Lemon Grove Cafe

4.3 (395 reviews)

ModerateAmerican, Mexican, Greek

Closed • 7:00 am - 3:00 pm

Updated 1 month ago

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Lemon Grove Cafe - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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LEMON GROVE CAFE ATMOSPHERE

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Inside

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Outside

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Casual

Moderate noise

Good for kids

Good for groups

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John A.

We have driven by many times . Today we stopped by and fell in love. The staff very friendly and courteous. Max are server was extremely helpful with his suggestions. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Loved the music and total vibe of a family friendly spot that has plenty of space and options for everyone.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The food was delicious and very home cooked feel. The eggs of the omelette in my opinion were cooked perfectly. I don't know why it took us so long but this is definitely going to be in the rotation and worth the visit. I am very interested in coming here for lunch next time.

Nick P.

Our Airbnb was in Lemon Grove, this was about 4-5 mins away. Free street parking on the right side of the building. I believe there is a parking lot but it might be tight. I ordered the chorizo frittata. It was $17. The food portions were huge. I also ordered a side of scrambled eggs. That's about $4. I can see why people think it's overpriced, but did they forget that the gas price is over $6 in California? The food was pretty decent. Service was okay, not super attentive.

Jade C.

Breakfast for dinner! Food was good. I enjoyed my abc omelet and pancakes. We ordered to go and food was still warm when we got home. My kids enjoyed the pancakes as well. I liked that pancakes came with syrup and a whipped butter. I also liked that the hash browns were crispy on the outside. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Not an upscale restaurant. It's a comfortable vibe, friendly service and great for families.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] It was easy ordering to go and not a very long wait.

Karla A.

Very welcoming coffee shop right at the entrance of Lemon Grove. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Such a lovely vibe inside with great baristas and plenty of space to enjoy your delicious drinks![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Love the monthly/seasonal drinks variety.

Mikey H.

The Lemon Grove Cafe is a gem! It is reminiscent of bygone times when life was simple. Places like this are hard to find! The space used to be the Antique Row cafe. The staff is really friendly! Lots of locals and people who work or live in the area. I really wanted corned beef hash, and LGC didn't disappoint! Home potatoes and yes, pancakes or toast! Pancakes Please!!! I was so happy! Scooter was able to get crinkle fries with his eggs! This is something that is missing at other places! Definitely worth checking out! You get a lot to eat for your money! And again, the service is really friendly!

Corina A.

We came in for breakfast on New Year's Eve early morning. I was surprise that there were only a few other dinners there and no waitlist. [[HIGHLIGHT]]First impression was that it looked dated and could use a refresh on their decor.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Our waiter came by to introduce himself and was super friendly. I ordered the veggie frittata and my dad ordered the chorizo frittata. The hash browns that came with my frittata were probably the best I have ever had. Not greasy and just the right amount of crispness and soft inside. Perfection! My frittata was good but lacked more flavor so of course I added salt and maybe next time I would request cheese for more flavor. Dad said frittata was good but nothing special that made it stand out. The coffee was good and super strong, not weak like other places. The prices were reasonable and nothing too expensive on the menu so it was a good find for breakfast.

Lisa G.

We have driven by this place many times and finally decided to stop by on a Saturday afternoon. Our waitress was very friendly, attentive and helpful. We asked many questions whether food is made in homemade or frozen items just fried up. We avoided all frozen and processed foods on menu. They advertise American, Mexican and Greek Food. Family owned place per waitress. My Husband ordered the rib eye and egg breakfast and I got the chicken souvlaki kabob plate. I love chicken souvlaki so I had to try and put it to the test. The portions were generous and came out fairly quick. They have inside and outside dining. We chose outside patio on this Sunny San Diego day. The rib eye is a a good size but very thin cut slice. It was cooked medium and it was okay. The potatoes were not made extra crispy as he ordered and potatoes were raw in the middle. He is a steak and Eggs breakfast guy and well it didn't wow him. My plate was a good portion. Not sure what kinda dressing was on the Greek salad but it as not my favorite. The Greek salad was kinda sad. Did not look like the Greek salads I am use too. The chicken souvlaki was disappointing. Did not have the seasoning that I have had at other Greek places. It was lacking flavor And the rice was just a chicken flavored rice. The tzatziki sauce did not taste like tzatziki sauce. I make it at home and well something was definitely missing. I set bar high on this place and was disappointed. I know now if not authentic Greek don't expect a lot. Overall it was just okay. It is definitely a neighborhood spot and maybe what we ordered wasn't the best dish to try.

