café SoL - Niantic

café SoL centers its menu on fresh, approachable breakfast and lunch plates with an emphasis on well-made coffee drinks and baked goods.

Reviews frequently note balanced specialty drinks and large, flavorful muffins alongside sandwiches like the Cuban, tuna melt and bacon egg and cheese.

Service is often described as warm and personal; the space reads as cozy and community-minded, with a lively counter-order rhythm that suits solo diners, students and families seeking simple, satisfying meals in Niantic.

Expect a menu built around hearty breakfast sandwiches, wraps and inventive daytime plates.

Reviewers praise the bacon egg and cheese, Cuban sandwich, tuna melt and Green Goddess-style wrap as go-to savory picks, often served with soups or sides.

On the drink side, cold brew variations (including a vanilla and orange cold foam) and flavored lemonades get good reviews, while muffins and pastries — apple brie, strawberry rhubarb, cheddar chive — are called large and flavorful, perfect with cappuccino, chai or a medium black coffee.

In recent years, brunch has carved out its own special place in Connecticut's breakfast landscape. Blending breakfast and lunch, this leisurely meal is often enjoyed on weekends, encouraging friends and families to gather and savor both food and company. The ritual of brunch often features a mix of sweet and savory dishes, showcasing local flavors and seasonal ingredients. With its rise in popularity, brunch has evolved into a social event, complete with mimosas and creative twists on traditional favorites. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing shared experiences over hurried meals.

café SoL has grown into a busy Niantic favorite by pairing straightforward breakfast and lunch fare with strong coffee and friendly service.

The menu lists everything from Cuban sandwiches and tuna melts to wraps, bagel lox and inventive drinks; regulars point to well-portioned muffins and soups as reliable midday choices.

Reviewers highlight the staff and flavor balance: JM B summed up a common sentiment, "Food was outstanding; service was super friendly." Another guest noted the drinks and lemonade twist, writing that "the lemonade has a surprisingly good twist to it, wasn’t overly sweet," a detail that keeps locals coming back for refreshing, measured flavors rather than sugary punches.

Many reviews describe a cozy, community-first vibe and a large, varied menu that works for solo laptop sessions, quick beach runs or leisurely lunches.

Popular savory items like the goddess wrap, bacon egg and cheese, and the Cuban sandwich repeatedly appear in recommendations, while pastries and cold brews draw repeat visits.

The balance of attentive staff, familiar comfort dishes and playful beverage choices has cemented café SoL’s reputation as a dependable spot in town.

In Connecticut, as in much of the country, breakfast trends have also been influenced by health movements. The late 20th century saw a push for lighter, healthier options, challenging the heavy, traditional fare that once dominated morning meals. Health reformers advocated for meals rich in fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins, leading to the popularization of smoothies, oatmeal bowls, and avocado toast. This shift not only reflects changing attitudes toward health and wellness but also illustrates how breakfast continues to adapt to meet the needs and preferences of contemporary eaters.