Cast Iron Cafe — Restaurant in Texas

Sigh* Another week, another not so positive review for a local business. We'll, let's pull off the bandaid and get into it. A breakfast and lunch place only, we split the difference and went mid-morning for a brunch time meal. Before getting to the menu and food, let's talk about service. The ladies at the cash register were very patient, very friendly, and very helpful with our questions. The score for service does not reflect on them personally but rather the setup itself. There is no traditional waitstaff. You order at a register, then find a seat. From there, it's basically self-service. You get your own utensils, your own napkins, your own condiments, and even your own drinks. That doesn't have to be a deal breaker on its own, but if you're an elderly person or someone with special needs, it might be inconvenient.

As for the food, the full menu is available all day. We both had the chicken fried steak with "white" gravy and although they come served with a side of ranch potatoes, basically breakfast potatoes with ranch dressing on top, we both decided to go with plain potatoes. There are no mashed potatoes, FYI, but the oneswe had were tender enough that you could mash them yourself if thats your perogative. The steaks themselves were alright, though I had to trade with my mother since hers was tougher to cut through and eat, and mine was more tender, so a little inconsistent in the cooking. The crust was crispy and adhered well. The gravy, oh boy, the gravy. So, served on the side, do not expect a traditional creme gravy. The ones we had were dark, and the emulsion was starting to break. I'm not sure how they prepared it, but it was very greasy, clumpy, and really overwhelming. I thought it was way too salty, while my mother said hers had too much garlic. Regardless, we both had the sensation of the greasy gravy on our lips and the scent on our breath all the way home.

The atmosphere is also fine but not great. Located in the old 'Irma's Sweet Shop' building, it's pretty much kept the exact same wood cabin motif. It's a warm atmosphere, but in my personal opinion, it could use a refresh. Chairs were almost impossible to slide in and out on that floor.

So yeah, not a great first experience. I would probably be willing to go back at least once more and try their breakfast as some of those options seemed...

UPDATE: since my initial visit I have gone 3 more times. THE PEOPLE HERE HAVE AN EXTREMELY SASSY ATTITUDE. It feels almost like I owe them something, borderline entitlement, and I do not know why. I literally had a “I will have the last word” argument. SO PETTY! What a pity! I liked their food, but the attitude is too much! I will NOT go back. If you want to feel like you owe them something even after paying for your food, then go right ahead.

ORDER THEN SIT. I recommend you grab a table and someone else orders. Asked for Monte Cristo, 2 waffle combos, biscuit and gravy, and chicken fried steak. Everything was delicious, the biscuit in the gravy is delicious even by itself. Waffle was light, airy, and crispy.( I wish they had some salted butter on the dish). Monte cristo was crispy and grilled to perfection, cheese melted, and crispy bacon. The jam seals the deal! Chicken fried steak crispy, battered to perfection, not bulky, meat was on point. Fresh squeezed orange juice was great. Coffee was good, wish it was a tad stronger. Asked for Americano with steamed heavy cream, it was double shot in a 12 oz cup. Had to ask for a third shot and get back in line…again. Asked if I could please skip the 30 minute line being I had just been in line for 30 minutes, 2 people said no. All I needed was a shot of espresso. I was upset (on the inside.)My Americano was getting cold now. I got in line. Was in line for about 10 minutes and decided to ask the barista the same question, explained I had already been in line, and I just needed another shot and my Americano was getting cold. She said, absolutely, here, its on the house! She saved the day for sure! If it had not been for her, I really would have been disappointed with my service experience. The server who was delivering food was very courteous and quick, he was attentive and extremely polite. Loved his vibe! The establishment really is clean. And the vibes are really cool. Some CONSTRUCTIVE criticism: It was our first time here and we were lost. It would be great if you had a “How We Work” poster or sign saying something like 1. Order your food, 2. Find a table, 3. Grab all your table items ie. salt, ketchup, silverwear, napkins, etc. from the condiment section 4....

WOW!! Blown away by this place! As we were walking in, there was drawings on the sidewalk with a bucket of chalk that guests can use to draw which I thought was so cool.

We were greeted immediately upon arrival and they explained how the ordering process works. It’s different because you pick up a menu and order at the bar, are given a number then go to your table. They have a condiment section where you grab your utensils, napkins, cream and sugar, water cups, etc.

We waited about 15 mins for our food and were not disappointed! I ordered the chilaquiles which came with refried black beans, roasted potatoes and toast. I asked for some scrambled eggs to be added and a side of homemade jam. It was pretty spicy, but the flavor was so good. I was hesitant about the black beans at first, but they were delicious. My boyfriend ordered the steak and eggs. The meat was cooked the way he liked and had a nice flavor. The home run though was the raspberry jam. Y’all, it was AMAZING! I had to share with my boyfriend because it was that good! I also ordered some orange juice. It was NATURAL ORANGE JUICE! Definitely was not as sweet as we’re used to it being, but I was blown away with how good it tasted. That is a must order for sure!

Service was 10/10. Everyone was so kind. They even came around to make sure we were enjoying our food and I got to have a conversation with the manger. He told me they had only been open for about 6 months, and I was only upset because I hadn’t heard of this place sooner.

Only downside is the space feels a little cramped. If you go during a rush, you may not find a table. Every business starts somewhere though! Absolutely love the vibe of this place! Will 100% be back again and will be telling all my...