Tucked along Helmer Road in Battle Creek, Long Island Cafe has become one of the city’s most reliable go-to spots for a hearty breakfast or lunch. Though the restaurant first opened its doors in 2019, its latest chapter began in 2021, when Zakary Thompson and his team took over ownership from a longtime local operator. For Thompson, it was both a challenge and an opportunity: the chance to restore a neighborhood staple while putting renewed emphasis on food quality and customer service.
“We wanted to bring back customer service and great food to a great city,” Thompson explained. That guiding principle has shaped everything from the menu to the atmosphere. While the name Long Island Cafe came from the previous owner — and stayed the same out of respect for the restaurant’s history — what’s inside reflects the new team’s vision. “We bring the best customer service with the best and most consistent food in the city,” Thompson said with pride.
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