Great service - friendly and quick Perfect big fluffy pancake Tuna melt was crispy griddled bread Clean bathroom - great sign read more

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I was shocked that it wasn't full on a Sunday night! What a wonderful place to eat- with a full menu of all kinds of food, including really decorative desserts. The service here is quick and kind- kudos to the chefs who nailed my request of soft poached eggs perfectly! The eggs Benedict is my recommendation as far as breakfast goes. The restaurant itself is well lit, and roomy. All in all, I highly recommend this place! read more

Friends Cafe - Eggs Benedict - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

Great restaurant. I felt at home and love the environment and vive. My new favorite restaurant in Tustin! Amazing food.

Rude, they told us to sit anywhere. Other 2 families were sat after we sat down. They were given attention and menus. Didn't get no service. Minutes After they brought us menu, waitress didn't say anything at all and walked away. No one had good service. It was first time going, won't be going back. There was 4-5 waitresses and place was not busy at all, only had two families that were there when we arrived. read more

First time visiting and was surprised that I had been missing out on it. The food, prices and servers are amazing. The only complaint I had was the coffee was very weak so I'll bring my own next time but I will definitely return! read more

I don't usually write reviews like this, but I believe in accountability--especially when it comes to how people in positions of power treat others. Last night, I picked up a pizza for a coworker at this cafe. When I arrived, the employee handed me the pizza, and I stood there awkwardly before asking, "Do I pay?" She replied, "No pay," and gave a small nod. I stood there for a bit longer, still unsure, but she didn't follow up, so I left thinking it was already covered or a system error. Looking back, I think there may have been a language barrier, and this was an honest miscommunication--not me trying to avoid paying. But what happened next is where the real issue lies. About 40 minutes later, the manager came into my workplace and confronted me abruptly, saying I hadn't paid. His tone was intense and completely unprofessional, especially given the context. As a manager, he could have chosen many other routes: - Humor - A calm, respectful conversation - Or even letting it go if the mistake came from his staff But instead, he chose pride. This isn't the first time I've heard of this manager handling things poorly. Others I know have had uncomfortable experiences with him too. There seems to be a pattern of entitlement and rudeness over very small issues. And while this situation may seem minor to some, it still deserves to be addressed. Because when someone in power chooses confrontation over compassion--especially toward women, customers, or neighbors--it leaves a lasting impression. I hope this feedback encourages more care and professionalism moving forward. I'm not looking to stir up drama--just offering awareness. If the manager (or the person who confronted me) sees this, I hope he takes a moment to reflect. Accountability isn't an attack--it's a chance to do better. If he ever wants to have a real conversation or offer a sincere apology, I'm open to that. Until then, I'm simply sharing my experience so others know what kind of energy they may walk into. read more

I've found Friends Cafe of Tustin to be a wonderful family operated local treasure with great food, service, and ambiance. I have enjoyed breakfast there many weekend mornings with up to 10 friends, lunch with my husband on a weekday, and recently a birthday party for 45 guests on Saturday evening. Whatever the day, the time, the meal, or the size of our crowd, Friends Cafe has been delightful. And Friends catered and online takeout menu are terrific, too. Don't pass up the opportunity to enjoy Friends Cafe. read more

The Philly steak was a big sandwhich! It was cheesy, meaty, but I wish the bell peppers and onions were more cooked down. 4/5 The spaghetti and meatballs were okay. The meatballs were big and not dry which was nice but needed a little more seasoning. They were a little bland. The noodles were extra al dente so pretty undercooked sadly. The garlic bread was the best part because of the melted cheese crust. Overall the spaghetti and meatballs were 3/5 read more

Friends Cafe - philly steak and spaghetti and meatballs - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

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This place is fantastic, a local gem . We went there for brunch and it didn't disappoint. The staff was so nice and welcoming, and we were like please come in, sit wherever you want, and we were helped right away. Our hostess, Tracy, was super friendly, made great recommendations and the food was delicious. read more

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Been passing this place to go get my coffee. Then I stopped in and fell in Love with this place! Great food, big portions, friendly and personable service. I can only comment on breakfast but the pancake combo is large enough to share and they also have alcohol! Great friendly no frills place with amazing food! read more

