Overall: came to Bloomington for 1 day; found this place and had a solid dinner. I was initially concerned because the reviews made this seem like more of a "brunch place" rather than a "dinner place" but it's great for both Atmosphere: The place is divided between the bar area and the dining area (where I sat). The decor was pretty traditional, sit-down with both booth and table top seating. No white table cloths, so sort of casual, though people were dressing anywhere from smart casual to business casual Food: The place specializes in Caribbean style food. I got a spaghetti and shrimp pasta, and was concerned that it wasn't a good call given the place's specialty, but I liked it. It was very balsamic forward and the shrimp accompanying it was perfectly seasoned and seared People: It felt like there were a lot of students with their parents in town. Didn't see any children, though the place seemed decently kid friendly given the layout Price: I didn't have much of an issue with the price, but I think that's because I'm used to paying something crazy in NYC or Chicago. My meal was ~$28 with tax and tip included (I only had pasta and no drinks), so I could see how that might be pricey given a more normalized price sensitivity. However, the quality of the meal is to be considered, so I would say the price to value ratio is par. read more

5 stars for the food (seriously, the Shrimp dish was incredible), but 3 stars for the service. Turns out, they have a "no splitting" ticket policy for groups over a certain number of people?? It's not like we were 20 college students, ordering drinks all night, and said at the end of the night "oh by the way, this all needs to be separate ". No. 10 couples getting together for dinner, how hard is it to keep track of who ordered what, and give each of us separate tickets? We even tried to make it easy, by 1. Letting the server know, upfront. 2. Offering to divide up the ticket FOR HER, since she found it to be so challenging. Anyway, rant over. I can get great food at a lot of places, but I don't tolerate bad service. We won't be going back. read more

We did not get our full meal. We ordered two fillets with mashed potatoes and a vegetable. We got two fillets and a bunch of green beans. Granted, the fillet was perfect, so I give them 5 stars for that, but to miss the mashed potatoes???? It was printed on the slip attached to the side of the bag. When you pay almost $50 for an entree and you ALSO have to drive down to pick it up- they need to get the order right! I paid way to much to come home with half my order. I give them 1 star for that. read more

Uptown Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

We had a great time at Uptown Cafe. It seemed to be a tad more upscale place in Bloomington and was a bit more pricey (hence the 4 stars) Although it was definitely worth it. The only complaints i have about this place were the price of the food ( thought it should be a dollar or two less) and the service wasn't quite as "pleasant" as some breakfast places. (It does take a morning person to be able to happily serve breakfast to please.) My husband and I shared a cajun style omelet (and it was too die for), and a side of bacon. While the food was amazing, and the coffee and oj, it was still a bit of a high bill since we shared. Was it worth it, absolutely. Can we do it every weekend, unfortunately no. But we will do it again. read more

This is hands down one of my favorite Btown spots! Their brunch and dinner food are both amazing. For brunch, their Eggs Benedict is phenomenal. One of the best I've had! For dinner, where do I begin? We started with the Rock Shrimp and Calamari Fritti appetizer! They serve it with a mango coconut cocktail sauce and chipotle sour cream drizzle that is to die for. Next, we had their Steak House Wedge Salad (YUM). We also had their Creole BBQ Shrimp entree, and holy moly! I can't even tell you how delicious it was! The shrimp and rice are smothered in a zesty cream sauce that I would actually bathe in if I could! Their cocktails are also delish and strong. Their dirty martini with blue cheese olives was top notch! Bottom line, go here if you want a fabulous meal at a reasonable price! read more

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Our first choice when meeting friends for dinner. We love the food, service, and atmosphere.

AMAZING FOOD ALWAYS. This is my favorite place in Bloomington, great service, nice staff and good vibes. The artichoke/ kalmata olive dip is my personal favorite, never had anything like it. I go there just for that one appetizer! read more

I mean, it's Uptown...the food is amazing, staff is great and the patio/street seating in the summer is so cool!

Favorite place to eat in Bloomington. Food is always great. Service has been exceptional and love the drink menu.

What a great meal! My husband ordered the meatloaf (his favorite) and I the gorganzola steak. He liked meatloaf - I loved mine! It was cooked to perfection and came served with green beans. Had the turtle cheesecake for dessert and it did not disappoint. Restaurant was nice and warm on a cold evening. The service was good too. read more

Great place for breakfast. Had the 'Hoosier Benedict' which is essentially biscuits and gravy with potatoes, topped with two eggs however you like. Service was fast and friendly. read more

Uptown Cafe - Hoosier Benedict - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

Uptown might be my favorite "upscale" restaurant in Bloomington! It's a little on the pricier end but still affordable. The breakfast is EXCELLENT. I haven't been for lunch, but dinner is also wonderful. If you do visit for breakfast, try the coffee stout! It's coffee (or coffee liqueur, I forget) mixed with a stout and its delicious! The food is high quality, the service is great, and the atmosphere is very different from what you'd find in other Bloomington restaurants. A little more traditional and old-timey, less hipster. I could go on and on, but basically all you need to know is that for the price, Uptown really matches up well against other restaurants in Bloomington at similar or higher price brackets (Farm, Malibu Grill, etc.). I've never been disappointed, and it lives up to the hype. read more

Very good breakfast, four stars just as it seems very overpriced. You can easily spend more on breakfast here than dinner many places.

