MARATHON CAFE

“We wanted to come here for a while because of the many positive reviews online. The experience was fine overall, but it didn't quite live up to the hype. The Hong Kong-style Coffee was decent and probably the highlight of the meal. We ordered Katsudon (pork cutlet with curry sauce) and Pepper Chop (black pepper pork). The main issue was that both dishes felt very similar. The fried pork cutlet seemed to be the same base for different menu items, with the main difference being the sauce on top. Once you've tried one, the others don't feel very different. The cutlet itself was okay but not especially tender, and the sauces didn't add enough character to clearly distinguish the dishes. The sides were basic and straightforward. The interior has a very old-school Hong Kong cafe feel, which might appeal to those who are familiar with or enjoy that style. Overall, the food may suit Hong Kong tastes more, but for us it felt more ordinary than expected. Nothing was bad, but nothing really stood out either. Acceptable, just not quite what the reviews led us to expect.”

“So glad to have been recommended Marathon Cafe! I'm a huge fan of HK style cha chaan tang. This spot isn't too far from me, which makes it even better! Not to mention, service is super friendly and food is simple, yet delish, exactly why I love HK-style grub! Their HK milk tea, sandwiches, cheung fun and fish balls, plus soupy entrees are all amazing. Gotta mention how LOADED their sandwiches are and how unique some items are on their menu - like the bolo bau burger, which I havent tried but will some day!”

“No Tipping Here! . Walk in, get seated, pick your language (English or Chinese menu). Order at the counter, grab your own utensils -- they'll bring the food. . This might be the best HK-style cafe I've tried. . What we ordered: Thick Egg & Spam Sandwich ($6.50) -- Fluffy, buttery egg. Spam's spam. Bread was the only letdown: dry. If they used milk brea, it would've been perfect! . Fish Ball & Radish Rice Rolls ($9.95) -- Drenched in sauce, 4 bouncy fish balls, 2 chunky radish slices. Solid, but wish the rolls came piping hot. . Beef Macaroni with Onsen Egg ($13.95) -- Rich, thick, not-too-sweet tomato broth. Corkscrew pasta soaks it up perfectly. Fatty hotpot beef, grilled and placed ln top with a runny egg. Chef's kiss. . HK French Toast ($9.95) -- Same bread as the sandwich, but toasted = no dryness. Peanut butter brings the salt, syrup the sweet. Addictively good. . We loved it so much we grabbed scallion chicken rice and ox tongue spaghetti to go (for someone else -- next time, it's ours). . Prices run higher, but portions are huge, no tip needed, and entrees come in to-go containers. Can't finish? Just ask -- they'll hook you up with a lid and bag.”