Books & Books is perfect for a light lunch

I was walking by in the rain and ended up at Books & Books for lunch yesterday. I hadn't been there for awhile. I loved that their cafe area is much larger than it was, and their menu has something for everyone.

Chef Matthew Cabanes

As people checked the books out and others ate at tables outside or at the counter, I ordered the Turkey Panini, which I don't think is a panini since it's made on Jewish Rye, not ciabatta bread, or focaccia or multi-grain bread, according to Betty Crocker. But that's good, I don't like ciabatta or focaccia, the rye was perfect and the sandwich was warm and creamy-like and the bread was toasted and cruncy. Perfect. It comes with maple syrup, I passed on that. 

This is just one of the delicious creations by chef Matthew Cabanes.

Books & Books is quite cozy, maybe it was the gloomy day, but it had the feel of Vinos in the Grove, which used to be in that space at 3409 Main Highway (Vinos is now at 2889 McFarlane Road). There is wine and craft beer and lots of different foods on the menu, surrounded by books, lots of books in wooden shelves.

New on the menu is a Tuna Melt or Tuna Cucumber Sandwich and they also have a Caprese sandwich now, to go along with their Turkey "panini," Avocado Toast, Prosciutto Tartine, Artisan Grilled Cheese and Curry Chicken, also there's an Israeli Salad, all from $11 to $14.

They have a "passionate commitment to local fresh ingredients." Also on the menu is a Mezz Board (hummus, baba ghanoush, labneh, white bean dip and herbs), a Barcelona Board with prosciutto, manchego, brie and other cheeses; a Shuk Board with chickpeas, hummus goat cheese and other things and an Adriatic Vegan Board with lots of things like avocado, zucchini and baba ghanoush.

Every Wednesday at the Café at Books & Books it's Wine Down Wednesday. Receive 50% off all bottles of wine all day long.


They are open Monday-Saturday: 11-10 pm and Sunday: 11-7 pm.

It's worth a visit to check out the menu, or of course to buy some books!