Sit, sip and let worries melt away at Café Intermezzo. The newly arrived Shops at Legacy eatery has brought a new sense of sophistication to west Plano.
Years before coffee shops popped up all over the States, Kaffehäuser – or European coffeehouses – filled the streets of countries like Germany and Austria. Enjoying these quaint bistros on his travels while visiting the home of his ancestors, owner Brian Olson knew he wanted to bring a restaurant with that same experience-focused feeling over to the States. He saw just how integral these community spots were to their customers’ daily lives, and he wanted to create a space of relaxation in his own community.
So he ensures there’s never a rush at his charming coffeehouses. They get their name from the idea of taking an intermission – a break to enjoy a peaceful breath on a busy day. Café Intermezzo knows that its visitors are always on the go with responsibilities and commitments, so it strives to provide a space of relaxation that gives guests time to relax and regroup.
“People can go and have a mini vacation,” Brian said.
After opening up his first picturesque bistro in Georgia, he expanded that original concept to four other locations across the state. And now he’s brought the idea to Texas with his first out-of-state venture.
And he has a whole registry of stories about memories made within his restaurants’ walls that still are close to his heart.
“We have had literally thousands of proposals,” Brian said. “We have opportunities to touch people’s lives in little ways, and sometimes big ways.”
Café Intermezzo’s sophisticated menu offers elegant worldly favorites guests would find on a genuine European bistro’s menu, like Italian Bruschetta and Chicken Duxelle Crepes. There are plenty of hearty entrees for those looking for a classic dish served at its best, such as the Seared Chicken and Spicy Tortellini. But there are also light breakfast options and delicious pastries, so it’s always a good time to stop into Café Intermezzo for a moment of tranquility.
It’d be a crime to rush out before wandering over to the dessert display. Their expansive pastry case has one rich sweet lined up by another that are perfect for rounding out a luxurious meal. Just ask one of the café’s “tour guides” to break down all the options to get a feel for everything available. Or, for a sure thing, ask for a slice of the house tiramisu. Even if guests have tried the rich Italian dessert before, this authentic version offers a brand new experience with each bite.
And it’s easy to savor the sweets when guests have something pretty to sip on. After diners sit down, they will get a literal book of beverage options full of pictures and descriptions. For something cozy, try one of the coffee specialties, like their Capúchio Brio – which means “happy toga” and is named after Capuchin Monks – made with espresso, steamed cream, cinnamon, sugar, vanilla, almond oil, brandy and rum flavors and orange extracts with Schlag. Or for something to match the feel of the place, a French 75 cocktail is a must. Absinthe, grappa, cognacs, vermouths and aperitifs are also available.
So come in, find a spot at one of Café Intermezzo’s candle-lit tables, and get ready to travel around the world to experience a taste of tranquility.