Laura M.

It's a nice little mom&pop breakfast place. I seen that it's a lot more popular with the elderly population. The service was awesome, they were super nice& prompt. The food was just meh. The food was like a no thank you for me. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't my preference. The flavors were more on the safer side, I prefer bolder tastes especially when it comes to chilaquiles. Definitely should add some carne asada or chorizo with it if you guys try it. I tried & gave em a try, but if you're more adventurous, this might not do it for you. Try them out at least once &prove me wrong! Or right. Lol.

Carlos R.

Just left from here and received amazing service from Max and the other employees. The food was bomb!! Ordered was the Seafood Omelette with Jalapeño Sauce on top and that was 11/10! Also it came with Pancakes and Potatoes which were fabulous. Chorizo Breakfast Plate Was Bomb As Well!

Alexis S.

Tucked away in a very busy area in the heart of lemon grove , is a diner with substance. Lemon grove cafe is a family owned establishment with greek roots and a menu the serves the local community. Stepping into the cafe, you are hit with the presence of history and community. The brick interior paying homage to the strength of this cafe, and the lively atmosphere of what a true cafe/diner experience should be. I stayed neutral with the regional cuisine and ordered a corned beef hash dish. Everything Ace'd all marks of breakfast. FLAVOR TECHNIQUE Mastered, but if i had to chose one last meal in this world , it would be the buttered white toast and choice of jam I will be coming back to try the other dishes the cafe has to offer

Randall B.

[[HIGHLIGHT]]The flute of us dropped in about noon and the place was packed.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]This is the local hangout.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] All th food was superb and my eggs were cooked to perfection. Service was excellent and this is just a great local place.

Lisa V.

This café was very welcoming, and it had many road signs and car pictures as decor along the walls. It's a comfortable family diner, and accommodates large parties. I went with my friends and ordered the #3 Egg Skillet that included Italian sausage, bell peppers, mushrooms, and cheese. Toast and jam was also provided on the side, and the portion was huge! I loved my dish, but I had to add more salt to bring out more of the flavors. I'd recommend this spot to anyone who wants grab a quick brunch and enjoys the quirks of a café.

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Review Insights

Victor M.

2 years ago

Excellent food is good. Big portions Services is nice. recommended evening dinner breakfast in the morning family oriented ambience makes you feel comfortable. read more

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Amanda F.

4 years ago

I always enjoy my food here. Even when they are busy, it still feels cozy and always have friendly service. Their portions are large and delicious. I highly recommend. read more

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Raul R.

4 years ago

I have been patronizing the Cafe for years. The food is good and the service is Ok. The issue is access, especially for Handicap folks, like myself. There is only 1 ADA parking spot. Also, if you try to go eat between 8-10 AM Good Luck. Not only is there no parking, the restaurant is full. Good for the business, bad for me. I don't stand very well, for very long. Lunch menu is limited and the Mexican cuisine is not very Mexican. The Greek fare is decent, but very cliché. If you can get there when they open at 7am, you can get a very good breakfast, but as the time get near 8, they get busy and the food gets blah. My personal schedule has changed so I can only drive by time permitting. They need a larger place or at least better parking. read more

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Clint D.

146

5 years ago

I was pleasantly surprised by this great breakfast spot. After being let down so much by the Denny's nearby, my wife I and tried this local place out. Our breakfasts were great as well the service. Definitely will go again. Thanks for being part of the few great restaurants here in Lemon Grove. read more

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Jenelle A.

