Nestled between the Phinney Ridge and Ballard neighborhoods, The Ridgeback Cafe (a newish place from the owners of Georgetown's Hangar Cafe) is the kind of family-friendly, cozy crepe haven that's perfect for a leisurely weekend (or weekday) breakfast, or an easygoing lunch or dinner. The Stumptown coffee, modestly priced eats and homey vibes make this a winner.

The menu: Crepes are the star here, and there's nothing delicate about these hearty bundles, stuffed with savory combos of eggs, meat, cheese and veggies ($8-$10) or with fruit and sweet spreads ($5.25-$7.50), or an array of waffles ($7-$8) with similar toppings. Attractive salads ($7.50) and sandwiches ($7.75-$8.25) are also available day and evening.

What to write home about: A favorite at our table was the Hangar crepe ($8.50), liberally packed with Black Forest ham, tomato, eggs, spinach, red onion and Swiss and cheddar cheeses, and topped with dollops of mild Poblano sauce and crème fraîche. It was served with a side of nicely seasoned pan-fried taters. Another favorite: a delectable Nutella and strawberry crepe ($7). And for a lighter appetite, the Mandarin salad (no longer available) was a tangy mélange of fresh spinach, mandarin oranges, chevre and avocado ($7.50).

What to skip: Why order a simple crepe with jam ($5.25), except maybe for a persnickety child, instead of one of the more interesting, filling crepes on offer?

The setting: The exterior is drab, but you walk into a pleasant and bright, large, woodsy-rustic room with a counter bar (wine, beer and espresso drinks are available) and a long family-style table, as well as private seating.

Summing up: Three kinds of crepes (65th St., Hangar, Nutella and Fruit, totaling $26), a Mandarin salad ($7.50), a banana-walnut waffle with maple syrup ($8) and three gingerbread lattes ($7.95) served three people well (with leftovers to take home), and totaled $49.45 (without tax or tip).

Misha Berson: mberson@seattletimes.com