Cafe Lift
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This was my first time here at this Spring Garden location but not eating at Cafe Lift - I used to get brunch at their old spot before they over here a couple of years (?) ago. This new spot definitely provides so much more space since there is an upstairs eating/sitting area, and gives a very airy vibe with wrap around large windows with no shades down to allow so much natural light in. My friend I was meeting for a breakfast meeting got there a little before and grabbed us a table upstairs, so headed straight up there once I arrived. Our waitress came right over when I got settled i to my seat to introduce herself and ask if I wanted anything to drink. She was very kind and friendly throughout our entire dining experience. All of the staff were very welcoming, greeting as I came in, wishing me a great day when I left and having what felt like genuine smiles on their faces. For food, I got the Huevos Rancheros with vegan chorizo instead of the pork one and a green tea. My friend got the Avocado Toast and ordered the Ricotta pancakes for us to split. I didn't eat much of the pancakes but, from the bite or two I took, it tasted good. I enjoyed my entree - everything felt pretty fresh, with a good flavor mixture and beautiful presentation. It was a large portion for me, so I ended up taking it home and ate for breakfast the next day, and it still held up well! Overall, good food and dining experience. Plan to come back for brunch again, especially since it isn't far from home for me
Took a week off from work and one day, decided to grab brunch in the city and hit a few spots during the traditional work day. Parked out in front, was seated immediately, and knew we were in for a great time. We ordered a peppermint mocha and a s'mores latte, both coming out right before the quick food. My wife ordered a cannoli french toast or something and I went with a banh mi breakfast sandwich. It had those amazing banh mi flavors, housemade sausage, dripping egg. Wasn't like anything I've had for breakfast before, but did the job. Food was amazing and unique, service was great, just a nice start to our day.
Great little brunch place- service was friendly and ambience bright and spacious - we got the huevos rancheros which is different from traditional dish as the tortilla is fried and crispy and served more like a tostada but it was super tasty. We also got strawberry lemon French toast which was also delicious but smaller portion than I would have thought. Hubby got eggs florentine which looked and tasted delicious.
Always a fave. 35 min wait on a Sunday afternoon. Food is always delicious and you can't go wrong with anything on the menu. Service was great.
We loved Cafe Lift so much the first time, we went back again the next morning! The Smoke Salmon Toast was absolutely amazing. The servers were great, and it was very quiet and nice, though we went early on weekday mornings. I'm sure the weekends are busier. Wish I could go here all the time!
If you're in the Philly area, this is a must try brunch spot. First thing that really caught my eye was the decor and layout of the restaurant. Very vintage and indie vibe with relics and antiques everywhere. I recommend asking to sit on the second floor so that you can get a skyline view of Philly. This place does get busy and there is a fairly long wait so make sure you get there early to get a table. We try to mix of sweet and savory dishes that they offered my favorite was definitely the Shashooka. I would definitely come back just for the skyline view seating!
I don't care that they don't have an actual lift anymore. This place is still it! Miss the old locations (including the short-lived Ardmore locale), but was relieved to find that food-wise my favorite brunch spot in all of Philly is still that, numero uno. A few of my old favorites are gone (R.I.P. Challah French Toast), but there are plenty of new options on the menu that make up for it including the amazingly good breakfast poutine with pickled peppers. The new location trades the hidden gem, hole-in-the-wall vibe for better ventilation, natural lighting, and a (slightly) improved parking situation.
Listen y'all! I know it's a brunch spot. I know the brunch food is divine (I promise I've sampled around the menu) but this chicken cutlet sandwich is a star in my books. The balance of protein to breading to toppings and seasoning?? YUM! Staff are always super sweet, informative, and attentive no matter how busy it gets. The inside is bi-level and can get louder depeneding on peak hours, but whenever it isn't it's a chill spot. Would I wait 20+ minutes for a table if I were on a schedule? nah. But if it's less than that you can get a decent walk in around Callowhill to build your appetite~
Definitely a gem in Philly with two floors the wait is not long! First floor is a bit quieter compared to the second floor. Food was really good and tasty and the drinks were also great! The decor gives an updated retro vibe and the staff was great! Will definitely come back, the chicken cutlet was 10/10!