3 years ago

Me and my family have been coming here for years and have always had a wonderful experience. The service is amazing and the waiters and waitresses are very kind. The food is also very good and comforting. This restaurant has great variety and every type of food is executed well. This is an awesome place to get good greek, Mexican, American, and Breakfast food you really can't go wrong with what you order. I always recommend it for anyone looking for good food and good service. read more

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Shannon F.

2 years ago

such wonderful selection of food choices and aleays delicious the service and staff is always great read more

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Mike K.

102

105

4 years ago

Food was good! First time there and it was a little wait but not to bad. Greek scramble was very tasty and full of gyro meat feta cheese and onions! We will be back read more

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Meli C.

103

5 years ago

(Pre Covid) Came here with family during breakfast and really enjoyed the food and service here. Ordered Corn Beef Hash and it was really good! Portions are quite hearty as well. The Hashbrowns were also super good! I really can't wait to return here! read more

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Mii R.

4 years ago

I like coming here for breakfast. Delicious American style home cooked meal. Friendly staff.

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Vanessa A.

169

5 years ago

We live in Las Vegas and this is our go to spot for breakfast whenever we visit San Diego. Amazing service, excellent food; I can't recommend this place more. We will literally eat here every day even if staying for a week or two. Cute outdoor seating that is perfect for us since we take our pups and they're dog friendly! You won't regret coming here. Awesome mom and pop, greasy spoon style diner. read more

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Shelley C.

Elite 26

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12 years ago

The great thing about this place is how cheap it is. Otherwise it's not that great. The place looks pretty cheap and really old. Outdoors there's a tiny patio to sit with lawn chairs you find from walmart haha. The service was unbearably slow, and the food presentation wasn't that great. The food tasted okay, nothing special. The pancakes probably tasted the best. But I think they use substitute or fake eggs in their scrambled eggs because they tasted bad and were REALLY yellow. Hmm. Come here if you're super hungry for breakfast or brunch or lunch and need something cheap. But the service is slow. read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - In person it looks like the saddest looking bacon and eggs - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Charlotte R.

Elite 26

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10 years ago

How have I not written a review for my favorite Lemon Grove breakfast spot before now? There are only so many sit-down family restaurants in our little city and this is definitely my go-to establishment for a decent breakfast. My favorites are many but if I had to narrow it down, I'd say the country fried steak is hearty and flavorful, and Egg Skillet #1 is really good. You get home fries and two eggs any style with bacon, onion, ham, tomatoes, mushrooms and cheese. The pancakes are also perfect and their hash browns are nice and crispy. Breakfast and lunch is served at all times. I'm a big fan of the Ultimate Club. There can sometimes be a wait on weekend mornings but not too long. I like to bring my two-year-old here because it's family-friendly and they don't mind that he can get a little rambunctious. It's definitely worth a try if you live in the area and don't feel like travelling far for a respectable breakfast. read more

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Mayra R.

198

3 years ago

Love this place . Love that they have American and Mexican breakfast and dinner . Everything here tasted great. Love the staff

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Oyuki V.

3 years ago

Great food and service. The consistency with there food is alway in point. They will never disappoint.

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Shanah C.

Elite 12

640

289

4 years ago

Max is always so friendly! Great service! I have a monthly meeting on their patio and the food is always fast and delicious.

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Stephanie S.

7 years ago

DELICIOUS FOOD FAST SERVICE!! I'm super picky and ordered my burrito special and apologized for being difficult the waitress Maria's response "it's ok you know what you want order it the way you want it." I appreciate that! I can't believe how huge the burrito was and I'm pissed I couldn't finish it cuz it was so tasty! Oh and great oldies playing. I will be back for sure! read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - Chicken asada burrito no Pico de Gallo, sour cream, avocado inside and no sauce on top. YUMMY - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Sebastian R.

Elite 21

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7 years ago

Vegetarians here! We sat outside on a hot California day. It was very relaxing. The food wasnt spectacle. It was very average but the service got it a 4/5 stars. I ordered the veggie omelet and the service was extremly fast. The prices were very average. This mom and pop breakfast stop felt better than an IHOP for sure. This was an alternative to Don's country kitchen in oceanside fyi. read more

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Rafael A.

