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Alfalfa
Master Critic Review
Alfalfa
7.6
Counter-service cafe from Hoboken specializes in organic salads and wraps but offers gluten-free donuts with unique flavors like lemon thyme and fairy bread. The sunny back patio and health-forward approach attract the Main Street lunch crowd seeking balance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lemon Thyme Donut, Fairy Bread Donut, Blood Orange Donut
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Gluten-free donuts fried in dedicated fryers alongside health-focused salads
Who should go: Celiac-friendly diners and health-conscious eaters seeking balanced options
When to visit: Weekday lunch for patio seating, mornings for coffee and donuts
What to order: Gluten-free donuts, Peruvian chicken salad, breakfast burrito
Insider tip: All donuts are gluten-free and made in dedicated fryers
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Main Street and side streets, metered until 6pm. Public lot one block north on Hill Street.
Dress code: Casual - athleisure, jeans, whatever you're wearing. It's counter-service.
Noise level: Low to moderate - quiet enough for conversation, especially on the patio
Weekend wait: Closed evenings - daytime only operation
Weekday lunch: 5-10 min wait to order during peak lunch rush (12-1pm), usually seats available
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive options including salads, grain bowls, veggie wraps
Vegan options: Yes - multiple salads and bowls can be made vegan, dairy-free donuts available
Gluten-free options: Yes - all donuts are gluten-free with dedicated fryers, GF bread available for sandwiches
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual daytime coffee date than dinner. The counter-service format and health-food focus create a relaxed, low-pressure vibe. Grab donuts and sit on the sunny patio.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed - it's counter-service. During weekday lunch rush (12-1pm) you might circle for a patio table, but indoor seating is usually available.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - casual atmosphere, donuts appeal to kids, and the patio has space for strollers. Good for families seeking healthier fast-casual options, though young kids may reject the veggie-forward menu.
Do they have coffee? Yes - full coffee bar with espresso drinks, perfect pairing with their gluten-free donuts for a morning stop.
Can I work here on my laptop? Yes during slower hours, but expect lunch crowds (12-1pm) to need tables. WiFi available, outlets limited.
Best For
Better for: Gluten-free donut cravings, health-conscious lunch that still feels indulgent, celiac-safe options, quick weekday meals with patio access
Skip if: You want traditional yeasted donuts, dinner options, full table service, or indulgent comfort food without the wellness angle