You can tell this place is hoppin on a weekends but during the week there are only a few customers dining in this diner which seats 92! The menu has everything you expect for breakfast-all the American fare plus a couple of Mexican items like chilaquiles and chorizo con huevos. According to my receipt, mine was the 28th ticket of the day at 8am. I ordered the Biscuits and Gravy plate which comes with eggs, hash browns and two meats. This is the right combination for me to test out the food. The eggs were perfectly scrambled like an omelette. The single sausage link was large and skinless, cooked through and golden brown. The bacon was not thick or think but just right and as crispy as i like but others who like flabby will have to request that. The shredded potatoes were perfectly cooked from frozen but not seasoned. The B of the BandG was a real biscuit split in half and griddled. The gravy was just ok. Tasted like a mix or a can, like artificially thickened and glossy. It was not bad, though, so I ate it all. I always wonder why restaurants don't make it from scratch when everything you need is there and it starts with something you pay to throw away (animal fat). The atmosphere and service were 5/5 so I need to come back and try other dishes. read more

Friends Cafe - Biscuit and Gravy - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

Terrific and friendly service. Tasty food. Deducted 1 star for 2 reasons. 1) The 3% credit card service fee, which is hidden on the menu. 2) $4 for 2 slices of white toast with a small helping of preserves? Ridiculous! read more

We go there once a week for breakfast. Today's experience will change that. We arrived about 11:15 waited to get seated about 10 minutes and I then ask the hostess where we were in line she said your next I ask her why the wait since there were 4 empty booths and several empty tables. it took another 10 minutes to order and request water.After another 10 minutes and not getting any water or place settings we left. As much as we liked the restaurant in the past we will go elsewhere. We had a great meal at Benji's. read more

Being around the restaurant industry for more than 15 years visiting local restaurant and receiving the service the food quality I just experienced. If so, disappointing as much as you wanna go to local places and enjoy meal. It's very disappointed to receive the type of service and quality of food that I received at this restaurant. Where do I start? It is probably that is probably not the waitress fault but management. I asked other waitresses for refills and they looked past our table and one even smirked as she passed by and looked the other way. Our food arrived and 5 minutes later we received our utensils. My stake and eggs had completely 0 seasoning retuned it right away, the egg Benedict's sauce 0 comments, burned French toast and we never received our side pancakes and still got charged. Please save yourself some money and dine elsewhere. read more

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This is an amazing little place on 17th. great food at reason price. Service is friendly and prompt read more

Friends Cafe - Mexicali Scramble - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

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I really like this simple restaurant. Prices were good and portions were big. I had the French Toast and it was extremely delicious. Very big inside with plenty of seating. Remember to do random acts of kindness as it will make you feel great Happy Yelping and follow me for more awesome reviews read more

Friends Cafe - French toast breakfast - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

I had high hopes for this cute place, what a disappointment. Waited for 5 minutes to be seated in a half full restaurant that holds maybe 80 people. Busboy brought me my water, I waited another 10 minutes for the only waitress to bring the menu. Order was finally taken, food came out pretty fast but uggghhh. Omelet was ok a little underwhelming, hash browns were barely cooked/raw, and toast was incorrect. I ordered sourdough and got white. I sent hash browns back to get cooked, they burned the outside still leaving inside raw and cold. I won't be back, such a shame read more

Best place in Irvine! Can come here anytime of the day, they have it all and it's all so flavorful. Friendly people there too. Always so welcoming :) I'm obsessed with the shrimp francese and the lasagna... read more

Friends Cafe - Shrimp francese - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

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The morning menu for breakfast was great . The ambiance was pleasant. The staff were all friendly and quick . I would def try this place again read more

Friends Cafe - Deliciousness - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

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This is the best little Café in all of Orange County. they're so friendly and the food is outstanding. The prices are lower here than any place you will ever go. today I ordered the biscuits and gravy. It comes with scrambled eggs, hashbrowns, sausage, and biscuits. I also ordered the breakfast croissant sandwich with ham, and I got the fruit with it. Huge sandwich and a huge amount of fruit. I don't know how they do it for the prices they charge then I ordered the club sandwich. Everything here is so good. I'm ordering on GrubHub and DoorDash from this restaurant and the food lasts me for four days for $46 including tip. Can you believe that?!! read more

Friends Cafe - This is the biscuits and gravy with sausage and biscuits, scrambled eggs, gravy, hashbrowns - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

I had breakfast this morning with some friends and it was great. Later in the day I noticed that I had lost one of my diamond earrings that was set in white gold. I was devastated and thought I would never see my earring again. Nonetheless, I retraced my steps. I went back to Friends Cafe and looked under the booth I sat at. When I inquired, one of the waitresses overheard, and said she found an earring this morning and held it up. It was my missing earring. I tried to tip her and she tried to refuse saying it wasn't necessary. I wanted to cry tears of joy. Yes, there are wonderful, honest people in this world. I will continue to eat at Friends....thank you for your wonderful service! read more

Good food and pleasant ambiance. Took quite awhile to receive our order, but it was a busy day. I will be back l for sure!

