Marketplace Café

My sister and I came here for a quick breakfast/​brunch on a Saturday morning around 11. There were maybe two people in front of us in line to order food. We sat where we wanted, and we were greeted by a server almost right away. She brought us drinks quickly, and our food came out shortly afterwards. We had the Margherita pizza, Chinese Chicken salad, and one of their specials of the day (I forget the exact name of the dish, but it was a crabcake dish). I never thought about eating at a café in Nordstrom because I couldn’t imagine their food being good. They definitely exceeded my expectation! The pizza was so juicy, and the salad was really fresh! It was even served on a cold dish! The crabcake was different from what I was used to having; I feel like crabcakes are usually served broiled or fried. It was still very tasty, full of crabmeat. I wouldn’t say that it was cheap to eat here, but it was definitely cheaper than other restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory or Maggiano’s. I doubt that I would go out of my way to come and eat here because of its location, but instead of going to other restaurants at the mall, I would come here.

Hmmm. It’s different. You place your order at the counter, then you chose your seat and the waitress takes your receipt and brings your food. There’s no way (that I could see) to tip with your credit card so bring cash. I had the salmon dinner-​it was okay but nothing to write home about although the veggies that came with it were delicious, the size of the salmon was rather small. I hate it when the restaurant doesn’t leave salt and pepper on the table because you feel like an ass when you have to ask for it. The experience was decent but I don’t think I would go again anytime soon. I must say though that the pizza looked devine!

So sad. My restaurant that I used to love so dearly, has changed too much and in my mind, not for the better. The only thing I really like, is being here in the early morning hours, with the blinds up and those huge hanging lights, subdued. But this alone is not enough to keep me coming back.
From the moment I entered the restaurant, I was met with attitude, on this particular day.
When I inquired on the type of stock used in the potato leek soup — which I had to repeat to
the host, several times, he rudely replied that Nordstrom’s NEVER uses a vegetarian stock, ONLY chicken stock! It was if he was implying, how dare I even ask such a question. Is it my
imagination, or did the young host just roll his eyes at me?
From then on, all went down hill for me. My waiter was slow at refilling my beverage. Yep, didn’t get that refill till the end of my meal. And I’m supposed to give him an 18% tip?
What I miss the most: seeing the entrees, getting a glimpse of the kitchen, watching
the salads being made, sampling the soups, fetching my own beverage, cream of crab, some
of the salads, larger portions, those crunchy, lovely crisp cheesy wafers and the passion that went into the food. I sure hope they still have that cream of crab soup. It was the best cream of crab soup in all of Howard County, in my humble opinion.

Service: Nordstrom’s philosophy of quality customer service extends to their in-​store restaurant. Service is great, whether you’re on the go or want a sit-​in experience after a long day’s shopping trip. There is a hostess at the front to better assist your dining needs. Staff always introduces themselves, which I appreciate, because how awkward is it when you don’t know your server’s name if you need something? Great concept for a retailer. But that’s what sets Nordstrom apart from the other department stores.
Food: on par with Baker’s Crust. It’s mostly American with influences from all parts of the globe. They sometimes have specials for a limited time offering, which is great especially for patron customers who get tired of the same menu, like myself.
Atmosphere: this particular location for a major upgrade, and is my new favorite Nordstrom restaurant to dine at in the whole region. That’s saying something for the larger Nordstrom doors. Music is modern and lulled to a righteous minimal so conversations can still commence. Décor and fixtures is abstract chic for an ambient environment.

Where can I start… So far everything about this café I love. They recently remodeled and they were closed for about two months (my soul died) they wanted restaurant feel than a swanky cafeteria (which was the old format). You now select your meal, pay and will be seated. From
There you are greeted by your server. They bring your drinks and delicious dinner roll on a hot saucer and REAL land o lakes butter! When you order water or club water they now bring you a carafe! Which I adore! It just adds to the ambience of your table! Ambience. Low neutral lights, warm wood accents, lots of grey tone décor and splashes of color on the walls. Always very clean. The servers wear all black, very neat and always clean!!! Friendly I might add, no one has ever been rude! Food… Amazing, seasoned just right, I only add pepper ! the presentation is pleasing to the eye! I almost don’t want to eat it! Lol who am I fooling!!! I take my pics and dig in! I have had the Tuscan chicken, steak and salmon. Cobb salad and pizza! So far everything has been excellent! Oh! When I am
Balling on a budget and I just want something quick and good I order the kids grill cheese which comes with cup of soup, grapes and drink for $ 6! The prices are not too expensive I pay 16 for a steak dinner! Which is very filling! I can’t wait to try more menu items!

