SOME CAFES you visit for the ambiance, some for the food. Camera Cafe you visit for the ambiance. And the food. And if you plan to catch the latest art-house film. Located next to the lobby of downtown San Jose's Camera 3 Cinemas, the Camera Cafe boasts a fun, movie-themed atmosphere along with a small but creative menu that includes sandwiches and salads for the veggie-minded.
All three vegetarian sandwiches warrant a visit. But it's the Red ($4.25) that keeps me coming back for more. Loaded with roasted red pepper cream cheese, pesto, mozzarella, spinach and tomatoes, this dish writes a new chapter in the book of sandwiches. Along with a cold beer (Camera Cafe features a small wine and beer list) and a basket of blue-corn chips, the Red makes the perfect lunch-time meal.
Although a bit heavy on the carrots, the Elvira Madigan ($4.75) and the Naked Lunch ($4.50) both hold their own. Swiss, cheddar and mozzarella cheeses combine with overflowing sprouts, spinach, tomatoes, grated carrots, mushrooms and sunflower seeds to make the Elvira Madigan another show-stopper. And the Naked Lunch ($4.50) shines with an exuberant amount of avocado, spinach, tomatoes, carrots, mushrooms and sunflower seeds.
A pretty affair of very fresh, very tasty spinach leaves, the Greek salad ($5.50) is distinguished further by feta cheese, Greek olives, sun-dried tomatoes and a honey-vinaigrette dressing. Besides the sandwiches and salads, the cafe also offers veggie lasagna and quiche, plus your basic cafe goodies: pastries, desserts, Italian sodas, teas and java.
Camera Cafe is located at 288 S. Second St., San Jose, 408/998-0932. Open daily, 11am10pm. Send tips to Vegging Out at 550 S. First St., San Jose, 95113, or email.
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