Welcome to Cafe Balfe

Cafe Balfe stands out as a vibrant family restaurant nestled in Greenock. Located at 118 W Blackhall St, this casual yet trendy spot is perfect for every occasion, from breakfast and brunch to dinner. The atmosphere invites guests of all ages, with ample accessibility options including wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating. Known for its enticing coffee, diverse tea selection, and delightful desserts, Cafe Balfe is a go-to for locals and tourists alike. With a menu boasting a wide range of dishes, including indulgent fish and chips, hearty steak pie, and a vegan burger option, there’s something for everyone. Ideal for families, solo dining, or friendly get-togethers, this cafe captivates with its cozy vibe and friendly service.

Welcome to Cafe Balfe, the cozy family restaurant located in the heart of Greenock. With a charming atmosphere perfect for casual dining, we offer a delightful range of options from mouth-watering breakfasts to fulfilling dinners, all served alongside our renowned coffee, tea, and dessert selections. Our family-friendly space is equipped with wheelchair-accessible amenities and a tempting kids' menu. Whether you're popping in for a quick bite or reserving a table for brunch, our inviting staff is ready to ensure a delightful experience. Enjoy great value meals with a touch of trendy flair at Cafe Balfe!

Services, Amenities and More

Service options

Takeaway

Dine-in

Delivery

Highlights

Great coffee

Great dessert

Great tea selection

Popular for

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Solo dining

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible car park

Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Wheelchair-accessible seating

Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings

Alcohol

Beer

Cocktails

Coffee

Healthy options

Quick bite

Small plates

Spirits

Wine

Dining options

Breakfast

Brunch

Lunch

Dinner

Dessert

Seating

Table service

Photo Gallery

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Reviews Overview

Most Liked

The coffee at Cafe Balfe receives rave reviews, deemed one of the best in Greenock. Whether it’s a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon delight, patrons appreciate its rich flavor and quality. Dessert lovers find joy in their vibrant selection, with options like the chocolate fudge cake and sticky toffee pudding drawing rave reviews. The warm, hospitable staff enhance the dining experience, ensuring each visit feels welcoming. Many love the variety offered on the menu—from hearty meals like steak sandwiches to lighter options like salads. Additionally, the cafe’s casual vibe is a favorite, making it an inviting place to relax. Plenty of dishes cater to dietary needs, including vegan options, drawing in a diverse crowd.

Most Disliked

During peak hours, the cafe often experiences heavy foot traffic, leading to wait times that some diners find tedious. This can be evident during busy lunch hours, especially on Saturdays when the atmosphere is lively but crowded. While most patrons adore the food, a few express that certain dishes could benefit from more seasoning or creative flair. Some have mentioned that parking can be a challenge during peak times, despite nearby free street options. Additionally, although many appreciate the bustling ambiance, others feel it can be too noisy, particularly during busy mealtimes.

Lastly, a handful of customers note that popular dishes occasionally run out, which can be frustrating if you're set on a specific meal experience. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall experience remains overwhelmingly positive.

User Reviews

Janette H.

2 weeks ago

Popped in for coffee and cake which were lovely and reasonably priced. Place was very busy and people were queuing for a table so food obviously very popular here. Will try lunch next time we visit Greenock.

JOYNME l.

2 months ago

Lovely fish and chips, steak pie 🥧 Prices are reasonable. Will definitely come back 😍

Fiona B.

1 months ago

Went last night with friends for meal. Usually I extensively pure 8 plan every meal out due to being vegan but thought I'd just hope for the best, thankfully they had a couple of options! For the starter I had bruschetta, followed by a superfood salad minus the dressing with fries on the side. It was really tasty, price was reasonable, splitting the bill between 7 it was £17 with a drink as well. Service was pretty fast and it's lovely inside. Would definitely go back.

Diane D.

3 months ago

Lovely lunch, chicken burger with added Brie and caramelised onions. Staff all friendly and happy to take us without a booking even if it meant a bit of juggling tables.

Des H.

2 months ago

Lovely food. Great service. Friendly atmosphere. Enjoyed lunch with my mum and thanks for boxing up what I couldn't finish. Equally delicious after I zapped it in the microwave later

Donna H.

9 months ago

Delicious food as always. Friendly staff. Relaxed atmosphere. Highly recommend a visit.

Susan M.

8 months ago

Had a breakfast. Restaurant looking lovely for Christmas. Couldn't fault the food and staff where lovely. Would definitely come back.

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Location & Hours

Opening Hours

MondayOpen

TuesdayOpen

WednesdayOpen

ThursdayOpen

FridayOpen

SaturdayOpen

SundayOpen

Location

Frequently Asked Questions

Cafe Balfe is famous for its variety of options from great breakfast selections to delicious desserts. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Definitely try the steak pie and fish and chips for a true taste of the menu. The chocolate fudge cake is also a must-try for dessert enthusiasts.

Yes, Cafe Balfe is child-friendly. They offer a kids' menu and provide high chairs for little diners.

Cafe Balfe provides free street parking, making it convenient for anyone visiting.

Absolutely. Cafe Balfe has a few vegan options, making it accommodating for those with dietary preferences.

Yes, it's recommended to make reservations for brunch, lunch, and dinner to secure a spot, especially during busy times.

Why visit Cafe Balfe

Visiting Cafe Balfe guarantees a delightful dining experience in a community-oriented atmosphere. The cafe comes highly recommended for breakfast or brunch, especially on weekends. Reservations during peak dining hours are wise, particularly for larger groups. For an extra tip, come during less busy times on weekdays. A relaxed evening meal can be a perfect way to enjoy the ambiance without rush.

Don’t forget to indulge in their desserts—they often become the highlight of your visit. With a sizable menu filled with diverse options, it’s easy to find something for every palate. The friendly staff enhance the experience, making patrons feel right at home. In Greenock, Cafe Balfe stands as a must-visit destination not only for its food but for the laughter and friendliness that fill the air. Make it your next stop.