When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Oasis Cafe
Why Oasis Cafe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Oasis Cafe stands out as an inviting destination for friends to meet and enjoy a memorable dining experience. This cafe offers a wide-ranging menu that caters to diverse tastes, featuring unique items like thin and crispy pancakes along with a variety of savory and sweet baked goods. Its ambiance combines the comfort of a neighborhood bakery with the charm of a warm, welcoming space. The staff, including the owner Nancy, is known for attentive and genuine hospitality that makes guests feel at home. This personal touch alongside quality food creates an environment conducive to relaxed, enjoyable conversation among friends. Open from early morning until mid-afternoon, Oasis Cafe suits casual breakfasts, brunches, or leisurely lunches. Its popularity is supported by a solid 4.5-star rating from thousands of reviews, reflecting a consistently positive customer experience. Moreover, as a bakery and cafe with decades of legacy and ongoing innovations, it maintains a fresh and appealing vibe for both new visitors and regular patrons. These qualities combine to make Oasis Cafe not only a place to eat but a delightful spot to catch up and create lasting memories with friends.
Here's what people think of Oasis Cafe
As of recent, Oasis Cafe holds a 4.5-star rating based on 3246 reviews.
Customer reviews of Oasis Cafe consistently highlight its excellent food quality and warm service, which are central to its 4.5-star average rating. Positive reviews frequently praise the delicious and reasonably priced dishes, such as their unique pancake offerings and well-prepared sandwiches. Guests also commend the friendly and engaging owner, Nancy, whose hospitality significantly enriches the dining experience, making visitors feel welcome and valued. Many users appreciate the expansive menu, which allows for a variety of choices, catering well to different preferences. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional concerns such as certain menu items being greasy or service inconsistencies. A few customers felt that some dishes did not meet their expectations or that the cafe was busy, potentially affecting service speed. Despite these occasional critiques, the overwhelming consensus remains positive, with many reviewers expressing intent to return and recommending the cafe to others. This balance of praise with occasional constructive criticism suggests Oasis Cafe maintains a strong reputation for quality and customer care, making it a dependable choice for a social outing or casual meal.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ashley Briggs
Absolutely love this cafe! The food was delicious, friendly service, good drinks, and the ambiance is perfect with cozy indoor seating and a beautiful patio that’s great for relaxing. The attached bookstore is such a charming bonus; it’s a perfect spot to grab lunch. Been going here for years, and it’s never disappointed.
niko pix
Consistently good in terms of service and food quality. They have both an indoor and outdoor dining. Great for small or large group. Wide selections in kids menu as well. We're very satisfied everytime - keep it up you guys!
Ronnette “See where I travel” Anderson
I was in the mood for atmosphere on the patio . After googling something for the area of salt lake this popped up. The menu looked promising and it sure was. We sat on the patio and enjoyed the shade and a few drinks. The food was great! My mojito could have been stronger but hey Utah laws ?
Allie L
I am giving this place five stars for being in Salt Lake City for so long, it is in a beautiful building, with outdoor seating, free parking, it is not only a cafe, but is home to the Golden Braid Bookstore as well. The Golden Braid Bookstore started out in a tiny shop that I frequented often. I am so happy they were able to expand and be in the heart of Salt Lake City. The Oasis Cafe has plenty of options and lots of seating. I personally prefer lunch, but breakfast is good too.
Alan “Alan Schwanitz” Schwanltz
Nice little place. We had breakfast on the patio. Beautiful morning to enjoy breakfast outside. I had the potato veggie hash, with an amazing hickory smoked tomato sauce. It was incredible, really great. And just to keep my cred as a practicing carnivore I got a side of bacon. Well worth the trip.
How to reach Oasis Cafe
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Website: None
Why Oasis Cafe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Oasis Cafe with your friends?
When considering a venue for a gathering with friends or family, Oasis Cafe emerges as an exceptional choice, rated impressively at 4.5 across over 3,200 reviews. This Mediterranean-inspired hidden gem offers more than just food—it provides a unique social experience in a cozy, welcoming environment that encourages connection. What makes Oasis Cafe truly special is its blend of affordability, great flavor, and an intriguing, off-the-beaten-path location that adds to the adventure of meeting up. Nestled discreetly behind a jewelry store, this unexpected setting sparks curiosity and provides a memorable backdrop for your group. The casual, fast-casual style of ordering and the friendly staff foster a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels at ease. The affordable menu, with most dishes under $10, means you can gather without worrying about breaking the bank, making it ideal for larger groups or repeated visits. Whether you're looking to catch up over delicious falafel and hummus or share delightful entrees like Moroccan chicken, Oasis Cafe combines taste, ambiance, and value in a way that invites lingering conversations and laughter among friends.
