Need To Eat Cafe — Restaurant in Poway

Food was just okay. Not all the dishes were up to temperature. Dumplings were much hotter than the lunch set beef stroganoff. Beef stroganoff was lukewarm in temp and presentation could have been better. It took us around 40 mins to get our food, but they did warn us that no tables were available. They only have three tables and a big party of six came before us. The juice we ordered was self-serve. We thought it would be brought to us but it turned out we had to get it from the fridge ourselves. Later I found out that their juice is just fruit water, very bland, but I liked it. The cashier didn’t warn me about this though, she said it wasn’t very sweet. Maybe they should just offer takeout or do reservation only since the shop is so small.

The dessert is overpriced. 4” cake for $55. I tried one of their smaller cakes and it was just okay. Macarons ($4.5) were just okay too. I would prefer quality over quantity for the macarons. The price is justified by the size, but it was disappointing to see jam in the filling. Macaron inside should be chewy and nougat-like. This one was just dry. The presentation for that was a bit better.

Service was okay. The cashier was nice but they seemed very understaffed. Should have someone helping her. She even needed our help opening the door since her hands were full from carrying plates and running back and forth through the small store. But I think it will be difficult to hire another person because one of their requirements is someone who is both fluent in Ukrainian and English.

Cute store though. Very quaint. Hope all the...

We visited Need To Eat Café for the first time and were blown away from the very start. The atmosphere is so cozy and welcoming, it feels like stepping into a warm family home. The staff greeted us with smiles and genuine kindness, which made the experience even better.

As for the food — it was nothing short of perfection! • Beef dumplings — perfectly made, with tender dough and a juicy, flavorful filling. Truly authentic, bringing back childhood memories. • Potato varenyky — soft, fluffy, and incredibly satisfying. The potato filling was seasoned just right, and the sour cream on the side was the perfect touch.

For dessert, we treated ourselves to a real feast: • Latte — smooth and creamy with velvety milk foam. • Passion fruit tea — fragrant, refreshing, and a wonderful pairing with the sweets. • Kyiv cake — a classic masterpiece! Crispy layers, delicate cream, and a perfect nutty balance. • Triple chocolate cake — rich, decadent, and heavenly for true chocolate lovers. • Macarons — little works of art with a crisp shell and soft, flavorful filling.

Every dessert looked stunning, almost too pretty to eat, but tasted even better.

This is the kind of place you want to return to again and again. The combination of authentic dishes, unforgettable desserts, coffee, and tea makes it truly special. 11 out of 10 — a hidden...

Nestled in the heart of poway, Need-to-eat offers a charming escape with its emphasis on homemade fare and a welcoming family-owned atmosphere. Whether you're starting your day with a hearty breakfast or winding down with a comforting dinner, this cafe provides a genuine taste of home.

The menu is a testament to homemade goodness, featuring dishes crafted with care and using locally sourced ingredients.

The ambiance exudes a cozy, familial charm. Funny decor, and the inviting aroma of freshly baked goods create an atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. Whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet meal, every corner of this cafe feels comforting and welcoming.

What truly sets Need-to-eat apart is its family-owned spirit. The owners' passion for hospitality shines through in every detail, from the warm greetings to the thoughtful menu selections. Their dedication to creating a memorable experience for each guest is evident in the personalized service and genuine care extended to all patrons.

In conclusion, it is more than just a cafe; it's a place where homemade food meets heartfelt hospitality. Whether you're seeking a delicious breakfast or a cozy dinner spot, this family-owned gem promises a delightful dining experience that feels like a visit to your favorite...