Such a gem in Monona! They have a great variety of coffee, smoothies, and other drinks. I love that the menu is different. Not something you could order at any coffee shop around Madison. It's always bustling there! Plenty of tables to accommodate a large amount of people. Service is always friendly and fast. I wish they had the full drink menu listed on the Grubhub ordering site. Maybe I missed it! I like their pastry selection however I also wish there was a softer baker item available like donuts. However, everything I've tried has been delicious! I will continue to frequent this coffee shop when I'm in Monona! read more

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My husband and i had the day off and decided to treat ourselves to brunch at Crema. We don't visit very often, but when we do it's a treat! Counter service was very friendly and provided all the info we needed to make our choices. The atmosphere is busy but comfortable. The perfect place for a quick bite, but also a place you can unwind, enjoy your coffee and have great conversation. read more

Crema Cafe - French Toast - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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I love their gluten free pastry options daily or often go for and egg and cheese breakfast Sammie with a medium roast coffee

We had lived within spitting distance of this place for over four years but I had never been here. Not being a coffee drinker it didn't hold much appeal for me. Finally some friends invited us to meet for breakfast so we walked over. I am glad we got there by 8am because it soon got very crowded on this Saturday morning. After a short wait in the line we both ordered their breakfast sandwiches. My hot chocolate I ordered was just OK - not that chocolatey and less than hot. After a short wait they delivered our sandwiches. Both were very tasty and hot! I really enjoyed mine. Though I don't go out for breakfast very often I will definitely pop in here again. read more

Crema Cafe - Outside - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

I stopped by during lunch time and had a nice breakfast. The place was almost full. Had I came during breakfast time, I would have to wait. I went for a fungus scramble. That was a nice flavorful scramble. As a side I got a single pancake. For a $1 upcharge I got it upgraded to blueberry pancake. The pancake was really good. I also went for a coconut crema latte. It was a nice flavorful latte. read more

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The restaurant is clean, spacious, and well lit. I ordered at the counter and in under 10 minutes, my order was brought to me. The eggs were cooked perfectly. The potatoes, toast, and bacon were delicious. I will return again in the future and suggest you give this place a try. read more

Crema Cafe - Lake Edge Eggs and Hash - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Good coffee, good/interesting food, friendly staff, and some outdoor seating, plus San Damiano is right across the street if you want to take your coffee for a walk in a lakeside park. What more could you ask for? This is definitely one of the East side's gems. The scrambled and sandwiches are always great and the blueberry pancakes are delicious if you're in the mood for something sweet. Lots of dishes come with side salads, which is great. Order ahead if you need to grab and go because there's often a line during meal times (though it moves pretty quickly). read more

Simple yet satisfying. The ham and jam breakfast sandwich was the best breakfast sandwich I've ever had!! I travel quite a bit for work, so that is saying a lot. read more

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The food is always good. The staff is always incredibly kind and welcoming and I like that there are good gluten free options.

I don't know what happened to Crema Cafe but not a good thing. A friend gave me a sandwich from there and I had to scrape off the pickled onions and other stuff before I could eat it. Why does everyone have to put weird stuff on sandwiches?! No more for me. read more

I ordered (online) a simple "Smash Burger" and substituted the salad with hash at $2.00 as an alternative given on the webpage. I placed the order by paying through "Toast" as they require. I drove there less than 10 minutes each way to pick up my order around noon and took it back to my work. I found that there was no hash, but the salad had been given to me instead. I had already entered a 15% tip adding $2.31 to my total. I found out from my receipt there is a service fee of $0.38 for paying using "Toast". The total was $18.53 of which $4.69 was for the substitute hash, tip and 2.5% service fee not including tax. I am disappointed in the whole exchange after calling to let them know the error. The person I spoke with only said they were sorry and would I like to come back to pick up the hash substitute. I said no thank you and the person did not say anything else so I hung up. read more

Crema Cafe - Receipt screen shot. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