What activities can you enjoy at Oasis Cafe that make it perfect for group meetups?
Oasis Cafe is perfectly suited for group meetups not only because of its delicious food but also due to the social and practical aspects that it offers. First, the cafe’s layout, though modest, includes a few small tables that make it excellent for casual lunches or early dinners where groups can chat comfortably. The quick service caters well to groups who want to avoid long waits, as guests order at the counter and pick up their food promptly. This arrangement encourages a lively, informal environment where guests can move around easily and share dishes. For those who prefer takeout or want to continue their gathering elsewhere, Oasis excels with efficient packaging and convenient grab-and-go options, allowing groups flexibility in how they socialize. The array of Mediterranean dishes provides something for everyone—vegetarian and meat lovers alike—enhancing the experience by catering to diverse palates. Sharing plates of falafel, shish kebabs, hummus, baba ganouj, and even Moroccan chicken encourages communal dining, a natural way for friends or families to bond over food.
Why is the location of Oasis Cafe an attractive plus for meetups?
The location of Oasis Cafe adds to the excitement and charm of meeting there. Situated behind a busy jewelry store on a historic stretch known as Jeweler’s Row in Chicago’s Loop, the cafe offers a unique, almost secretive vibe that appeals to groups eager to find something off the mainstream map. The intrigue of walking through a jewelry showroom filled with sparkling gems before arriving at a humble, authentic café sparks conversation and anticipation, making the meetup feel like a small adventure. This spot combines the convenience of being in a prime downtown location—close to cultural landmarks like the Art Institute—with the hidden-gem allure that makes every visit feel special and exclusive. The easy accessibility by public transit or walking downtown makes it particularly attractive for groups coming from different parts of the city. Plus, being near shops and other points of interest allows friends and family to plan fuller outings around their Oasis Cafe meal, boosting social interaction beyond just eating together.
What kind of food does Oasis Cafe serve that suits group dining?
The menu at Oasis Cafe spotlights affordable, flavorful Mediterranean cuisine that is perfect for groups with varying tastes and dietary needs. Options like falafel, shish kebabs, hummus, baba ganouj, Moroccan chicken, and rice plates offer rich, satisfying flavors without being overly complicated or expensive. With most meals priced under $10, it’s easy for groups to try multiple dishes without stretching budgets, encouraging sharing and tasting each other’s picks. The food is fresh, straightforward, and hearty, providing enough variety to please both vegetarians and meat eaters, making it a versatile choice for diverse groups. Customers often praise the generous portions, especially the Moroccan chicken plate which features large pieces accompanied by salad and potatoes. This kind of sharing-friendly, flavorful menu not only enhances the social dining experience but also reflects an authentic Mediterranean culinary tradition that many diners appreciate. With quick and casual service, groups can enjoy a filling meal together without sacrificing time or comfort.
How does the atmosphere and service at Oasis Cafe enhance group experiences?
The atmosphere at Oasis Cafe is casual, warm, and unpretentious, making it ideal for relaxing gatherings where the focus is on good company and good food. Unlike formal restaurants, the fast-casual setup encourages a laid-back vibe where patrons order at a counter and bus their own tables, removing pressure to stick to long, drawn-out dining protocols. This informal service style complements the friendly and patient staff, who are noted for helping guests navigate the menu and making everyone feel welcome. Groups often find this atmosphere more conducive to lively conversation and easy socialization. Furthermore, the setting inside a jewelry store adds an element of novelty and eccentricity, sparking curiosity and amusement that can warm up group dynamics. Despite the café’s small size, it is well-managed to handle busy lunchtime crowds, ensuring groups aren’t left waiting too long. The blend of attentive service and relaxed environment lets friends and families focus on each other rather than on the typical constraints of dining out.
What makes Oasis Cafe a cost-effective and convenient choice for group gatherings?
Cost is often a major factor in choosing a meetup spot for groups, and Oasis Cafe shines in this regard with its budget-friendly pricing and efficient service model. Most menu items cost less than $10, allowing guests to enjoy substantial, quality meals without financial strain. This affordability encourages groups to order multiple dishes, including appetizers and desserts, enabling a more festive sharing experience. The ordering-at-the-counter approach reduces the need for tips and speeds service, which is ideal for groups with time constraints or those who prefer a quicker, more flexible meal. Moreover, Oasis Cafe’s mixed dine-in and takeout options provide convenience whether your group wants to stay and enjoy the setting or take food to nearby parks or offices for a picnic or casual gathering. The location’s proximity to major downtown attractions also means groups can incorporate meals seamlessly into their broader itinerary without the hassle of travel or parking worries. This combination of cost-effectiveness, convenience, and quality makes Oasis Cafe a compelling choice for every type of group meetup.
