We had to wait a little while to be greeted and seated, but staff was hustling and obviously short-staffed. Ambiance was bright and cute. My friend and I shared and loved everything: Chicken Fried Steak - so crispy and tasty with housemade gravy and perfectly fried country potatoes Chilaquiles - delicious with ribeye and green sauce Lemon Ricotta Pancakes - probably the best we've tried because of the Lemon Candy Zest! Pancakes were so fluffy and filling. Had lots of leftovers and my son loved it all too. My BFF said the food looked and tasted like we were at a resort. It's small and narrow inside but there's cozy outdoor seating too. Our server seemed a little stressed but polite. We'll definitely come back! read more

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Let me start by saying we've been here once before and the food was amazing, which is why we chose it to celebrate my mom's 50th birthday today. Unfortunately, a special family milestone turned into a terrible experience. We were a party of 8 with an 11:30 AM reservation. We arrived and were seated quickly on the patio, but that was the only positive part of our visit. We sat for 25 minutes without being greeted by a server, and without even a drop of water brought to the table. My dad finally had to go inside to inform the hostess that we hadn't been helped. When a gentleman finally came out to take our drink order, he made it clear he didn't want to be there. He openly admitted he wasn't sure who was supposed to be helping us, and his attitude only went downhill from there. When my brother took just a few seconds to decide on his drink, the waiter turned to us with evident irritation and said, "If you don't know what you want, I'll come back because I have other tables." He made us feel like a massive inconvenience just for being there-- and showed zero empathy or apology for the massive delay. As a former server of 8 years, I understand the industry. I know the restaurant world can be chaotic, understaffed, and stressful. But a simple, sincere apology goes a long way. If you are serving a large party on a hot patio, bringing out waters is entirely within your control and completely changes the mood. Good communication--like giving us a heads-up that the kitchen or bar is backed up--makes guests patient. Rudeness does not. To make a long story short: after an hour of waiting, we never received our drinks and our food order was never even taken. We finally got up and walked out. We ended up going next door to Papapavlos, where we were treated to excellent, attentive service and great food, all within an hour. Huge thanks to them for turning the day around and giving my mom the 50th birthday celebration she actually deserved! As for this place? We won't be back read more

First the good: Greeted as I entered Staff was very friendly Things to work on Sat a bit waiting to order, (I almost left) Ordered Machaca - meat a bit tough to chew and on the dry side (first time I didn't eat a my food) They took a long time to bring items. I overheard a customer asking for ketchup and Cholula, and finally brought to their table after they had to ask again. Maybe it was an off day. But it was busy. Not sure if I will return ..... Maybe They were quick to bring my tab read more

I went here for brunch with two other friends on Saturday 4th of July. We were able to get a table without a wait. The service was prompt and excellent. We shared three different dishes each was excellently flavored. I would receive this place to anyone who would like to have an affordable good tasting meal. read more

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First Toast in Lodi feels like a modern version of a local diner. The food is elevated and good, though it needed a little bit of salt--probably because they were so packed. The portions are huge; one plate can easily feed two people. We tried the skillet hash with prime rib and a breakfast sandwich that had a nice aioli and handmade sausage. ​For drinks, the mimosas are normal-sized but have a ton of options to modify, including strawberry and orange among over 8 different flavors. We also had a Bloody Mary, but my only note is that if the bacon is burnt, you might as well leave it off the drink. Good spot, just needs a little more attention to the details when it's busy. Staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. We will come back again. read more

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Wonderful customer service! The food was delicious and the portions are huge. We sat outside and it was nice and spacious. We will be returning. read more

First Toast - Original French Toast - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

Went on Mothersday weekend no reservation around 9am was already packed but they had a table for 2 the place is nice with indoor and outdoor seating. We sat outside service was excellent. I got chilaquiles with green sauce as recommended from the waitress. Food was delicious. I will be going back. read more

First Toast - Chilaquiles and original French toast - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

This is must have every time I come here! Got my #favoritedrink #blackberrymargarita @firsttoastlodi #itsfiveoclocksomewhere They many options of breakfast, lunch and drinks. Waitress are very polite and friendly. read more

First Toast - All of our breakfast was delicious! We was all satisfied with all of the plates we got! - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

