Olga's Cup and Saucer
- April 4, 2006
- Rated 4 of 5 by
ChelCesa from Orlando, Florida
Where was I on the first amazing day of Spring? Where could I enjoy the sun beaming, flowers blooming, and coffee brewing? At Olga's, of course.
I had heard that Olga's was an oasis in the concrete desert, but I had no idea. It was my first trip, and walking in you can immediately smell the strong varietal coffee and oh-so sourdough bread. Being somewhat overwhelmed by all the delicious danishes, pastries and bagels available for breakfast, and since it was almost lunch time, I chose to sit at one of the window tables with a book and a mug of hot chocolate.
This is not your make-at-home, powder in a packet hot chocolate. It reminds me of a Mexican brew I had once - rich and flavorful, tasting of a strongly organic chocolate. It was frothy and delicious... the perfect pick. As I sat and enjoyed the budding tulips and flowering trees, all types of people came and went, either picking up coffee on their short breaks or sitting for breakfast (and then eventually lunch). Olga's is the type of place that everyone can feel comfortable.
When my hot chocolate had long since been hot, I ventured to the counter to order lunch. Being a bakery, I expected sandwiches and soups but, as I am finding more and more with Providence in general, I was pleasantly surprised. The menu (which is sitting in a box near the register and whose specials are listed on the wall) was chock full of favorites. Home made macaroni and cheese, salads in almost every topping combination unimaginable, pizzas, full-fledged entrees and more.
I chose the Cuban Panini, a delectable mix of pork, ham, cheese, cucumbers and this undefinable orange sauce. It was almost a 1000 island, but sweeter and spicier. It was served with a mayo-less cole slaw. All I can say is UNBELEIVABLE. The taste was like fireworks and waterfalls in my mouth (like that makes any sense). With a home-brewed ice tea, the meal cost about $11 and was very filling.
Olga's has fresh made breads, which they will happily slice for you, and that are also available at both of the Providence Whole Foods locations. You will be satisfied - trust me. One of my favorite edible wonders (that I buy time and time again from Whole Foods) is the whole ground wheat pizza shell. Mmmmmmm.
Olga's is not open on Sundays, but is open from 7am to 4pm every other day. It is the type of place to bring a book, a laptop, or a friend. You're going to love it.
From journal City Life of Providence: Intimate and Entertaining