bits of several items: a cherry tart (visualize a cherry-pie topping, marzipan middle, and a cookie-like buttery crust); an apricot tart, a chocolate-pecan bar; zucchini bread; carrot bread (the breads were grilled briefly, which made the sugars in the bread crystallize where the char-marks were, to give it a marshmallow-like flavor - AWESOME). All were terrific, but in particular, the apricot tart was the best I've ever had.
WEBSITE -- The target audience is the entertainment industry, and local neighborhood and businesses, it features high-quality photographs for easy-ordering & payments.
PARKING -- A small parking lot is on the south side of the American Rag store, and the 90 minute validation is offered. As a backup, there is also metered street parking.
CONCLUSION -- With the rustic design of American Rag, the ambiance lends itself to a comfortable country French, and not stuffy at all. It's also a great place to be seen, or be discovered. I've spotted several models, actresses, musicians, and movie producers, and lots of other aspiring ones. I'll be back, and I'm bringing friends with me. -
Review from Benson S.
Los Angeles, CA
5/11/2012
I like the feel of this little place, nice and cosy and the food is pretty good as well. I got there around 11:45am and was surprised how quite is was in there being lunch time and all. The strange thing is that it tool quite a while for them to get my order ready. I order a chicken salad (which was good) and a sandwich. I would have given a higher rating however the wait time, and price was a little discouraging. But if youre looking for a quick bite to eating and don't mind waiting you won't regret it.
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Review from Alexandra H.
Los Angeles, CA
4/24/2012
I am definitely a fan. I have visited a few times during the last few weeks to get a tea or pastry before work. It's quaint, well-decorated, intimate, and scrumptious. I also like the staff. One of the waitresses adorably reminds me of Amelie. I'm just not sure whether I get the store, entirely. I love French decor but do they need to sell furniture and flatware so close to their cafe?
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Review from Amy S.
1/21/2012 1 Check-in Here
Went here today for lunch and have to say that the food is good but the entire experience is so-so.
Being on the corner of Pretentious and Snob, I didn't quite realize how yuppie this neighborhood was until now. We walked in and were confused at how to get a table. There were plenty of staff members around but no one told us that we could seat ourselves for a good 5 minutes or so. We then sat ourselves outside. We were beside tons of rich gals with designer clothes and one couple that included a truly miserable yuppie woman. She couldn't stop complaining about her day. When she ordered a salad, she had about 13 different requests, all about taking something out and adding more of something else. So unpleasant to be lunching next to someone who has a terrible attitude towards life!
I then realized that this cafe is in the American Rag store, a sort-of overpriced vintage place where you can also browse new clothes, including but not limited to $900 sweaters.
It makes sense now.
The food was good. I tried the Edouard burger and one of the turkey burgers, both delightful. The service was okay, kinda slow but understandable for Saturday lunch. All in all I'd go back but would probably try to get a more secluded table. The furniture store inside was really cute but def couldn't afford anything.
And a huuuuuge menu selection. It's a good lunch spot if you're in the area, if not, I wouldn't go out of my way. -
Review from Raquel B.
Los Angeles, CA
3/25/2012
Great food, Great service, Great espresso!!!!!! Love this place. My friend and I also had a nice conversation with the owner.
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Review from Laen S.
Los Angeles, CA
11/15/2011
Honey badger don't care....oh wait, yes he does.
Happened upon this place while next door at American Rag and really wanted to like it. It has wholesome charm for days and a French vibe that gets you excited about cafes! But all the wholesome fancy French atmosphere in the world can't dress up a bad coffee.
I should preface the fact that I'm a coffee snob who enjoys Stumptown, Slayer espresso machines, and begrudgingly, Intelligentsia. So when I ordered the cappuccino at Midi, priced at $4.50 ($4.89 after tax), it instantly made my blood boil at the first sip. There was foam, I'll give it that, but no steamed milk, and the espresso was so bitter it tasted like the shot had been pulled last week. To their credit, I noticed they use Groundwork coffee so no problem there. Normally I don't mind drinking bad coffee but in this case it was so upsetting because the of the ridiculous price. Not the end of the world but it caught me off guard so whatever, in the end it's just a few bucks and a bad coffee.