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Yelp Waitlist review -- skip it. The hostess said they can't adjust wait times on the app, and it isn't synced with their in-house list. I joined the Yelp waitlist and got a text estimating a 15-minute wait. When I arrived and checked in, they added me to their separate list and quoted another 15-20 minutes. read more

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We came on a Sunday and it c was really busy. We were added to the list and we waited for about an hour in the parking lot. There's limited parking as they share it with Pappapavlos so I parked in the street. There are 2 benches out front to wait but the sun does hit you. Tip* I didn't know at the time but you can join the waitlist on Yelp before heading there. It's a nature restaurant so seating is limited but they have a sub room and a patio area that offers more seating. We sat in the sun room which was nice. They have an extensive breakfast menu with some delicious plates. I seen some nice mimosas flights being served around. I opted for the blueberry pancake, chorizo skillet, biscuit and gravy. It also came with a side of toast! It was a feast for the eyes for sure. It was part of their Restaurant Week. Everything was delicious! I really enjoyed the biscuits and gravy. This is a must for brunch or breakfast in Lodi! read more

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This place is amazing! The owners and staff are so friendly and committed to making sure you have a great experience. The vibe of this place is so hip! However, It's not a huge restaurant so you may have a short wait. We came for breakfast on a Sunday at 11am and waited about 15 minutes to be seated. We split the biscuits and gravy which were so delicious. I ordered the chorizo breakfast burrito with no egg add avocado. It came with fresh homemade salsa. It was so good! My husband ordered the chilaquiles which were also delicious. This is our new breakfast spot in Lodi! read more

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If you are a yelp skeptic, this review's for you. This is the reimagined Amor y Paz space that now operates as First Toast and all of the positive things said on here are true! Located in the old Papapavlos space, it is charming, cozy, and clean. The service was excellent and we chatted a bit about their often changing concept. Hopefully this one is here to stay. We ordered breakfast and lunch since we were straddling that brunch line. My husband commented that the strawberry banana pancakes were among the best he's had. Equally true for my generously piled French dip. While we live in Sacramento, we will be back to sample a few more well crafted menu options! read more

First Toast - French dip - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

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I went for a breakfast with my friends was a little bit busy and only one server at that time, I was so impressed how she handle so much, with a smile and apologize for the wait! The food was amazing the caramel latte was incredible, definitely coming back! And great job for that server on 7/7 /26 I'm coming to see you again! read more

We were excited about trying this new place out because we love brunch spots but I was a bit disappointed, the place is nice but way too small, felt tight and crowded. The menu is overpriced and the portions are small. I don't think we will be returning. The food was ok, a bit bland for me, the drinks were good and the bartender was friendly. read more

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This place has an inviting vibe. We were seated right away. Our food came promptly. Free parking. Will definitely be back. Please tip generously. read more

First Toast - Turkey club w/ side salad. - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

Lovely place for brunch. I had Avocado Toast and Hubby enjoyed Chicken Fried Steak. He said it was the best he ever had (and he's in his 70's). Beautiful presentation of food and drinks. Mimosa flight was amazing! Service was attentive and knowledgeable. We'll be back! read more

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Ill just get right to it. The service here was great. The waitress was attentive, friendly, and helpful. The ambience is fantastic. The restaurant is clean and very modern. The only thing that wasnt great was the food. I ordered french toast and my wife had the chilaquiles. Both looked great but were severely lacking flavor. My french toast had a great whipped cream topping and fresh strawberries that were quite tasty. The French toast itself didnt live up to the toppings. It was very bland, lacking any sweetness that I expect in a french toast. I really wanted to like it but it did not meet my expectations. My wifes chilaquiles were lacking flavor as well. She said the steak was well cooked and flavorful but everything else was bland. Lastly this place is very expensive and the prices dont make any sense. My french toast was $18 and steak and eggs were $22. Theres no way 3 pieces of bread should be $18 and steak and eggs only $3 more. I really wanted to like this place but this will for sure be my last visit. read more

First Toast - Original French Toast - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

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Ambiance is high class home. Decorated like a restaurant version of a Pottery Barn magazine We were able to revisit this wonderful restaurant. Chimichurri with steak comes with the entire steak on top. Incredible deal for $17 6/5 Hash came with birria. It's very good, not spicy. The carmelized onions and bell peppers marinade well. 5/5 Tres Leches French Toast 4/5 Excellent crème and berries on top. Wish there were more berries. French toast is just ok. I would recommend the lemon ricotta pancakes. read more