What do past visitors say about Oasis Cafe as a meeting place?
Reviews from patrons highlight Oasis Cafe as an underrated treasure where groups consistently enjoy the food, atmosphere, and service. Many emphasize the authenticity and tastiness of the Mediterranean cuisine, praising dishes like falafel, hummus, Moroccan chicken, and kebabs for flavor and value. Visitors appreciate the friendly, welcoming attitude of the owners and staff, who take time to explain the menu to newcomers, which helps groups feel comfortable and informed. Multiple reviews mention the unique and somewhat hidden location as both a fun discovery and a reason to return. For large groups, comments about quick seating and efficient service demonstrate that Oasis Cafe manages social dining well despite its modest size. The consensus suggests that Oasis Cafe is not only an excellent place to grab lunch or an early dinner but also a memorable setting for meeting with friends and family, blending quality food, affordability, and a cool ambiance in one package. Many reviewers express eagerness to come back and introduce others to its culinary delights, underscoring its suitability for repeated group visits.
In what ways can Oasis Cafe accommodate different group sizes and preferences?
While Oasis Cafe is relatively small, it offers flexible seating arrangements that can accommodate small to medium-sized gatherings comfortably, making it a practical choice for many social groups. The mix of tables allows friends or families to sit together without feeling cramped, and the option to take food to-go gives groups freedom to relocate if desired. Because the ordering process is streamlined and fast, groups can quickly order multiple dishes and enjoy a shared dining experience without long waits. The menu’s variety caters to different dietary preferences—including vegetarian options and meat-centric plates—ensuring everyone in the group can find something appealing. For those wanting a quieter spot, earlier visits before peak lunch hours or after-work times can provide more space and intimacy for conversation. The friendly staff is also willing to accommodate specific needs or large orders, enhancing the overall convenience for groups. Oasis Cafe’s adaptability to group size and preferences makes it a reliable option whether you want a casual midday meetup or a quick dinner with friends.
How does Oasis Cafe’s food quality and price compare to similar venues in the area?
Oasis Cafe's food quality holds its ground very well against other casual Mediterranean eateries in Chicago’s bustling Loop area. The emphasis on fresh ingredients, authentic preparation, and generous portions gives it an edge that justifies its popularity. Yet what really distinguishes Oasis is its balance of quality and affordability—dishes that deliver satisfying, flavorful meals for under $10 are rare in downtown Chicago, where prices tend to be higher. This value proposition makes it attractive for budget-conscious diners, students, or groups looking to enjoy a shared meal without overspending. Compared to pricier sit-down restaurants in the vicinity, Oasis provides similar taste and authenticity but removes the formality and cost barrier of traditional dining. The simplicity and speed of the service provide additional competitive advantages for workers on a lunch break or informal gatherings. Overall, Oasis Cafe offers a compelling combination of price, quality, and convenience that few competitors in the neighborhood can match.
Why is Oasis Cafe ideal for repeat group gatherings and special occasions?
Oasis Cafe's consistent food quality, welcoming environment, and affordability encourage repeat visits, which is important for groups that enjoy making regular meetups a tradition. The diverse menu with several favorites means there is always something new to try or return to, keeping the experience fresh. The casual, no-fuss setup takes the pressure off planning and logistics, making it easier to organize spontaneous or routine gatherings. Its unique location and friendly vibe turn the act of meeting into an event itself, enhancing the pleasure of reunion beyond just food. While it may not be suited for very large parties or formal celebrations, it is ideal for birthdays, casual get-togethers, or after-work socials where camaraderie and comfort matter most. Many customers who have discovered Oasis Cafeprefer to it as their go-to neighborhood spot for sharing stories, laughs, and fantastic Mediterranean dishes with friends and family.
This comprehensive overview of Oasis Cafe highlights its strengths as a gathering place: a hidden, affordable, flavorful, and socially conducive Mediterranean spot, perfectly suited for groups who want a relaxed yet memorable dining experience downtown. Whether for friendly lunches, casual dinners, or simply catching up, Oasis Cafe offers a distinctive venue that invites you to rally your friends and family with confidence.