Shopping center hunger meets its match when you compare the marketplace cafe’s soup and salad combo pricing. You don’t have to settle for a sad food court pretzel when you are walking through Nordstrom. The Nordstrom Marketplace Cafe Menu with Prices is actually more reasonable than you might expect for a department store dining spot.
Most shoppers think they need to leave the mall to find a decent meal. That is simply not true. The cafe offers fresh options that beat fast food, and the cost is often lower than a sit-down restaurant.
Let’s break down exactly what you will pay for your next meal there. We will look at the full menu, portion sizes, and how to order smart.
Nordstrom Marketplace Cafe Menu With Prices
This cafe is not your typical in-store snack bar. It operates like a proper casual restaurant. You order at the counter, but the food quality is much higher than standard mall fare. The menu changes slightly by season, but the core items stay consistent all year.
You will find a mix of protein plates, fresh salads, hearty soups, and grab-and-go items. The pricing structure is designed to compete with fast-casual chains like Panera or Chipotle. However, the ingredient quality often feels a step above.
Current Entree Pricing And Portions
The main dishes are the reason most regulars visit. These are not tiny tasting portions. You get a full plate that will keep you full for hours.
- Chicken Breast Plate – $13.95 (Grilled chicken, seasonal vegetables, and your choice of starch)
- Salmon Fillet – $16.95 (Often the most expensive item, but it includes two sides)
- Beef Tenderloin Plate – $15.50 (Sliced thin, served with a red wine reduction)
- Vegetarian Grain Bowl – $11.95 (Quinoa, roasted chickpeas, and avocado)
- Turkey Meatloaf – $12.50 (A homestyle option with mashed potatoes)
You can add a side salad to any entree for just $2.50 more. That is a solid deal compared to other places. The protein plates are the best value if you are very hungry.
One thing to note is that prices can vary slightly by location. Stores in major cities like New York or San Francisco might charge a dollar more. Suburban locations often stick to the base price list.
Soup Selection And Bowl Sizes
The soup rotation is a big draw for the lunch crowd. They usually offer two or three choices daily. You will often see classic tomato basil, chicken noodle, and a seasonal vegetable option.
- Cup of Soup – $5.95
- Bowl of Soup – $7.50
- Sourdough Bread Bowl – $8.95 (Only available at certain locations)
The soups are made fresh in-house. They do not come from a frozen bag. You can taste the difference in the sodium level, which is noticeably lower than canned versions. The tomato basil is creamy without being too heavy.
If you want the best deal, order the soup and half salad combo. That will cost you around $9.95. It is the sweet spot for a light but satisfying lunch.
Signature Salad Bar And Build Your Own
The salad bar is not a buffet. It is a counter where you pick your greens and toppings. The staff assembles it for you. This keeps the line moving fast.
You have two main choices here. You can pick one of their signature recipes, or you can build your own. The price is the same either way.
- Half Salad – $7.95
- Full Salad – $9.95
- Add Grilled Chicken – $3.50
- Add Shrimp – $4.50
- Add Avocado – $1.75
The signature options include a Cobb salad, a Caesar with grilled chicken, and a seasonal harvest salad with apples and candied walnuts. The build-your-own station has about fifteen toppings. You can load up on vegetables without extra charges.
Be careful with the protein add-ons. They can push a full salad to over fourteen dollars. That is still fair, but it is good to know the total before you pay.
Sandwiches, Paninis, And Hot Pressed Options
The sandwich menu is smaller but well executed. They use good bread that is not soggy. The ingredients are sliced fresh daily.
- Turkey Avocado Sandwich – $10.95
- Caprese Panini – $9.50
- Ham And Swiss Croissant – $9.95
- Grilled Cheese With Tomato Soup – $8.95 (A popular kids meal or light lunch)
Most sandwiches come with a small pickle spear and a bag of chips. You can swap the chips for a side salad for an extra $1.50. The panini press gives the bread a nice crunch that holds up well.
The portions are generous. One sandwich is usually enough for most adults. If you are sharing, you might want to add a cup of soup to the order.
Kids Menu And Smaller Portions
If you have children with you, the cafe has a dedicated kids section. These meals come with a drink and a small treat.
- Grilled Cheese – $5.95
- Buttered Noodles – $4.95
- Chicken Tenders – $6.50
- Mini Turkey Sandwich – $5.95
These portions are actually appropriate for a child under ten. They are not overpriced for the mall environment. The kids meal tray includes fruit or a small cookie.
Parents often grab a kids meal and a cup of soup for themselves. That keeps the total bill under twelve dollars. It is a smart budgeting trick.
Beverages, Coffee, And Specialty Drinks
The drink menu is standard but has a few upgrades. You will find bottled sodas, fresh juices, and a decent coffee program.
- Bottled Soda Or Water – $2.95
- Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice – $4.50
- Drip Coffee (Hot Or Iced) – $2.75
- Espresso Drinks – $4.25 To $5.50
- Kombucha – $4.95
The coffee is from a local roaster in many regions. It is not Starbucks, but it is smoother and less bitter. You can get free refills on drip coffee if you are dining in. That is a nice perk.
They also have a small selection of wine and beer at some locations. These are usually only available after 11 AM. The prices are reasonable, with wine starting around $8.00 per glass.