I absolutely hate the new design. It looks more vanilla and is a complete 180 from what I anticipated. After being a local patron for over 14 years in Columbus, MD, this is my last visit. #anotherbadmakeover

Met a friend early on Saturday, for a bite and gal chat. The morning light was subdued, much better than the harsh, bright light experienced on the previous evening. The service seemed tentative, which makes me think that the help is mostly new hires — in time though, I’m sure they’ll have greater confidence. From experience, I inquired about the «specials.»
Note — breakfast is served, but the menu items are limited to four or five items; the lunch menu is available in the morning.
Lamb pastrami sandwich, along with herb fries with a porcini aioli and a fruit salad side.
The lamb, though good, was more buttery in flavor and texture and nothing like the pastrami I was expecting — mustard seeds, coriander, black pepper encrusted — nope, not on the meat. It was a good sandwich, but I wouldn’t call it a «Pastrami» sandwich. Loved those herb fries, arriving to the table stacked. Each bite, a combination of sea salt & fresh herb. My side fruit salad — seven grapes and one strawberry halved. Very lame, Nordstrom’s.

The service is the worst I have seen in a long time for a restaurant. And as with many restaurants no management to assist with issues. Very long time for food, was so annoyed I could not tell how the food was beside thrown on the plate.

It’s way better than anything in the food court. I’ve had salmon here several times and it and the vegetables were good.

For all of you who know and love this place – I just found out that the Café’s last day of operation is August 2, 2015, and it will be closing for renovations for two months. It will reopen sometime in early October. I think I’m going to go through withdrawal. ..

I’m not sure what I was expecting because the Nordstrom Espresso Bar isn’t a total coffee industry franchise (like Starbucks) but it isn’t a local, family-​owned type of business either. I ordered a Pomegranate Lemonade, and it was too sweet/​flavored. if I had to choose a «vibe» for this café, I’m going to lean towards Starbucks, simply put.

Marsha thank you for everything. You were very attentive and provided the best customer service. I had breakfast for dinner. Everything was fresh and the jam was unbelievable. The Café was very clean and the noise level was moderate. I will be returning again.

I love a Nordstrom Espresso Bar! Great variety of drinks, hot or cold.
Pastries, salads, snacks. Great customer service. The line gets busy, but they are fast.
It’s clean and easy to get your caffeine fix before entering or after shopping at Nordstrom. Nice, large seating area right outside. We will be back!

Love this place! Upscale quick dining well worth the extra money you’ll spend there. Friendly staff and good food.

Oh Nordstrom! Your food is oh so yummy! The marketplace café here at the Columbia Mall location is perfect for a casual meal with a wide selection of food. They do not serve beer or wine here at this location.
My mom and I came in here after seeing that Panera was crowded and smelled unscrupulous. I revealed to her that I was craving a bit of a sweet treat and Nordstrom’s Café upstairs was the place to satisfy it! My mom and I ordered the chicken with avocado sandwich and a delicious red velvet cupcake. The frosting on this cupcake is to die for. It is so freaking yummy!
They are open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 9:30pm and Sunday 11am through 6pm. Please note that they do close for Holidays. This is sad since I would assume that a Thanksgiving dinner here would be remarkable!
Please remember to tip your server!

It has been awhile since I have been here but they always have exceptional service and great food.
The staff was very helpful in helping me select a good meal. I ordered the pasta bolognese at the advice of the hostess. The pasta was cooked perfectly and the sauce had just the right amount of spice.
The waitress was very attentive and I would recommend anyone to stop in during a shopping trip to the mall.