Either train your baristas properly or cut your prices in half so people know what to expect. -
Review from Stephanie M.
Downingtown, PA
10/23/2011
We walked here for lunch on a Sunday afternoon around 2pm. Once we figured out that we had to stand outside in order to be seated, we were seated right away. Five minutes later, the waitress came over and asked if we wanted menus. Seconds after she brought them to us, a food runner asked what we wanted to drink, without us having had time to even open the menu. Not sure why this happened, but it was not a good omen for service for the rest of the meal.
I think they must have been either understaffed or busier than usual, because service was sporadic at best. My husband got his drink five minutes before I got mine. The waitress disappeared (helping other tables, I'm sure, but still unavailable) for big chunks of time.
The food was pretty good, though, and the menu is enormous. I had the Caroline Salad, which was tomato, mozzarella, avocado and grilled chicken with pesto sauce. The sauce, chicken and mozzarella were awesome, the avocado was good, and the tomato was kind of meh, but it all worked well together. My husband ordered Eduord's Club, which he enjoyed. I would try this place again, because I saw a lot of things I would like to try, but I would cross my fingers for better service. -
Review from Maggie M.
West Hollywood, CA
2/3/2012
Hands down, the best food in Los Angeles. Doesn't matter what you get - and they have an extensive menu - I think their food is perfect in every way. Even while I type this I want to dash over pick up my favority dish. Which is the Chef's Omlette. I never thought I'd love eggs so much. This omlette is the most delicious thing in the world. I crave it. I get it with egg whites, and I get spinach instead of mushrooms, but it has tomatoes, feta cheese, kalamata olives, and asparagus with delious potatoes on the side. I highly recommend it. But there is not a dish that doesn't delight!! Also, it's adorable, small, but set inside a furniture store with a patio outside on La Brea. My favorite spot is the counter. The staff is so friendly, I'd call them friends! A must spot in LA!
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Review from Maria A.
8/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
Trying to decide what to eat at Cafe Midi during lunchtime may take about 25% of your lunch hour- so beware! It's a good idea to come prepared with a few ideas about what you would like to eat... because their menu is SO BIG. One full page of the menu is just pure salads (listed in tiny font!).
I really like the Parisian style dining on the little tables on the street, the al fresco dining adds freshness to their already crisp menu.
Some interesting characters visit this cafe during lunch time, some french ex-pats, the typical lunch crowd, and the open atmosphere makes everyone friendly and open to conversation with strangers- which can be a great addition to a tasty meal.
I had the gnocchi with garlic parmesan sauce- it was SO RICH and delicious!
My friend had the vegetarian sandwich on this amazing dark brown crunchy bread. HEAVEN!
The owner is also hosting at the front, I thought that was very nice. I look forward to coming here again, and will definitely check the inside next time. -
Review from Karen Y.
7/27/2011 2 photos
Lunchtime here was great! They have an EXTENSIVE menu. Really, like 50 different types of salads alone. The menu takes about 10 minutes to sort through. I kinda wish it'd be cut down.
I ordered this amazing vegetarian sandwich with harvati cheese, avocado, mustard, and lots of good stuff that went amazing together. It was about $13 which was the same for most of the dishes as far as price. My friend ordered the gnocchi which was also very tasty.
We ate outside so I have no clue what the inside looks like. -
Review from jessica a.
Los Angeles, CA
8/6/2011
Had lunch with my girls here earlier this afternoon. I will definitely be coming back. The menu is amazing and huge. If you're reading this definitely take the time now to go to their site, and look up their menu, and click on the menu items while you're at it. Each item has an interactive picture attached.
The ambiance is awesome. You can either sit outside along the sidewalk (a decent amount of tables are available) or inside amongst their furniture store. Literally. A furniture store is inside. Toward the back of the store is additional inside seating and a beautiful cafe bar to sit at as well. We loved it and also decided that any mother would like it too. Its just so so adorable.
As for the food...we were all extremely pleased with our orders. One of my girlfriends was even brave enough to order tacos....at a french restaurant....and she basically licked her plate clean. The other three of us ordered salads all of which were delicious.
