Needed a quick lunch with a good size group of people. We aren’t from the Rochester area but this was so delicious. Staff was nice and friendly even though I’m sure it was overwhelming to have 8 people walk in at once. The food was very tasty. Would definitely recommend!

Working in the downtown area, Founders Cafe is my absolute go-to for lunch. I’ve tried most of the menu, but I keep coming back for the Reuben. It is consistently the best in Rochester perfectly grilled, high-quality corned beef, and never greasy. Even when it’s busy with the lunch rush, the staff is efficient and friendly. It’s the perfect spot to grab a quick bite that actually feels like a gourmet meal. If you’re working nearby and haven't been yet, you're missing out!

Connery Wheaton

The staff was polite and the French onion soup was next level! The menu looks great so I will definitely be coming back to try more!

Julia Gonzales

I recently visited the Founder’s Cafe in downtown Rochester N.Y. while I had some time to spare during Jury duty (unfortuntely), and it turned out to be an incredible experience. From the moment I walked in, the staff were exceptionally kind and welcoming. I wasn’t sure what to order, but they went above and beyond by asking about my preferences and recommending only the best items. The atmosphere was warm and inviting—just what I needed after a long morning. The food was absolutely excellent, and their menu offers a wide variety of options, from beverages to sandwiches and more. Whether you're craving something comforting or adventurous, they seem to have something for everyone. I highly recommend checking out Founder’s Cafe if you're in the area. It's a gem of a spot with amazing food, friendly service, and a cozy vibe.

Shannon Fitz K.

Quality meal that tastes fresh and homemade. Lots of options, plenty of seating, friendly staff. Highly recommend. Real egg on the breakfast sandwich. Bacon avocado Caesar wrap was delicious.

Chris Salley

Very cool café located in an awesome, historic 1800's building. Delicious bagels, great good overall, and great coffee!

Mayday

Mike and crew offer lovely service, great food, and an excellent atmosphere in this little cafe tucked inside the Academy Building. When I stopped by to find a place to sit and telework while visiting my partner for Thanksgiving, I was surprised and very pleased to find such lovely people and yummy food! I had the Denver sandwich for breakfast and matzo ball soup and a blueberry muffin for lunch. I am a matzo ball fiend, and have been looking for a place to scratch that itch in Rochester - this city just keeps surprising me. It really does have everything! :)

Kirstin emily Beach

I got the chicken salad club this morning and it was absolutely amazing! Best “cold” sandwich i’ve probably ever had. I had an amaretto iced latte and it was perfect! i love the variety of flavors they have for coffees especially because amaretto isn’t super popular. i loved the atmosphere, very lively and friendly. they seemed to know customers by name and they came and checked on me to make sure i liked everything. overall, 10/10 experience. they’re all happy to be working and i love that!

Elizabeth Edgington

Very affordable and delicious deli options. Wide variety of menu options with rotating weekly specials and seasonal deals. We got the Cajun chicken and blue cheese panini and the turkey and provolone wrap. Atmosphere is great and suitable for a quick bite or a social meal.

Christopher Hinkle

Loads of tasty options. Friendly service. If you dine in, you get interesting local history lessons on the table numbers while you wait. A little hard to find, but worth it.

Victor P

Great food choices and the décor is very inviting. A little pricey but worth it. 2019 Update: It is 2019 and I am back at my favorite lunch place in Rochester. This place is amazing, never dissapoints and always delivers on quality and food. Great job! 2023 Update: Haven't been here in a while but it is just like I remember it. Food is awesome, coffee is great, and service is amazing. A true gem here in Rochester.

Nan M

- I only tried the latte but it consisted of too much milk to be enjoyable - in my opinion of course - The employee helping me wasn’t exactly mean, but she wasn’t exactly friendly either - Not a lot of dessert options - Locating the business took a little while because the sign (pictured below) wasn’t facing correctly at first, but everything made sense once I found it - Overall, mediocre — hence the three star. - Will possibly visit again to try the food and then retry their latte as well

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