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We absolutely loved this place! Everything we ordered was delicious, but the chili chilies were the standout.Packed with flavor and perfectly prepared. The homemade sausage was incredible too. Best of all, it's completely kid-approved! Great food, great atmosphere, and friendly service. read more

Father's Day breakfast with family..... Place is packed after our arrival 8am Locals w this place very well, but I travelled 45 miles for this wonderful treat. Food was outstanding and weather outside (where we ate) was absolutely amazing 70 degrees at 8 am. Anytime you are going to Lodi California make a stop here for breakfast or lunch !! 5 stars!! read more

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The food is always great and the service is amazing! Alexis always takes good care of us!

This is my 4th time at Amor y Paz, but my first time trying their dinner menu. I started coming back after trying their breakfast/brunch menu back when they were under the name First Toast. I loved it so much I had to bring my friends and family to try it out. They don't have an extensive menu, but I do prefer that. To me this means they focus on the quality of fewer dishes. They started us off with chips and salsa and black beans topped with cotija cheese. The salsa was perfectly spicy with a hint of smokiness. The black beans were a good touch, and a great way to cool down from the salsa. I ordered the green enchiladas, my husband ordered the fajitas. They have good portion sizes and I was very surprised my order came with 3 enchiladas when generally at restaurants you get 2. The chicken was very tender, the salsa verde was delicious, very mild spice level. I had a bite of the fajitas and they were very flavorful. They have a great cocktail menu and offer many non alcoholic options was well. We tried the guava margarita and I had the cucumber lime agua Fresca. Both were very good. I have never had a bad experience here and the employees have always been very friendly. I will continue to recommend this place! read more

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This place was amazing! Great service, clean cute environment, 80's rock playing overhead and the food was delicious. They have a hash skillet with any choice of meat including prime rib. Their chicken fried steak is a ribeye and I ordered Chilaquiles with green sauce or you can choose red sauce. They do use tortilla chips but it still tastes amazing. I added rib eye and avocado. read more

First Toast - Avocado toast - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

We came here for a girls brunch since I've been following them on instagram since they opened and their food looked amazing. We got there around 10 and it was pretty busy inside so they sat us outside which we were totally ok with. There were four of us so we ordered different things so we can taste a little bit of everything. (Chilaquiles verdes, Taquitos, American breakfast, enchiladas rojas) Our favorite was the green chilaquiles and the pancakes. And our least favorite were the enchiladas Rojas, the sauce was a little too sweet for us and a little too thick but still ok. They were pretty busy and you can tell they were short staffed because they kept forgetting stuff we asked for and our pancake never came until we asked for it. but we understood that they were busy. My sister is very picky with her eggs and always asks for them a little burnt and she was so happy that they were just how she likes them. I'm thinking maybe it was the owner that that checked up on us a couple times and apologized for the wait time. It does get pretty busy and loud but still manageable. We definitely would come back and try something else. read more

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I've been here three times, hoping the experience would improve, but unfortunately it hasn't. Today in particular, my friend and I ordered two meals and waited almost an hour for our food. When it finally arrived, it wasn't worth the wait. My portion was smaller than expected, and I ended up getting more food elsewhere afterward. The environment felt chaotic and disorganized. I understand they get busy, but there seems to be a need for better flow and organization. While the food itself is semi-decent, it isn't worth the hassle or wait. Unfortunately, I'd recommend going elsewhere. read more

First Toast - Biscuit and gravy - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

This place is soooo yummy! We planned on going to First Toast, but realized it must've been transformed to this. It's a smaller spot. We went on a Friday morning at 9:30am so there was no crowd. I would imagine it gets crazy busy with a long wait since there are maybe 10 -12 tables. The only reason I gave it 4 stars was because there was only one girl working. She was nice but definitely overwhelmed with all of the customers coming in. It took about 15-20 min to get water and our order in. It was worth the wait. The portions are HUGE. The food was tasty. I got the huevo rancheros, my friend got the birria omelet and my husband got the chilaquiles to go. They loved their food too. read more

First Toast - Huevo rancheros and birria omelet - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

