Kickstart Cafe 462 Howe Avenue, Shelton, CT 06484

"This cafe should run a Master Class on how to run a small business. The vibe is laid back and familiar. When you order, the staff treats you like they’ve known you forever. The food and drinks are designed with intent and care for their customer base, beautifully crafted, and delicious. I adore how they allow pets (and give little treats❤️). I love seeing a small business thrive! Congrats to the owners and staff for creating a third-place for their customers. Well done!"

"I have been here a few times before, but today, I wanted to try something different. I had the tofu scramble wrap. It was so good. I highly recommend you try their tofu scramble if you have never had tofu before because it has a similar consistency to eggs and tastes great. The regular egg sandwiches are good as well. I had the horchata drink today and that was very good as well. I especially liked it because typical espresso drinks are made too sweet for me at most places. At Kickstart, I asked them to just put a little of each syrup and it came out with the perfect sweetness. They are very good with prepping drinks exactly how you want it. The only negative to me is that you can't pour your own coffee. I think being able to do that would speed things up a bit so the staff does not have to prep coffee and could just make the espresso drinks. Overall, I really love this place. They have everything you would want for a normal breakfast/lunch spot, but there are also so many options for vegans and vegetarians as well as milk substitutes and sugar free syrups for drinks."

"Such a sweet little find! Great location if travelling (right off the main route), an expansive variety for vegans and non-vegans with creative + tasty options, and the ladies that helped me greeted me upon entry + had such genuine energy. Price point is rare in these times, only lacking a star for me because the produce wasn't organic and the vegan options were processed. Either way, I would 100% recommend to friends and am grateful for the kind service and simple but yummy lunch ♡"

"A few months ago I gave up drinking energy drinks but obviously couldn’t give up caffeine, so I started a hunt for a locally owned coffee shop. I went to several establishments in the downtown area, but found them either lacking in character and/or staff personality, or their beverages were subpar. After I tried Kickstart Cafe I stopped looking; I had found home. Want to sit and work on your laptop at a table and not talk to anyone? That’s allowed, the staff will leave you alone. Feel like chatting? Sit at the bar, strike up a conversation; the staff (and vibe) is very friendly. Bring your dog, they’ll get pets and a pup cup. Food and drink options for carnivores, vegans, and everyone in between. Substituting ingredients is never a problem, they aim to please. All baked goods are made on premises, lots of coffee (and milk) options. Flavored bean brews offer considerable taste with no sugar. I would wholeheartedly recommend this place to anyone looking for quality food and drink in a friendly and inviting atmosphere. PS please bring your dog."

"I am so happy we decided to stop by at the cafe! Iced cappuccino was amazing, we tried the egg omelette with toast and home fries. Honestly everything was cooked and plated with care and tasted delicious! I have to say the home fries were very well seasoned. Had the egg wrap today to-go and it was also delicious. I loved how tender the red peppers still were full of flavor."