My experience was great I went to the location in vista the food was delicious I would recommend the restaurant to friends and family.

Bring out those loose pants Jerry, you're getting to black bear diner! I came in for breakfast because cmon... who doesn't love a diner style breakfast?! I had their orange juice... 10/10 amazing! Freshly squeezed. Not any of that bright yellow orange juice from a bottle... it has the pulp and just is so refreshing, it's the perfect go to for a breakfast drink. I haven't had chocolate chip pancakes in honestly, way too long. That was my order for this day. I said bring on the chocolate chip pancakes!! I kid you not, after 10 minutes of ordering or so the food appeared. It was FAST. I was like wait she was JUST here?!, I was so taken back and impressed by the speed of service honestly. They were locked in back there in the kitchen. I have 0 complaints. The food hit the spot. I literally could not find anything to complain about. The pancakes were perfect, absolutely packed with chocolate chips. Super chocolatey and fluffy. Eggs and sausage are pretty standard, but still, no complaints from me. The salty and savory compliment the sweetness from all the chocolate chips. I was stuffed at the end. I finished my plate and had to be rolled out of there like a broken down tire. Phew. Amazing. Hits the spots. Sends you to sleep. Also like mentioned, wear your loose pants because their portions are generous! Parking is in the plaza. Restrooms are in the back left when you enter. They also have a cute gift shop with items as well as their bakery display case. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambiance is just as you would imagine, it's a diner home feel. Cozy and warm.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Chocolate Chip Pancakes (1020 cals.) - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

Not that this is bad, BUT they have all-you-can-eat fish fry on Fridays. However, twice they have run out of it before 7:00! Three hours, and they're out? You would think they have room in their freezer. And that they would plan for it. After all, it on the menu - and it's not a new item. Seems like a scam to me... read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Empty place where the all-you-can-eat fish should be. - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

Our men's group has been meeting here every Wednesday morning for at least 2.5+ years, and there's a reason for that. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The fact that they're opened at 6am is nice, and the breakfast / coffee being delicious is great[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]], but the reason we continue to keep coming here is because of the manager, Manny. For over 2.5 years, Manny has continued to be an exceptional example of what it means to love your job, and love people. Not only does he run a tight ship there, but he is just an all-around joy to encounter, especially that early in the morning. Coming from the service industry myself, he is someone I'd want as the first person you enounter when you walk through the doors. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I would highly recommend this place, not only for the food, and the coffee that Manny selectively chooses since he loves coffee himself, but it's an all-around great place, with plenty of clean space, and exceptionally friendly staff, which I believe comes from the top down.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Manny, you're the man~! read more

Decided to try out this diner since I'm a fan of traditional diners. This place has most of the markers of what I enjoy. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Sat at the counter and enjoyed the buzz of a busy Sunday morning.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]And there is a certain charm to the decor.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Coffee was offered before I got settled in and was served piping hot. Went with their take on a Denver omelette. The portion was massive, though a little on the greasy side. Hash browns were dry, as was the toast. Suggest you ask for butter if you select toast. Though the staff lacked charm that usually is found in a good diner, my experience was pretty good. Cheers! read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Denver Omelette (1140-1450 cal) - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

Took my visiting brother and we both loved the food. Lots of options on the menu and specials. You can even have breakfast all day. Great service, attentive even when it was busy morning. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Clean environment, cute inside[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

We split the grilled chicken taco salad. A huge and delicious salad!The ingredients were refried beans, grilled chicken, onions. Cheese. Jalapenos, lettuce. Purple cabbage, and tomatoes, and avacodos. Came with thousand island dressing and salsa. On the side. Also 2 waters with ice. Forgot to mention the huge taco shell it was served in. Hubby really loved the shell! For the price I think very fair. Huge portion. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It was quiet and peaceful inside.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Very clean.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Friendly people as well. read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

Still offering that good comfort food we sometimes crave at affordable prices. We indulged in the Bear's Choice Breakfast (2 eggs, ham and biscuits) and the Pot Roast Melt, with iced tea and coffee. We both enjoyed our meals. Our server as very nice and checked on us regularly. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Music was great as it was from an old time jukebox box.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Very clean and busy![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