One of my neighborhood favorites!! True farm to table food and the very best service. If you get to be lucky enough to be one of the few to get a piece of coffee cake, you are lucky! They only make so many. The farmers scramble is the fan favorite read more

It may not look like much from the outside but its what's on the inside that matters! The casual atmosphere on the inside is where its at. My breakfast, the 'Lake Edge Scramble' was tasty and filling, the bacon was defiantly worth the upcharge! The selection of fresh baked pastries was great for how small that kitchen must be!!! Refills on Iced Tea were cheep as well! only thing that I had a hard time with was it could get difficult to hear the baristas calling out drink orders because of the layout, but thats not a reason not to go back!! read more

Crema Cafe - Diner decor - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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Driving through town and looking for a breakfast joint, we Found Crema Cafe on Yelp. Reviews were good so we swung by and we were WOW'd!!! Everything and I mean EVERYTHING! was extraordinary. My daughters had the kids French toast (best she's ever had) with fresh fruit!, and my two teenage daughters had the Oat Blueberry Pancakes. If you like pancakes, heck, even if you don't like pancakes, these were cooked to perfection. My picky daughter pretty much licked the plate clean and exclaimed, "wow those were real good!" I had the salmon scramble and my husband had the pork scramble. Both wonderful. The toast was even some of the best toast I've ever had!!crispy crust that was somehow not dry and the center was still toasty by soft! So hard to explain. All I can say is stop here and you'll be satisfying your tastebuds. read more

This is my favorite lunch spot in Monona! I love all of their sandwiches, especially the chicken salad. It is on the most tasty bread, although it probably doesn't need extra mayo since it's already in the chicken salad so I'd request they take that off next time. I always sub for the side salad because I love it, although their chips are good too. Their smoothies are also amazing, and they have some dairy free options for them which is helpful for my lactose free friends. They also have different breakfast items each day and usually a quiche that always looks amazing. I'm not a huge coffee drinker but it all looks so good I usually share a little bit with whoever I visit with and have never been disappointed. You order at the front and then they bring it out to you based on your number if you're at a table, which is nice to not have to wait at the front. I ride my bike here a lot too and will continue to have brunch and lunch visits here. They are not open for dinner, so make sure you come early enough before they close (currently 2pm). I'll probably order a breakfast item next time so I can compare it to the amazing sandwiches. read more

Excellent Scones, very nice coffee, lots of breakfast and lunch options, all done w/ style.

What a wonderful little find. The sandwich listed is called the Roman and let me say I was tempted to go back for lunch as well. Staff was friendly and clean environment. I have to be in Madison again the end of the month and cannot wait to visit again! Not certain if I will get the same thing or try a new item. read more

Crema Cafe - Breakfast Sandwich - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Stopped in for a latte. Wanting something with caffeine, but not overly sweet, the barista recommended the Chai latte made with Rishi Tea. You can choose the type of milk, and I was glad they began carrying oatmilk. I really enjoyed the latte as it's less sweeter than the Tazo Chai but still gave me a jolt. I liked the flavors of different spices too. I also got a blueberry muffin that came with a almost crumble on top. It was fluffy and contained the perfect amount of blueberries. I'll have to come back and try one of their brunch items. read more

Crema Cafe - Pastries - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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They do a really good job on a smaller menu. Love both their breakfast and lunch offerings..wish they were open a little later into the day!

The location is amazing and so also their pizzas.. thin crust and just melt in mouth kinds. made freshly in front of your eyes.. also try the pecan pies.. with a nice cup of cappuccino.. read more

Amazing staff (especially Lucy and Jenni!) always so kind and personable. The food is always amazing and they have lots of great seasonal items. I go here every single time I am in the madison area, cannot recommend enough! read more

We really enjoy this place for breakfast we've always tried the specials which for us is typically French toast or waffles and we are never disappointed! Portions are a good size that don't make you feel overstuffed. Just know they are not open on Sundays, which in a way I can appreciate that they give that day to their staff! read more