Been meeting a friend here last few years 2 three times a month . Traveled a lot last year and did not come as often. time before last ok not great . We had breakfast last Saturday and not good ! I had oatmeal that came like it was instant made with to much water ! milk came in plastic container like ones use by mexican restaurants for to go salsa. which was fine since the bowl was already full of water . Friends bacon not good like usual . Friend owns a restaurant and said bet it is new owner cutting costs ! Sure enough new owners . Going back the end of the month and hope for better review . Ask nice waitress for a recommendation and she says food still great and we let her take bacon off the bill and said we would be back based on what she said ! My friend says she is a great waitress and is telling the truth or she is already looking around for new job ! read more

Was close by with my daughter so we wanted to try this place! We came 1030a Wednesday and there were a good amount of people still here but plenty of room. Pretty large place. My 9 year old go loved her French toast and described her fruit as, "amazing" and elaborated, "It's like fresh", said with a big smile. I couldn't just take her word for it so I tried her French toast, you know to "test" it for her to be safe, and it was delectable (and safe). She ate all the fruit too lol. The country fried steak was cooked perfectly and the gravy was so tasty. The breading wasn't too bad at all, in fact, it was one of the best county fried steaks I've had in a long time. The hash browns were also cooked superbly and after some salt and ketchup it was heavenly! It came with eggs and I did over easy but you can chose how to prepare of course. It's pretty roomy inside and the service was quick and amazing. If we are ever nearby we would return no questions as the other food that came out looked great as well! read more

Friends Cafe - Kids plate with fruit cup and French toast - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

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Super cute family owned diner with excellent service! The menu is extensive and breakfast is served all day. My husband loves the chicken fried steak with hash browns here. The bathrooms are also clean and well stocked. read more

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We have enjoyed our meals at this place, but since the pandemic, it's been a challenge to know what hours the local restaurants are open. Hubby and I were happy to see that Friends Cafe is now open until 3pm. We have had good breakfasts and lunches in the past, so were looking forward to a nice lunch last week. When I saw the Chicken Tostada Salad on the menu, I knew I had to order it. The deep-fried tortilla shell was filled with chicken, mixed greens, Cheddar cheese, sour cream, and tomato. I liked the avocado slices (not guacamole) and that it came with black beans rather than refried beans. Hubby got the Philly cheesesteak sandwich with onion rings. The roll was huge! The service is always great, and we love the large and varied menu. We are on the portly side, so I need to remember to sit at a table. The booths are not as forgiving. read more

Friends Cafe - Humongous Philly cheesesteak sandwich with onion rings - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

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This was an interesting find. I've been to this shopping area numerous times and didn't realize this restaurant/diner was tucked away in here. Food was good, prices were good, a great place to come with friends or even by yourself, they have a counter.. read more

Excellent breakfast gem. So glad we found this place. Great steak and eggs, and pancakes are delicious. Affordably priced and good quality compared to so many others. No frills cafe with good food and service. read more

Got seated right away though the the restaurant was busy. Somebody came to ask for my drink after I got seated comfortably. The waitress said she'd be right with me and she was and took my order promptly. She checked on me during my meal. Love the service. Love the friendly decor. Large clock. "Let's be friends" which goes with the theme of the Cafe. I ordered there Mexicali scramble with chorizo, chili's and cheese. Avocados and sour cream on top, though I ordered mine without the sour cream. I asked for corn tortillas. For the side I had fruit instead of their hash Browns, but their hash browns looked pretty good. Overall, very good and the scramble. Had a nice kick to it. Will definitely come back again to try their other offerings. Still busy when I left with even a wait on a Saturday morning. Please note the credit card surcharge. Most places absorb the cost. If you want to avoid the surcharge just pay in cash. read more

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We went on a Sunday afternoon to a full house. We got eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, and French toast. Pros - everything was really tasty. The French toast was some of the best we had. The bacon wasn't overcooked. The sausages were good too. - friendly waitress - generous portions - reasonably priced Cons - (December 31st) a little cold inside/no heating Overall 8/10 read more

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Great food, excellent service and warm ambience. What more can you ask for? Came here for a company lunch and ordered the PCH sandwich and it was so good I will definitely come back to order it again. Portions were good for the price and everyone is really friendly, hence the name read more

Friends Cafe - Classic look - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