See all

First time at Black Bear Diner and I loved the food! The service was a little spotty (some hit and misses) due to our waitress getting one of the orders wrong, then we had a hard time trying to get her back to the table to tell her about the mistake with the order. I think she tried her best (I don't know her name because she didn't introduce herself with her name) but she seemed to be a bit overwhelmed. My order was: Sweet Cream Pancakes with chicken link and a side of hash -- pancakes were pillow soft and it was all delicious! Overall, the food is undeniably good but the service can use some improvements! read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Sweet Cream Pancakes, chicken link and hash -- yuuumm - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

I just love Black Bear. The friendliness staff, period. Great food, prepared perfectly and presented great. I'm always happy to dine here. The restaurant is deceptively large inside and I've never had more than a couple of minutes to be seated. Antonio is a really good waiter. Patient and accurate. Today I ordered the steak and eggs and got enough food for two meals. Big steak, eggs scrambled just right and hash potatoes galore that were so good I finished the entire plate. I can't say good enough things about Black Bear (that's now 30 years in business). The parking lot is big but usually full. Today I parked on the street about 100 yards away. No problem and shows the popularity of this restaurant. I highly recommend dining here for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Try it out. read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Steak and eggs - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

The mini volcano breakfast was plenty of food. 2 pancakes with a slice of thick cut bacon, egg, and sausage link. The bacon tasted yummy. The pancakes were delicious. My hot cocoa was so good with creamy whipped cream on top. The service was fast and friendly. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The atmosphere was campy and cute with the bear theme.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I will definitely return. Plenty of parking in private lot. read more

See all

Made a visit early in the week after 6 and was able to sit right down. Figured I'd go to the counter area that way didn't have to be a bother for the staff to help them out during a weekday Plus you get to see the inner workings between the the pass as well as delivery which is always interesting. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Restroom was clean enough as pictured.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The stools that you sit on at the counter though they are a bit lacking but they do the job Just hold on as they tend to wobble a little bit.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Onto the service staff always does a great job food comes out pretty quickly I typically try to pick times Not a lot of guests are there to compete with delivery. Went with breakfast option eggs Sausage as well as biscuits and gravy. The biscuits and gravy flavoring has improved and the biscuits were cooked this round well. Gravy flavoring on the biscuit was pretty good as well this time don't forget to include three different types of hot sauce at your table. Sausage was pretty good as well as the scrambled eggs. read more

See all

Stopped in for a country fried steak, service was fast, no wait on a Monday evening for dinner, price was reasonable. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Restaurant was very empty[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]], staff was friendly. Food was good sized and tasted as expected. read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Something less country fried steak - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

Came to Black Bear Diner on Christmas Day and it was the perfect comfort-food stop. If you're looking for generous portions and a reliable, feel-good breakfast, Black Bear Diner is the place to be. read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

See all

Pancakes were amazing, due to the fluffiness and "sweet cream" flavor. Everything else was just mid. I appreciate the large portions--enough for 2 meals. All for about $25. The pancakes alone will have me coming back. read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - "Joe's Hobo Omelette" - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

My family loves coming here! [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's awesome having a restaurant with a cozy, country feel while still being right in the city.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The food is always wholesome and comforting. Definitely recommend Black Bear Diner! read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

See all

Our server was too busy on her phone to refill coffee at our table. She was standing right next to the coffee maker just buried in her phone. I ended up getting up and refilling my own coffee cup. After several minutes on her phone, she eventually got off her phone and came by our table. When we informed her that I had to refill my own coffee and that she shouldn't be on her phone, she didn't care. I advised her I was going to tell her manager and she responded with, "I don't care". Spoke with the manager and he apologized for her behavior and said he'd talk to her. Not sure if she'll care, but the manager made up for her actions by comping my breakfast. Big appreciation to the manager for coming by and speaking with me and making things right. read more

We've been enjoying Black Bear Diner in Torrence for a while now. We've always enjoyed good service while we were there but someone really stands out. Thelma!! We've been with her several times lately and she's amazing! While we were there today it was really busy over lunch. Perhaps they were short staffed? Thelma appeared to be covering a huge part of the restaurant. One word to describe Thelma is Unflappable!! She went from table to table to table non stop with an effortless air about her and always with a smile! Thelma is truly an asset to her company and customers alike! We will always ask for her! read more