Came for brunch on a Sunday. They do not take reservations and not much space inside to wait for table, so you will likely be standing on the street. I would say it is more than worth the wait mainly because the Hudson Cakes are the most delectable mix of sweet and savory you could ask for. No more having to choose if you want sweet or savory!
Great brunch spot in the morning. In a decent area of the city corner area. Upstairs and downstairs so big for larger tables Eggs were solid and fluffy, best part was the thicker bread portion and fresh fruit portion as it was generous. Also got a nutty crepe which was stuffed and thick which was the perfect sweet treat. Lattes were also solid and waitress didn't rush us at all and service was quick too. Great spot to go again. Retro decor
This was a surprise for us. Stumbled upon after being starving off a 755 Amtrak. Grabbed an uber and went right to this location. Food was absolutely delicious!
Walked in on a Sunday with no reservation and waited approx 15min for a table for 2. The space is very cool, open, and colorful; the staff was also very helpful in suggesting favorites and popular items. To start we had a campfire coffee cocktail which was a special (think Irish coffee but tasted more like a s'more) and a Bloody Mary. Both were absolutely delicious and went down way too quick. Entree was Breakfast Poutine and has since, quite possibly, become my favorite breakfast entree I've had in the near recent past. I'm a big fan of sausage gravy and this gravy is similar (and better) than Jacob's Pickles in NYC (which is one of my all time favorite sausage gravies). The pickled chilis definitely have a kick so if you like spicy, definitely order this. If you're not a fan of chilis, you can still eat the dish and avoid the peppers, they don't overpower the gravy in flavor whatsoever. As sides the meats were cooked to order (we like crispy/well-done) and the pancake was quite large and a steal for $5. The menu as a whole seemed incredible and difficult to pick just one. Seeing all the dishes go by to other tables definitely solidified my eventual return. 5/5 stars absolutely !
Reviews are largely positive. People highlight the fresh and flavorful food, friendly and attentive staff, and an inviting, lively ambiance.
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3 months ago
Business owner information
Michael P.
Hi Sloane!…
Came here after a long hike and was very pleased to be seated immediately on a Sunday! I've never been upstairs but on this visit they took us right up there! I really enjoyed the vibe and the food was really yummy. It's not your typical diner style food although they do have like a 2 egg combo if that's what you're looking for. But they had so many unique dishes I had to try one. Luckily the one I picked out waiter immediately mentioned how good it was. I dont disagree! The only thing I didn't like about it was the mushrooms. I felt like it threw off the other flavors but other than that, perfect dish! My partner got the egg cheeseteak and we were shocked by the presentation. We fully expected it to be on a long roll. I got a cucumber lemonade and it was so good I couldn't wait to make something similar at home. Really good breakfast spot. read more
Business owner information
Michael P.
Hi Cheri, thank you for sharing your experience with us! We're…
We absolutely love coming here for a weekend brunch. There is usually a wait (~20-40min) and no waiting area but it's a quick 8-10 min walk to Chinatown if you have a long wait. The food is so amazing and very affordable. The staff is always very kind. My favorite is the crab bisque. It comes with amazing bread and is ~$7. Very rich and I order it every time. The place itself is cozy and cute. read more
Business owner information
Michael P.