Order oatmeal and side of bacon. I should've known something was wrong then the oatmeal came in a box. It's was a weird textured and was like burnt bead and oats, it was just god awful. The bacon was supposed to be smoked bacon at least that what's there menu description it as but it not it had absolutely no flavor. The customer service was nonexistent as well. read more

I personally love Crema. It's a cute little cafe tucked away in Monona. However, there are a few things to be aware of before you go. First, it's located in a tiny strip mall and could be a little hard to find. They offer free parking, and I've never had trouble finding a spot... finding a table however, can be a different story. Crema can get packed, and I have to be in the right kind of mood to fight for a table. When you arrive, you will have to get into line to order at a counter, and then snag a table. Staff brings food out to you, and drinks are picked up at the counter. Navigating around a tight restaurant to grab what you need is not always my ideal. As far as food, everything I have had has been delicious! My fiance complains that the portions are small (especially for the price), but I honestly appreciate a cafe that doesn't overload your plate as if you were a world champion weight lifter. From the eggs and toast, to chicken salad, and smoothies... this is my jam. They have a little bit of everything, and even satisfied our three little picky eaters. Food seems high quality and fresh. It has yet to disappoint. read more

Love this place for their sandwiches. Quick service friendly staff And plenty of seating to have a nice meal. read more

Crema Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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This place has great sandwiches, haven't been back yet but we got 2 breakfast sandwiches and they really hit the spot. The bread was delicious and it was very well made! The cheddar herb cream cheese was incredible, we loved it with the bacon and egg. Friendly and quick service. We ate our sandwiches so fast we forgot to take pictures. Can't wait to get back here. Maybe I'll go Monday. I'm going Monday. read more

Cute Cafe. Location is hidden in a strip mall type of place but with a gorgeous view of one of the lakes. Customer service was hurried, not super friendly, but not rude. Indoor and outdoor seating available. Order at the counter and bring the number flag to your table so they know where to bring the freshly made food. The service is fast and people are polite, they don't tend linger, which frees up tables quickly. Keep your eyes on the specials board, but there is plenty to keep your saliva glands going on the regular menu. Be warned, "hearty" may be misleading. One of my slender friends was disappointed with the size of his hearty crepes and left him hungry and wanting more. Crepes were properly made and flavorful! Eggs Scrambler and Bacon - delicious with homemade bread and a side salad was perfect and filling. The balance of eggs and ingredients was nice, especially if you prefer half eggs and half filling. The eggs were moist and not overdone around the filling. LOVED IT! Crema Lake Edge Eggs - Good, fresh, but the flavors were really nothing too stand out compared to other places around here. Almond Pancakes were fluffy and delicious - HEARTY and filling. Good source of fiber :) While waiting for our food we enjoyed a fresh Cranberry Orange Scone and Blueberry square...we got the last one and it wasn't even mid morning. The pastries and baked goods sell out quickly. I would return if it was convenient, but I wouldn't go out of my way. read more

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My busy winter morning takes me to the UW-Madison campus for a class til 11 a.m., then an errand for tax preparation. I'm hungry! And I have more errands to run, things to get done before the next deep freeze, predictions of -30 degree wind chills for a few days. Again. I pull into a parking spot close to Crema Cafe--it is in the Lake Edge Shopping Center, a strip mall. Noontime at Crema Cafe on a day when the roads are pretty clear (read, no fresh ice or snow), everybody is out for lunch, it seems. All tables are claimed, and there is a short wait at the counter. It is good to see a friend in line and we have a minute to talk before she places her order. I opt for takeout and order the Sandwich Special: Chili Chicken Sandwich--slow cooked chili shredded chicken with lime avocado mayo, Colby caliente cheese...you get the picture. The tortilla chips are crisp and full of spicy flavor. Generously packed with tender and flavorful chicken, it comes in a foil wrap, the ciabatta is softened just enough. It is a meal ($10.30). I'm ready for the rest of my errands--stocking up on Spring cleaning supplies, and a furnace filter to finish out the season. Crema Cafe is reliably good with locally sourced ingredients in their soups, sandwiches. You will have a wait for a table, especially at noontime. But the wait for takeout was 15 minutes at the most. read more