We had bad service from our server Lana this morning but the manager handled it and addressed the issue. Everything started out well. Drinks were delivered promptly, our meals came as ordered and kana followed up. She even said that the coffee is brewing but as soon as it's done, I'll refill your cup. Here's where it went sideways. We waited for several minutes after the coffee was ready while kana scrolled on her phone. Frustrated, my husband went up and refilled his own cup, walking next to Kana to do so. Lana then came to our table to ask how everything was. I explained that my husband had to get up to get his own coffee while she was on her phone. When my husband told her she shouldn't be on her phone while she was working, she replied I know. My husband said he was going to let the manager know to which she replied, I don't care! We spoke to the manager who apologized and said he would address the issue. We left a tip directly to the gentleman clearing the tables, who refilled our drinks and brought us a to go box. We hope that Lana will step up and meet the level of service provided by Irene and manny, who unfortunately wasn't working this morning. read more

* I've frequented this establishment many times with friends & family for a tasty & enjoyable experience. * The portion sizes are generous & the service above average. * The prices are good for the quality of the food provided, particularly the steak dinner. * It's an original genre & a good choice if you're Hungry & looking for a relaxing break with friends or family. read more

We had breakfast and everything was delicious! The wait wasn't too long even on a Saturday morning. The staff was friendly and [[HIGHLIGHT]]the environment was nice.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]- I will definitely br back! read more

It's a small location but the staff was kind and greeted us with smiles. Parking was terrible because they share a lot with two other businesses and we went on a Saturday morning. We waited about 15 minutes to be seated. I love the cabin feel of the restaurant. We have visited another location before and this one is newer. We ordered cinnamon rolls French toast build your breakfast, scramble bowl and kids breakfast with bacon, eggs and pancakes. Food was fresh and hot. I would definitely go back. read more

See all

Beware of bugs in your food! There was a smushed bug in my sisters burger. It's honestly so disappointing from this restaurant, we use to enjoy coming here. Definitely not coming back. (Look at the lettuce, bug is in there) read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Bug in food - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

See all

My first time here. It was just ok. The food was not bad, just a bit more mediocre than I was expecting. The coffee is a bit weak as well, didn't even need any creamer for it. The inside of the place is nice though, it has that nice cozy diner feel to it. Service was alright read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Chicken fried steak - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

Nice quiet Monday early morning breakfast with the roomie. We shared the big bacon breakfast and substitutedinner pancakes for the biscuits. It was plenty to share. Coffee was a little strong and bitter, but with a little creamer easily consumed. Mellow vibe for a Monday..Only one cook so food maybe took an extra beat, but not anything that would merit a complaint. read more

Food: Tried the pot roast senior portion with steam broccoli & baked potato explaining I had heard good things - 3 very small pieces of pot roast and the onions & red potatoes were shaved & sliced so small it was almost non existent. Overall: poor flavor; over-cooked broccoli; and the senior serving portion is minuscule which was not what was merchandised and I explained that to Antonio the server. Service: Good although could have been more attentive on checking in on the food served after 10 minutes [[HIGHLIGHT]]Ambiance: Good - it was quiet @ 4pm[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I should have brought my phone to take a picture to illustrate the poor portion serving As for overcooked broccoli - nothing is worse than 3 small mush broccoli floret vegetables Summary: I told Antonio that I'd be willing to try pot roast again but I'll send it back next time if the serving portion is minuscule and the food flavor is poor read more

Wow! How many places can you eat at and rave about amazing biscuits? I have eaten here many times, and have never been disappointed. Today, my son and I came for breakfast. I had the country biscuits and gravy with a side of grits. I am so blown away by these biscuits. My son had the Volcano. He tells me Black Bear has the best pancakes from any cafe we have eaten at. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The staff are great, and the atmosphere is calm and relaxing.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] You can't go wrong eating here. read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Country biscuits and gravy. - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

See all

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Excellent food , nice clean atmosphere.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I enjoy my breakfast. Affordable and large portions. My server Irene, the best of the best, very friendly and cheerful made my vist enjoyable.. highly recommend black bear restaurants here in Torrance for enjoyable and delicious meal.. Thank you. read more

Black Bear Diner is a chain originally from Mount Shasta up in Northern California and currently has a number of locations around LA and Riverside. I would say it's like an upscale Denny's in that there will be fast food and fair prices but quality will not be as good as some smaller local places. They have a giant menu that is filled with all sorts of breakfast classics and the portion sizes are very large. This location has a large free parking lot attached otherwise street parking is also easy to find. We had to wait about 15 minutes for our table our Saturday brunch, but it was quite busy when we arrived. I chose the California Bacon Benedict, which has avocado, thick cut bacon, tomato, and spinach on a traditional English muffin. I will say the eggs were done well and overall, it was very good although I would probably suggest skipping the spinach. We also ordered a waffle for the side and it was very good, but it was quite dense. I wish it was a little bit fluffier. Overall I think it's fair to say Black Bear is a solid four out of five but I would dine here again when in the area. read more