We actually enjoyed having our brunch here for the first time at this location. We receded outside on the enclosed patio, a little bit of a tight fit for sitting, but it was still enjoyable, preventing some of the wind from hitting us. I had their orange, a strawberry mimosa, which was really delicious. Both of our meals were really good. Our server was really friendly, although there were a few times that she would forget to bring two items per our request. So we had to ask another waiter to help us. But overall, the Staffing there was nice. The drinks were delicious as was the food. And this is a well frequent location and a nice little set up on the inside as well. It is located in the downtown of Lodi so the parking is very limited. Most of your parking may be on the street. Reasonable amount spent here for our choice of meal and drinks. We see ourselves having a meal here and some drinks here again. read more

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This is the best brunch place in Lodi - NO CONTEST. Everything on the menu is done to perfection, and everyone has a favorite dish that is so good they get stuck there. Mine has been their tacos. You can get ribeye or battered shrimp and fish tacos, and it is a fight with myself each time as to which way to go. We love eating at the bar - in part because watching Alex create cocktails is a magical experience. Prices cannot be beat for what you get, and we're here at least once a week. It gets slammed on the weekends, but is more than worth the wait! read more

First Toast - Mimosa - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

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I came here on a Saturday morning and it was okay overall. The service was friendly and kind but very slow. It took about 45 minutes to receive our food and when received the orders were cold. The huevos rancheros lacked flavor- very bland. I would not order this dish again. The country potatoes were okay but the hash browns were very tasty- even the next day! Lots of seating outside and inside but not a lot of space between tables. read more

First Toast - Huevos rancheros - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

We did the wait list as they were super busy on a Sunday early afternoon. The Yelp counter said the wait would be 30-40 minutes, but it was an hour and 15 minutes. We waited outside. Thankfully, they had chairs to sit in and it wasn't too cold. Once they called for our party, we were seated at a tiny table. There were 6 of us and we had no elbow room at all. I noticed they had a back indoor patio area with more tables. I asked if we could be seated in the back. The staff moved quickly to accommodate us. We were so thankful, especially since the wait was so long. Chris, was our server. He was quick, friendly and made great menu suggestions. We put our orders in quickly. Our food came out pretty. See photos. Everything was hot and delicious! So was the coffee . Yum. This restaurant was definitely worth the wait and the next time I'm in Lodi I will be sure to visit this friendly, clean and yummy restaurant. Thank you read more

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I was in the area and decided to come here because of the good reviews. When I first walked in I saw that it was a nice cozy restaurant with what seemed like a lot of regulars. The staff was friendly and inviting and they greeted and talked to everyone like they knew them on a personal level. I sat at the bar and my order was taken within minutes. Eggs Benedict is usually my go-to for breakfast/brunch, and I got salad and fruit this time to keep it light. Unfortunately there wasn't anything about it that stood out to me. My yolk wasn't runny, which I love with my poached eggs, and my salad didn't have much variety with just tomatoes. My fruit seemed like it had been sitting out for an hour too. Overall the meal did the job, but not enough for me to justify a 5-star rating. I'm not usually in the Lodi area so probably won't be coming back here. However, this place definitely does the customer service part right and I'd recommend giving it a try. read more

First Toast - Side of fruit - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

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Fabulous service and food.! Albeit pricing was on the higher side it is justified. The portion sizes were generous and presentation was even better. Their water also has infused cucumber. So flavor was great. I would come back. read more

First Toast - Huevos rancheros - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

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What a delicious meal! We thoroughly enjoyed the Hash Skillet (me) and Steak and Eggs (husband). We even ordered a flight of mimosas ( lavender hibiscus, orange, Peach bellini, and pomegranate). Each one was delicious and not overly sweet. The champagne was wonderful! We will definitely return to this location. The sevice was attentive and the restaurant was nicely decorated. A little sad to report that they are changing from a breakfast lunch location to an all-day Mexican restaurant. But the concept sounds good and I know the food will be just as phenomenal. read more

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We made reservations for our party of five, which was a good thing because they were busy. The staff was friendly and attentive, checked in with our party several times. We sat inside but they also have a small patio area. The drinks were good and so was the food. We shared the churro French toast as an appetizer and I had the fish tacos. Everything was fresh and the fish was cooked perfectly. read more

