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| - I don't make it to Grand all that often, so when I see the Paisley Violin it's usually on a First Friday when it's packed like a sardine can with cafe-goers mixing, mingling and watching a live band perform on stage.
Imagine my surprise on a recent Friday (not a First Friday) night for a show when there were only 5 or so people there. Once the show wrapped up, it was back to kick ass deep 80s cuts (think Thompson Twins song from Sixteen Candles and Joe Jackson) from RadioNigel.com playing in the background.
The ambiance is a truly metro cafe - something many local coffeehouses are lacking. The feel inside is very bohemian chic with its moody lighting and eclectic look. Random bric-a-brac abounds here - everything from fish tanks to a bird cage, for sale I think. It's more of a European caf / art gallery / live music venue than a coffeehouse. Bathrooms are kind of rough around the edges - if you can hold it, you're better off.
They serve a variety of coffees and tea and light fare like sandwiches, salads - lots of veggie options, btw.
I had the mandarin spiced ice tea with a Venice Violin panini with dried Italian salami, provolone, veggies, pepperocini, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard on a sourdough baguette. Nothing to write home about, but the food was pretty good.
I really dug the vibe at Paisley Violin, I'll be back for sure - just not on a First Friday.
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