The only reason I'm giving this place 4 stars rather than 5 is that the prices are definitely a bit high. 15 bucks for a salad with out any protein is a bit ridiculous if you ask me. However, I definitely will be back. This swanky little place is definitely something out of the ordinary...in a very good way. -
Review from Carson S.
Los Angeles, CA
8/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
What a totally awesome place...Not only is it apart of American rag-which is some great vintage, new, and denim shopping-but has the longest list of fresh salads that I've ever seen!
Their menu is phenomenal, ranging from very healthy options like broccoli salad to more filling dishes like yummy omelets or smoked chicken. (I hear that it's really hard to find smoked chicken, and my friend cheered in delight at how amazing it tasted. Apparently it tasted very similar to prosciutto.)
The atmosphere is beautiful and relaxing, whether you're sitting inside a wonderful Home Decor store or outside looking out at La Brea.
The service was also very quick and wonderful, the entire experience was just exactly what I look for in a good restaurant.
I'm not kidding, this is my new favorite place for lunch in LA, if you come in to try it there's a good chance you'll be seeing me! -
Review from Tracy R.
Beverly Hills, CA
12/20/2011
This place is DELISH. It's got about 585 different types of sandwiches and salads...the croque monsieur was awesome. Service fine. It's basically a Parisian style cafe. If you're a foodie you'll love this place.
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Review from Rodellee M.
Los Angeles, CA
2/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
'Meh' food available at 'WooHoo!' prices.
I've been here a few times since it's down the road, and I keep convincing myself maybe the last time I went was just an off day, let's give it another go!
Nope. This place is consistently average and I don't know why I keep paying so much for such average food.
Maybe it's because I like feeling cool while I lounge outdoors (with my average cup of coffee) and watch pretty people walk by. The ambiance is quite charming and I like poking through all the pretty housewares they have indoors...although *hint hint* you can get all these things pretty much at Home Goods for 1/3 of the price!
I've been here for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and just coffee and dessert and every visit I was left so unimpressed, but because this is a neighborhood joint I'll probably go back again.
Although, I do have to add, whenever I come here the people NEXT to me always orders the most amazing looking stuff. Is there a secret menu like at In-N-Out?! -
Review from Clara B.
Studio City, CA
Friendly service, low key atmosphere in the back a furniture store with accessories which you wish you had in your home.
Enjoyed my Dover sole and relaxed atmosphere. Lovely place, took home a dessert which I couldn't resist and home made. -
Review from stephen p.
Los Angeles, CA
Nothing better than ducking into the back of this boutique interior / clothing store for coffee and pastries on a torrential December rainy day (yes, I'm posting this late. What's new?!)
Cafe Midi is a great way to chill-ax and stay warm and oggle stuff I'd never buy, and hope no one gifts me!
I shared one of the Morrocan (i think) cookies. The waitress best explained it...but I can't remember what she said so here's my description: it's firm, but crumbly, it's dry, but moist. It's petite, but filling. Hahaha! -
Review from Aileen Z.
Los Angeles, CA
2/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
sooooo good!!!!!! everything!
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Review from S.Z. W.
Los Angeles, CA
11/24/2010
I went to Cafe Midi for brunch, and enjoyed both the food and the atmosphere. Unfortunately, the weather was damp and a bit chilly, so outdoor seating was a no-go. We sat inside where most of the seating consists of one long, upholstered bench and some seats at small tables. If you don't like sitting very close to others, the indoor seating option might not be your best bet.
I tried the Chef's Croque with Cajun Chicken and Avocado Stuffed with Scrambled Egg and the Maryland Crab Omelet with Avocado, Tomato, Mushroom and Spinach. I enjoyed the croque for its flavors, but was definitely more partial to the omelet. The chicken in the croque was a bit dry, and the french fries weren't anything special -- I'd try the salad instead. The crab, on the other hand, was moist and delicious, and the omelet, light and airy.
The service was extremely warm and friendly. -
Review from Clivia N.
