Rows of light and fluffy pancakes line the griddle, waiting to be flipped, drenched in syrup and then devoured by the hungry diners who have filled the seats at Cranston’s Character’s Café. Taking their rightful place next to the pancakes are slices of sizzling bacon, delicately seasoned eggs which are whipped into perfectly-cooked omelets, and piles of buttery French Toast, ready to be plated up, drizzled with melted Nutella and garnished with fresh strawberries. The aroma of several different blends of coffee permeates the room as the happy chatter of customers fills the air. It is a scene straight out of a captivating show ~ neighbors and friends, young and old, dining alone or in a crowd ~ all congregating at this comfortable and inviting café on busy Rolfe Street.

The talented cooks at Character Café have created an enticing menu of classic comfort foods and unforgettable dishes that incorporate fresh ingredients farmed from local sources. The café serves a full breakfast and lunch menu, including such favorites as those pancakes, omelets and French toast, as well as steaming bowls of oatmeal, fresh fruit and baked goods and some of the tastiest home fries and homemade hash around. Hungry diners will love the café’s new breakfast special: two eggs, home fries and a choice of toast, all for only $1.99 when ordered before 9:00am.

The lunch menu at Character’s Café is equally as delectable, with juicy grilled burgers, crispy salads, nourishing soups and such all-time favorites as grilled cheese, shaved steak, BLT and Reuben sandwiches. This spring, the chef is featuring two favorite options on the menu, their “Mighty Lobster Roll” and a fresh “Apple Pear and Gorgonzola Salad” ~ a perfect “tease” to get their fans ready for summer.

Adjoining the café is Theatre 82, a multi-use performance, meeting and instructional space and extension of the community arts collaborative, Artists’ Exchange, with which the café is closely affiliated. The theater features actors of all ages and abilities from across the region and hosts multiple theatrical performances. Musicians and actors, many of whom come from the nearby Exchange, are drawn to this intimate and innovative theater.

Diners have a unique dining experience at Character’s Café from start to finish, beginning with its whimsical décor and original artwork and ending with the delicious, made-to-order and seasonally fresh cuisine prepared in its open kitchen. The service is impeccable, friendly and attentive.

Characters Café is the only 100% non-profit restaurant in Rhode Island. It is proudly owned and operated by Gateways to Change, Inc., an organization that seeks to enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Character’s Café & Theatre 82 is located at 82 Rolfe Square. For information or to reserve the theater for your own private event, call 490-9475. Cafe hours are Tuesday – Friday, 7am to 3pm, Saturday, 8am – 3pm and Sunday, 8am – 2pm. Closed on Mondays. Visit their website, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.