Urban Explorer

RE: Ria's Bluebird Cafe

Posted by ivy1000 on 04.27.08 @ 03:05 PM

Located across from historic Oakland Cemetery, Ria's Bluebird restaurant is a jewel! Not much to look at from the outside, it is what's waiting for you on the inside that counts!

Arriving on a Sunday at 12 noon, one can expect a wait of 20-30 minutes. The décor is simple with brightly colored murals on the walls and a collection of old local street signs hanging among the bamboo “garden” as decoration. Dress code is extremely casual. Outside seating is a must during the warm summer months, although the patio floor accumulates large puddles during rain even though it is covered.

The table service was acceptable, only a 7 minute wait for the initial greetings by the waiter and once the order was placed, only a 12 minute wait for the food. The menu, which is posted online, has a wide range of choices, including vegetarian. The prices are reasonable, with the average being about $10 per person, drinks included.

The food is well seasoned making every dish a delight! The “tofu scramble,” a deep bowl of seasoned black beans with 1-inch cubed spicy tofu, large broccoli florets, thick slices of tomato, rings of red onion and a dollop of pesto, was delicious! For a hearty tasting sandwich, try the House Roasted Beef, thick slices of beef piled high on a onion kaiser roll. Served with your choice of a side, their soup of the day makes a fine addition to this tasty sandwich!

No matter what you order, you will not be disappointed.

So gather your family and friends and head downtown for a brunch at Ria's Bluebird Cafe. It is well worth the wait!