Inside: Crossroads Cafe

Photos:

Nestled between a quaint health food store and a small Native American art gallery, Joshua Tree’s Crossroad’s Café and Tavern is the perfect place to burn away an afternoon.  If you’re weary from a day of hiking or rock climbing at ‘the tree,’ Crossroads is your place to refuel while feasting on some delicious--and healthy--grub.

Food: Crossroads Café serves up a wide variety of fresh, healthy fare from breakfast entrees including granola and yogurt, cheese omelets and multi grain pancakes to lunch and dinner options such a Tortuga tofu melts and grilled Ahi sandwiches.  On my visit, I tried the fresh harvest salad with baby greens, artichoke hearts, red onions, grape tomatoes, garbanzo beans, sunflower seeds, croutons, black olives, alfalfa sprouts and feta cheese, served with spinach parmesan bread and homemade lemon dressing, all for the bargain price of $6.50.  For those of you who don’t eat anything with a face, the staff at Crossroads will happily suggest a vegetarian or vegan friendly menu item.  Just ask for tofu and soy cheese!

If you’re looking for something a little different, start your meal off with one of Crossroad’s signature smoothies.  The Baja Tsunami combines raspberries, bananas, and pineapple coconut juice while the Crossroads classic is a mix of strawberries, yogurt and maple syrup.

Specialty coffees, herbal teas and Sierra Nevada draft beer are also available.

Digs:  One word: cozy.  The rustic wood paneled walls create a homey ambiance while the early afternoon sun bathes the establishment in vibrant light. Locals can often be seen crowding around a small table, reading the morning paper, munching on organic snacks and catching up on the newest gossip.  Sounds of laughter and clanking dishes resonate from the kitchen, which is hidden by a bright purple door plastered with political bumper stickers.  Puffy white clouds painted on the electric blue ceiling remind patrons creative types are welcome while the aroma of fresh coffee hangs in the air. 

Service: The servers at Crossroads is some of the friendliest around.  Staff members eagerly welcome you as soon as you open the front door and your order is quickly prepared and delivered to your table.  Many of the patrons know the staff members by name and will spend a few minutes discussing family, their last rock climbing adventure and recent weather patterns.

Insider tips:  On weekends there’s usually a big line at the counter.  Don’t let this small obstacle deter you from trying Crossroads yummy fare.  The wait will be worth it.  We wouldn’t lie to you.

The bottom line: Keep this cafe in mind next time you’re traveling down highway 62.  Crossroads is sure to please with its tasty, affordable food, pleasant service and lively decor.    

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