7AM Cafe earns loyalty for opening early with competent black and Vietnamese coffee, fresh banh mi with crispy bread, and a genuinely warm owner (Denise) who remembers regulars. The cafe is intentionally small and cosy, perfect for a quick work-breakfast stop before 9am, though portions lean light and prices skew slightly high for the portion size. Coffee quality varies by drink and barista confidence.
What keeps people coming back: the Vietnamese drip coffee prepared properly (thin milk layer, not syrupy), egg mayo banh mi as a vegetarian-friendly breakfast, and early access before heading to work. Denise's friendliness and the baguette sourcing from a nearby Vietnamese bakery owner set the tone. The space works for a solo laptop stint or a quick table catch-up, not long group lingering.
Good coffee and food draw regulars to this cozy Section 17 spot, but service feels uneven. Some staff shine; others turn dismissive or impatient, especially during lunch rush. The real friction point: laptop workers and solo customers occupy larger tables while walk-in diners leave empty-handed, and staff do little to manage it.
Cafe Tujoh draws crowds for its lively atmosphere and Instagram appeal, and those who pre-book and get spiced dishes nailed down report smooth, attentive service. However, walk-ins face spotty quality: fried chicken tastes aged, pasta lacks flavour despite marked spice levels, and portions disappoint against the premium pricing. Staff demeanour swings from warm to visibly annoyed, especially during closing hours, and several reviewers flagged dismissive or curt conduct that soured what should have been relaxing meals. The kitchen shows skill when effort is made (smoked duck pasta, gnocchi on good days), but execution is uneven across orders placed on the same visit. Newcomer ownership has been cited as a reason for these growing pains. Parking is scarce, and casual walk-up ordering feels deliberately obscured despite posted instructions.
Dough! draws crowds for house-made sourdough, specialty coffee, and hearty pasta dishes that balance Continental flair with local flavour. The outdoor space suits family gatherings and leisurely meals, though server warmth varies and prices sit above casual-cafe norms.
Last updated 2026-08-12