Arcadia, CA
4/8/2011
The interior was really unexpected. While I was walking down the street looking for the place, I missed it because it seemed like a furniture store at first glance. It is actually, and they serve food in the very back of the room. Very unique.
As for the food, I tried the gnocchi with garlic cream sauce. The sauce was rich and creamy, and the gnocchi was fluffy and melted in my mouth. I highly recommend this dish.
My friend had the fetuccini and shrimp with lemon garlic sauce. It was good but there was no lemony taste present in the dish.
I would also highly recommend the quiche too. The crust was flaky and rich, and overall it was delicious.
The cajun chicken sandwich was good too. The chicken was tender and full of flavor.
Only thing I regret is not ordering a coffee or latte. :( The food was enjoyable though. :) -
Review from Hillary A.
Los Angeles, CA
4/10/2012
best lunch spot in LA.
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Review from Brian C.
Los Angeles, CA
2/24/2009
I'm a big fan of sidewalk cafés and fare, and while I already have several favorites that I frequent I'm always down to check out a new spot to potentially add to the rotation. With my parents in town this past weekend and the weather comfortably warm, we decided to grab lunch here on Friday.
The café was packed, and all outside seating was filled, so we were seated in the back of the retail space Café Midi shares with American Rag et al. The menu was very comprehensive, featuring a variety of sandwiches, salads, and breakfast food. I ordered the smoked chicken with fennel and onion confit on foccaccia bread, French onion soup and an iced tea while my parents each ordered a sandwich of their own. The soup came out soon after and was very good. The broth was full of flavor with savory onions aplenty, and the bread topped with gooey melted gruyere was fantastic. A great start to the meal and a must-order on any future visits.
After demolishing the soup, I eagerly awaited my sandwich's arrival, yet when it came I couldn't help but feel moderately disappointed. It was smaller than I had anticipated, and the chicken was shredded rather than being a solid breast as I had expected. I guess that's what I get for making assumptions. Anyhow, the sandwich itself tasted fine, as did the fries but in addition to my qualms with the chicken, the foccaccia bread was dry and flavorless, essentially muting the other contents' flavors. My dad's sandwich came on ciabatta bread, which looked far superior to mine, a fact which he confirmed. I'd definitely avoid any selections with foccaccia in the future, or at the very least request different bread.
All in all the food was ok, as was the service, although I did have to ask for my iced tea to be refilled twice rather than our server noticing when I ran out. Outside of the French onion soup I failed to see anything truly worth returning for but I would be open to exploring the menu a little further and giving Café Midi another chance to make a better impression. -
Review from Lolo M.
Los Angeles, CA
7/6/2009
One side of their enormous menu is basically dedicated to salads. Healthy, fresh, inventive, substantial, perfect salads. That's almost like dedicating their menu directly to me.
Really great burgers here, too, and fresh lemonade. Plus good shopping next door.
The service can be slow at times and it's a teensy expensive for lunch. But when I'm in the mood for a summery salad that won't leave me hungry and Japanese tourist watching, this is my joint.
This review isn't that funny. But you know what? I'm serious about salads.
Or maybe I'm just losing my touch. -
Review from Monica L.
Los Angeles, CA
Updated - 2/3/2012
Finally got a hold of the owner. I stopped by the restaurant and he exchanged my defunct gift card for a new paper gift certificate. I have yet to use it, but when I do, will review the restaurant more thoroughly.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/23/2012
I had the pleasure of receiving a gift card to Cafe Midi from someone who knows the owner… Read more »
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Review from Dan R.
Los Angeles, CA
6/14/2008
The the salads and sandwiches here flavorful, and the selection is huge. It's cafe food, meticulously prepared and flavors carefully balanced. There was a problem with my order and the manager came out and fixed it right away. The Darjeeling tea was strong and robust. The only downside of this place is it's very expensive, expect to pay $25 for a real lunch.
Credible source: Cafe Midi has the best espresso in LA. -
Review from Chris A.
Park La Brea, CA
1/10/2009
OK, I must have hit them on an off-day. That or the rest of you are really west siders and therefore too easily satisfied. Anyhow....