Great food. I ordered the bbq Shrimps and I left the plate spot clean. I just moved to Bloomington and Im planning on going back there multiple times. Service was amazing as well. read more

Great restaurant with amazing atmosphere, food, and service. I frequent this place for lunch and love the hummus plate and Ararat chicken pita wrap. Great cocktails and brunch as well. read more

I'm not super familiar with the Bloomington scene (I went to That University with the trains), so I didn't know what to expect when I visited Uptown Cafe for a bachelorette party's dinner. Overall, we were all pleased with what we got! The wine and beer list is super extensive, and so are the house cocktails. From what I can remember, two gals ordered the Jackie O with the pink peppercorn vodka; it was interesting to be able to smell the peppercorn, but you couldn't taste it! Our shared appetizers were the rock shrimp and calamari plate and the artichoke and olive dip. Both were fantastic! The sauce for the calamari plate was a combination of mango coconut cocktail sauce and chipotle sour cream, which was amazing. Most of us ordered pasta dishes, however I think that was mainly because the dinner menu seemed very limited. I had the spaghetti agliatta. The pecans were a great flavor but I could've done without the balsamic. I'd be interested to see what the breakfast scene is like, as that seems to be what Uptown Cafe is really popular for. read more

I am from the New York City area, so trying to enjoy a meal out in Bloomington, Indiana is a lot different from the meals I get in New York City. However, this is one of my favorite restaurants when we come to visit our daughter at college. I was just here this past weekend, and I decided to order scallops. I was a little weary, because where are they getting the scallops from as it's a land-locked state. I will tell you the scallops were absolutely phenomenal and cooked perfectly. They were the best I ever had at a restaurant with a lot of flavor. My daughter had the fillet with the Gorgonzola and it was fantastic. I wanted to go back the next night, but we decided to go to a different restaurant, I was beyond disappointed and wished we would've went back to Uptown Café for a delicious meal. This is my definite go to when we visit our daughter at IU... Such a great restaurant and I'm so glad we found a good restaurant in Bloomington as we have been on the search for a year. This place is so delicious and a great place for a fantastic dinner. Can't wait to go back! Yum read more

Service: great Food: great Atmosphere: great The salads and entrees are all great, although there could be more options. Overall you can't go wrong with the uptown. The brunch is good as well, but with so many other options in bloomington it's hard to stand out. Overall: great! read more

We had downtown gift certificates which we used here because it was on the list of approved eateries. I wasn't very hopeful we would be able to eat much here and I wasn't wrong, but we were with some other people (all omnivores) - so why not be a little fancy once in a while? My husband and I are vegetarian. On top of that, to make things extra difficult, we also don't eat onions, garlic, leeks or chives. Yes, I know. It's a nightmare to eat out sometimes. The fun thing: our waitress was new. Her third day, to be exact. Everyone else was already there so I walked in and sat down. The waitress was pretty nice, though it was very obvious she was still new. She helped us out by trying to find out what we could eat (the salads). Great... I was going to spend $9 on basic salads. This was something I always tried to avoid. The table ordered the Cajun Liver Pate for an appetizer, which Husband and I did not take part in, but I did take a picture of because I thought the cornichon they topped it with was cute. However, we did eat some of the leftover 'baguette' slices (they were small and thin and I wouldn't call them slices from a baguette) with the organic olive oil (they gave us an entire bottle) we were provided for our salads. Speaking of which, we got the Greek Salad and the Mesclun Salad, both without the red onions and with olive oil. The Mesclun was supposed to have pecans according to the menu, but I don't recall seeing or eating any (husband and I shared everything). They were salads with EVO and a bit of salt. Nothing amazing. The EVO itself is nowhere near dipping quality - it was even on the bitter side. To have something more substantial (and because I was tired of not having any potatoes), we found out we could order the mashed potato side dish.... so we did. :) FINALLY. I get my spuds, albeit in mashed form! This was good, but way too small for a $4.50 price tag. I believe our table mates ordered the Crawfish Etouffee, the Cajun Meatloaf, and the Louisiana Hot Pepper Chicken. Obviously, I didn't taste any of these so this is according to their comments, but the Etouffee was good, though the partaker reportedly said that though it was supposed to contain crawfish, she tasted none. Instead, she saw shrimp. As for the meatloaf, it was also good. The chicken was good as well, but the person who ate it apparently pretty much likes everything. However, there was a general consensus that Cajun food in Indiana seemed to pretty much be food that they throw spices on. In my defense, one of them is actually from Indiana. For dessert, we got the Chocolate Pecan Buttermilk Cake. It was pretty good (moist and chocolaty with nut bits interspersed throughout), but a small slice for $6. No one else got dessert, because they had ice cream before dinner. In the end, the atmosphere was more high class, but not as "high class" as some other places I've been. I would say it's on the more casual side of high class. The service was decent, considering she was new (she almost forgot we had an appetizer and remembered and went back to get it), but she was really helpful. Having had worked as a waitress before, I don't really blame her in any way. As for the food, based purely on what I could eat, it could definitely be a lot better. Based on others' experiences on the meat dishes, they were good but not quite "Cajun". It was more of an imitation Cajun. Also, the portions could be a lot bigger, but then again, we were at a fancy place, so I guess I can't ask for a more reasonable amount of mashed potatoes. The place looked fancy and was clean, which is always nice. With the amount of people, it wasn't as loud as you might expect, either. All in all, an experience, but I wasn't really wow'd. I wish I was... but I wasn't. :( read more

