MYSTERY DINER: Atmosphere stars at DeKalb's House Cafe

E-mail this story

Print this story

Share

From the funky artwork hanging on the walls to the casual seating choices that can be found, the House Cafe in downtown DeKalb offers a laid-back dining atmosphere.

We had the place to ourselves for a late lunch, at about 1 p.m. on a weekday, and most places probably would offer a low-key experience under those circumstances. But just a quick look around made it obvious that this place would be pretty relaxed at any time of day.

The House Cafe isn’t merely an eatery, and it no doubt is a lot more active when some of the many musical acts would be performing. But we felt welcomed and immediately were put at ease. We found brightly colored couches along the wall and a few small tables. We checked out the stage, imagining an energetic crowd and a rousing performance. We sat at one of the tables.

Ordering was a simple process: just walk up to the counter and pick out one of the reasonably priced meals. There isn’t a lot of selection, but there certainly was enough to accommodate a couple of customers with different tastes. I ordered a classic burger, and my friend had a three-cheese pita pizza, along with a cup of coffee.

The pizza is pretty much the signature food item, coming with four standard choices and a “create your own” category. It earned high marks: the mix of cheeses upon the pita is a refreshing new take on a personal pizza and makes for a nice change of pace. This dish would be a satisfying dinner as well. Highly recommended and would fit anyone’s taste and budget. The three-cheese pita pizza is priced at $4.50, and there are pricier variations available, such as the meaty, yum-o and pesto pizzas, all of which cost $4.95.

The burger, priced at $5.25, was above average, sliced in half and served on toasted ciabatta bread. It didn’t look huge, but it, too, was more than enough. It came with a couple of handfuls of ridged potato chips. It was washed down with a can of Diet Coke. “Our very best, vintaged,” assured the overwhelmingly friendly guy on duty.

It was casual, simple food. Also on the menu were staples such as peanut butter and jelly ($3.25), tuna salad ($4.85) and a turkey sandwich ($4.75). The priciest item on the menu is the black bean veggie burger, at $5.95. It’s easy to find more vegetarian-friendly fare, with items such as the veggie-veg (hummus, lettuce, onion, tomato, green pepper, cucumber and avocado for $4.50) and grilled cheese (available with cheddar or provolone for $3.95).

There is an extensive beverage menu, mostly a selection of coffees and teas. The priciest is the 16-ounce chai latte, which sells for $3.90. The 16-ounce BarbWire (coffee and Espresso) sells for $1.85. Or you can choose from the beers on tap or in bottles – from a $2 bottle of Hamms to a $5 bottle of Fat Tire. Wine is available by the glass.

The atmosphere is the real star of the show. It’s a great place to sit in quiet, and several people just popped in and out. When we walked up to the counter, we were asked, “What do you need? Or do you need anything?” in a welcoming tone accompanied by a huge smile.

Clearly, he was happy to be there, and it seemed as if he was pleased to have us there. We left content, and a return trip is likely. Next time, though, I want the pita pizza.

• The Mystery Diner is an employee in the newsroom at the Daily Chronicle. The diner’s identity is not revealed to the restaurant before or during the meal. The diner visits a different restaurant in DeKalb County each week.

The House Cafe

What: Family bistro and live entertainment venue

Where: Downtown DeKalb, 263 E. Lincoln Highway

Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. every day when there are no shows; open until bands are done when there are shows

Kids OK? Yes

Phone: 815-787-9547

Web: www.thehousecafe.net