The tall, bright plastic flowers combined with a black ceiling and sea green walls certainly draw the attention of passers-by. Offering a wide variety of beverages, snacks and meals, but a small space for consuming them, Mimi’s Café: Natural and Whole Food specializes in tasty tidbits. Unfortunately, the new eatery, which opened on Monday, April 13, doesn’t offer any particularly memorable dishes.

Although Mimi’s has the advantage of a corner location (Reade and Church Street), its limited room allows for only six stools, each overlooking Reade Street. The store is not very inviting, and isn’t a great place to enjoy your meal. The green colors don’t emit much warmth, and the store seems made for commuters rushing to catch a train.

“I like green,” manager Michael Coban said. “It’s something that people can remember.”

Mimi’s offers familiar cereal brands and beverages, a menu of flavorful organic teas ($1.95-$3.00) and baked goods like muffins ($3.00). “It’s a little dry, but okay, not overly sweet,” said junior Yuan Wang, referring to Mimi’s blueberry muffin. Brownies at Mimi’s are priced at $2.00 and are also somewhat dry, but extremely sweet. Bubble tea comes in an assortment of flavors for $3.00. Beyond deserts, Mimi’s Café sports a deli bar with a wide selection of wraps, sandwiches and make-your-own salads. A full lunch combination is priced at $6.95.

Lines at Mimi’s form quickly and move sluggishly, but staff members are generally eager and helpful. “They’re very nice, but might be understaffed,” junior Karina Moy said.

“It’s very friendly and nicely laid out,” first-time customer Michael Scorca said.

As of now, Mimi’s Café still lacks professionally-made menus and a core customer base. “Business is good so far, but we could have a younger crowd,” Coban said. On the brighter side, Coban’s enthusiasm equals that of the staff, and he’s willing to reach out to the student population. “We can give [students] 10 percent off with an ID,” Coban said.

Mimi’s Café may not be the ideal place to get your taste buds tingling, but its smiling staff and hodgepodge of offerings make it worth a stop if it’s on your way.

Mimi’s Café: Natural and Whole Food
165 Church St (Corner of Church And Reade Streets)
Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.