Quiet Cafe Hidden in Dallas

Since my dad retired from 35 years with the fire department, one of his favorite things to do is discussing and debating politics or news of the day with his fellow retirees at the corner café in a quiet little North Georgia town where he now lives. I have found such a café in downtown Dallas, Charlie’s Corner Café.

Nestled in a corner shop, behind the former Dallas courthouse, amongst the renovated storefronts is a quaint, clean and comfortable café, serving breakfast and lunch. Owner Charlie cooks all items to order, while charming Darleen keeps the coffee cups full. Visiting for breakfast, I pondered the short and sweet breakfast menu. Standards such as eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, grits and biscuits are prepared as the customer requests. 

Darleen brought me a smooth but bold cup of coffee and water. I had skimmed over the brief menu and ordered two eggs over easy, bacon, sausage, grits and a biscuit. Although 10 a.m. on weekday, myself and a group of retirees were the only customers at the time; therefore, my breakfast was prepared and served within five minutes. While the retirees debated the latest Paulding County water tower issue and the new airport construction schedule, I admired the antique, handmade signs that adored the walls. A homemade craft boutique, Krafty Gifts, located in Dallas, had many items on display and for sale. With slogans such as, “Welcome to our kitchen; fine cuisine seasoned with love,” each piece of framed artwork seemed to exemplify the Southern charm of this café. 

Although breakfast was satisfactory, it was not the best I’ve ever had. The grits were bland and the sausage was a bit too spicy. My eggs were cooked properly and the bacon had a delicious crispiness. The biscuit was not as good as I had on a previous visit. Today, it seemed to be missing the richness of buttermilk, so often found in good Southern biscuits; nevertheless, it was a decent effort. My meal was arguably reasonable at $8.75. The food may not have been perfection, however, the charm and hospitality Darleen provided was as if my grandmother was catering to my every need. Frequently topping off my coffee and checking my status, she was friendly and warm.

Charlie’s Corner Café also serves a small lunch menu of various sandwiches and burgers. If you are looking for a charming, casual eatery, where you can support a local business, try Charlie’s Corner Café, which is open Monday through Saturday, 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Charlie’s Corner Café

29 Courthouse Square

Dallas

678-363-0699

MasterCard and Visa accepted; reservations not required