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Using Yelp reviews as our guide, we picked this place to have breakfast / lunch on Veteran's Day 2023. The place was cute as the reviews stated, however the food was average at best and the service was below par. Wifey ordered what was called corned beef and eggs described as corned beef and your choice of hash browns, but what came out was canned corned beef hash. I would have been disappointed but my wife was okay with the canned hash. I ordered the Chili Cheeseburger which specifically says smothered in chili and cheddar on the menu. What I received was a cheeseburger with a spoonful of chili on top. I enjoyed the cheeseburger but i was expecting a lot more chili. As for the service, being Veteran's Day, maybe they were understaffed but there was little to no urgency shown by any of the servers there. Greeting and getting seated was slow. Orders were also taken slowly. Food came out quickly but the follow-up (checking on us and refilling beverages) was lacking. BTW they charge 3% for using a credit card. The place is good just not outstanding. read more

Friends Cafe - Menu states corned beef but what they serve you is canned corned beef hash. Nothing wrong with it but it is misleading. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

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Atmosphere was not great maybe because the lack customers? Food was ok but not great I'll have to try it again at another time to see if it's better. read more

breakfast all day!!! friends cafe is a cute diner with a trendy and modern ambiance. i came for breakfast for dinner and was pleasantly surprised with how extensive the menu is. there are options for everyone with all cravings, including breakfast, burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and pasta. i ordered the friends breakfast combo special with cinnamon french toast, scrambled eggs, and tater tots instead of meat. i was super happy that they were able to accommodate this request! :) the cinnamon roll french toast was so soft and delicious and wasn't overly sweet. i was only able to eat half and took the other half to go so i would say it was a generous portion for only $15. it is a very large and clean space and the plaza it's in has a ton of parking, and this all made the dining experience more convenient and enjoyable. IMPORTANT TO KNOW: there is a 3% surcharge for using credit cards. i didn't know this before paying unfortunately. make sure to bring cash (unless you don't care about the fee). read more

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Cashew chicken salad sandwich. The menu said $13.50, I was charged $16.54. I asked why I was charged $3.00 more and was told because of the bread choice. I was not told there was an additional $3.00 charge for a croissant roll versus a "sqaw" bread. The chicken salad wasn't all that great; it was less than average in taste and quality. In addition, the tip "suggestion" was calculated on top of tax. You don't add tip to tax when calculating the amounts. This cafe is a ripoff! Won't be returning here ever again. read more

Last Sunday my family and I went for breakfast but unfortunately we're discriminated against. We are a Mexican family and waited there for 40 minutes and in those 40 minutes they let 5 white families in. We let the host know we know we were a large group but we were okay splitting up but we still waited. There was an empty large table but unfortunately we did not get serviced as fast as everyone else. Once we were seated they were very slow to tend to us. Our pancakes didn't even arrive on time, everyone had already finished eating and we had to take the pancakes to go. We definitely did not feel welcome. This location needs a lot of service training, we had a horrible experience. We will never return. Do better. read more

We used to go to places like dennys but one night years ago we said we wanted to support small businesses more and decided to try out friends cafe. To put this review short we never went back to dennys because friends cafe is far superior in quality of food, cost vs value, and service. With all those boxes checked why would we ever go anywhere else. I've taken many friends and family here when they're in town for a great bite to eat. I've tried everything from breakfast to sandwiches to dinner entrees and haven't been disappointed. My favorite are the breakfast choices. I'm a big fan of the friends combo breakfast. read more

Food was amazing and large portions!! I had the pancakes and they were delicious. Definitely will return!

Saw the raving reviews, and it's close to my house, so I figured I'd go ahead and give this place a shot. We entered the shop, and we were seated pretty promptly but afterward it took a while to get served. Overall, food experience was also just okay. ITEMS I TRIED: - Mexicali Scramble: got this with egg whites and fruit. It was okay, nothing special. It needed the sour cream to pair with it so it somewhat lacked flavor. It also comes with toast which I got with whole grain, mostly it was typical toast with lots of butter. SERVICE: it was okay, there were several times when the waitress forgot our waters and had to come back twice. I'm not sure if it was just because it was a slower rainy day. PARKING: ample parking in a lot as this place is in a plaza. PRICE: on the pricier side for brunch that's diner-style. Overall, I wasn't too impressed given that the food was just okay and the service was slow. I probably wouldn't come back again just because it's on the pricier side and the food/service was only mediocre. We're in the OC, so there are plenty of options around. read more

Friends Cafe - Mexicali Scramble - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Tustin, California

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Came here for lunch on Saturday and was seated right away. The servers were very nice and attentive to us. We ordered the country fried steak and eggs and the biscuits and gravy. We enjoyed both dishes. The steak was well seasoned and the biscuit and gravy was simple yet delicious. Overall we had a great experience and would come back again in the future. read more