Ipanema Café is known for creating a lot out of a little. The cozy basement spot offers the most interesting menu on Grace Street and is a haven for vegetarians and others in search of a creative menu that won’t break the bank. If you’ve put off trying Ipanema this long, your excuse list just became shorter since the café officially opened for lunch Feb. 22.
The new lunch menu is stuffed with old favorites, such as the humus sandwich with avocado, as well as updated items like the portobello and chŠvre enchiladas in a red sauce. Fresh homemade soups are available daily with large and small salads fit for every appetite. Visit Ipanema when you have plenty of time to relax, because you might feel too warm and fuzzy to get up when you’re done.
Ipanema is open for lunch, 11-3 p.m. Monday through Friday, and dinner every night but Sunday. Lunch menu, $4-$8. 917 W. Grace St. 213-0170.
Food Fanatics on Park Avenue is another good lunch bet you might not yet have noticed. It’s a takeout and catering operation you can count on whether you’re serving a hungry group or just yourself. They offer everything from entrées to salads and soups, and you can pick up your order or have it delivered. Open Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 2901 Park Ave. 353-6377.
Grafiti Grille in the Tuckahoe Shopping Center recently unveiled a new addition that’s perfect for prepared lunches. The Butcher Shop at Grafiti Grille has everything from prepared entrées to cut meats and fresh cheese. This is the new place to go for imported gourmet items that are sure to impress at your next cocktail party. Open Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 403 N. Ridge Road.
