I’ve been following Sol Cafe on Instagram since we moved here. I was finally persuaded to get myself in the door after whoever handles the cafe’s social media posted a photo of a vegan burrito this week. Yes, it was a burrito photo that prompted me to act.
The burritos are actually from the Growling Rabbit. When I asked the cashier to heat up my burrito, he jokingly said no, but I wasn’t amused. (Before I have caffeine I don’t have a sense of humor.)
Most of the tables were claimed at this point in the morning, so I settled on the table at the front window. It didn’t offer much of a view. It faces street traffic and a shutdown restaurant across the street. Inside, though, the space is cozy. Artwork for purchase hangs on the wall. There is an antique TV and a seating area in the back. Books are stacked on a coffee table. A small retail area offers such things as Sol Cafe bandannas and cards.
The barista brought my warm burrito out to me. The vegan burrito contains spicy tofu, black beans, sweet potato and spinach and comes with pico de gallo. I relished every bite of it. Ray Charles’ “Georgia” came on as I enjoyed my burrito. It was followed by Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon.”
I had ordered the signature Phoenix Fizz drink to go along with my burrito. The name intrigued me. The beverage is a sparkly tea punch with a kick that is provided by spices. It was a bit too much for me. I should have just ordered coffee or a chai latte, but I’m glad I tried something new.
Sometimes it’s a nice treat to try a different local business over the convenience of a national chain like Starbucks. I like to think I practice a balance of supporting both.
Sol Cafe is on Howard Street in Rogers Park. It’s a short walk from the Howard CTA station.
Marette Flora is the founder of Floradise blog and personalized gift shop. Marette is a passionate storyteller and creator. She attended the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication.
She is passionate about creating helpful and meaningful things.