
About Cai's Cafe
Cai's Cafe is a beloved neighborhood gem in Metuchen where genuine hospitality and community connection matter more than corporate polish. This independent spot welcomes regulars and newcomers alike into its cozy atmosphere, offering the authentic charm and personal touch you won't find at big chains. Stop by to experience coffee crafted with care and a space where you're truly part of the local family.
What People Are Saying
from Google"Saturday September 27th 2025. Got drip regular coffee to me it tasted too mild like they watered it down, due to this one less star. Beautiful cozy atmosphere."
"I’m local and tried this place several times. It’s cozy but they NEVER have any regular Cold Brew. The majority of the time, it’s a weird whiskey flavor CB and after my latest visit, they didn’t have any at all. I’d suggest being a Cafe, they have that sort of thing available to customers who are willingly to pay and support the business."
"Love the vibe of the place but the last few times I’ve been it just hasn’t been good. The drinks feel rushed and not made well. I really hate paying $9 for an iced drink for them to accidentally make it hot and dump it over ice. If you make a drink wrong, please just remake it."
"In mid to late November, I was traveling through this adorable little town and decided with my family to see what coffee shops we could explore while in town. The shop itself is pretty clean and cute, however there will be more to explain about that soon. I ordered a cortado and a cold brew for my husband, and sat down. The espresso in my cortado was extremely burnt, and my husband said his cold brew was disgustingly watered down. not to mention, i was speaking with the rest of my party, and out of the corner of my eye i noticed something quick and fast skurry across the floor. i couldn’t believe my eyes. i had to get a second look. all of a sudden, im walking closer near the trash bin, and i see something fluffy and small hiding right behind the bin. i was absolutely petrified. this clean looking establishment has mice. To make a bad trip worse, the grilled cheese was over priced and was the worst i’ve ever tried. it tasted old, and i couldn’t even blame the baristas, as it seemed as though they all had a shared lack of training. i don’t think i saw the owner/manager a single time. the bathroom was a mess, had no toilet paper or paper towel in it and everything we had ordered came so late. I will never be showing my face here at this pathetic establishment again. it’s a complete no from me. as well as all six of my other family members."
"I used to be a near-daily regular for 2 years; however, for certain reasons and events, I stopped going because I felt unwelcome on the basis of my identity and not my character. Prior to that, I genuinely felt a sense of community from the baristas and the other regulars, especially coming out of the pandemic. I made a lot of friends through this space and have fond memories. 1 star for the friendly baristas who work hard to keep this place afloat. They– the people behind the register day in, day out– really do a lot to create a welcoming atmosphere and community. The work that they put in deserves to be commended, and I stand by that. They work hard with what they are given in order to create a good customer experience. 1 star for the ambience that actually made the place feel cozy and the okay coffee (see other recent reviews). The food is okay too but overpriced for what it is in quantity and quality, especially when compared to other options nearby. I don't think this is a reflection of the baristas but more of business practices. 1 star for the good memories. I really wanted to continue liking and giving this place my business but alas. Minus 1 star for what was said and done. Use your judgement when patronizing this cafe. Tip your baristas. And take advice from their bathroom walls: Be a nice human."