What should I order at The Secret Garden Cafe?
The Secret Garden Cafe
Shrimp and Grits
Mentioned multiple times as 'out of this world,' 'delicious,' and a dish that guests would reorder. Praised for its flavor and consistently positive experience.
French Toast
Frequently recommended and described as amazing, a great treat, and the best item or favorite on the menu. Variations like almond raspberry French toast are also noted for their yumminess.
Cheddar Grit Cake
Highlighted for its cheesy, creamy texture with a bit of acidity from corn salsa. Described as sinful and delicious, making it a standout dish.
Crab Cakes
Called the best crab cakes ever by one reviewer and recommended for their seasoning, flavor, and creative sides.
Cobb Salad
Praised for being fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. One reviewer specifically loved it alongside other dishes.
Mediterranean Spread
Recommended as an appetizer that includes hummus, cucumber yogurt sauce, couscous, tabbouleh, and pita. Noted for being a delightful start to the meal.
Spanish Breakfast
Mentioned as really good and enjoyed by multiple guests, sometimes paired with cucumber mint lemonade.
Salmon Burger (Blackened Salmon)
Recommended as a special that was very good, with blackened preparation praised and enjoyed with fresh vegetables.
Cheesesteak
Highly praised as top 1 or 2 outside Philly, balancing creamy cheese with marinated shaved steak and the perfect roll texture.
Hours
| Monday | 10 AM to 8 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10 AM to 8 PM |
| Wednesday | 10 AM to 8 PM |
| Thursday | 10 AM to 8 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM to 9 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM to 7 PM |
About The Secret Garden Cafe
Relaxed restaurant in an 1840 home with a garden patio, serving American fare with global twists.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Curbside pickup
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Fireplace
- Great beer selection
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Healthy options
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Frequently asked questions
What is The Secret Garden Cafe known for?
It is especially known for shrimp and grits, French toast, and its garden patio seating in the Occoquan Historic District. Reviewers also repeatedly mention crab cakes and the Monte Cristo, along with fast service and a warm, charming setting.
What dishes are most recommended at The Secret Garden Cafe?
Frequently recommended dishes include shrimp and grits, French toast, crab cakes, and the Monte Cristo, plus the Mediterranean Spread and artichoke dip as appetizers. Reviewers also call out the coconut cake as a standout dessert and mention items like salmon burger specials and pork tenderloin.
What is the atmosphere like at The Secret Garden Cafe?
The cafe is described as cozy, historic, romantic, and trendy, with both indoor seating and a garden patio. Reviewers say it feels warm and charming, works well for brunch with friends or a relaxed meal for couples, and still has enough space for groups.
Is The Secret Garden Cafe good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is $20 to $30, and reviewers often say the food and drinks feel like strong value for the quality. Comments compare the experience to a higher-end meal while noting the prices feel like a mom-and-pop restaurant, especially for brunch plates, desserts, and cocktails like mimosas.
Do you need reservations or should you plan ahead for busy times?
Brunch reservations and dinner reservations are recommended, and some reviewers suggest calling ahead because the space is small and parking can be difficult in the historic district. One review also noted about a 35-minute food wait, so it is worth allowing extra time during busy visits.
Is parking available at The Secret Garden Cafe?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Usually somewhat difficult to find a space is available.
Does The Secret Garden Cafe have vegetarian options?
Yes, The Secret Garden Cafe offers vegetarian options.
Is The Secret Garden Cafe kid-friendly?
Yes, The Secret Garden Cafe is good for kids.
Restaurants like The Secret Garden Cafe in Occoquan Historic District
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