Yes, the place is really cute and it's on a nice section of La Brea where on a Saturday afternoon the traffic isn't too too bad and you can sit there and watch the world go by.
The service is a B-. I mean they kinda tried, but not really.
The food stinks. Suck ass friggin' awful. I asked for my burger medium and got a charred piece of charcoal back. My wife got an ommelette which was actually burned, then they put the burned side down so you couldn't see it. Overall my burger, beyond being overcooked was dry, relatively tasteless, seated on completely uninspired bread, and oh yeah, it was $13 friggin' 50.
For less money the place next door is way better. -
Review from Catrinel A.
New York, NY
3/15/2007
Ahhh shiat, this place stole my heart the first time I tried their croque madame! I now consider it a lunch requirement when I am In Los Angeles..and it has nothing to do with American Rag's new denim bar - as I find it to be a bit OVER-denim-whelming.
The menu also boasts a TON of salads...all of which I've tried I've liked. -
Review from Betsy R.
7/20/2011 2 Check-ins Here
The tables outside are always filled with people eating fabulous looking salads. The space inside is also pretty nice - they have a nice espresso bar and comfy seating. The menu is HUGE and filled with very tasty options for both breakfast and lunch. They offer an amazing selection of salads, sandwiches, and some fantastic sounding pasta dishes. My only complaint is they are kind of pricey for salads considering prices begin at approx $15 each but this seems to be common in LA.
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Review from Bessie H.
Torrance, CA
1/26/2009
I like coming here to check out the talent. The food and coffee are just icing on the cake (But the food really is good).
Just be careful when you park on the street. Those tow trucks are like ninjas. -
Review from Brittany K.
Los Angeles, CA
1/26/2010
I'm a huge fan of this place. I have been ever since my first visit about 3 years ago and it's never going to stop oozing awesomeness for me. First of all, the store is fabulous. We bought some awesome wine glasses that we drank out of that very night, and we're thinking of ordering 4 blue Parisian bistro chairs for our kitchen table.
However, the food is amazing. Last Saturday I had a smoked chicken sandwich that was fabulous and the bf had the turkey meatloaf sandwich. Everything was great. In the past, I had this bacon quiche thing and that rocked my world. If you see a Daily Special quiche with bacon-get it.
Also, a lot of people like sitting out front but I actually like the cozy indoor seating in the back of the store.
Love you Cafe Midi. Just love you. -
Review from sarah beth S.
Los Angeles, CA
8/6/2008
This place is very industry (overheard at lunch today "I mean, I'm tired of the whole buying your friends thing, I'm over it") and it's a bit pricey for a casual lunch. We sat outside (confession, we were an industry lunch too) and the tables are a bit small to fit your food and drinks comfortably.
But the food is good. The bread is especially delicious, and begs to dipped in the balsamic&EVOO mixture.
The service was also surprisingly capable considering the lunch rush-- our waitress and her helpers kept us refilled and she deftly handled all of our questions and special requests.
There are a million salads and sandwiches listed, so bring your decision-making capabilities with you. The weird thing is that so many of the salads have no meat on them. And then the ones with meat seem to skimp on the more interesting vegetables. For $15, shouldn't I get meat AND some yummy veggies PLUS some nice cheese?
I searched hard until I found one that had blackened chicken, gold and red beets, glazed pecans, and goat cheese on arugula. It was pretty good- satisfying yet (hopefully) healthful.
One of our party had an interesting request-- a salad without lettuce. He explained that where he's from, Isreal, it's common to have salads with various vegetables and meat that aren't atop a huge mound of lettuce. More choice veggies, less leaves. I think he's on to something! His plate of chicken, thick grilled veggies, and egg looked so satisfying and exotic.
I'm too frugal to lunch here regularly but if you want a kinda healthy, kinda upscale lunch in a casual environment (Read: If you are taking an industry lunch!) then this place is a good option. -
Review from Treasa M.
Burbank, CA
12/5/2010
Such good food!
Try the Maryland Crab with Spinach and poached egg - it's fantastic!
Loved the ambiance, the food, the very good coffee. Our waitress was a little neglectful and not in a very good mood, but anyone can have a bad day, so I'll excuse it.
