Our friends from the Tioga County Tourism had a chance to visit a new restaurant, the Cardinal Cafe in Newark Valley.
Here is their review:
Every so often when we hear about a new business opening up, be it a restaurant, gift shop or other kind of attraction, it’s our duty to venture out on a “road trip” to see what it’s all about. This way we can introduce ourselves and get to know a little bit about the owners and the business so that when visitors come to the Visitor’s Center or we’re putting together a public relations pitch, or just adding them to our website, we have some knowledge about the business and can help promote them.
Last week, we had lunch at the new Cardinal Café at 6 Whig Street in Newark Valley, across the street from McPherson Funeral Home and on the way to Newark Valley schools. The fact that they already had a simple website (actually, a blog) and facebook page put together, complete with menu and directions, made us prepared for what we were to experience. The outside of the building is nothing special to look at, but when you walk in, you immediately know you’ll get a quality, nutritious and tasty meal.
On this particular cold and wintry day, I was up to having some soup and the soup of the day was “Cheeseburger Chowder.” Made from scratch it was filled with potatoes, ground beef, and just the right amount of cheese. I opted for the combo deal which included a 12 oz. bowl and 1/2 of any sandwich on the menu for $5.50. I loved their cutely named sandwiches…”Quirky Turkey,” “The Glen Hen,” “The Godmother,” and “Kickin’ BLT,” to name a few. I ordered the Glen Hen, which included a not- too-dry chicken breast, avocado, salsa, cucumber on pumpernickel bread. Lori had the “Kickin’ BLT” which was served hot, with spicy mayo, jalapenos, pepper jack cheese on focaccia bread. Each sandwich was served with dill pickles. Both of our sandwiches were served to us promptly, and both were very tasty. Also on their menu are varieties of gourmet coffees, teas and expressos, as well as your choice of fresh bagels and breads from Collegetown Bagels in Ithaca.
Another unique aspect of this café is the free book exchange (donate a book, take a book) and featured “Artist of the month” which, for February, is Garry Sergeant. Currently he has 12 photos hanging, some are of waterfalls, others still life, and some wildlife and flowers. All the photos are available for sale. Any artist who would like to feature their work for a month at the café is welcome to schedule it with the owners, and they will also promote you on their facebook page.
I asked the owner, Bela, where he was from, and he said, “I’m originally from Newark Valley, went to Newark Valley schools, lived and worked in Raleigh, NC for 12 years and decided to move back up to the area. Our family is here. We’re here to stay.” That’s the spirit! Stop in and wish them success!
The Cardinal Café is open seven days/week, Monday-Friday 6 am-4:30 pm; Thursdays till 6:30, and Saturday/Sunday 7 am-4:30 pm. To place an advance order, call 607-642-5116. Visit their website at www.cardinalcafe.net
