Over the years, there have been quite a number of City Cafés in
existence in many towns across the US. Fortunately, not all of
them are gone. Have you noticed that a lot of the ones still
around seem to be thriving?
Monday, I had a meeting in
Brentwood, Tennessee and, as luck would have it, the end of the meeting coincided closely with the lunch hour. Seizing the
opportunity to personally experience another meat and three that I have
not visited before, and wanting to check out a recommendation
from friends and family about this place, the
Brentwood City Café
[
http://www.meatandthree.com/tn/citycafebrentwood/]
was a logical stop since it was very close. I figured I was in good
stead when I saw the sign out front: “City Café, A Southern Meat &
Three”. I like that - make no bones about it and tell ‘em what you’re
all about.
If you find the Kroger grocery store in Brentwood on Franklin Road,
turn in, go past Kroger, and look to the right and you’ll find it in a
strip of buildings. The front of the City Cafe is wide open, with big
windows and a couple of doors. Enter the right door, hug the wall and
proceed to the cafeteria-type line to pick up a tray, silverware and
napkins, and view the day’s choices on the white board. Several servers
are available to help you with your selections. Then, seat yourself and
one of a number of waitresses will assist you with your drink choice.
My waitress, Nancy, was attentive and took good care of me. I observed
her doing the same with a number of folks, and having a fun time with
some of the “regulars“.
As I sat there eating my hamburger steak, squash, dressing and
cornbread, I noticed the pleasing colors of this place, with
nicely-trimmed walls featuring a fair amount of colorful artwork, and
nice carpet and a tile entryway. I did not count them, but I’d guess there
were about 40 or so tables, covered with nice, clean tablecloths and
matched with comfortable chairs, on wheels. Easy listening music made
the sweet tea that much sweeter as I enjoyed a nice meal while
observing a wide mix of customers. From young adults and
couples to senior adults, sitting alone and in groups, and all manner
of folks in between, the professionals and blue collar customers alike,
all seemed to be content while this crazy Middle Tennessee weather was
trying to make up its mind between sunshine and rain.
I would have to say that the recommendations I had received about the
Brentwood City Café were good ones. A return visit is sure to be
in my future, and I suggest you check this one out, too.
As always, I am interested in hearing from you, especially when
you have a story or historical snapshot of a Meat and Three.
Reach me at
phil@meatandthree.com - I look forward to it.
All the best!
Phil Roberson
