Off The Rail — Restaurant in Elkhart Lake

Best independent coffee shop in town. Okay, it's the ONLY coffee shop in my little home town of 990 residents. But it also happens to be great. There's a friendly, chaotic atmosphere, especially on weekend mornings. You'll see visiting urban hipsters, elderly tourists, NASCAR teams here for a Road America race, young families, bikers of all ages (motorized and non), and locals like me on any given day.

We come for the fresh coffee, healthy lunches and fabulous desserts, and we stay for the atmosphere. You feel like you're at the center of the village when you're there. And, in a way, you are. Conveniently located right across the street from the popular Farmers Market, which runs from June to October, Off the Rail is also near the public library, a fantastic park/playground, bike trails and (of course) the beach and Elkhart Lake's several great resorts. I love this place.

The cafe is owned and operated by Kelly and Dan Sadiq, who came here from Great Britain, so don't be surprised to see photos of Kate and William, whom they're both happy to talk about if you ask. On busy days, you might also also see Kelly's dad waiting on tables.

My menu recommendations? You can't go wrong with any of the sandwiches, but my favorite is the Underground, which features their fresh chicken salad with cranberries. The soups are fantastic. Just be sure to save room for dessert. All are all made fresh every day. My daughter likes their muffins and cupcakes best, but l love the chocolate-covered peanut butter squares. They're huge, and...

I’ve been coming in every so often for the past year and it has always been a great experience. Small but cozy, this place keeps busy during lunch rush. I haven’t seen it busy where people couldn’t sit, but I wouldn’t be surprised if that happens often. Sandwiches are great. Chips are delicious. In my experience their caramel macchiatos have yet to be beat. And service is exceptional! Everyone who works here seems kind and attentive. I came in during rush time and they forgot my sandwich, but they were extremely caring in repairing the situation and calling me by my first name, which just seemed so genuine from them in that situation. With all the reviews I didn’t think it really needed my opinion but I felt I should return the favor with a small review. I’m glad I came to know this place. This is definitely a place to stop by if you’re into cafes and in the area. Also shout out to Claire who’s usually at the cash register when I see her. She’s been sweet and caring since my...

I visited off the rail multiple times this past 4th of July holiday weekend while in Elkhart lake with my family for vacation

The service is absolutely fantastic They always have a line out the door of customers and they are KIND and PATIENT and so considerate.

I came in with my 5 kids, two of my kids are newborn twins in a double stroller which takes up a lot of space

The workers we SO kind and helpful and sweet! They came over to meet the newborns, ask so many kind questions and take time with me and my older 3 kids while we ordered. Even with a line behind us they STILL made us feel so loved It actually brought me to tears when the husband and wife came over to talk to me about their own twins and show me photos ❤️ LOCAL BUSINESSES THRIVE BECAUSE OF PEOPLE LIKE THEM ❤️ What incredible people and business Thank you from our...