Visiting consistent, nostalgic places allows locals to step back into a more familiar time, providing a reprise from our ever-changing community. For those who have lived in Union City and nearby areas for a long time, Baldie’s Cafe has been one of these places for over 35 years.
Over the past decade, the Tri-City restaurant scene has evolved into something so unique but at the same time, practically unrecognizable to that of a few decades ago. Many longtime beloved restaurants have gone, while newer favorites with hopes to become staples have arrived. It is places like Baldie’s Cafe that keep the scene balanced, a place of old memories and new.
Upon walking through the clear glass door, guests are quickly greeted by a warm and friendly staff. On the table are all the typical condiments found in a casual restaurant, with one that stands out: Heinz Ketchup. Sure, this doesn’t sound like that big of a deal, but with so many restaurants switching to a generic brand due to cost, it has become a welcome sight.
The walls are decorated with pictures from back in the day; Elvis, The Three Stooges, and the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge, to name a few. Counter service is available, and lightning fast. Most of the tables are booth style, with well-maintained and comfy seating. Gossipers and introverts alike will love the mostly hidden table in the front corner of the restaurant, often available upon request.
Familiar faces of many regulars greet each other, and the owner greets most by first name.The crowd is diverse; a table of young college students at one table, an elderly couple at the next, while single diners of different ethnic backgrounds can be seen sitting at the counter. A live visual that has good ambiance and even better food is an amenity that brings people together.
The menu is quite expansive with an option for every taste. In addition to offering all of the typical diner fare, multiple daily dinner specials are available Sunday to Saturday, varying from seafood and steak, to chicken dishes with greek flair, along with all-too-rare find: year-round corned beef and cabbage. Younger diners might enjoy the more modern offerings of grilled salmon or short ribs, while the more seasoned crowd might enjoy the liver & onions or a Coulotte steak.
The steak offerings are always impressive. In addition to being simply delicious, the outer surface is adorned with beautiful, crosshatch grill marks. These days, it is becoming all-too-common for steaks to be cooked using a flat-top griddle, but at Baldie’s, tradition rules.
Delicious food, fantastic service, and a gentle price point makes for an experience enjoyed by many. In this ever-changing community, it is clear that Baldie’s has found its place.
This article was not prepared by, nor endorsed by Baldie’s cafe.
Baldie’s Cafe
2649 Decoto Rd., Union City
Sunday-Wednesday: 8am – 8pm
Thursday-Saturday: 8am – 9pm
