Welcome to Vela Cafe
Nestled in the heart of Sacramento, Vela Cafe invites you to savor the essence of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. Established with passion for quality and flavor, this family-owned eatery offers an enticing menu that ranges from hearty breakfast burritos to savory pitas filled with tender meats and fresh vegetables. Guests rave about the Chicken Shish Kabab Pita and vibrant salad bar, showcasing an abundance of fresh ingredients. The inviting atmosphere and friendly service ensure a delightful dining experience, whether you're stopping by for breakfast or a nutritious lunch. Vela Cafe is a true gem for food lovers seeking fresh, delicious meals in a welcoming environment.
- 1000 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814 Hotline: (916) 400-4267
Welcome to Vela Cafe, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Sacramento, California. Located conveniently at 1000 I St, right across from the CARB and CAL EPA, this charming cafe specializes in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, with an inviting focus on breakfast and brunch items. Whether you're a downtown worker on a lunch break or a visitor exploring the city, Vela Cafe promises a delightful culinary experience.
The menu is a testament to the cafe's commitment to freshness and flavor. Start your meal with one of their renowned pitas, like the Beef & Lamb Pita or the succulent Chicken Gyro Pita, both adorned with the perfect balance of lettuce, tomato, onion, and their signature tzatziki sauce. If you prefer vegetarian options, the Falafel Pita and Cauliflower Pita offer delicious alternatives that do not compromise on taste.
For breakfast enthusiasts, don’t miss out on the mouthwatering Classic Breakfast Burrito, packed with eggs, tater tots, and sausage, or opt for the vegetarian version bursting with roasted red peppers and spinach. Each dish is crafted with attention to detail, ensuring you leave feeling satisfied.
Among the delightful offerings is the baklava, a sweet treat worthy of a special mention. This original pastry, layered with chopped walnuts, pistachios, and drizzled with honey syrup, delivers a perfect ending to your meal. Just for $2.60, it’s a must-try that encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean dessert.
- Customer Experience: Patrons rave about the friendly service, often highlighting the approachable staff who are eager to recommend dishes based on personal preferences. The atmosphere boasts a clean, bright, and relaxing ambiance, ideal for enjoying fresh meals amidst a busy workday.
- Healthy Options: If you are health-conscious, Vela Cafe's salad bar offers a plethora of Mediterranean-themed dishes, from hearty hummus to baba ganoush, allowing for customization according to your tastes and dietary needs.
- Support Local: This family-owned establishment has garnered a loyal following, with numerous customers expressing joy over the noteworthy recovery post-pandemic. Their commitment to quality and service has made them a staple in the local dining scene.
In conclusion, Vela Cafe stands out as a sincere representation of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, situated conveniently for those in downtown Sacramento. Its commitment to quality ingredients, friendly service, and affordability makes it a top-notch choice for anyone looking to indulge in flavorful, freshly prepared meals. Don't pass by this cafe without stepping in—your taste buds will thank you!

This place is so amazing. It's right across the street from the CARB AND CAL EPA. It is so amazing and so worth it. Their gyro's are to die for. So amazing.

Just found this cafe. Love the options and ended up doing a build my own salad. Was able to load up on protein and not kill my wallet.

If I can go to Vela Cafe, then I'm definitely looking forward to lunch. I'm an endearing fan of their Chicken Shish Kabab Pita. It takes several minutes to prepare, but its well worth your time. The chicken has always been moist, tender and flavorful.....as if everything is cooked only when ordered. If you've been on the hunt for an alternative to sandwiches, then this pita is your savior. And here's the bonus, the restaurant's dining area is kept very clean and depending on the day of the week you can dine in peace. That's worth the walk all by itself!

One of my favorite places to have lunch when I am working downtown. Their food is consistently good and fresh. We have also ordered catering for work events and the food is always ready, they communicate well when coordinating, and everyone always gives us compliments. They also have an amazing salad bar if you want some variety.

I've gotten coffee at Vela Cafe frequently, but just got breakfast today to go with my coffee. Fantastic breakfast burrito! I got the veggie burrito, with eggs, spinach, cheese, tots and roasted red peppers. It hit the spot. The tots were smashed yet extra crispy, the salsa had great flavor, and the veggies were cooked perfectly. So good. I'd get it again and again!

Customer service is great. Food is so good. Same nice owner!!! I'm so glad they survived the pandemic. They also have coffee, omelets and pastries in the morning,

May 17, 2024 PROS: The customer service was great, which is the first thing I judge at any place. The cashier helped us by asking what we liked eating and he made delicious recommendations. The establishment was also very clean and bright, good atmosphere. The food was so fresh and delicious! Personally, best Mediterranean food we've had in the 530/916 area. CONS: Not much parking close by. Bathroom is hidden in the back and you need a code to get in. They didn't warn us the olives in the salad had pits, but luckily I tasted mine first then warned the kids about the olives. Bottled drinks only, no fountain drinks.

The veggie combo had more than enough food! Good price, fresh ingredients and ooh soo good! This cafe is a must try!

Are you looking for a healthy lunch spot that serves fresh hot food and also has a salad bar right in the downtown area close to Cesar Chavez park? Well check out Vela Cafe. This is a gem of a lunch spot!!!! I didn't even know this place existed until about a month ago. I always passed by it when I park in the area and walk to the Cathedral but it was always closed. I actually thought that the place shut down. But it just so happened that they re-opened again recently. The owners/staff are super friendly. I came by again for lunch a couple of days ago and it's been a place I frequent when I get the chance to go on my lunch break. Their food is always fresh! I'm a fan of the salad bar- it's my fave. It has Mediterranean-themed dishes from hummus to babba ganoush. The hot area also soup which changes out by the day, a roasted chicken with delicious flavor and a mixed vegetable dish. The price is based on the weight of the food you get if you elect to get stuff from the hot bar or salad bar. But they also have menu to choose from. Ambiance is clean, bright, and relaxing to eat in especially during a busy day of work. They have free water with ice and I also was given baklava to try during my first visit. I think it's family-owned and I've also gotten great customer service from a guy behind the register and also Michelle; everybody is great there. So if you're looking for a healthy option and relaxing spot for lunch check out Vela Cafe!