Crema Cafe - baked goods at Crema Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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I work in the area and this is one of my top go-to lunch places. It is a very casual cafe setting that has some top-notch food. They do breakfast/brunch and lunch. Right now they have a smaller menu that is the same all day during covid-19. This menu has both breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. Some of my favorites are the breakfast sandwich, gobbler, and the bluebird. The breakfast sandwich is perfect if you want a super delicious and rich breakfast. It has cheddar cream cheese on it that is to die for. The cream cheese, bacon, eggs, and greens all combined create a savory, salty, and rich combination that cannot be beaten. The gobbler and bluebird are both lunch sandwiches . Both put a spin on your classic cafe sandwiches. The gobbler has turkey, door county cherries, and goat cheese. The bluebird is a chicken salad sandwich that has blueberries added for a twist. The daily scrabble is also a great option as well. This is my husband to go. I love that this place does use local ingredients and their coffee is always tasty too. Overall what is not to love! read more

Their blueberry oat pancakes are what I always go for. Good Turkey sausage as well. Pretty busy on a Saturday! read more

Crema Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Great choices for breakfast lunch or brunch. Only question why would a great breakfast coffee and brunch/lunch not be opened on a Sunday. Simple business acumen like being open on your most profitable day would be recommended unless they don't need to be. With wait staff hard to find this day and age and businesses failing....you would think open on Sunday a filling the need to other places going out of business would be key. What do I know. Oh right I was a small business owner in CA.....it doesn't make since when a business forgoes a simple step toward success. read more

This is one of our favorite neighborhood spots for breakfast! They have great local fare in a bright sunny atmosphere. The weekend specials are usually really delicious but I usually end up with the lake edge with over medium eggs. The hash has both regular and sweet potatoes and is delicious!!! More into the lunch scene? Then the bluebird sandwich is probably one of the best chicken salad sandwiches in town. The balsamic beef is also another fan favorite! All sandwiches are served with tasty spiced tortillas chips. Collectivo coffee y'all!! read more

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Two years after my first visit and in the midst of quarantine this place is still standout excellent. Try any scrambler they're all good. But if you try only one thing try the ham and jam breakfast sandwich. The description does NOT sell it. It sounds weird. Possibly disgusting. It is without a doubt one of the best things between two pieces of bread I have ever tasted. You won't regret it. All their coffee is exceptional. read more

We stopped at Crema cafe for mid morning bite on a snowy Saturday in April. Crowded and mildly noisy, this place was hopping, but we did order after waiting in a short line at the counter and made our way to a table in the corner. We got our number and our food was brought to us promptly. Portions are healthy but not over-powering and they skip the toast accompaniment, instead tempting you with trays of baked good while you wait in line. Someone has spent time to make these mouthwatering delicacies in-house. It's a welcome assault on the senses but your pocketbook could take a hit. If you come here starving, don't day I didn't warn you! Knowing we'd be back before ordering made a selection easier, since I wanted almost everything on the menu. Instead I used my better judgment and stuck to ordering a the killer salmon scramble. Despite the name it's not scary. It's just really fricking tasty. Together three of us downed two scrambles with salad and a pulled pork sandwich. Yes, pulled pork for brunch. It's healthy, chock-full of lightly sauced pork (the other white meat), finely shredded slaw - red cabbage as a base, and all layered in between two pillow-y buns. This sandwich was STACKED, and I highly reccomend it. After diving into breakfast with sheer delight, we topped off our food with a couple of specialty coffees for a little buzz and conversation, surrounded by tables of happy families all doing the same. Staff are cheery and helpful, customers are getting satiated, and, well, everyone seems happy to be here. It was a badly needed treat to warm the heat on a blustery winter April day, but I'll be back no matter WHAT the season. read more

