Crystal Smith knew she was tired of having a boss and was ready for something new. So she quit her waitress job and opened a café in Oregon Hill in March 2000. She and husband Ross picked 821 Cary Street for their new dream spot because it was close to their home on Pine Street, only 4 blocks away. They rolled up their sleeves and got to work on the place, giving it a major overhaul and adding wainscoting, AC, and lots of new equipment. After hanging her step father's paintings on the wall, Crystal was ready for action.

With Ross as the main cook and Crystal the lead waitress, they learned by trial and error what customers were looking for. "The café's got a good feeling to it," said Crystal. "It's a comfortable place to come if you're by yourself, too. And everybody is nice. There's nothing cookie-cutter about it." Customers agree. Regulars can be seen each day on their stools at the bar, where all the main action takes place. When asked why they spend all their time and money here, they don't know where to start. "The food is great," said Nathan Motley, "but it's the girls." "Yeah," said Kelley Pollack, "and the best biscuits in town." They even deliver to Oregon Hill for free.

When you see the 821 mural on the Cherry Street side, and the posters by the front door advertising cool events and lost puppies, you know you're about to enter a comfortable place. Then you are enveloped by a darkish room with potted plants in the storefront window and funky paintings on the wall. Exotic dishes with artichokes and provolone are advertised in chalk on the daily board, food the adventurous can order instead of burgers if they want. Veggie and vegan offerings are popular, in addition to the wraps, burgers, subs, omelets, and varied dinner specials. Food ranges from grilled tuna fillets with lime-basil marinade to steak and cheese subs and pancakes. With everything cooked fresh on the spot, you're sure to leave content. "The food's good," said Crystal, "so people keep coming back."

Crystal and Ross have lived in Oregon Hill for over ten years and love the neighborhood. With their kids Zachary and Ryan attending the Circle School down the street and their business close by, they hardly need a car at all. "I love Oregon Hill," said Crystal. "You know all your neighbors. I just feel safe here."