Glenn’s Cafe — Restaurant in Georgia

Glenn’s, at its essence, was a wonderous discovery at the forever-developing hub of District Four and the city of Mableton. One might even call Glenn’s Café a unicorn, at two years old.

Having discovered the eatery at summer’s start, I’ve been impressed by its “fusion of inclusion” theme and the nuances of its “well considered food” that are light and healthy. The simplicity of Glenn’s menu choices reflects the conscious spirit to nourish not just the body, but the soul, as well as satisfying the palate with complex flavors.

Of course, I waited for a day like today to wrap me up and allow my impressions with Glenn Café to exude into words. Having gone through its entire menu, for the most part, hung out at it, enjoyed its nineties playlists and have gotten to know its owners—the family of three, Jason and his wife, Patricia, and his brother after which their establishment is named, Glenn—I have my favorites and then I have my necessities.

(I haven’t omitted you, Danielle; she works at the café and bakes some of the treats it offers.)

Given the quality of the food and it all being made to order, there is an average price point of 15-18 dollars. I find that it takes a certain level of discipline and awareness of how one eats to see the value of food at Glenn’s Café. Not only is it artistic in presentation, but the selections are created with the intention to offer a balanced dish. For instance, the Million Dollar Chicken or the salmon pasta salads offer both essential vitamins and nutrients in the company of essential amino acids or proteins. Where if calories are sought, the el Cubano is the go-to. Now, I’ve only ordered from the menu in onesies, but it can easily be treated as a la cart, so if a larger meal was put together (which I will do at some point), expect to spend north of twenty-five dollars.

In addition to its food and cozy atmosphere, Glenn’s Café advocates for individuals with special needs by supporting a number of organizations, including Special Needs Cobb, Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta, and the National Down Syndrome Society, Extra Special People, Inc., Center for the Visually Impaired, and the Smyrna Art Council. Given the simplicity of the café’s food and advocacy, I suspect the intention is to afford those with special needs a certain level of independence, comfort, and dignity with going out to eat.

I should note that Glenn is a special needs person, with Down Syndrome. Over the two months plus I’ve visited Glenn’s Café, he has presented as ordinary a person as any. He’s committed to the business, serving as the café’s Guest Relations Specialist. He attends the door for patrons coming or going and is always friendly, serving thumbs-ups and fist bumps.

Glenn, in fact, is what impressed me most about the café. As a spot for the usual suspects and new characters to come and hang out and chit-chat over good food, there was this one time it was slow and there was just Glenn, Jason and me, talking. There was this moment in which a relaxed vibe came of Glenn, which spoke to his level of comfort as to speak freely before me. I was no longer a stranger or just a patron. Then for his brother, Jason, to communicate what their conversation was about so as to keep me up to speed on Glenn’s thoughts, it was amazing to have witnessed their connection. It made me want to learn how Jason is able to listen to and understand Glenn, though I suspect their bond has been forged over the years. Still, I saw an aspect of a family that I don’t think many who come through the café’s doors have realized, appreciated, or even respected. Their connection is the heart of Glenn's Café and it shows up in the food.

And on top of all of this, Glenn’s Café supports the local art community and even sells art created by the trio. Glenn’s Café is special, no doubt. It is definitely a plus to...

Being an Atlanta native I’m oblivious about where to find great food in Mabelton, GA. My nephew told his mom that he wanted to come to GA from FL to celebrate his 12th birthday and place painted rocks on his dad’s resting place while here. Mabelton is where his dad is laid to rest. His dad lost his battle to cancer 3 yrs ago and although his dad was my cousin since we were raised together I considered him my brother during his lifetime. While at the cemetery the entire group of family members were really hungry. Yet not being local no one knew where we should head to afterwards. The first place we tried gave no acknowledgment when we entered, had await and was hot inside the space. We left and googled nearby restaurants which lead us to Glenn’s. The difference in service was literally night and day! While walking up my family was greeted with a big and warm smile by the namesake himself. Glenn not only gave us a great welcome but held the door to usher in our party of 8. Behind the counter was Patricia who was just as warm and friendly as Glenn and explained the specials and quickly got our table ready. Growing up I was told that seeing a cardinal was a sign of a loved one being near. As we were lead to our seats I instantly saw cardinals on our table and told my mom we were meant to come here! The food was so delicious that everyone cleared their plates and my other nephew asked for seconds of the waffles! Patricia even helped entertain a rambunctious 4 yr old family member that was a little jealous that we weren’t out celebrating her birthday that day which is in November. lol The artwork there was beautiful and caught even the birthday boys eye who said he had never seen anything like that and he really liked the piece behind us. He was so happy to hear that there was ice cream. Patricia was kind enough to make his float more celebratory by adding a candle and helping us sing the birthday song to him again while in GA. I had the chance to hear how Glenn’s came about from Patricia and their story is the only thing that is more admirable than the food. It’s heartwarming to see the concept of inclusion is at the forefront! I want to thank Patricia, Glenn and her husband for not only great food but exceptional service. Y’all made his 12th birthday in GA memorable although under bittersweet conditions. I’m pretty sure that I got even more best Auntie points. Keeping family connected across state lines is not always easy yet love always makes it worth it. I love the fact the Glenn’s is an example of what it means to put family first, and to be one’s brother’s keeper all while following your passion. May your beautiful family experience continued success and bring smiles to all your customers one...

Glenn’s cafe is a must-have experience in the area. I’ve been numerous times (at this point I’ve lost count) and never left disappointed.

The food: I’ve tried almost everything on the menu and there isn’t one dish that doesn’t deliver. Every serving is incredibly filling and nutritious. You don’t feel like you’re sacrificing flavor for a healthy bite. Jason and co is very accommodating about any requests or new menu ideas. Be sure to check out the specials board as Jason is always crafting new plates. Plus…. The coffee. THE COFFEE. my goodness, there just isn’t a cup of iced coffee like Glenn’s. The desserts are out of this world. The Million Dollar Chicken will knock your socks off.

The atmosphere: The cafe is so light, airy and welcoming. There is always fun music playing and it stays relatively quiet. It’s great for eating with friends or working remotely. There’s art work for display that is zany and delightful (and for sale!)

The staff: Somehow this is the best part about the place (even above the incredible food). The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming. Glenn is a wonderful spokesperson for the restaurant, and Jason and Patricia are just a treat. They make an effort to get to know everyone, and I feel like I’m dining with friends every time I go in. You’ll come for the food and stay for the people.

I’m not normally a review writer but I’ve been coming here for a long time. I had a helping of million dollar chicken for lunch that showed me a slice of heaven and felt inspired to document how much I love this place. I’ll keep coming here as long as its doors are open and there’s air in my lungs. Really appreciate all of the great meals and memories we had thanks...