Polaris Cafe

5858 Horton St, Emeryville, CA 94608, USA

Address:	5858 Horton St, Emeryville, CA 94608, USA
Phone:	+1 510-350-8225
Site:	thepolariscafe.com
Rating:	4.5
Working:	7:30AM–3PM 7:30AM–3PM 7:30AM–3PM 7:30AM–3PM 7:30AM–3PM Closed Closed

Location

Photos 59

Reviews 10

JKay GreenStarsProject

Polaris is situated in the foyer of the red-bricked building opposite the Emeryville Amtrak station, where Cabucci’s used to be. You can sit in the café itself (they have nicely painted tables) or amongst the beautiful plants in the conservatory part of the building. I’ve been there twice and have come to the conclusion that these folk really know how to cook! Especially scones! On my first visit I had their Gouda mushroom scone and a cold brew coffee. They gave me a sample of their homemade hazelnut milk (sweetened with dates) to add to the coffee, which was actually really good. The scone was pretty much perfect. The second time I tried a cappuccino, grilled cheese and a blueberry lemon scone – this all came to just slightly over $10 including tax, which is a great deal, especially considering the quality. The grilled cheese was made with a flavorful mix of cheese and was grilled to crispy perfection! I think the put some white pepper into the scone which added an interesting spiciness. The staff are really friendly and helpful and I think the café is well worth a visit for their food in particular. I’m also giving them 4/5 “green” stars for social and environmental impact. I like that they make their own nut milk and I’m grateful that they introduced me to Hazelnut milk. Besides being tastier than commercial almond milk (and also very nutritious) it’s actually one of the most eco-friendly tree nuts, requiring less water than almonds, low agricultural inputs, and also sequestering a lot of carbon and protecting against soil erosion thanks to their extensive root systems. They are also wind-pollinated so they don’t put stresses on the bees as some of the big almond producers do. So, thanks Polaris for sharing your hazelnut milk! Their coffee is organic. Their milk is from Crytal - not up to the standard of Strauss organic etc., but not bad. The cold brew cups are plastic, so bring your own mug, but they are #1 plastic, so it’s actually readily recyclable. Food to go is served in recycled paper bags or recycled cardboard boxes. I don’t know much about their food sourcing, but I’ll find out more if I can and hopefully they’ll post some info on their website.

Michelle Chan

No food between 11-11:30! I came here after a fasting appointment to find out they didnt serve food between those times in order to prepare for lunch. What the hell!! I literally got there at 11:01. Luckily they were able to serve their soup of the day, which was a Thai Chicken soup. At that point I was too weak and hungry to go anywhere else. The soup was more like a porridge with pieces of chicken thigh and mushroom. It was flavorful, but for $6.50, it was a bit overpriced. The pain black coffee tasted burnt... it put Starbucks coffee to shame. Cute area for the office workers and great service, but I wouldnt go out of my way to come back again... even if I was starving.

Kelly Rose

The food here is solid. Its nothing fancy, but its good, and filling. The coffee is also good, and Ive enjoyed the cold beverages Ive had. Their lychee iced tea even has whole lychees in it, which was delightful. The prices are pretty in line with the area. The shop is clean and the staff are welcoming. Its not too noisy, and theres a really beautiful atrium just outside, perfect for when you want to eat outside but you dont want to freeze. Bottom line: you can get better food and better coffee, but almost never together, and certainly never with such pretty seating options.

Rakesh Kumar

I like this place because it is close to my work place and it offers good food and cozy environment. This is opposite side of the road from Emeryville Railway Station. So if you are waiting for train and want to eat something quick then you can go here. They also have soup option which is good. This place is good for breakfast and lunch.

Monica Salamy

Their food is fantastic and the service ambiance are incredible. Its a family-owned business open from 7 am to 3 pm M-F. Try their salads, curry chicken, and any of their sandwiches. There is inside or "outside" seating, as in an indoor terrarium with Slade tables to sit at. Its a wonderful experience and I highly recommend this place.

Meetoo Dalal

This place is authentic good food! Made from scratch Hazelnut milk...out of the world! especially with Earl grey. Unique choices, very friendly and welcoming as well as accommodating staff!! Will come back and spread the word! :)

Michael Ramos

Best service and best food in the east bay. Great atmosphere and extremely comfortable. Go to Polaris! You wont be disappointed!

Alexi Anderson

Good food, rotating specials, friendly atmosphere.

Joe Bacon

I need my marshmallow and chocolate cookies

Paul Jarolimekproner

They have house made items...