Top Cafes in USA

One thing I wish I knew before my visit is to set aside a little time for people-watching; it's such a vibrant crowd! Grab a corner seat with a drink and just enjoy the scene.

I suggest you get there around 11:30 AM to beat the lunch rush. We showed up at noon and waited for 30 minutes. The food is worth the wait but a little planning helps.

My advice is to try the lamb burger—definitely a standout item on the menu! It was so delish, I ended up ordering it twice!

I suggest trying the almond croissant – it was to die for! Also, get there before 9 AM to avoid the long lines that form when they open. Trust me on this.

If you're hungry, grab snacks beforehand or order a light meal at the café nearby – their menu is decent, but it can get crowded during peak hours

Check their website for special events or discounts before you go – I found a promo that saved us a few bucks on group tickets which was awesome.

Arrive about 15 minutes early to soak in the atmosphere; it buzzes with excitement and you might get some cool insider tips from the staff before the show starts.

Try to sit closer to the stage if you can. The magic of the live performance is way better up front, even if it's crowded!

Make sure to bring cash for tips. I kinda forgot and it was a bit awkward trying to figure out how to tip the amazing musicians.

Don’t skip the gift shop! They have unique merch you won’t find anywhere else, and I found some great souvenirs for family without breaking the bank.

You might want to visit on a weekday if you can. It was way quieter than weekends, so we could actually enjoy the exhibits and take our time without the crowds.

Plan for about 2-3 hours. It might look small but there’s a lot of cool stuff to see! I felt like I rushed through at first, but once I slowed down, I really enjoyed it.

If you're a coffee lover, try their house blend. It's smooth and really gives you that cozy vibe of Carmel.

Be sure to bring some cash! They sometimes have issues with their card machines, which can be a hassle if you're trying to settle your tab quickly.

I suggest stopping by early, around 8 AM, to snag a seat before the morning rush. It gets really busy, and you'll want to enjoy the vibe without the crowds.

My advice is to try their seasonal blends. I had this incredible pumpkin spice latte that was not on the menu, so don’t hesitate to ask!

if you’re planning to visit on a weekend, get there by 6pm to snag a good spot. it gets packed and you don’t want to wait around! i learned that the hard way when i tried to drop in at 8pm it was super busy.