Café Rumi

Nestled in the heart of Castro Valley, Café Rumi offers an inviting fusion of Mediterranean and Afghan culinary traditions, crafted with care and served in a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere. This charming café and espresso bar is a must-visit for those craving authentic flavors that transport you to distant shores while remaining perfectly grounded in local warmth and creativity.

At Café Rumi, the menu shines with a diverse array of dishes that cater to both the adventurous eater and those seeking comforting, well-balanced meals. Popular entrees like the Beef and Lamb Gyros — tender, flavorful meats wrapped in soft, gluten-free flatbread if desired — reveal the kitchen’s mastery of traditional spice blends and perfect grilling techniques. The Combo Platter, featuring both eggplant and lamb-beef gyro, offers an ideal way to sample their signature flavors in one hearty meal.

For lighter, fresh options, the Green Salad and Veggie Mediterranean Sandwich provide a crisp, refreshing counterpoint to the richer fare, embracing vibrant seasonal vegetables and house-made sauces. Gluten-free diners will appreciate thoughtfully crafted dishes such as the Saffron Chicken Platter and the Vegetarian Saffron Platter, both beautifully presented with fragrant spices and tender ingredients that celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Beyond savory delights, Café Rumi’s beverage offerings deserve special mention. The Lavender Latte and Nutella Hot Chocolate are indulgent treats, while the Dervish Chai Latte and Spiced Chai Latte showcase expertly blended teas infused with warming spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and fresh ginger. These drinks, served with an option of almond or oat milk, are perfect to savor alongside one of the café’s fresh-baked pastries from a beloved local bakery. The buttery croissants and berry scones, highlighted by guest favorites, linger in the memory not just for their taste but for the comforting feeling of hand-crafted care.

Customers frequently praise Café Rumi’s attentive and warm service, as well as the unique ambiance that blends energetic buzz with intimate, cozy seating areas indoors and outdoors. It’s a space where diverse patrons gather, sparking conversations and sharing the joy of exceptional food and drink. Whether you’re stopping in for a vibrant Mango Smoothie or settling down for the Spiced Chai Lattè, the atmosphere pulses with genuine charm and personality.

One diner shared how the gluten-free chicken wrap, paired with a well-seasoned sauce, converted them into loyal patrons; another admired the saffron chicken platter’s delicate yet rich flavor. The café’s commitment to accommodating dietary preferences, such as gluten-free options for their popular gyros, shows a thoughtful approach to all guests’ needs.

In short, Café Rumi is more than just a Mediterranean and Afghan gyro restaurant — it’s a culinary sanctuary where authentic tastes, artisanal beverages, and heartfelt hospitality come together, creating a dining experience that leaves you both satisfied and eager to return.