Hi Lucy, thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're delighted…
This was my first time here at this Spring Garden location but not eating at Cafe Lift - I used to get brunch at their old spot before they over here a couple of years (?) ago. This new spot definitely provides so much more space since there is an upstairs eating/sitting area, and gives a very airy vibe with wrap around large windows with no shades down to allow so much natural light in. My friend I was meeting for a breakfast meeting got there a little before and grabbed us a table upstairs, so headed straight up there once I arrived. Our waitress came right over when I got settled i to my seat to introduce herself and ask if I wanted anything to drink. She was very kind and friendly throughout our entire dining experience. All of the staff were very welcoming, greeting as I came in, wishing me a great day when I left and having what felt like genuine smiles on their faces. For food, I got the Huevos Rancheros with vegan chorizo instead of the pork one and a green tea. My friend got the Avocado Toast and ordered the Ricotta pancakes for us to split. I didn't eat much of the pancakes but, from the bite or two I took, it tasted good. I enjoyed my entree - everything felt pretty fresh, with a good flavor mixture and beautiful presentation. It was a large portion for me, so I ended up taking it home and ate for breakfast the next day, and it still held up well! Overall, good food and dining experience. Plan to come back for brunch again, especially since it isn't far from home for me read more
Took a week off from work and one day, decided to grab brunch in the city and hit a few spots during the traditional work day. Parked out in front, was seated immediately, and knew we were in for a great time. We ordered a peppermint mocha and a s'mores latte, both coming out right before the quick food. My wife ordered a cannoli french toast or something and I went with a banh mi breakfast sandwich. It had those amazing banh mi flavors, housemade sausage, dripping egg. Wasn't like anything I've had for breakfast before, but did the job. Food was amazing and unique, service was great, just a nice start to our day. read more
Great little brunch place- service was friendly and ambience bright and spacious - we got the huevos rancheros which is different from traditional dish as the tortilla is fried and crispy and served more like a tostada but it was super tasty. We also got strawberry lemon French toast which was also delicious but smaller portion than I would have thought. Hubby got eggs florentine which looked and tasted delicious. read more
We loved Cafe Lift so much the first time, we went back again the next morning! The Smoke Salmon Toast was absolutely amazing. The servers were great, and it was very quiet and nice, though we went early on weekday mornings. I'm sure the weekends are busier. Wish I could go here all the time! read more
If you're in the Philly area, this is a must try brunch spot. First thing that really caught my eye was the decor and layout of the restaurant. Very vintage and indie vibe with relics and antiques everywhere. I recommend asking to sit on the second floor so that you can get a skyline view of Philly. This place does get busy and there is a fairly long wait so make sure you get there early to get a table. We try to mix of sweet and savory dishes that they offered my favorite was definitely the Shashooka. I would definitely come back just for the skyline view seating! read more
7 months ago
I don't care that they don't have an actual lift anymore. This place is still it! Miss the old locations (including the short-lived Ardmore locale), but was relieved to find that food-wise my favorite brunch spot in all of Philly is still that, numero uno. A few of my old favorites are gone (R.I.P. Challah French Toast), but there are plenty of new options on the menu that make up for it including the amazingly good breakfast poutine with pickled peppers. The new location trades the hidden gem, hole-in-the-wall vibe for better ventilation, natural lighting, and a (slightly) improved parking situation. read more
Listen y'all! I know it's a brunch spot. I know the brunch food is divine (I promise I've sampled around the menu) but this chicken cutlet sandwich is a star in my books. The balance of protein to breading to toppings and seasoning?? YUM! Staff are always super sweet, informative, and attentive no matter how busy it gets. The inside is bi-level and can get louder depeneding on peak hours, but whenever it isn't it's a chill spot. Would I wait 20+ minutes for a table if I were on a schedule? nah. But if it's less than that you can get a decent walk in around Callowhill to build your appetite~ read more
Definitely a gem in Philly with two floors the wait is not long! First floor is a bit quieter compared to the second floor. Food was really good and tasty and the drinks were also great! The decor gives an updated retro vibe and the staff was great! Will definitely come back, the chicken cutlet was 10/10! read more
Came for brunch on a Sunday. They do not take reservations and not much space inside to wait for table, so you will likely be standing on the street. I would say it is more than worth the wait mainly because the Hudson Cakes are the most delectable mix of sweet and savory you could ask for. No more having to choose if you want sweet or savory! read more
Great brunch spot in the morning. In a decent area of the city corner area. Upstairs and downstairs so big for larger tables Eggs were solid and fluffy, best part was the thicker bread portion and fresh fruit portion as it was generous. Also got a nutty crepe which was stuffed and thick which was the perfect sweet treat. Lattes were also solid and waitress didn't rush us at all and service was quick too. Great spot to go again. Retro decor read more
8 months ago
