Le Petite Pedlar

I still like this place, but I have to knock it down a few stars because they have lost the original owner and the original chef and with them, a lot of the inventiveness that went into the soups and stews that they used to serve. The last few times I have been they were serving chicken with rice and a so-​called clam chowder with beans (which was weird). They still offer sandwiches and burritos and the prices are still good, but the soup selection is now rather boring and this cart no longer has the attraction for me that it once did.

It’s so convenient to have a budget friendly place right downstairs IN the building that you occupy most of your working time Monday through Friday.
I love that this little cart has a bunch of little goodies that range from coffee/​teas/​homemade soups that are different each day/​large salads/​pastries/​burritos/​tamales/​sandwiches/​etc. This little cart has almost all that you can think of… except candy but then you can just roam around your office and find that stuff easily anywhere.
I’ve tried the pastries which range anywhere from $ 1-​$ 3, which is typical in downtown. I’ve also had their salads that are pretty large and filled to the brim of ingredients that are fairly fresh considering they are downstairs in our lobby. They didn’t just go pick it and wash it after all. Be realistic. The dressing is good. So far I’ve only had the vinaigrettes for the spinach salads with loads and loads of feta cheese. I think that’s my favorite part of the meal. You even have the option of adding chicken but I like mine plain jane style with just the salad and all its fixings without the meat.
I’ve had the coffee and she makes it just the way I like it. It ranks up there with Starbucks but the cart is closer to me. It’s especially convenient when I don’t want to walk too far as I’m on a short break or I just need a pick me up.
I have to agree with other Unilocalers that there isn’t much vegetarian options but everytime I go downstairs I seem to smell the soup that compels me to go downstairs and it’s always a vegetarian soup. Other than that, there are sandwiches that are vegetarian and the salads have optional chicken. Not too sure what else they could add to to the menu.
The people that run the cart are really nice. The chef is the one serving the soup and he allows you to taste the soup prior to purchasing the soup so you know what you are getting yourself into. I thought that was a nice gesture. I also happen to know that they are trustworthy people that are understanding… if you’ve been in a bind and you passed by to order something, you know what I mean.
I think what’s lacking is more of a place to eat rather than just order and go and maybe more soup since cold days require hot soup and they tend to run out rather quick since the secret is out that this little cart is the place to be.

I agree with Brad and Becca – this is a great option for lunch in Capitol Mall. Also, I would like to see more vegetarian/​vegan options. I have always gotten good service and the price is right.