Walking up Wilmington Avenue toward the Retro Café on an uncharacteristically temperate Saturday in January, I was greeted by Sophie, the friendly mascot of that newly refurbished establishment. Over the last few months, I had heard about the alterations underway. My friend Jonathan and I were lucky to catch the owners getting ready for their grand opening celebration (President’s Day Weekend). Sophie’s presence at the restaurant is almost permanent. She is likely the only dalmatian pooch you’ll find perched on the porch of a restaurant in Rehoboth. So, when you see her, you’ll know you have reached the Retro Café. It is important to note that dogs are welcome on the front porch as you enjoy the homemade cooking and pleasantries of Retro Café.

Inside, the fresh coat of orange paint creates a warm atmosphere. The many tchotchkes have been reduced by nearly 80%, and the walls are adorned with beautifully framed vintage Rehoboth Beach postcards. All the tables are covered with linens and the paper plates have been replaced with bright fiesta dishes. Another notable addition is the full espresso bar and Seattle Best Coffee brand that has been perking the local tastebuds in recent weeks. The café has also replaced its counter service for table service, creating a more relaxed atmosphere. Our server for lunch was the witty and bright Carol. She directed our attention to the drink selections. Since the day was almost vernally warm, I was inclined to choose a smoothie. Carol was eager to promote the Manberry smoothie. I couldn’t resist the tempting sweet combination of raspberry and mango frosty delight served a la pousse-café. It was absolutely wonderful! Jonathan ordered the Maine organic rootbeer, which when combined with a handsome glass of crushed small ice, was a refreshing change of pace from your average every day soda. Being adventurous we were willing to try the specials. We both ordered a cup of the chicken florentine which, lo and behold, contained large chunks of tender chicken surrounded by a thick jungle of spinach and hot tasty broth. Our server informed us that the meat is cooked fresh daily; this was evident as the consistency was juicy and stimulating.

The main courses were to be determined next. Jonathan and I decided to split the chicken quesadilla. This proved to be a filling and stellar affair. The quesadilla almost covered the entire fiesta plate. The tortilla was warm and dry; this was not your typical greasy or slimy dish. Inside, the chicken rested next to red onions, whole olives, and juicy tomatoes all freshly diced and placed as if an edible artwork. This is the perfect meal for those in search of a light lunch or even as an appetizer.

Retro’s dessert list was small but mighty. Jonathan and I chose a serving of the cranberry walnut pie and the deep dish blueberry almond pie. Both of these are homemade and further offer the customer a taste of Retro’s hard dedication to fine preparation, cooking, and their soulful results. Both pies were examples of fresh tasting fruit mingled with the irresistible crunch of almonds or walnuts. Neither pie was overloaded with any ingredient but satisfied the appetite without cloying overkill. The deep dish blueberry had an almost pound cake flavor that accentuated the blueberries and delighted the palate. For those who wish to savor these pies in private, Retro also sells whole pies.

Feeling completely sated, Jonathan and I left the Retro Café with great satisfaction, having tried as many of these freshly home cooked marvels as possible. The time, effort, and energy that co-owners Jim Slusher and Thom Morris have dedicated to their establishment should pay off when the 2006 summer season is in full swing. The menu was highly diverse with many breakfast and lunch entrees readily available. Their chicken Caesar wrap and grasshopper pie (when available) are also highly recommended. So, when you are looking for a simple yet scrumptious breakfast in downtown Rehoboth on the weekend, do indeed bring your friends, partner, relatives and/or pet down to Wilmington Avenue to taste what this café has to offer.