We finally stopped in for lunch after driving downtown and saying, "wonder what this is like?" This was fun on every level. Two bars, friendly staff and patrons and a laid back atmosphere that radiates a gathering space. A menu with something for everyone and the food was fresh and delicious. Will be back for sure! read more

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I would not call this a cafe. This is clearly a restaurant and bar. Which is fine, but not what the name implies. However, that was not my biggest issue with the place. While it looked rather empty the bartender was acting absolutely slammed and frantic. We had chosen to sit at the front bar because the place looked rather empty and thought that would be easier. It was nearly 10 minutes before she even came to ask for our drink order. My friend and I have both worked in the service industry and understand someone being in the weeds so we told her that we understood and could be patient. Once our drink order was actually taken it was a while still before our drinks were made and served to us. That was fine. They were tasty even if my friend's Arnold Palmer was light on tea and heavy on lemonade. Not a huge deal. However, with how long everything was taking we decided not to order any food, despite the food looking pretty good. Boy were we glad that we didn't! We were there for over an hour and the bartender was in our sight that entire time. At no point did we see her, or the server who was helping her at different points in time, wash their hands. Even after handling trash or used dishes from tables. We could see them handling this trash and where the sink was (there were actually multiple sinks in our view) and they just... did not use them. So not great for food handling and safety. This was made even worse after we watched the waitress hand the bartender two glasses of water from a table. The bartender then dumped the contents and placed the glasses on the bar mat as if they were waiting to be used again without washing between customers. So, unless someone can prove to me actual food safety and handling training of staff that is given and enforced, I will not be returning. read more

If I could give a 3.5 star I would for the food. The shrimp poboy was average at best, more shrimp would be a good starting point. Lots of bready bites. The pickles and jalapeños were an interesting twist. The fries were good and the salad was a typical spring mix side salad. The house made vinaigrette dressing was ! It had a mustardy color and taste which was very unique. As for my wife's Italian sandwich she said it wasn't that great. Overall we wouldn't rush back here to eat again. The service was friendly and kind so no complaints, and lots of timely follow through during the busy lunch hour. The server was kind enough to advise us one side of fries was enough for 2 people. She was spot on! The ambiance was nice and open. We sat by the street windows which offered more lighting compared to other sections as it was slightly dark in there. read more

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I really wanted to love this place as I've been told to come here by so many friends. I arrived with my dog around 2 PM and walked in and got a dirty look from the cook, and no lie, stood at the host stand for 5-7 min before an employee emerged. I asked to sit outside with my dog. The cook kept giving me dirty looks. Then a second server came out and said to me "the cook mentioned you had a dog" and clearly this guy had an issue with animals. The employees are very nice but service is lackluster. I grabbed my own menu, had to ask for silverware and water, and then when the cook got off, he came outside and sat next to me continuing to glare at my dog. Rock shrimp were ok, too much batter. My drinks were never checked on, between a water and two libations. Good hand cut fries with malt vinegar. I've been sitting here for 20 minutes, done and not a soul has checked on me. I'll walk my credit card in and I won't be back. read more

Holy cow, what an amazing burger. Grilled the perfection pickled onions to die for and let's not forget about the fries! Homemade crispy and just the way I like them. I can't imagine what the other dishes are like but if they're anything like the hamburger they're amazing. Don't sleep on the blue cheeseburger. Highly recommended! read more

Such a great, local spot. Came for dinner with some friends. Lively atmosphere, great happy hour priced drinks and food to please all.

I'm not a fan of burger but this one was really good! I invited my friends and they both like theirs too. They have 2 entrances and I might came in from the back door but it was cute little corner back there. The place are big it might be nice for a big party or gathering. The only thing I only see 2 servers and it wasn't that busy that time but service was pretty slow. I can't imagine if the place is full. As I recall they also have a bar but we were in hurry so I didn't get a chance to look. read more

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Great food. We had a chicken salad sandwich and a burger with Brie cheese and fries. Service was good and it didn't take long for our food to come out. Bathroom was clean as were the tables glasses and silverware. read more

Central Cafe - Burger with Brie bacon and fries - New American Near Me - Bradenton, Florida