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We were staying in a hotel in the Minona area of Madison and looking for a breakfast place on Thursday morning. Decided to try Crema Cafe based on the reviews, and so glad we did! Got there around 11:00 a.m.; the outside tables were full but it was not crowded (maybe 25% capacity) inside. I had the French Toast, which was made with baguette slices, and served with fresh berries, an orange zest butter, and maple syrup--delicious! My husband had the Farmers Scramble, which looked really good as well. Portions were just right. We left satisfied. not overly full. Clean inside, but restrooms could use some TLC. read more

Crema Cafe - Farmer's Scramble - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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Crema is the neighborhood favorite breakfast and lunch stop. The staff is incredibly friendly. They take the time to get to know all of the regulars' names. Everything on the menu is delicious. Full stop. Scrambler of the day and specials are always worth reviewing first before the regular menu. Coffee and smoothies also set a high bar. Crema, we love you! read more

Delicious little cafe in Monona. I came in here 2 weeks ago when I was in the area after reading good Yelp reviews, and I will definitely be back. Food: I got the Summer BLT sandwich - major noms. I'm not normally a BLT person but with the lemon aioli, mixed greens, and chewy sourdough bread, I'm very happy I did. SO GOOD. It came with tortilla chips on the side, which were nothing special but good. I believe it was around $10 with tax - a little pricy for a sandwich, but worth it. They had some really delicious sounding drinks (fancy lemonades, smoothies, coffees), too. I aaaalmost ordered a chai, but decided not to - I heard them call out several chai teas, so it seemed like a popular choice. Atmosphere: Very friendly. I had some trouble making up my mind and the women behind the counter were really nice and helpful. It seems like a fun crowd works there. It was a welcoming environment, with several families with young children there as well. They have a wall for lots of local events and listings near the bathroom. (Random note: the bathroom was really warm. Not anything that would keep me from coming back of course, but much warmer than the rest of the place.) Easy parking and some outdoor seating. It was busy, but not so busy that I had to wait very long for my order (no wait!) or my food (5-10 minutes, max). Overall, very cute and inviting local place. I'm excited to come back! read more

Crema Cafe - Cute atmosphere - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

So happy to find this Jem in Monona, where we are seriously lacking good restaurants! The staff, plates, decor are all adorable making it a very warm and inviting cafe. I chose the mushroom scrambler which was delicious! Definitely can taste that truffle oil. Good price too at $8.00. The only thing I didn't like was that it came with a petit salad, which would be ok but it was so plain, literally just lettuce. It needs a hint of dressing at least! Can't wait to return and try something else! read more

Crema Cafe - Mushroom scrambler - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

It's quite a drive from downtown so I struggle to make it over this way often, but finally made it happen because Crema. After ordering up at the counter, we settled into our table and feasted on the cinnamon crumb coffee cake we snagged and mmm was that sugary goodness. We had planned on just tasting it then taking the rest home, but yeaa that did not happen. We finished off that piece of cake pretty quickly. With such a tasty start to the meal, we waited eagerly for the rest of the food. -scrambled eggs with sweet potato hash and whole wheat toast -an egg white fungus scramble with whole wheat toast and greens -a scramble of the day with whole wheat toast and greens -one blueberry almond pancake The toast was griddled up in butter, the greens were dressed, and the pancake was studded with blueberries. This was quality breakfast food. Throughout our meal, I was eyeing a little girl slurping on a very vibrantly purple and delicious looking smoothie, so I will be checking those out in my next trip. I've also seen pictures of the crema oatmeal and know I need that in my life soon. To be continued. read more

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Friendly staff, fun vibe, and somedays a wait. But thats what happens when your know for using local ingredients, being creative with them and hitting the spot every time to return for more. I highly recommend -Baked oatmeal topped with brown sugar & milk -Daily made from scratch bakery -Smoked gouda Grits -Weekend brunch special (posted on their facebook & twitter the friday before) read more

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