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One word. Delicious. Now, please keep in mind, this is a pricey place, however, it is well worth it. My husband and I got a rum cocktail to start. Absolutely delicious. We then ordered our dinners. I ate way too much but it was so worth it. Highly recommended!! read more

Lunch is decent here, but breakfast is absolutely amazing. Hands down best breakfast spot in Bloomington, you're missing out if you've never stopped by here before. It can get very busy on holidays, I was here for brunch on Father's Day one year and it was packed. Be prepared to wait on occasions like these, but it's worth the wait. PS their desserts are also great! The creme brûlée especially read more

Uptown Cafe - Eggs Benedict with potatoes! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

I think everyone who works in the food service industry in Bloomington sooner or later graces the halls of the Uptown Cafe. It is has been open forever, and its staying power as a nice restaurant in a college town is a testament to the quality of the food and service. Certainly the Uptown is one of the classic spots to come during a visit or homecoming. Their brunch is excellent (though I can hear the staff cursing that recommendation). Cajun inspired cuisine. The best non-fining dining, fine dining place in Bloomington. read more

The food is below mediocre. What made the experience beyond awful was the service. I highly suggest you avoid Uptown Cafe unless you like rude servers. When we asked to speak to the manager, he was belligerent. read more

This place is AMAZING! The workers are polite and funny, and the food was some of the best i've had. I had the eggs Benedict with their "fries" (they're actually seasoned potato wedges) and i cleaned my plate! If you're looking for some of the best breakfast you'll have, stop here! read more

Uptown is literally our favorite brunch destination!! You seriously can't go wrong with anything on the menu. My favorite is their Eggs Maryland...the lump crab cake is to die for. Their potato's and spinach pairs perfectly with the crab and egg...it's beyond delicious. Service is always amazing! read more

My parents and I tried out Uptown Cafe when they were visiting Bloomington. It is a classier restaurant in town, close to the square. The atmosphere is very tranquil and upscale compared to many restaurants in the area; however, I do not know that it was the best value. I ordered the spinach salad and the candied pecans on top certainly made the salad. The quality of the food was superior to most, but did not necessarily justify the prices. The service was nothing remarkable considering it was fairly empty for lunch- unlike when there is a line out the door for breakfast. With that being said, everyone in town raves about the breakfast, but I would say it is just an okay spot for lunch. read more

Love the Uptown and all the good food. Although I do wish their Etouffee was not so darkly browned...theirs goes too far and is bitter. I will stick with other wonderful delights, such as their gumbos. Brunch winners: smoked salmon eggs benedict, huevos rancheros, and popeye omelet. Lunch: ararat chicken pita and blackened tuna. I'm sure other items are great too...I just get stuck rotating among my favorites. read more

Uptown is definitely a step above most of the other restaurants in Bloomington. It has amazing food, a great atmosphere and a staff that is attentive and knowledgable. As a college student, this is one of the few places I'll take my parents when they're visiting. I've tried the Louisiana hot pepper chicken and the spaghettini agliata, both of which were delicious. They also have a great selection of yummy desserts, including a fantastic creme brûlée. If you're not in the mood for food, grab a seat at the bar where you can choose from a selection of both modern and unique cocktails. read more

Uptown Cafe - Chocolate mousse, creme brûlée and spaghettini agliata. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