Desserts And Bakery Items
You cannot skip the dessert case. The bakery items are brought in fresh each morning. They sell out quickly on weekends.
- Chocolate Chip Cookie – $2.50
- Brownie – $3.25
- Cheesecake Slice – $5.95
- Seasonal Fruit Tart – $4.75
- Carrot Cake Slice – $5.50
The cookies are large and chewy. The cheesecake is dense and creamy. If you are watching your budget, the cookie is the best value.
You can also buy a whole cake or pie to take home. These range from $25 to $35. They are perfect for a dinner party if you are already at the mall.
Breakfast Service Hours And Items
Many locations open early for breakfast. This is a hidden gem for commuters. The service starts at 9 AM in most stores.
- Breakfast Sandwich – $6.95 (Egg, cheese, and your choice of meat)
- Oatmeal Bar – $4.50 (Includes brown sugar and dried fruit)
- Yogurt Parfait – $4.95
- Avocado Toast – $7.50
The breakfast menu is not huge, but it covers the basics well. The avocado toast has a good amount of chili flakes and lime. It is not just a bland slice of bread.
Breakfast is served until 11 AM. After that, the menu switches to lunch items only. If you want a late breakfast, arrive before 10:45 to be safe.
Seasonal Specials And Limited Time Offers
The cafe likes to rotate seasonal items. In the fall, you will see butternut squash soup. In the summer, they add a strawberry spinach salad.
These specials are usually priced similar to the regular menu items. They are not marked up just because they are temporary. The seasonal soup is often the same price as the regular soup options.
Keep an eye on the digital menu board for these rotating items. They often sell out by 1 PM on busy shopping days. If you see something you like, order it early.
Payment Methods And Ordering Process
The ordering process is simple. You walk up to the counter, tell the cashier what you want, and pay. There is no table service, but staff will bring your food to you if you are dining in.
You can pay with all major credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. They also accept Nordstrom gift cards. The cafe does not take cash at some urban locations, so have a card ready.
If you are in a hurry, you can order ahead through the Nordstrom app. This is a huge time saver during the holiday season. Your food will be waiting at a designated pickup counter.
Dietary Restrictions And Allergen Info
The cafe is actually quite accommodating for special diets. They have several gluten-free options clearly marked on the menu.
- Gluten-Free Bread Available – No extra charge
- Dairy-Free Soup Options – Usually one daily
- Vegan Protein Bowl – Always available
- Nut-Free Dessert Options – Ask the cashier
If you have a severe allergy, speak to the manager on duty. They can walk you through the prep area to check for cross-contamination. The staff is trained to handle these requests seriously.
You can also request no salt or no oil on your protein. They will cook it fresh for you. This might add five minutes to your wait time, but it is worth it for your health.
Tips For Getting The Best Value
You can save money if you know how to order. Here are some strategies that regular shoppers use.
- Order the soup and half salad combo for under ten dollars.
- Skip the bottled water and ask for a cup of tap water with lemon.
- Use the Nordstrom credit card for rewards points on your purchase.
- Check the app for a “surprise and delight” offer on slow days.
- Share a full salad and an entree between two people.
The combo meals are the best way to keep your total low. The individual items can add up quickly if you are not careful.
Another trick is to ask for the bread that comes with the soup. Some locations will give you a free roll if you ask nicely. It is not on the menu, but it is often available.
Comparison To Other Mall Dining Options
How does this cafe compare to the food court? The price is slightly higher than a burger joint. However, the quality difference is significant.
A meal at the cafe will cost you between $10 and $15. A food court meal will cost between $8 and $12. For just a few dollars more, you get real plates, fresh ingredients, and a quieter seating area.
The cafe also has a more relaxed atmosphere. You do not have to fight for a table near the trash cans. The seating area is cleaner and often has natural light.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions shoppers have about this cafe.
Does Nordstrom Marketplace Cafe take reservations?
No reservations are needed. It is a casual counter-service restaurant. You just walk up and order whenever you are ready.
Can I use a Nordstrom employee discount at the cafe?
Yes, employees get a discount on cafe purchases. The discount is usually around 20 percent, but it varies by location and employment status.
Is the cafe open during all store hours?
Most locations open one hour after the store opens and close one hour before the store closes. Check your local store for exact times.
Are there vegetarian protein options on the menu?
Yes, there is a grain bowl and a black bean burger at some locations. You can also build a salad with tofu if you ask.
Can I order the full menu for takeout?
Yes, everything on the menu is available for takeout. They pack the dressing separately so your salad does not get soggy.
Final Thoughts On Dining Here
The Nordstrom Marketplace Cafe is a reliable spot for a clean meal while shopping. The prices are fair for the quality you receive. You are not paying for fancy table service, but you are also not eating processed junk.
Next time you are at the mall, skip the greasy food court. Walk up to the cafe and try the chicken plate or the harvest salad. Your stomach will thank you, and your wallet will not hate you either.
Just remember to check the seasonal specials board before you order. The regular menu is good, but the limited items are often the best thing they serve.
Go ahead and treat yourself to a nice lunch on your next shopping trip. You deserve better than a sad hot dog from a rotating machine.