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We stopped into Central Cafe last week for a quick lunch, and it was such a great experience! The tuna tacos and the Mediterranean salad were both delicious, but the real highlight was the staff. Everyone was so welcoming--from the kitchen staff waving hello as we walked in, to our server, Bailey (who absolutely deserves that puppy she mentioned her Mom was going to get her). She was incredibly kind, helpful with our order, and even recommended the tomato/bleu soup, which was amazing. Thank you for the wonderful food and service--we'll definitely be back! read more

Stopped in here for dinner. This is my 2nd time having there special. It's was amazing! The staff was friendly and tentative. You can tell they use good ingredients, and the portions won't leave you wanting more! I would definitely stop in if you are in the Bradenton area! read more

Central Cafe - Bar - New American Near Me - Bradenton, Florida

Great service Great food Relaxing Atmosphere Our favorite Burger and fries place we'll be back read more

We love this place. Staff is always friendly. They have the best burger and fries in town. Their gluten-free pizza is pretty good too. Highly recommend. read more

This was our first time ordering out from Central. We usually eat there because love the atmosphere and the staff. These were the best burgers we have had in a long time. The fries were still perfectly crispy when we got home. If you haven't been to Central Cafe you are missing out, even if you order it to go they will knock it out of the park! Thank you Central! read more

Good food, drinks and service! Went for lunch with my girlfriend and everything we had was delicious

I have eaten here five times now and each time has been a great dining experience. There is always something new and different on the menu. On my last visit I ordered the buffalo blue cheese brussel sprouts(they were amazing!) and the carnitas tacos. I have ordered something different every time I have visited this restaurant and have not been disappointed yet. The staff has always been attentive, courteous, and responsive. Keep up the great work! read more

Such a fantastic brunch spot! The atmosphere is warm, stylish, and full of great energy--perfect for a relaxed weekend morning. The food was fresh, delicious, and beautifully plated. Our server, Bailee, was absolutely amazing--attentive, friendly, and made us feel so welcome. Can't recommend this place enough, especially if you get Bailee as your server! read more

Great food. Service was fantastic. Love the inside not long and will continue to go back.

The food was great and the outdoor patio is beautiful and great for bringing a dog. I would recommend trying one of their wraps it was great and the service was also great and helpful. read more

This small town brick building Cafe is the best. My husband and I visit often. The best chicken salad plate we have ever had. Sandwiches are outstanding. Had the pleasure of meeting Marsha the owner. Wonderful lady. Our server Bailee is always right on making sure we are pleased with everything. She is absolutely the best server. We will continue to visit here with great food and a great server. If you visit ask for Bailee to be your server. You will not be disappointed ! read more

Solid food + service. We ordered mushroom pizza on cauliflower crust and burger + fries. All dishes came out quick and were tasty. We'll be back read more

Central Cafe - Burger and fries - New American Near Me - Bradenton, Florida

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Great staff serving delicious hamburgers & fries. I'll be back soon to try other menu items.

Hidden gem!!! We have visited Central Cafe for dinner and been here at an event hosted upstairs. The staff is always attentive and friendly, the owner is always buzzing around making sure things run smoothly (you can tell she sets the example for staff as a hard worker) and we have never had a bad experience. We love the setting out back and the burgers are to die for! I often tell everyone this is off the beaten path (tucked away from the Main Street in Bradenton) but WORTH the visit. Parking is out back and accessible. I recommend the brie appetizer! read more

Central Cafe - Bacon & Blue Cheese Burger - New American Near Me - Bradenton, Florida

I've been craving the tuna tacos since I had them a few years ago, and I have to say I was underwhelmed this time. Not very flavorful. The fries are good, salad is good. My daughter also remembered the burger being crave-worthy and it was just not this time, it was actually a bit dry. I'm not writing them off, I'll try again if I happen to be down there, but I'm not going out of my way. Service was fine, nothing to write home about. Maybe it was just a bad day. Hope it's better next time! read more

Always a pleasure to eat here, whether for lunch or dinner. Very consistent in their portion sizes and customer service. Although not on the menu everyday I'm a fan of their pork tacos, but the burgers are a great alternative too. Location is "centrally " located for many in the area. Give them a try. read more

