Call it a neighborhood cafe, coffeehouse and New Age emporium. Cafe Jonah and the Magical Attic is already a prime spot for ladies who lunch. And why wouldn’t it be?
The latest concept from actress-turned-cook Jenny Levison has the same sort of kooky charm and homey food that made Souper Jenny, Levison’s eponymous soup and sandwich shop, a busy Buckhead institution. But the Jonah vibe is decidedly more serene.
“When Souper Jenny first opened, it was a little more laid-back,” Levison said during a recent phone call. “I wanted to do an old school cafe that brought that feeling back. The upstairs is just a combination of all the things I love, with motivational books, reflexology and meditation classes.”
The look: Located in a two-story cottage on Paces Ferry Place, the Cafe is named for Levison's 7-year-old son. The ground floor features an order counter and coffee bar. In the front room, there are a wood-burning fireplace and a couple of comfy chairs. The rest of the space has a variety of nooks for dining and relaxing, including the Attic, which functions as a "mini spiritual retreat."
The scene: One afternoon, the place was buzzing with first timers and Souper regulars. "This is Jenny's new place," one woman whispered to her friend. "I think it's darling." Upstairs, a psychic offered tarot card readings, while a steady stream of looky-loos examined candles and aromatherapy oils.
The menu: The "all day menu" is a combo of healthy breakfast and lunch dishes, such as a make-your-own fruit salad with Greek yogurt and homemade granola ($6.95), a frittata of the day with organic eggs ($8.95) and assorted local baked goodies. Sandwiches include a New Orleans-style muffaletta ($8.95) served with fruit, Terra chips or slaw of the day.
The drinks: Coffee service features brewed and French press Batdorf & Bronson products, plus artisan teas, juice drinks and free spring water in self-serve coolers.
The extras: Look for grab-and-go prepared items, including dinner entrees, in a case by the counter. Levison has plans for a backyard garden with an outdoor dining area. And when the weather warms up, she'll park her mobile food truck there and serve lobster rolls and lemonade.
Dining out
Cafe Jonah and the Magical Attic
7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays. Closed Mondays.
All day menu, $3.95-$8.95; daily specials, market price.
3188 Paces Ferry Place, Atlanta. 404-343-4107,
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