Breakfast at the Crema Cafe

Last Saturday morning, we headed out the door in search of Monty's Blue Plate Diner.

While I found the right street... it must have been disguised as something else, since I couldn't find it.  So, that will have to be another blog.

But our trip along the east side of Lake Monona, found the Crema Cafe.

With such a fancy sounding name, I was expecting china and table cloths.  I was pleasantly surprised to find a warm environment with a delightful morning aroma.

After checking out the colorful hand-written chalkboard menu and scanning the fresh pastries under glass on the counter it was my turn at the front of the line.

The pumpkin chocolate chip scone with a large (very large) mug of Hot Chocolate and whipped cream sounded just right.

The scone was perfect.  Light and fluffy with the right pumpkin flavor brought to life by the multitude of chocolate chips. This is a great breakfast!

The cozy dining room bustled with folks reading the Saturday morning edition of the Wisconsin State Journal.

There were couples talking about their week and plans for the rest of the weekend; families enjoying the atmosphere and a wide selection of menu items.

Most of the food on the menu is sourced locally,  That's something I've noticed is important in Madison.

It makes sense. The concept is a good one.  Local farms benefit and the produce arrives fresh to the kitchen.


If you snare a seat near the front window in the restaurant you can see Lake Monona.  It's not a bad view from in front of the restaurant, where I was standing... although it didn't make sense to stand there very long with cold temps and a brisk wind.

You can find the Crema Cafe at the south end of  a  strip mall on the east side where Monona drive becomes Atwood Avenue.  You might have to stand in line a little while to place your order, but you will be glad you did.