Nettie's Mercantile (formerly Restoration Café)

625 W State St, Rockford, IL 61102, United States
+1 815-977-4361
$$$ Cafe , Coffee shop
(132 Reviews)

Welcome to Nettie's Mercantile, a charming café nestled in the heart of Rockford, IL, at 625 W State St. Formerly known as Restoration Café, this cozy locale is a delightful haven for coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike. With an easy-going vibe, it's the perfect stop for a leisurely brunch or a quick coffee break while exploring the vibrant downtown area.

Nettie's Mercantile offers a menu filled with comforting and affordable options that will surely tantalize your taste buds. Indulge in their selection of delectable treats, such as airy and crunchy biscotti for just $0.75, or the satisfying peanut butter balls at a mere $1.00. For breakfast or a light lunch, you can't go wrong with their flavorful oatmeal varieties like Cinnamon Apple & Raisin or Wild Blueberry, each priced at $2.00. Pair your meal with a delicious bagel smeared with cream cheese for $3.00, or simply sip on their refreshing iced tea or warm hot tea, available for $2.00.

The café’s coffee selections are not to be overlooked. Whether you choose the Cold Brew Coffee or the Fresh Brew Coffee, each cup is a testament to the passion and care put into every brew. Additionally, patrons rave about the unique coffee blends like the "Jamaican Me Crazy" coffee, acclaimed for its irresistible flavor profile that keeps customers coming back for more.

The atmosphere at Nettie's Mercantile is undeniably welcoming. Guests have described the café as clean and homey, adorned with a warm decor that invites you to linger a little longer. Jean Flowers captures this sentiment perfectly, stating it’s "a nice place to sit and enjoy coffee and a bite to eat," making it an ideal spot to catch up with friends, especially during the bustling holiday season.

Reviews from satisfied customers accentuate the café's friendly service, with staff members who genuinely care about your experience. Gloria Heitz fondly remembers the ham and swiss sandwich with potato salad—deliciously crafted and bursting with flavor—paired expertly with a mocha mint iced latte and anniversary cupcakes that add a festive touch to any visit. Bob Freidel's compliment about their homemade slaw reflects the personal touches that make Nettie's a second home for many regulars.

In short, Nettie’s Mercantile is not just a café; it's a culinary experience filled with warmth, satisfaction, and community spirit. The unique charm, exceptional menu, and heartfelt service make it a hidden gem in Rockford that everyone should visit. Stop by to delight in their offerings and leave with your new favorite local haunt!

Service options
Drive-through
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Small plates
Dining options
Dessert
Seating
Payments
Debit cards
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
132 Reviews
Jean Flowers

20 Aug 2025

Nice place to sit and enjoy coffee and a bite to eat. They are very clean here and the staff are very friendly. I would ignore that one bad review that person left..I believe just another person holding a grudge for not getting his way. I saw nothing but a nice clean place.This is a great place to meet up for coffee after doing errands and enjoying the holidays activities downtown . It's a quaint place.

Gloria Heitz

09 Jul 2025

My husband & I ate late lunch there for first time. The staff was so friendly, the atmosphere was decorated with a feeling of home & was clean. The ham & swiss sandwich with the potato salad was very delicious. We were impressed. We normally go by on Saturday but not open that day. This was a Friday & the timing worked out perfect. We also had a mocha mint iced latte & anniversary cupcakes. This food & drink was super too. You deserve a gold star folks!!!

Terrilyn

22 Jun 2025

I love the restoration café. Staff are all amazing and polite. The food is excellent and the Jamaican me crazy coffee blend is worth the trip to downtown Rockford.

Jeremiah Griffin

21 Jun 2025

New manager can make cupcakes that are out of this world. I would post a picture but I ate it so fast I never had a chance. Great to stop in for a quick lunch too.

Rhoda Elders

11 Jun 2025

The staff was so friendly, the atmosphere was decorated with a feeling of home & was clean. The ham & swiss sandwich with the potato salad was very delicious. We were impressed. We normally go by on Saturday but not open that day. I would post a picture but I ate it so fast I never had a chance. Great to stop in for a quick lunch too.

Bob Freidel

04 Jun 2025

Delicious, affordable, friendly, and safe. Great menu. The staff remembers their customers and makes a point to get to know you. One time, I complimented them on their homemade slaw and they sent me home with a bowl of it!

Join the Nettie's Mercantile (formerly Restoration Café) Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.