Sandy Hook Cafe — Restaurant in Newtown

I stopped by the Sandy Hook Café a few weeks ago on a Sunday morning. My other coffee place was closed and my Google Maps search for “open coffee near me” lead me there. My expectations were low from a prior visit under a previous owner.

I was pleasantly surprised when Ralph, the new owner and chef (yes, they have food), greeted me warmly and told me the name of another worker, John. That, right there, was a plus in this small town where one can feel anonymous. Quite a few people were there eating breakfast, and experiencing the very warm and friendly vibe.

Having already eaten, I was only looking for coffee. John brewed me a delicious cup of decaf. Decaf is hard to find these days as most coffee establishments, including the behemoth, suggest, “we can make you a decaf Americano.” As if they are the same thing? I’m sure I am not the only person with high blood pressure who enjoys coffee and can only drink decaf. I digress.

As I sipped and people watched, a number of folks came in and out and Ralph and Co. engaged with everyone — my kind of place! After my second cup of decaf and the Sunday NYT Crossword Puzzle completed, I wished them luck and made a note to self to return and try the food.

Today, my boyfriend and I went for brunch. Ralph remembered me and read me the list of interesting specials — all were tasty sounding. I ordered a stuffed portobello mushroom, with two fried eggs and melted mozzarella sitting on a base of excellent homemade tomato sauce. The eggs were seasoned with herbs and basil with a side salad of fresh mixed greens and tomatoes with a tasty dressing.

My boyfriend had cauliflower crust pizza topped with arugula, gorgonzola, walnuts, grilled pears and mandarine sections, finished with a balsamic glaze. Super delicious and beautifully presented and checking the gluten-free box required by my beau.

We both savored our dishes and cleaned the plates, sated in the best of ways by really good food, beautifully plated by a chef who clearly digs what he is doing. Bravo!

I don’t write a lot of reviews. I do, however, often lament the many mediocre (and expensive) establishments that thrive in this town. I want to support places that give my palette real pleasure like the Sandy Hook Café did today.

They have plans to get a liquor license and to one day serve dinner as well. I look forward to enjoying a dinner on their terrace overlooking the river in Sandy Hook. I wish Ralph and Co. the best of luck and hope others will support the good food they...

This was such an adorable place. It felt like a local spot found in the Hallmark movies. Recently had brunch with my daughter at The Sandy Hook Café. It was an absolute delight from start to finish. Nestled in the heart of Sandy Hook, CT this cafe exudes a cozy yet vibrant charm, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing brunch. We chose the booth by the front window box that was sweetly decorated for the holiday. There were couple other booths, a high-top table, and several two/four-top tables. Intimate space but a gigantic, interesting menu. Good for takeout as well. There is a small outdoor seating area overlooking the river.

We were greeted by Ralph, the owner/chef. He was friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, with an obvious passion for what he does, which made the whole experience even better. He proudly described all of the interesting specials (his own creations) and it was difficult to decide as they all sounded simply wonderful.

We went with the blackened eggs benedict with salmon special, and the breakfast burrito. All fresh ingredients, beautifully presented, and absolutely delicious.

It’s an inviting space where you can linger over your meal without a care in the world.

Sandy Hook Café is a hidden gem that’s worth every penny. I will definitely be...

We were passing through Sandy Hook at lunchtime so we checked Google and found this little gem. There is parking in front. We walked in and there was a cozy setting with a couple of booths, tables, and a couple of armchairs if you are waiting for a to go order. From our table we had a view of the river. There is a deck outside and in the warmer months it would be a great place to have breakfast or lunch. They had 50s music playing which was pretty cool.

While looking at the menu, we saw the breakfast specials, which looked great. We asked if they were still available and they said sure. I ordered the breakfast burrito with ham, bacon, cheese, guacamole and other things. It delicious. My daughter, who is a vegetarian, had the vegetarian version and she was very happy with it. My wife had a grilled portobello with spinach and cheese over a salad with a very good dressing. I also ordered the French toast with apple to share. I thought I would get some of their leftovers because the portions were a nice size, but they left me nothing! I had an espresso and my wife and daughter had herbal teas. Overall a great spot for breakfast or lunch or even an early dinner. The staff was pleasant, the setting was cozy, the food was really good, and the...