Weekly Connections with Brian Lafontaine July 27, 2025
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Rise Café isn’t just a place to grab breakfast or lunch—it’s a whole vibe, y’all. Owners Christina and Titus Bartolotta have infused their Christian values and love for family into every inch of this cozy spot. With two locations in Huntersville and Mooresville, they’ve made it their mission to bring people together over good food and even better company.
The Bartolottas are more than just restaurateurs—they’re community champions. Their foundation, “The Lotta Foundation,” has supported local families in need for years, proving they care about more than just what’s on your plate. Both Christina and Titus studied culinary arts and have worked as chefs, but they bring something extra special to Rise Café: a deep sense of purpose. They want you to leave their restaurant not only full but also feeling a little more connected to your faith, your family, and your community. That warmth and sincerity? You can taste it in every bite.
Oh, honey, the food! There’s just something magical about eggs cooked by someone else, am I right? Rise Café takes breakfast and lunch classics and elevates them with fresh, whole ingredients. It’s like stepping back in time to a diner where cracked eggs and tomato slices were the norm, not the exception.
My go-to is the pan-fried Brussels sprouts with steak and eggs. It’s so good that I honestly can’t bring myself to order anything else—except for the occasional bite of my daughter’s Fiesta Eggs Benedict. Speaking of the benedicts, they’re where Rise Café truly shines. From the classic to the creative, these benedicts are the kind of dishes that make you rethink breakfast altogether. The Fiesta Eggs Benedict, served on corn tortillas instead of an English muffin, is a gluten-sensitive foodie’s dream.
Lunch is just as fantastic. Sure, they’ve got your typical burgers, sandwiches, and salads, but it’s the love and fresh ingredients in every dish that set Rise Café apart. And yes, they even have hot dogs. Whether you’re there for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, there’s something for everyone, and it’s all done with a level of care that makes it feel special.
Now, you know I’m picky when it comes to saying a restaurant is great for healthy eating, but Rise Café has my full approval! It’s simple, delicious food the way God intended. They’ve got gluten-free options galore, including pancakes, waffles, and even burger buns, which means nobody has to miss out.
And can we talk about the veggies? My brunch plate of steak, eggs, tomatoes, and Brussels sprouts was fit-foodie perfection. My family has already decided we’ll be regulars here—and for good reason….they actually have vegetables on the menu!
Rise Café gets everything right: faith, family, community, and, of course, food. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick breakfast or lingering over lunch, you’ll leave with a full belly and a happy heart. Christina and Titus, you’ve outdone yourselves. Awesome job, Rise Café! Keep doing what you’re doing, and we’ll keep coming back for more
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