Marti's Place

Marti’s Place is a few steps above other hometown cafes with a home-style menu. For one, it doesn’t just feel casual, but comfortable – as in “your grandma’s kitchen” sort of way. All the coffee mugs are mismatched and include an array of souvenir mugs, company mugs, and department store pieces – the likes of which your own cupboard might hold if you saved every mug you’ve owned since college.

The window is decorated with a white lace curtain and the front counter is brightened with a vase full of fresh flowers. The walls are covered with photographs, knick-knacks, kitchen posters, and memorabilia. Altogether, the restaurant feels bright and pleasant, and coming here feels somewhat like a visit to someone’s home, but with an extensive menu to choose from.

When it comes to breakfast choices, Marti’s Place has some extra highlights on the menu as well. In addition to the usual pancake and omelette fare, traditional Swedish treats like Swedish pancakes with lingonberry jam will have you coming back time and time again. Blintzes here, which won a “Best of Alameda” award from Alameda Magazine, are made from scratch with a combination of ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream inside and sweet strawberries and powdered sugar on top. These Norweigan recipes were passed down from Marti’s original owner to current long-time owner, Noreen Swaford, who’s become a familiar face to many faithful Alamedans and out-of-towners who frequent the little café on a regular basis.

The line at Marti’s Place used to be considerably long for breakfast and brunch, but the restaurant has recently grown to include an additional dining room. Since then, the wait time’s been cut to around 10 minutes. Lunches here are also good and include hearty soups and sandwiches.

Marti’s is located on Encinal, around an assortment of other local establishments, from neighboring nail salons and a tuxedo shop to the More to Love consignment store and Blue Dot Café across the street.

HelloOakland tip: Bring cash or a check. Marti’s Place doesn’t take debit or Visa.
 

- by Renee M. Rutledge, San Francisco Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Renee M. Rutledge

Renee M. Rutledge currently writes articles on local travel and culture for Red Tricycle, Parents' Press, Oakland Magazine, and Alameda Magazine.