A little red and black (stationary) locomotive engine has been the root of curiosity for generations. Temporarily parked along Bengal Boulevard, pedestrians, drivers, and skaters would tilt a friendly nod during their work and school communities. Now, the little locomotive has been permanently parked along 7146 S. Highland Drive in Cottonwood Heights. Looking closer at the yellow lettering painted along the engine’s cab, the home of the little locomotive can be read. Cottonwood Heights Café has been a staple of the community. 

Cottonwood Café originally opened Jan. 13, 2006 along Bengal Boulevard. Over the years, the café grew in popularity as they offered big plates of quality breakfast food for reasonable pricing. It was a quick walk from school and home for many as it was originally located near a handful of neighborhoods, apartment complexes, Butler Middle School and Brighton High School. This led to the Café having a rather “homey” feeling for many repeat customers.  

In 2014, the locomotive steamed up and moved on over to its current location along Highland Drive. 

Over the past decade, residents have continued to frequent the café and kept business booming for the owners (even though Cottonwood Café did experience some hardships along with many other restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic). It is difficult to imagine a Cottonwood Heights future without Cottonwood Café as many residents feel a kinship with the little engine that could.

When sitting down to eat at the Cottonwood Café, guests may find many different items on the menu. Some of the more popular breakfast items include Blueberry Pancakes, Eggs Benedicts, and a variety of Omelets.

“The Avocado and Feta Omelet” has been praised by resident Anrea Savage. 

Cottonwood Café doesn’t just serve breakfast. They have a variety of lunch items as well including Burgers, Chicken Strips, Sweet Potato Fries, and a Teriyaki Chicken Rice Plate. 

“Gyro omelet!! Yum!” said resident Steve Bullis when asked what his favorite dish was. (Surprisingly for a breakfast place, there are many, many glowing reviews for the gyro.) 

Cottonwood Café is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. But, as one of the more common breakfast spots for Cottonwood Heights residents, Cottonwood Café is open from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Wednesdays through Sundays. 

To visit their website, visit: www.cottonwodheightscafe.netwaiter.com. λ