"What a surprise! My birthday was on a week night, and we didn’t feel like heading into the city for dinner. Instead, we finally went to Hempstead’s new place. It was chicken fried steak night, so we gave it a try. The food was executed well. We’d definitely come back to try more of the menu. The highlight of Citizen, though, is their wine list. Kistler, Kosta Brown, Cakebread — and a nod to local talent — Tate! Really stellar selection at good pricing. Thanks for a great birthday!"

"Absolutely WONDERFUL. Angela, our waitress was so attentive and friendly! The atmosphere and art work is really unique. We had the lemon shrimp pasta and steak filet. 10/10 recommend!"

"The restaurant is beautiful. The menu is limited. The pricing is a little high. The food was very good. The service was very good. The coffee was excellent. The Bloody-Mary was tasty, if you like horseradish. I definitely recommend that you give it a try."

"We celebrated Mother’s Day at Citizens Cafe at it was great. The food was delicious and made fresh. The atmosphere was upscale casual, without feeling stuffy, but still making it feel special. The service was fantastic! We sat near the back and our server was outgoing and very attentive. She was a huge part of the experience. I hope we have her next time we’re there - I wish I would have gotten her name to mention her here. Several managers and the owners stopped by, which is also a nice touch. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a great experience! Definitely exceeded our expectations."

"This was my first visit, but it will not be my last! I have been eager to try this place out for many reasons & it did not disappoint. The service was impeccable by all, the hostess, my server Bre'hanna, the chef, & the manager, Dragos...each & every one stopped to be sure that I was enjoying myself. The food was delicious, as well. I had the Citizens Trio starter & though I'm certain it is meant to be shared, I ate almost all of it by myself! Then, I enjoyed a nice glass of wine with the house filet. It was done exactly to my liking & the demi glaze was a beautiful complement. It came served on top of several spears of asparagus & some fingerling potatoes. I was a bit concerned when I saw how thick the asparagus spears were & honestly expected them to be woody & undercooked. Boy, was I wrong! They were cooked to perfection. The dessert menu held promise, but I was already comfortably full, so I saved that adventure for another day. It was a Friday night, so there was also live music to add to the ambiance. If you enjoy a relaxing, well-prepared meal & great service, I encourage you to stop by. UPDATE: Went by today to try the coffee. Was planning to sit & order breakfast, as well. Was told they only do breakfast on Friday & Saturday, so I settled on a warm ham & cheese croissant with a mocha frappe. Both were delicious! The atmosphere was light & bright, which was perfect for 10:15am. The service wasn't nearly as exceptional as my first experience, but it was acceptable. I finally got a peek in the vault, this time. So cool! Still a favorite restaurant & so happy to have it here in Hempstead. OK, last update! I ordered the Surf & Turf Eggs Benedict for brunch today. The filet was a little overdone for my liking. It was not only refired happily & promptly, but was delivered to me by the chef himself! The key lime tart was divine. My server, Bre'hanna, was delightful & perfection, yet again. The manager, Dragos, made sure I was a happy customer. Both he & the chef walk through the front of the house frequently, to be sure everyone is loving their meals. It is safe to say Citizens Cafe has become my new guilty pleasure. I will return again & again. I encourage everyone to do the same!"