Cheap Eats!

Geppeto's Caffe

87 Orinda Way (925) 253-9894

This lunch and brunch spot has a bustling European ambience fueled by a large selection of coffee and espresso drinks, some organic. Try the Mexican mocha ($3.25 to $4.15). With its chocolaty lusciousness and hint of cinnamon, it will rev up any day.

If you’re hungry for more than a caffeine fix, don’t neglect the specialty sandwiches on huge slices of fresh bread, which are available in half servings. Try honey corn bread with chicken curry, a balanced blend of flavorful chicken, plump golden raisins, mango chutney, and fresh veggies.

Soups are also good—homemade and filling (cup $3, bowl $4.50). Chili con queso is loaded with chunks of chicken and pieces of red pepper and green chilies.

Dessert presents one quandary after another: coffee Dutch almond or espresso bean gelato ($1.25 to $2.40)? Iced lemon or poppy seed pound cake ($1.95)?

Best bet: Specialty sandwich—any variety, including a delicious chicken, Brie, and pesto ($6.50)

Cheapest thing on menu: Cup of soup ($3)

Most expensive thing on menu: Salads: Chinese chicken, taco, or greens with pear and pecans ($7)

Spiciest thing on menu: Chili con queso ($3 or $4.50)

Healthiest thing on menu: Garden salad ($4.25 or $5.95)

Atmosphere: Village gathering spot

Kitsch appeal: Big jar of dog biscuits at the service area; local artists’ paintings for sale; mural of rolling hills on a
back wall; noshes lined up on the counter to facilitate your weight gain

Kid-friendly? From just-the-basics sandwiches to mini gelatos to cookies and cake, what’s not to like? High chairs available by the door

Speedy eats? The food arrives quicker than you can say Pinocchio

Big parties? In the side room

Alcohol? No

Outdoor seating? Yes

Credit cards? Yes