The Metropolitan Café was once a downtown Dallas staple before closing after 20 years in November 2021. Now, the new owner Noemi Chiriac, wants to bring this classic café back to life with help from an impressive executive chef and a new menu that continues to feature popular original Metropolitan Café dishes.
Executive Chef Randall Braud brings many years of culinary knowledge to the café with previous experience in popular Dallas restaurants such as Mot Hai Ba, Bolsa Mercado and Barcelona Wine Bar.
“Developing the menu for The Metropolitan Café is a unique experience as I am creating a cohesive menu between the original café classics as well as my spin on more artisan deli sandwiches, comforting, familiar dishes while incorporating Noemi’s mother’s Romanian flare into some items,” Chef Braud said.
Classic items staying on the menu include croissant sandwiches such as The Meeker Special with egg, ham, cheese, tomato, cucumber and scallions and The Denver Croissant with egg, ham, cheese, green pepper, tomato and onion. Breakfast bagel sandwiches and the daily special hot plate will stay on the menu as well.
“I love the idea of being at the cafe early, setting up and being the first one to greet my customers on their way to work while they get a coffee and croissant," said Chiriac. "The thought of sharing my smile and energy first thing in the morning gives me joy.”
The 2,056 square foot space was revamped with an art deco design, paying homage to the time when it was built in 1913. The building was originally known as the Masonic Blue Lodge Temple until 1919 when it’s primarily remembered as The Western Union Telegraph Company building. This historic location is where both Lee Harvey Oswald and Jack Ruby received telegrams. Ruby paid a visit to the Western Union just 5 minutes before shooting Oswald behind the building outside the Dallas courthouse.
Located at 2032 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201, The Metropolitan Café will be open on weekdays for breakfast, lunch and happy hour. The cafe will also be available to host private events and offer catering.