Cafe Melba: Discover Milford's Hidden Culinary Gem
At Cafe Melba, nestled in the heart of Milford, CT, culinary innovation thrives amidst a welcoming atmosphere. This cozy beer garden takes pride in a dynamic, ever-changing menu that emphasizes fresh, shareable dishes like the Marinated Beet Salad and delectable Tuna Tartare on Toast. The restaurant's commitment to community is evident, with happy hour specials, outdoor seating for families and dogs, and cozy evenings by the heat. Chef Dan’s passion for food resonates with patrons, who consistently rave about the delightful flavors and inviting vibe. Cafe Melba isn't just a meal—it's an experience to savor and share.
Cafe Melba at a glance
- Address 232 Melba St, Milford, CT 06460
- Restaurant type Modern European restaurant .
- Popular for Popular for dinner , Good for solo dining .
Photos & Gallery
Popular Menu Items
Scallops
Burrata Toast
Shishito Peppers
Provoleta with Smoked Tomato & Toast
Hamachi Crudo Toast
Butternut Squash Toast
Shrimp & Grits
Crispy Duck Confit
Blackened Salmon
Short Rib over Grits
Cafe Melba: Reviews & Ratings
I’ve come down to Cafe Melba twice now and I was not let down either time. First we came by with family and friends and enjoyed various items from their menu and some delicious drinks. Our second visit we took the pasta making class for a private party and really enjoyed the way the owner set up the pasta making stations and he gave really easy directions to follow. We will definitely be back again.
Found this restaurant from an Instagram reel, and don't regret checking it out! We went on a Saturday night and the place got busier as we ate. We had no wait when we arrivdd and got to be seated outside. The menu was relatively small but it all seemed delicious. The food was delicious even with some adjustments we had to make (like removing the prosciutto or bacon). Best scallops I've had in a long time. Had a wonderful time and would go again if ever in the area.
Amazing food. !! Beautiful colorful presentation. Fresh vegetables and garnishes ...Very very tasty apps. This was our first time dining at this eatery.. We had a wonderful experience. Very friendly On point staff. Colorful artwork outdoors along the stone walls. A very nice ambiance with a nice ocean breeze ...prompt service... I was really impressed coming in from the city. This local restaurant was serving high quality cuisine that was soo delicious. I give this place * Five Big stars. Kudo's to the chef and staff at Cafe Melba's... See you soon
Cafe Melba did not disappoint today! They celebrated the accomplishment of gaining 10k followers. It was SUPER busy, but the staff were pleasant and kept up. At the end of the event, the owner (and Chef), brought out a bunch of food for all the remaining patrons as a thank you. Who does that?! #chefdankardos - Great day in Milford!
My favorite restaurant in milford without a doubt. Every time I come here to visit family, I make sure its a wednesday for pasta nights. Haven't had a bad meal here yet & I dream of the fig toast. Heavenly The decor featuring local artists, super kind staff, and the view into the kitchen are just extra sprinkles on top
We attended a pasta making class but will definitely return for a meal. Very fun class with the opportunity to make pasta and take it home. The class is very relaxed. Dan, the owner, walks everyone through one round of making two different pasta shapes and then lets everyone continue to make and eat as much as they want. You do not make the dough. The dough has been made and is shaped in small portions which is why attendees can make so much pasta. Dan is available for questions but pretty much lets everyone do as they wish. After the first round he brings out a variety of sauces as well as eggplant rolatini and a beautiful beet and mixed green salad. Everyone can make and eat or make and box to bring home. All of the sauces were great. Deep flavor and well seasoned. The class is about 2 hours and there is an option to purchase cocktails. Overall this was one of the most fun cooking classes I have attended and highly recommend. Note for first timers, there is no sign outside of the restaurant so it’s a little tricky to find but as the owner said after you find it once you know where it is.
A hidden gem in Milford with a great vibe & incredibly delicious food! A must try if you’re in the area, you won’t be disappointed. I look forward to trying new dishes on the menu weekly. Follow @cafemelbact on Instagram for the latest menu, events, and specials — like $15 pasta dishes & $3 wine/beer in Wednesdays. Chef Dan is the man!
A great spot to have in the neighborhood! I love that it's a relatively small menu that changes daily/weekly. The dishes are a perfect size to share and try a variety of different things. The only downside of this place is that I want to order the whole menu every time I go. Never been disappointed by a dish.
Location
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Cafe Melba232 Melba St, Milford, CT 06460
Welcome to Cafe Melba, a charming gem nestled in the heart of Milford, Connecticut. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and delightful culinary creations, this beer garden invites you to unwind and savor every bite. With a focus on freshness and sustainability, Cafe Melba offers a menu that beautifully balances creativity and taste.
As you step into Cafe Melba, you will immediately feel the inviting vibe. The outdoor seating options, complete with heated and covered areas, allow you to enjoy your meal in comfort while basking in the ambiance of a lively neighborhood. Whether you’re with family or friends, this place is designed for sharing and making memories.
- Reservations: Recommended, particularly during peak hours.
- Catering and Private Dining: Perfect for special occasions.
- Happy Hour Specials: Great drinks and bites at tempting prices.
Chef Dan's expertly crafted menu showcases a variety of dishes that highlight locally sourced ingredients. From the refreshing Arugula, Citrus, and Raspberry Salad priced at $14 to the indulgent Beef Short Rib Ragu with Ravioli at $22, there’s something to please every palate. One standout is the Classic Shrimp Grits, a dish of warmth and comfort that tastes as good as it looks.
Many patrons rave about the shareable toasts, like the incredibly fresh Tuna Tartare On Toast or the creamy Burrata, making them perfect for trying a variety of flavors. The engaging atmosphere, coupled with the artfully curated dishes, compels you to return for more. Gianmarco D'Emilia captures this sentiment perfectly, noting that the menu changes regularly, igniting a continual sense of discovery.
What truly sets Cafe Melba apart is not just the quality of the food but the dedication of the staff and the community spirit embodied by the owners. Sarah Lutheran's account of a recent event is a beautiful testament to this; the chef generously shared food with patrons as an expression of gratitude, infusing the place with warmth and connection. It's clear that every visit feels personal, making you a part of something special.
In a world of fleeting dining experiences, Cafe Melba offers a refreshing take on food and community. As Amanda Welch puts it, it’s not just a must-try; it becomes a beloved haunt that leaves you eagerly awaiting your next meal. So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to stop by Cafe Melba to enjoy innovative dishes, delightful drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Business Information
- Accessibility
- Has wheelchair-accessible car park
- Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Has wheelchair-accessible seating
- Service options
- Has outdoor seating
- Serves dine-in
- Delivery
- Payments
- Accepts credit cards
- Accepts debit cards
- Accepts NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards