Millana Snow's Blog

Place: Cafe Minerva
Date/Time: Wednesday 6pm
Rez? Nope, just walked up to the bar.

Yesterday, on my way to an acting class, I happened to pass by the well loved west village cafe, Cafe Minerva. This is the kind of place you would see in a great romance film, the kind of place you would imagine running into your future love. The music upbeat, air fresh and savory, laid back yet dressed up enough for a first date or for inspiring a a first novel. The patrons attractive and diverse, lots of artists and mostly locals.

I had heard of this place before but had never been, but you could never tell, as soon as I walked in a friendly bartender/barista welcomed me as I took a seat at the bar. Confused as to whether they served more than coffee I immediately noticed a fellow young woman sipping a glass of wine while writing in her notebook. Since I had come to do the same thing I quickly asked for whatever she was having… A $9.50 glass of the med-full bodied Marchesi di Barolo Barbera di Monferrato ’08 which I must saw was the perfect way to quell my work day nerves. Although I didn’t have time to grab any food. I can say the vibe alone was enough to come back again and again,  if nothing more than for a glass of wine, engaging conversation and inspiration. Vibe, you can’t fake… a place either has a good one or not… and it’s simply something that just is… with no reason that any one can put their finger on. I ALWAYS say, its all about ambiance… if I don’t like the way it feels when I walk in (consists of lighting, style, staff, patrons, smells and all around good energy) I will leave before I even try the fare. So yes, Cafe Minerva gets an A for ambience, staff friendliness and a perfect wine recommendation for a first visit… Food, I don’t know, but I will be back soon so I will def share! Truth be told I liked this place so much, Im surprised I shared it with you guys, as I usually like to keep cute places like this to myself!! Ok so I didn’t exactly “go out to eat” at Cafe Minerva but check back, and I will be sure to share my thoughts on my food experience as well (which I am optimistic about)… in the mean time, if you have tried the food please let me know what you think!