by Dave T. on Five us had the five course blind menu. Four did paired half glasses of wine with the courses. I had two glasses rather than the pairings. As a first matter, if you are going to drink wine, do the pairing. My friends half glasses were the same that the server poured for my full glasses. My two "full" glasses were the same price as their five. I wish I could say the tiny portions were offset by exquisite taste; but, I can't. When I say tiny, I mean it. If you are a big eater, this place is not for you. I'm not and I had enough to eat; but, for the price, it was at best acceptable, not great. The servers were good not great. Since you are getting food that you don't know about before it is served, it would be better if they didn't rush through the memorized description of the course. Finally, though it wasn't mentioned by the server or stated on the menu, the restaurant added a 20% tip to the bill. It's what we would have tipped; but, it's an annoying practice.
by Vannesa Forinash on When I'm bitching about living in Philly, which is often (disgruntled West coaster here), just thinking of Cafe Lift LIFTS my spirits and makes me wish I could stay here just a little longer. I always get the regular french toast because the bread is perfection - crunchy yet soft, sweet but not too much, and the additions of fresh, GOOD quality fruit, superb helpings of whip cream, and delic maple syrup are to die for. Actually, as my slogan says, this is the type of food that will make you orgasm. Today I had the lemon ricotta pancakes. It took all my might not to stick with my usual, but I love the idea of lemon in any dish, so I ventured out and became a risk taker. OMG...these were fantastic. Light as a cloud, with just the right amount of lemon and ricotta to remind you these pancakes were no ordinary Aunt Jemima concoctions. And the usual fruit, whipped cream, and syrup were bountiful and heavenly. Damn Cafe Lift, if I could have you everyday, I could stay in Philly forever - or until the end of summer. Other pluses: nice service, good prices, not too overcrowded, WAITING area is appreciated, funky yet not too over-the-top decor.