I love the service!! But more Important I love their food! Every time I have been to this beautiful place I have never been disappointed! If you looking for a great burger try the Portabella Mushrooms & Brie Cheese burger with some fries! Don't forget to ask for some hot sauce to add to your fries! read more

Central Cafe - Portabella Mushrooms & Brie Cheese Burger - New American Near Me - Bradenton, Florida

This is a favorite place for us to have lunch. We have found it busy but that has never affected the service or the food! My wife and I love this place, and I have been here several times for business / association meetings - and they have always been handled very well. We had the Fire/Rescue/EMS Retired luncheon there last week - and, as always, the food was excellent (GREAT French fries and cheeseburger here!), the service taking care of 12 old firefighters and paramedics was great, and I can't wait to go back!! Too many people don't know that this great place in an older building in Old Bradentown even exists - they are missing a great place to eat! read more

Had a great 1st time experience at this eatery. Found the casual, industrial chic vibe quite comfortable. Food was delicious and the wait staff was exceptional. I highly recommend the bruschetta. Indoor, outdoor dining is available, weather permitting. Parking available in the rear. Will definitely return here. read more

There is absolutely no reason whatsoever to return to this restaurant and return customers are exactly what you want. Small cheese burger burned as you could taste the burn with every bite. Tomato Blue cheese soup is so salty it's almost uneditable, shoestring fry's are more of a nuisance to eat at rather than regular fries. Waitress had zero personality and didn't really care if we were there or not. Busboy / hostess was very polite. Saturday noon July 13. About 6 people total in the restaurant. read more

I've been coming here for over a decade. Not much has changed even with a change of ownership. That's not a bad thing. Consistency of food , ambience and service means more of a good thing. Keep it up. read more

We were driving by looking for a place to eat. Went here for the first time. The place is really cute & the workers are so friendly. My husband & I shared the Buffalo Brussel sprouts. So good. I ordered the shrimp artichoke pesto cauliflower pizza & it was the best I've ever had. The crust is crispy with lots of topping. I would definitely come back to try the other pizzas. read more

the manager was a horrible person to me and my family they complained constantly and he seemed hostile and ready to fight food was horrible and the vide was hostile read more

Great food, service & atmosphere! Cute local place that we frequent. Highly recommended! read more

The food and staff here are the best! The atmosphere is super cool and very comfortable! Hand cut fries are my fave but I also enjoy seeing the specials that the chef creates! read more

Great fresh food and friendly service. Highly recommend. My favorite is Mediterranean salad and a cup of tomato bleu soup. I've been eating here since they opened. read more

Great food at this Cafe. I ordered the Chicken Picata and it was supreme. The service is top notch thanks to Shelby the bartender. Definitely recommend read more

Central Cafe - I had the Chicken Picata last night. Outstanding! Great service from the bartender Shelby. 5 stars all the way! Definitely recommend. - New American Near Me - Bradenton, Florida

Great casual cafe with a bar in downtown Bradenton. We had a salad with ahi tuna and the ahi tacos for lunch. Both dishes were creatively prepared and satisfied our hunger. Servers were great. Sat outside on the back porch. read more

The food, service, and ambiance are terrific. Don't miss the best French fries in the state.

This restaurant is amazing! I can't get enough of their chicken salad. Seriously, it's the best. The seasoning is just right, the lettuce is super fresh, and don't even get me started on the dressing. Love it! read more

This is one of my VERY FAVORITE restaurants in Manatee county! You cannot choose wrong from the menu, but their hand cut fries are a MUST order! I love their bruschetta, and their caprese, their burgers and pizza's are delicious, but all of their entree's are mouthwatering. Their cocktails are mixed to perfection, and they have a nice selection of bourbons to choose from for the Old Fashion lovers or those who just want something on a rock! Don't forget to say Hi to the owner Marsha when you see her bubbling smile bouncing around! She's the one who ties the bow on the experience, making the evening a wonderful night out! read more

Great food and excellent service in a beautiful, old historic brick building! Particularly enjoyed the pizza! Will definitely be back.