Meet The Neighbors: Downtown Waffle

Meet The Neighbors: Downtown Waffle
June 1, 2018 Lise Grato

Downtown Waffle has brought a new taste sensation to 2nd Avenue. Mandi Johnsrud and her husband, Chris Arellano, opened the café in late March.

“Liege Waffles are a specialty waffle made from a Brioche style yeast dough with Belgian Pearl sugar kneaded in… causing delicious caramelized waffles!” according to Mandi and from the look of things their customers agree.

Their menu includes a fun selection of waffles, a breakfast sandwich and traditional biscuits & gravy.

The waffles feature a mix of sweet and savory toppings. The “Blackbird” is topped with goat cheese, a spicy blackberry sauce and topped with fresh blackberries. “What Came First” has roasted chicken and an egg plus greens, avocado, tomatoes and a lime jalapeno cilantro drizzle.

“We also have a Gluten Free version available,” Mandi said. “All of our waffle toppings from our regular menu are gluten free, please double check with us about ingredients featured in our daily specials.”
Mandi shared that they do catering for smaller events and hold private parties in the restaurant after hours.

Mandi is a Central Linn High School graduate. Chris is a professional musician performing in the area and across the country. Both are familiar faces in the downtown restaurant scene.

Downtown Waffle is located at 329 2nd Ave. SW next to Big Town Hero and The Pix Theatre. They are open Wednesday – Sunday 8 am-3 pm.