Walked in on a Sunday with no reservation and waited approx 15min for a table for 2. The space is very cool, open, and colorful; the staff was also very helpful in suggesting favorites and popular items. To start we had a campfire coffee cocktail which was a special (think Irish coffee but tasted more like a s'more) and a Bloody Mary. Both were absolutely delicious and went down way too quick. Entree was Breakfast Poutine and has since, quite possibly, become my favorite breakfast entree I've had in the near recent past. I'm a big fan of sausage gravy and this gravy is similar (and better) than Jacob's Pickles in NYC (which is one of my all time favorite sausage gravies). The pickled chilis definitely have a kick so if you like spicy, definitely order this. If you're not a fan of chilis, you can still eat the dish and avoid the peppers, they don't overpower the gravy in flavor whatsoever. As sides the meats were cooked to order (we like crispy/well-done) and the pancake was quite large and a steal for $5. The menu as a whole seemed incredible and difficult to pick just one. Seeing all the dishes go by to other tables definitely solidified my eventual return. 5/5 stars absolutely ! read more
Been a big Cafe Lift fan for years now and thought I wrote a review before but here I am! Absolutely delicious food and coffee, friendly staff, and reasonable prices. Even thought they don't take reservations I never have trouble getting seated in a timely manner with small groups of 2-4. read more
11 months ago
Always a hit! Got the turkey ruben with homemade focaccia bread. Generously sized and absolutely phenomenal. It came out quickly and it hit the spot. Also got a side of scrambled eggs that were perfectly cooked - not too watery or too dry. Todd place is alleys a 10/10 read more
Food: If you're a savory-breakfast person, I recommend getting the Shakshuka. It comes with Baked eggs, tomato & chickpea stew, lamb sausage, seasoned breadcrumbs, and pita. It was very filling - I couldn't finish all of it. Their side of potatoes was crispy, but it was a little too small for my liking. Atmosphere: Super lively on the weekends, with lots of traffic. I can see how it is a popular brunch spot throughout the week. Service: Very quick! The food arrived fairly fast and was hot off the stove. read more
Mediocre at best. It took us 20 minutes of waiting to have a table for two on a Saturday morning. We were taken to the upstairs where there's only one server. The wait for the food wasn't too bad, but it's so hard to get the server's attention to get what we need. Breakfast Poutine was just disappointing. Mostly potatoes, a cold chunk of cheese at the bottom, and a bit of gravy. The only thing that we liked in that dish was the pickled pepper. The Jen's crepe was just fine. We also ordered a side of lemon ricotta pancake that people praise about, and it was mid Would be impossible to find parking since it's Philly, service could be better. For the wait and the food, I wouldn't come back. read more
2 years ago
Visited my friend in Philly for the weekend and came here for a nice weekend brunch. It's a lot more spacious than I thought it would, with a really nice and cozy second floor. They have a pretty extensive menu, with basically all of your brunch staples. I opted for the grain bowl. The house made bread was so delicious and I was surprised by how loaded the bowl was. The dressing was light but super tasty. I even ended up with leftovers because of how large the bowl was. I chose the bowl to opt for something a little "healthier" but would definitely get it again because of how much flavor there was. read more
I've been looking to check out this cafe for some time at their new location. I've gone a few times at their old building but this location was slightly more convenient. We arrived by 10am on New Year's Eve, looking for a good brunch and we got exactly that. We sat at the bar and got to witness our server make delicious drinks until we settled on ours. I went with the gingerbread dirty chai which was delicious. Then I went with the breakfast classic. Pancakes, eggs, and bacon. It was good as well. As we were finishing it began to get crowded and folks were hovering for our seats. As we were walking out we saw the lengthy lines and we were glad with our timing. Awesome spot! read more
The food was tasty. I got the bacon which was cooked perfectly and the yogurt bowl with coconut yogurt. All the fruit was fresh. Our waiter was very friendly and helpful.It was a bit of a wait but that's to be expected on a weekend at a popular place. The vibe was cool and the restaurant was clean. I would go again read more
3 months ago
9 months ago
We stopped in for weekday brunch and had a great experience. We were seated immediately and the service was friendly and prompt throughout. We ordered the hot chocolate, lavender London fog, cannoli French toast, and mushroom toast--everything was delicious and well prepared. The drinks were especially comforting, and the food hit the spot. Overall, a really enjoyable brunch, and we'd definitely go back again. read more
1 year ago
Love this restaurant it's one of my favorites in Philly it's super cute and homey. The food was so good omg my blt was so good and it was huge I couldn't even finish it I had to take it home great size portions. The drinks were really good too I love a drink that reminds me of an alcoholic drink but has no alcohol in it. Our server was great super knowledgeable and friendly and super quick with our orders. read more
1 year ago
My friends and I stopped in for some Saturday brunch. We expected a long wait but our table was ready within 10 minutes. There's 2 floors of seating so I think they turn tables a little quicker than some other brunch places in the city. I wanted something sweet and savory and the Jersey Madame was the perfect option. I haven't seen anything like this from any of the brunch places I've gone to. The peppercorn and maple bechamel was not overpowering at all and complemented the pancakes well. The service can be a little slow but it was busy when we went. read more
5 months ago
Business owner information
Michael P.
