(3 forks)
23 S. Prospect Ave., Clarendon Hills
630-323-6885
Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tues.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat.
Credit cards: D, M, V
Noise factor: Conversation friendly
First impressions
On a quaint, cozy main street in downtown Clarendon Hills, this tiny cafe/takeout shop is the only budget-friendly food option near the Metra train stop. Bright yellow walls, a giant armoire laden with gourmet products, and a few iron chairs and tables give the space a Provence-like feel (though the chairs are uncomfortable to sit on for more than 10 minutes). Two giant cases filled with frozen and fresh entrees await commuters who would rather not cook at home.
On the plate
Freshly made sandwiches, wraps and salads to order; daily soup specials and an assortment of hearty, comfy dishes like lasagna and pot pie that can be taken home to be reheated.
Second helpings
The lobster bisque was sold out on our visit, but the vegetable beef made a fine stand-in: A rich stock holds chunks of tender beef, carrots, potatoes and corn. A salad “sampler” of curried turkey with chutney and grapes, chicken poppyseed with celery and green onion, and a basic tuna all are top-notch. The kitchen is judicious with the mayo (often homemade) and both chicken and turkey are roasted in-house before being chopped into large cubes. A Mediterranean wrap contains crunchy pine nuts and briny kalamata olives, although the sun-dried tomato wrapper adds little flavor. The “outrageous” brownies live up to their billing, with a cakey exterior and fudgy interior. (The use of Belgian Callebaut chocolate doesn’t hurt either.)
Take a pass
A roast beef sandwich is passable, the sherry horseradish sauce barely perceptible. Breads and dinner rolls were stale on our visit. The “wacky” chocolate cake, made without eggs, has a too-sweet cream cheese frosting atop a dry interior.
Thirst quenchers
A large refrigerated case holds sodas; teas and water; Stewart’s root beer, orange cream and Key lime; plus three Lorina French lemonades.
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At your service
Usually only one or two people staff the counter, including the store’s owner. Special requests are met with a smile. Once you order at the counter, they’ll gladly bring your meal to your table.
Extras
Frozen hors d’oeuvres, party platters and box lunches are available to go.
Price range
Sandwiches, $5.50; salads, $2.25-$5.50; specialty sandwiches and wraps, $5.95; desserts, $1.95-$2.25; beverages, 99 cents-$1.85.
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Reviews are based on anonymous visits by Tribune staff members. The meals are paid for by the Tribune.
Ratings key: 4 forks, don’t miss it; 3 forks, one of the best; 2 forks, very good; 1 fork, good