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Really close to five stars. Food was great. Got to try the chicken Fred steak, chilaquiles both with green sauce one with steak one chicken and I think it was their cinnamon French toast (my favorite). The waiter was friendly but it was busy so my drank sat empty for about 10 minutes. The seating is tight but I know that about this location. I'll be back for sure. Top breakfast spot in Lodi if you're looking for more than just the normal run of the mill breakfast. read more

First Toast - Chilaquiles, French toast and chicken fried steak. - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

This spot has had an interesting journey. It originally opened as First Toast, a breakfast/brunch restaurant, then unexpectedly switched to an all-day Mexican concept called Paz y Amor. After only a few months, it transitioned back to breakfast/brunch under the name First Toast. A bit unusual for a fairly new establishment, but we decided to give it a try during the first-ever Lodi Restaurant Week. We ordered the $25 three-course brunch special, which offered several choices. The meal included a starter (yogurt cup or biscuits and gravy), a selected entrée, and a sweet item such as pancakes or French toast. I chose the biscuits and gravy, though unfortunately they were out of gravy, so it was served with a side of jam instead. That was a bit of a disappointment since I was really craving the traditional version. That said, the biscuit itself was fluffy, buttery, and well made--it just would have been much better with gravy. For my entrée, I ordered the Eggs Benedict, which came with two perfectly poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce on an English muffin, served with potatoes and an organic spring mix salad. The Eggs Benedict was very good. The eggs were cooked perfectly, and the hollandaise was nicely balanced. I was pleasantly surprised by the simple salad; the greens were fresh and lightly dressed, making it a nice addition. The hash brown patty was crispy but fairly standard. The sweet course was a classic pancake served with strawberries and vanilla bean whipped cream. The pancake was fluffy and tasty, but the standout was the vanilla bean whipped cream--it was light, flavorful, and elevated the dish. Other items ordered at the table included a Belgian waffle, chorizo hash, and chicken sausage. Everything was enjoyable except for the waffle. While it looked great, it lacked the crisp exterior you'd expect and was instead very soft and cakey, which made it a miss for me. The restaurant is located downtown, next to the popular spot Papapavlo's. There's a parking lot nearby along with ample street parking. The space itself is quite small, but there is outdoor seating available. The décor is casual and inviting, making it a comfortable place for breakfast or brunch. Service was okay, there was a bit of a delay in getting water. But overall, we enjoyed our visit and would return again. read more

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Went for the first time to celebrate a birthday went for brunch. Lovely place sat on the patio their coffee was excellent. Had the meat lovers omelette their omelettes are huge, took half of it home. It was very good would definitely go back. The service was a little slow. read more

First Toast - Meat lover's omelette - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

Went there for my first time. Food was amazing !! Also the drinks ! I left very satisfied with everything . I can also tell the food was fresh !! Compliments to the chef! read more

First Toast - Apple French toast - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

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My friend and I were visiting Lodi and decided to stop in for breakfast on our way out of town. We were promptly greeted and seated. Staff were friendly and attentive. They had a nice selection of options. I opted for the breakfast burrito and my friend had the American breakfast. My burrito was delicious and left me feeling perfectly full. My friend also enjoyed her breakfast. If I lived in the area, I'd likely be back again. read more

First Toast - Breakfast Burrito - Mexican Near Me - Lodi, California

Breakfast Review: First Toast - Downtown Lodi If you're in the mood for a delightful breakfast in Downtown Lodi, First Toast is a must-try. From the moment you walk in, the cozy atmosphere makes it clear that this place is all about comfort and quality. I had the French Toast, and it was absolutely divine. The bread was perfectly toasted, with a rich depth of flavor enhanced by a luxurious vanilla butter that melted into every bite. The hint of sweetness was just right--not overwhelming, but enough to make each forkful feel like a treat. On the side, I paired it with apple chicken sausage, which was the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet--absolutely delicious. My husband went for the "First Meat" omelette, and it didn't disappoint. Packed with rich Gruyère cheese, crispy bacon, savory sausage, and tender prime rib, the flavors blended together in a harmonious way that left him raving. The quality of the ingredients really stood out, and each bite was a flavor explosion. What's even better is the location. First Toast fits right into the vibrant downtown scene, complementing its neighbors like Papapavlos and the charming First Trail Coffee shop. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast or a cozy spot to relax, this place is a perfect addition to the local food scene. Highly recommend! read more