Hi Darcy, thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're…
This was walking distance from The Heid. We didn't wait to long to be seated and staff was so friendly. Has a cute diner/cafe vibe. I had a bit of trouble choosing what to order and our waitress was so helpful. We got our food pretty quickly. And that I ended up ordering the mushroom toast. This was so delicious with a nice jammy egg and truffle. I'd love to come back and try other things on their menu. read more
Wonderful brunch spot with delicious food options! Interior is cozy with an open kitchen. There is additional seating upstairs. Lemon ricotta pancake was soft, fluffy and paired well with the honey. The falafel was ok but I have had better though I enjoyed the sauce and dressed salad. Latte was good too and fancy with the cinnamon stick on top. I'd recommend trying this place and I'd go back to try more dishes. read more
Food: ULTRA DELICIOUS, 10/10, highly recommended! My belly was so full & happy leaving brunch. The Huevos Rancheros were perfect and generously portioned. Breakfast burrito was incredibly yummy and also generously stuffed. (the plates on the surrounding tables all looked so good.. i don't think you could go wrong with any item on the menu) Service: Staff was cute, friendly and knowledgeable. Our server knew the menu thoroughly and was attentive. Ambiance: simple and pleasant, no complaints. read more
5 months ago
Business owner information
Michael P.
Hi Annabelle, thank you for such a wonderful review! We're thrilled…
Café Lift has two level seating. Arrived without a reservation and had to wait 15 minutes. They took my phone number and sent a text when the table was ready. My seat was on the 2nd level. I ordered a specialty latte and the S.S.S. (Sourdough grilled cheese with Swiss and American, side salad, cup of crab bisque). When I visit again I will try the huevos Rancheros. read more
1 year ago
5 months ago
2 years ago
I love coming into Cafe Lift for a mid-walk refreshment or for brunch. I've had the best service and food here, it's worth it every time. On weekends there can be a wait for brunch, so arrive early. I enjoy the ube hazelnut coffee and also their cortado. I love their variety of drink and tea options for every palette. I enjoy the mushroom toast and grain bowl as my favorites for food. My other dining mates have enjoyed their fries and pancakes for sure. read more
We rented the place out for a wedding rehearsal dinner. Appetizers were served downstairs. I sampled the delicious soft bread slices and wonderful veggies and hummus. The drinks were to perfection. Staff were friendly down to earth and kind. After an hour the party moved upstairs for dinner, which seemed to last forever as an infinite series of dishes were brought to our tables from salad to dessert to more appetizers to several main dishes amounting to a 20 course dinner. Everything was delicious and delectable. Even the decaf coffee was exceptional. This was a wonderful place to eat and our daughter's joy was very great to have her rehearsal dinner here. read more
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More info about Cafe Lift
1124 Spring Garden St
Philadelphia, PA 19123
Spring Garden, Callowhill
Directions
(215) 922-3031
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http://www.cafelift.com
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Ask the Community - Cafe Lift
Hi, can I reserve a table for 6, Sunday morning?
You should contact the restaurant directly as they may not monitor Yelp discussion boards.
Is there outdoor seating where you can sit with a (leashed, well-behaved) dog?
Yes. They have a good sized outdoor section.
Are you cash only and do you have a limit of people per group?
They take cash and card but not sure about the party limit. You should call ahead to make a reservation to be safe.
Do you have Bloody Mary mix?
Hi Chelsea -Cafe Lift Philly does not have Bloody Mary mix. Our Narberth location has a full bar and serves bloody Mary’s.
Orange juice have free refills, for byob, to make your own mimosas?
Hey Alyssa, We do not have free refills on orange juice but offer carafes of juice for making…
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