See all

I am reviewing both the food AND the "event" room and the service we received here at Torrance Black Bear. I am also doing a shout out to Nick Thompson who provided his attention to our needs. We used the back room for a 20 person event with food. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The room is spacious and cozy.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Nick asked what our time frames were for ordering and eating. He was polite and fun at the same time. Our food came in a timely manner and was very fresh and delicious, sincerely. When we were done Nick continued to provide service above and beyond until we checked out. We will be back again and again. The photo I have attached is of a screen we were allowed to set up in the back room for our event. read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - We had a slide presentation for our event in the back room of this Torrance Black Bear. They accomodate spacing for this kind of thing. - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

This has been one of my favorite restaurants ever since I first tried it I've been coming here at least once a month, if not more. My whole family loves the food, which makes this even more disappointing to write. Unfortunately, during my last visit, I saw the cashier handling food in a way that really concerned me. He was on his phone just moments before, and then proceeded to put his bare hands directly into a sauce container without wearing gloves and that's how he served the sauce to a customer. I have no idea where his hands had been, and that lack of hygiene was honestly unsettling to witness. This raised serious concerns for me about the cleanliness and food safety practices here. As customers, we trust that proper hygiene standards are being followed especially when it comes to handling food. I hope the management takes this seriously and ensures that staff use gloves and follow proper sanitation practices moving forward. This is important for everyone's health and safety. Please advocate people to wear gloves even if its for a sauce read more

Had to walk out due to how hot and stuffy it was in there. There is no air circulation and I can't imagine sitting like that longer than a few minutes. The employees were super nice about it and I've eaten here before, but it was when it was colder and I sat towards the front door. During my first visit the food was good. It's diner food. read more

See all

Today, was my first time dining at BBD. A friend recommended it. The food was okay. The service left little to be desired. There was no table setting at all when we sat down and ordered, so my friend requested silverware. Our server, IL, returned and set the silverware and napkins on the table and said, "I'm going to leave them here because I am very busy." When she brought the check she never returned, so I paid at the register. My bill was $69.57. Her tip was $5. read more

Thank you for putting Grits back on the menu! That alone is worth another star. And another star for having a good staff of regular servers that have been there for years! Once again, BBD is one of our favorite breakfast spots. 5 stars. read more

Wow!! This is my first time here and most definitely won't be my last ! thank you Kamara , for the great service , also huge thanks to the kitchen staff making the delicious food and those PANCAKES!! Dang!! The best pancakes ! Ambiance is super family vibe and I love the bears and outdoors theme. I definitely escaped to a cabin in the woods. Thanks again read more

Love this place. Love breakfast, love lunch, and love dinner. I take my out of town guests here for breakfast. I pick up Thanksgiving day dinner here as well. I've always had great service and great tasting food. read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Black Bear Diner will always be such a nostalgic place for me.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I first discovered it years ago when I was pregnant one of my coworkers, who isn't from California, told me about it. She said it's really popular where she's from and was surprised to find one here, so of course I had to try it for myself. And Lord behold... it was delicious! From that first visit, I was hooked. I've been going there for years now I've brought friends, family, and even celebrated my birthday there. My go-to is always the chicken avocado club (so good!) and, of course, the banana cream pie it's my guilty pleasure. I always eat one there and take another home. [[HIGHLIGHT]]You can go day or night, and it never disappoints.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's one of those spots that just feels like comfort and good memories every single time.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Our server, Bianca R was very kind and informative about the menu. And she accommodated our every need :3

This was one of our best experiences and black bear, from the hostess, to the waitress, to the gentlemen's picking/cleaning the tables. Our waitress was "Kamara" she was amazing, and professional. Definitely coming back to this location. read more

Top tier favorite breakfast spot to go to in the area. Service is always fast and friendly. One time I was even offered to take my coffee to go which was really nice of him! We also have plenty of leftovers read more

Black Bear Diner Torrance - Diners Near Me - Torrance, California

See all