Slow service, but a cozy, southern vibe. The menu items cater to an eclectic collection of modern, comfort and southern cuisine, while the interior of the place is definitely woodsy. Even though my friends and I tried to get a Monday brunch, there were a ton of people and we waited about 30 minutes for our food (a bit excess for a cafe in my opinion). The best thing we got was the stone shrimp and calamari appetizer. It was hot, crunchy and the cocktail/mayo sauce it came in hit the spot. Don't think the seafood was super fresh though. The creme brûlée french toast was very sweet and delicious. The salmon wrap, while filling, probably wasn't worth the 13 dollars. It wasn't very flavorful. However, the mac and cheese side was a bit too cheesy in my opinion. Not my favorite. The grapefruit juice was average. Overall it was a bit overpriced for the amount of food, but was nice to try out. read more

Uptown Cafe - Salmon wrap. 3/5. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

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Wonderful brunch! The portion size was great. The home fries were delicious. There are some small mushrooms with the home fries in case you don't care for those. The mimosa was well made. My friends got a waffle, biscuits and gravy, and cornmeal blueberry pancakes. All of the food was excellent. Ambiance is a classy/upscale and didn't know that till we arrived (waiters have ties on and very proper) but still enjoyed our time there today. Would recommend this. Oh, and get some slices of the bacon. It was awesome! read more

Uptown Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

Came here on a Monday afternoon. Restaurant was quiet as there were only a few people at 2pm. Jill was my server and she did a good job. I was pretty much in and out of that place but did enjoy the food. I would say the food there is comfort food. I ordered the Louisiana hot pepper chicken with mac & cheese (instead of rice) and a Ghirardelli hot chocolate. Hot chocolate satisfied my sugar craving and tasted wonderful on this gloomy day. Chicken had good flavor and the gravy complimented it very well. As for the mac & cheese, well you can't really go wrong with mac & cheese. I was sad because they ran out of the creme brûlée French toast but I shall come back to give it a taste. I would definitely recommend this place to others! Will come back to try the French toast! read more

Uptown Cafe - Louisiana hot pepper chicken - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

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One of my favorite brunch places in B-town!Always in line when you visit in weekends. I love the Denver Omelet w/ Hot English Breakfast, one of the typical wakeup for me in Sunday. read more

Uptown Cafe - Sunday brunch! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

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One of the jewels of the Bloomington food scene, have been eating at the Uptown for 20 years! Delicious food, service is great, servers are nice. Good value for money. If you don't like something, or there is a slight mistake in an order, the server always jumps to edit the bill - polite and responsible to a fault. The restaurant policies about quality of service and quality of food are first rate. Oh, and the drinks are fantastic! read more

Outstanding food quality and preparation and presentation! The service is excellent but unobtrusive. Very subtle, calming ambiance--conducive to conversation. read more

Came here with colleagues while I was in town for work and had an overall good experience. The server was attentive and friendly making sure we were well taken care of. For my meal I had the Louisiana Hot Pepper Chicken and it was delicious....the cheesy hot pepper cream sauce MADE this dish. I will say the grits I had as a side dish were disappointing. Overall, I'd give Uptown Cafe another try. read more

Uptown Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

I love uptown cafe! It is a must stop for brunch each and everytime we are in Bloomington. Food and service are consistently awesome

One of the best (and most underrated) places I have been in Bloomington. I went with a large group and ordered numerous appetizers as well as the filet mignon with gorgonzola. Both the food and service was phenomenal and I would highly consider going back. This is the perfect place to go for a great meal and to celebrate special occasions. read more

Love this restaurant and the jazzy feel! I love the coffee cake and the mimosas as well. It's a great brunch location and great service :)

Stopped in on the Thursday night before IU's Spring Break, so the place was pretty quiet with many tables available. We were greeted and seated promptly with a waiter appearing quickly as well. The service was attentive all evening. There was nothing outstanding but everything was good that we tasted: the oyster & artichoke soup was tasty. The chicken pita was good (although more cucumber sauce would have been nice). The adult beverages were fine. The atmosphere was adult - there were no families, but I think that was just a result of the time (8pm). A nice choice for dinner. read more

I have not had an opportunity to sample most of the menu, but I look forward to the opportunity to sit down and investigate further. That being said, I have, on multiple occasions called ahead and ordered the jalapeño cheddar grits to grab as breakfast on my way to work, and the flavor and quality compelled me to reproduce it in my home after the first time I ate it. I will update once I've eaten more dishes from Uptown, but grits in a Cajun forward restaurant are often as clear an indicator of the kitchen's skill as the ability to fry an egg is anywhere, and Uptown does good work. Also, the building is beautiful, historic, and located on the most Bloomington of streets...Kirkwood! Head east and find small shops and a few good bars. I strongly suggest exploring Vintage Vogue by Goodwill which is directly behind Which Wich, next to Chipotle in the alley. read more