My cousin, my aunt and my mom and I went to the Nordstrom Café while shopping after we went to help deliver food at a senior center in Ellicott City. We never ate there since my cousin and I were little and the food was awesome! I had the bruschetta pizza and my family and I shared Tuscan fries which were amazing!
I live near Annapolis and I hope the Nordstrom in Annapolis Mall still has the café because it is a great place with yummy food!

I have only ordered food here to go. I love the shrimp and arugula salad. It is divine and tasty no matter which location you visit. The grilled shrimp are large & flavorful. The salad also comes with fresh roasted corn.
My review is very shorter than most; but the delicious salad says it all.

A hidden gem in the mall. You must find it and try it.
Grabbed a quick lunch and the cranberry/​turkey sandwich was very good. My co worker had a pear and blue cheese salad and it looked really good too.
I’ll be back!

I wish every Nordstrom Café was as nice as this one. I’ve been to several but none have the variety, selection and just the overall experience this one has. This Nordstrom Café is very large, and has full entrees and gourmet pizzas. They also have specials like roasted chicken with roasted potatoes, grilled steak with asparagus, and even a breakfast menu.
The service here is always excellent, better than a lot of restaurants. Staff is always available, and the service and food always keeps me coming back. I highly recommend this location.

From the oversized (and beautiful) wall lamps and massiveoversized mirror frames to the tall ceilings and buffet line, Nordstrom’s restaurant easily reminds me of a small Las Vegas casino’s dining room. Unlike some restaurants in Vegas, however, the food here is excellent, but not cheap. Stand outs for us were the tomato basil soup and the pasta Bolognese. If you want similar food but wish to save a few bucks, try La Madeline at Columbia Crossing. If you’re at the mall? Honestly, it’s hard to beat. Service? Kind of nonexistent, in that they just bring the food to you, then dissappear. Nonetheless, it’s a really pleasant dining space, great food. Just too doggone pricey. sorry, Nordies.
In a way, though, it’s nice to find a restaurant that’s quiet, and doesn’t have a TV on every wall!

Cut the line if you get it To-​go!
By far the best option in this mall. Skip the food court and grab a roasted veggie panini or another hot sandwich to satisfy your appetite. The sandwiches are large and chips are scrumptious. Enjoy it by the lake on a sunny day, that’s what I did!

I am in love with Nordstrom Café!
Everything about this place is inviting — from the staff who greet you, to the aromas of pizza and soup laid out in front of you and the cozy dining area. It’s hard to believe an eatery such as this is inside of a department store; but then again, it is Nordstrom.
What I really appreciate most about this particular café is that you can see the food in front of you to help (or perhaps hinder) in the decision making process of what to order. I’ve honestly worked my way down the menu a few times over and have not had anything that I wouldn’t recommend. Granted, some items are better than others, but it is all fresh, well made and really comes down to personal preference. My favorites are the Roma Tomato Soup (there’s a reason they’re known for it) and the Grilled Chicken and Strawberry Salad and the Chicken Mozzarella Ciabatta.
As many have mentioned, it can get incredibly busy during the lunch and dinner rush, so be prepared to wait. Think of it as more time to decide what you want to eat! But it’s the great combination of fast-​casual dining and impeccable sit-​down service. This will quickly become a favorite of yours!

If you must eat at the mall, at least get yourself out of the food court and into Nordstrom where the Marketplace Café will make you feel like you are in a wonderful little restaurant far away from the hustle and bustle of frenzied shopping.
Admittedly, if you come at the wrong time (i.e. during lunch), you will inevitably run smack into a long line and the frenzied pace you were trying to escape, but it’s worth it for the food, honestly. I always prefer to go in the late afternoon, after the lunch rush has passed, so I can sit with my lunch companion and just relax.
My friend, Michelle, introduced me to the café, and since then I have been back several times. Yesterday, my mom and I went and I got a shrimp and arugula salad that was absolutely flawless — super fresh, firm, large grilled shrimp (several of them, not just like two. I hate when that happens), and a light dressing. My mom got the Tuscan Chicken entrée and that it was very good — moist and flavorful.
The only star I am taking off is for ambiance since it’s sort of a cafeteria-​style area that gets a little hectic and sometimes can run out of clean tables in time for the next wave of patron. Also — it’s a bit expensive. However, all in all, it’s definitely worth it and definitely the best eating you can get at the Mall.