The Vanilla Bean Cafe, located in the center of Pomfret, CT, is a bit of an anomaly. Although out-of-staters may have never heard of most towns in Northeastern Connecticut, also known as the “Quiet Corner,” somehow they know of the Vanilla Bean Cafe. Another set of opposites regards the clientele. A folk music club at night with an all-natural earthy-crunchy feel, the Vanilla Bean is also a popular biker hangout, but it is a far cry from a dive bar. Simply stated, the Vanilla Bean Cafe attracts everyone and anyone as long as they crave delicious food, an inviting atmosphere, and beautiful surroundings.
The Vanilla Bean, as most call the restaurant, is at the intersection of two major roads in Eastern Connecticut, Routes 44 and 169. At many crossroads, commercialism and traffic abound. Not here, as both of these are picturesque routes through gorgeous landscapes. (For one of my favorite rides of all time, make sure to try Route 169, from Woodstock to Lisbon, especially in the fall).
A little background
The Vanilla Bean opened in 1989 by the Jessurun family who still own it. It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They are known for their breakfast sandwiches, vanilla cinnamon French toast, and omelets, among other choices. For lunch and dinner, sandwiches, homemade soups, burgers, and quesadillas are popular. A must try is their chili; it is award winning and bathed in a secret sauce. Drinks include coffee, Hosmer Mountain soda (right from Connecticut), beer, and wine. On the music side of things, the acts range from nationally to locally known. Some past performers include the sea music group the Johnson Girls, the traditional folk duo Atwater Donnelly, and singer-songwriter Vance Gilbert.
My recent order
On a recent visit, we opted for sandwiches. Both the chicken salad and the Reuben were delicious. They came with Deep River chips, and we chose a Hosmer Orange Dry soda for our drink. I often order the chili and/or a quesadilla but decided on something different for this visit.
The Vanilla Bean Cafe, perfect for everyone.
The staff at the Vanilla Bean Cafe are always friendly. It is truly a place for all ages. I remember distinctly going to eat here as a kid with my parents and two grandmothers. The age range is from child to elderly. Folks from all walks of life feel comfortable, from teachers and professors, to laborers, children, and bikers. (On the most recent visit the Massachusetts Gunfighters Motorcycle Club members were dining nearby.)
For dining, place your order at the counter. There is both indoor and outdoor seating. Once ordered, take with you a huge playing card as your order number, and wait for your food. The indoor area includes an ever-changing gallery of local art. The Jessurun family tip their cap to their loyal clientele which has helped make the Vanilla Bean Cafe a success for 32 years. The Jessuruns also operate the Dog Lane Cafe in Storrs near UConn and 85 Main in Downtown Putnam.
Visit The Vanilla Bean Cafe online for more information or visit them at 450 Deerfield Road in Pomfret, Connecticut.
“Best damn Espresso in the Corner.”