In the middle of nowhere, somewhere in the no-man’s land between Belle Sherman and Cornell, lies what is probably the cutest brunch spot in the county. First operating as a coal selling office in the early twentieth century, the Coal Yard Cafe serves a variety of American brunch staples as well as some more eclectic dishes (I recommend the shakshouka). Think the Yellow Deli without the strange religious cult.
The actual building is rustic and cozy, with wooden furnishings and a motley of diverse wall decor. In the corner, a realistic pencil drawing of Dwight from The Office smirks across the dining room. On another wall hangs a Family Guy-style cartoon of the chef-manager, Michael Wszolek, standing in front of the cafe. Lots of warm, natural light floods through the windows and delicious smells waft temptingly from the kitchen. The music is as varied as the food, everything from Etta James to Taylor Swift. The cafe also offers both indoor and outdoor seating, which is useful as the space inside is fairly small.
The food is reliably delicious—steady diner food with an Ithaca twist, the kind of food that restores my faith in American cuisine. The portions are generous and well presented. My favorites include the salmon with quinoa and tzatziki, the freshness of which help to balance the acidity of the grilled fish. I also heartily recommend the breakfast burrito (a classic), the crepes with homemade jam and whipped cream (seriously sinful), and the home fries (I would go to war for those home fries).
Although there can be a bit of a line, the food is always promptly prepared once ordered, and the prices are reasonable. The kitchen is usually fairly crowded with cooks and servers bustling cheerfully around, and the service is excellent. Definitely a good place to shoot an indie movie.
All in all, the Coal Yard Cafe is a local hidden gem. If anyone is looking for new Ithaca merch, I would totally buy “Ithaca is the Coal Yard Cafe” t-shirts. Just saying.
(Also, Michael Wszolek, if you’re reading this, please hire me.)