Loved the shop. Very happy to find beautiful tangines and water pitchers (very BH prices but still lovely). -
Review from Austin S.
7/6/2008
I met up with a friend and her boyfriend whom I will be catering for later this month to talk over what they would like me to make for their going away party.
There is outside seating so I knew I was in the right place, but once I walked in, it looked like a smaller version of Pottery Barn. Then that's when I saw the inside seating area.
I already had lunch, so I only wanted dessert. They had a chocolate pistachio brownie on the dessert menu and I was in the mood for ice cream, I was appalled that they didn't have any... what a travesty!!!
The brownie was pretty good though, pretty rich, but it totally would've been better if it was warm and served with scoop of ice cream, which again I will say they had NONE!!!
My friend got the poached eggs, which actually is eggs benedict, served with home fries. Her boyfriend got an omelette, also served with home fries. Both dishes looked quite good.
The servers were friendly and helpful, but I'm still bummed they didn't have any ice cream.Listed in: 2 pieces of bread on either…
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Review from Flavia C.
Los Angeles, CA
8/7/2011
Ok I love this place. IT is so fun to shop and look at the clothes and fun knick knacks, I always seem to pick up something. YOU can dine outdoors or inside at the counter or nice comfy little bench seats. The salad options are the most I have ever seen, with everyone I have tasted being yummy. Love the Cafe latte's, the staff, and the breakfast is amazing. I like the salmon and goat cheese omelet and also one that has bacon onions and mushrooms with brie. Breakfast burrito with cajun chicken and avocado also a solid choice. Have not tried the entrees but have seen them come out and they look great!
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Review from jodi h.
Los Angeles, CA
5/11/2007
31/2
Cafe Midi has many things going for it...Charm, great salads, a really nice store inside that sells things like table clothes, cookware, dishes, throw rugs, and much more. It is fun to browse after a good meal. It is also located next to American Rags for when you want to splurge on a pair of jeans or piece of unique jewelry.
My fav salad has figs, mixed greens, goat cheese (i sub for Gorgonzola) avocado and a really light and tasty dressing. I add a blackened chicken breast to it.
My fav Sandwich is the Special Burger w/ Gorgonzola, grilled eggplant and zucchini ( I know it sounds strange and my friend practically had to tie me down to make me try it, but it is truly amazing) and is served with fries (not too good, but I think you can get fruit instead) the really skinny ones.
There are around 15 salads and plenty of sandwiches to choose from if you can actually get anyone to take your order. The major and huge issue I have with this place is the Service is not good!!! I have been many times with many different people always hoping to have a positive experience with their unfriendly but not rude wait staff, but it has never happened. Also, for lunch, it can be a bit pricey.
If you can get past the service and enjoy who you are lunching with, it can be a really nice afternoon.Listed in: The Tried and True
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Review from Andrew S.
Beverly Hills, CA
1/16/2010
Do you ever wish you could shop for trending clothing and eat french food at the same time? Guess what, you can!!! Welcome to Cafe Midi. First off, wow is this place hard to find. It's literally in the back of a retail store. We stumbled upon it when going to American Rag, which is directly to the right of it. They have a great brunch menu (omelets, chorizo, chicken sausage, smoked salmon, pancakes, etc) and the food is really good and fresh. Very small, probably seats about 15, but getting a table isn't an issue because...wait for it...wait for it... no one has a clue it's there!
Italian Prosciutto Sandwich - A great sandwich with mozzarella, tomato and prosciutto. Simple but good, how I'd describe most things here.
Roasted Turkey Sandwich - We have a winner! Turkey, gruyere, tomato, avocado and caramelized onion. Awesome. -
Review from Lauren M.
Los Angeles, CA
8/18/2010
I love this place! The havarti cheese with arugula, tomatoes, basil and avocado on toasted olive bread sandwich is the best thing ever. I get it every single time. Yum.
This is my new go-to lunch spot. They use organic produce and have organic coffee and teas too (which is very important to me)
The owner is really nice too. Its also nice to be able to shop off your food right after at American Rag.
