Okay, where do I start? Today, I ran errands in Eustis. My final task was to get my oil changed at Yooper Lube and Wash. While the techs gave my truck the best service, I went on Google to find a decent, well-reviewed mom-and-pop cafe nearby. Citrus Grove Cafe popped up, so when the oil change was done, I headed over. I'm sure glad I did. Now, you might think a "Smash Burger" might be an ordinary choice; let me tell you, it's not. From the first bite, the owner's passion shone through. The burger was top-shelf and extremely delicious. The speed at which my food arrived at the table was astonishing! My waitress (Gabrielle) was extremely attentive and on point. After a few minutes, a lady came out of the kitchen and made her rounds to the seated tables. She eventually came my way and asked if everything was okay, and I responded that everything was perfect. Then I complimented her on the burger and asked if she was the owner, and she replied, "Yes." She then told me that she and her husband owned the Cafe and had been open since March. She then mentioned that she had been in the restaurant business Most of her life, and it shows in a good way. The Cafe is extremely clean and gives off a warm, welcoming vibe. The owner explained that they maintain an open-door kitchen policy to ensure transparency.
After lunch, I indulged in some dessert decadence (Tiramisu), and I wasn't disappointed. They have a full dessert menu, and some of their desserts are made in-house. Now let's talk value: I dined alone, and my check with dessert was only $21, plus gratuity for the waitress (ALWAYS TIP YOUR SERVER!). Given the quality and care, you'd be hard-pressed to find that kind of value at a fast-food place. The Citrus Grove Cafe is also open for breakfast (I can't wait to go back and try it). This isn't a Cafe you want to sleep on; Downtown Eustis is a quaint, sleepy little business district that harkens back to a time when small-town communities ruled, and mom-and-pop businesses were the backbone of the community. And there's plenty of street-side parking.
And whatever you do, always remember to be kind--it's appreciated, especially since the owners are dedicated and on-site seven days a week. read more