The Block Cafe — Restaurant in Seattle

I had never been here before. It wasn’t a planned visit. Just ducked in after an errand at next door Trader Joe’s. The menu had a lot of good looking things. I decided to get a burrito. The only burritos that were listed had meat. I asked if I could get it without the meat because I don’t eat meat. The server said yes. I then asked if they could add extra cheese since I was not getting the meat. She said yes. I asked if they’d charge me more for the extra cheese. She smiled and said no extra charge. When I got my burrito I was happy to see it was a very generous portion. When I started eating it I realized it was mostly dough from the flour tortilla. The flavor was mediocre at best. I was disappointed and kept trying to find the rice, beans and cheese. When the server asked how everything was I smiled and said fine. I figured I had made the wrong decision. After I was done I looked at the bill and saw that they actually charged me an extra $3.50 and next to it was written carne asada. I asked the server about it and she told me it was because they don’t serve burritos without meat. I asked if it was considered a special order then. She kept saying the same thing then said it wasn’t her fault. I took a few minutes doing my best to make sense of the additional charge especially given the conversation we had prior to my ordering. The person got defensive even though I said I understood it wasn’t their fault and I would pay for it. I don’t eat out much so I’m guessing it was naive of me to think that they could easily make a really good meatless burrito and not charge me more for asking to not add meat. I left the cash on the table for the bill with a generous tip to perhaps get a message across that I wasn’t trying to rip anyone off or be a jerk. Anyway, I see many great reviews and I’m glad others had such a wonderful experience. I was hoping it would offer more for me too but sadly it didn’t. Honestly I’m still wondering what the heck...

This has been me and my friend's go-to breakfast spot ever since it used to be called The Egg & Us (different name now but same menu), and we get excited about it literally every time we come here. Incredible American and Mexican food, really affordable prices, and big portions! They do not skimp!! They have a huge menu, and they do breakfast all day, so there's something for everyone.

The staff are always lovely and attentive too (the lady who usually takes our orders is so kind, we adore her), and every single time we've been here, we've been amazed at how quickly the food comes out. We love this place so much!! Comfort food at its finest ❤️

P.S. The parking garage is free (since the restaurant is part of the Ballard Blocks) and has tons of spaces, and it's right next door. So convenient!

P.P.S. Another reviewer said to try the flan, which is only $5, so we did, and it was absolutely wonderful! Creamy, rich, caramelized flavor. I believe it's a limited-time menu item. Highly...

I was relieved when Egg & Us finally shut down, only to find out they just rebranded as Block Café. Unfortunately, nothing has changed. It's the same rude owner, the same unfriendly staff, and the same cold, unwelcoming atmosphere.

Egg Café was known for its terrible customer service, and Block Café is no different. They’ve hung up on me multiple times when I tried to call. In person, the attitude is just as dismissive and strict, with unnecessary rules that ruin the dining experience—especially when you’re paying good money.

As someone from Sweden, I also have to say their “Swedish pancakes” are a disgrace.

This business doesn't deserve support under any name. One star is generous. I truly hope this operation closes for good, and that the people behind it stop trying to repackage the same...