From May 2006 edition of MetroFamily
Let’s Eat Restaurant Review: Café 501

My mother was always there to wipe away my tears, ease my fears, and have fresh treats for us at all times. Nothing was ever too much for her. Dare I say it? She could put June Cleaver to shame.
 
I decided to treat her to Café 501 so we could spend time together. Timing is very important when you visit to 501. Should you venture in between 11:30am and 1pm, you will likely be greeted by comforting aromas of fresh bread, a line to the door, and a high noise level. This is not the spot for an intimate visit unless you arrive early or dine in the evening.
 
Café 501 offers 57 items on their lunch menu, so try not to get in a hurry when ordering—a difficult task with the dessert case in full view. I loved the #11—the Coyote Chicken Sandwich ($7.79) is a large chicken breast with chipotle mayo, Monteray jack cheese, caramelized onions, and jalapeños on warm focaccia bread served with pasta salad. The sandwich was delicious, but the pasta salad, even with black olives, carrots, red and green peppers, and red onion, was bland.
 
My mom ordered the #13—a Blackened Chicken Sandwich ($7.79). It’s a large blackened chicken breast on a warm French roll with remoulade sauce, Monteray jack cheese, lettuce, and tomato, with a side of pasta salad.
 
Several friends have commented on how much they enjoy the grilled tilapia sandwich, fish tacos, and various salads, so don't overlook those.
 
The sandwiches are large and filling—take some home so you can enjoy dessert. My mom chose a large square of lemon bar ($1.75) and I could not resist a piece of chocolate mousse cake ($2.50). I just had to say, “Mmmm.” It was moist chocolate cake with chocolate mousse between the layers and chocolate icing with chocolate shavings on the outside. This would be a perfect stop for an afternoon pick-me-up. Any excuse will do.
 
Café 501 has the feel of a New York neighborhood bistro with a regular clientele. The good food and delicious smells overcome the noise level for these regular patrons. The staff is helpful—they cleared away plates and got boxes for take home treats, but they didn’t pick up parts of a sandwich that they dropped to the floor. We wondered who would slip on it first.
 
As I write this, it’s almost dinner time and I wish I had some of that warm bread to munch on.
 
Cafe 501
501 S Boulevard, Edmond, 359-1501
Hours: Monday-Friday 10:30am–9pm; Saturday: 10:30am-10pm; Sunday: 9am-2pm
Prices: Lunch $4.29-$8.29; dinner $5.99-$18.99; kids $3.99 and $4.59