158

4 years ago

Family friendly, delicious food and excellent place for breakfast/ lunch time. great service

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Rod Jr C.

9 years ago

I've been coming here for years. I always order Corn beef Hash with PANCAKES, Country fried steak, t bone steak and their omelettes (separate visits of course) And not once they disappointed my wife and I. Their customer service is fantastic! They always keep my cups filled which is a pet peeve of mine. I really hate when I run out of water. The ambience is very welcoming home style settings. They always have the AC running which is a plus! Gives zero time for bacteria to grow . I definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for that GO TO place for breakfast and lunch. I haven't been here for dinner so.. yeah. They serve American Mexican Greek dishes maybe more. Please don't hesitate to come through and spend your hard earned money. It's well worth the food and service! Btw COFFEE is just as good as the Starbucks around the corner and they keep their creamers cold. read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - NOM NOM NOM Corn beef hash with extra Corn beef hash pancakes country fried steak coffee - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Jessica N.

Elite 21

155

9 years ago

My boyfriend took me here to get some breakfast. This is a cute little diner that feels home-y. They have a great selection on their menu to choose from in terms of breakfast. The staff was friendly and the amount of food you get is well worth what you pay (which is totally affordable). My boyfriend made a comment how he'd like this to be his go to place every Sunday for breakfast. I don't blame him. This place is worth checking out! On a side note, because of the location (the corner of a busy main street) parking kind of sucks. They have their own lot, which is great but, myself personally I found it difficult to try to get out of the parking lot when we were leaving. read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - Veggie frittata. Didn't realize it would be so huge! Very delicious. - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Rosa V.

7 years ago

Food was good and service was good too. I got the California omelette with mushrooms and onions and I was very happy that they didn't charge me for extra veggies like most places do. Hashbrowns were crispy which I loved. I think I'll give it a 5 star rating once I go back and try a lunch item. Also, portions were huge! Definitely shareable for breakfast. read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - California omelette with added mushrooms and onions - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Jkh D.

110

222

7 years ago

Very good service and I like how they decorate their food. There's this guy who always always smiling and friendly. This guy he even made a new pot of coffee because I like the taste of new/strong coffee and he's okay with that..he did not complain or anything ... I forgot his name but he always wear white shirt and very polite. read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - Porkchop and egg (breakfast special) - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Francine B.

6 years ago

This place is good. Stumbled onto it one day and cant stop coming back. I have ordered several different items always satisfied read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - Farmers Omelete and beans - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Charles J.

3 years ago

Good food. Had the biscuits and grave. Service was very good have been going there a while. Standard fare for a dinner.

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Troy B.

125

7 years ago

A hidden gem! At first when I walked in, I was a little concerned, however when they served up the vegetables soup I knew I hit a jackpot. I ordered the Steak Philly which was delivered on what looks and tastes like a homemade bread roll. My wife ordered a tasty turkey melt that had tasty green chilies and a grilled tomato. If you are looking for a local cafe experience in Lemon Grove...this is the spot. read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - Stake Philly sandwich on a tasty roll! - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Desiree D.

Elite 19

200

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9 years ago

I'm giving 5 stars because of service!! We had an older man serving us at the counter (didn't catch a name) and he was just outstanding. I haven't had service that great in a long time. Food portions here are not as big as some other local places, I would say that is the only downfall. The offer indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a designated lot; the lot is often full but there is street parking available a short walk away. read more

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Stephanie G.

101

7 years ago

This is favorite spot for brunch!!! The food is great the service is great! They have outdoor seating and a very good selection of food items. We come here every weekend and we love the food every time!!! read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - Chorizo frittata. - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Maddi P.

357

138

4 years ago

Perfect family style diner. Had the Denver omelette and my husband has the Cali omelette with pancakes. Will be back, food and service was great!! read more

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Chris G.

7 years ago

Fries disgusting god aweful really bad service just as bad I asked what I as on the gyro she told me what's on the picture I had to go outside and check the picture to see only customer there 1st time there and last check out the picture of the fries update days later still can't get over his bad these fries were read more

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Dallas H.

4 years ago

I Ate There Around 11am Today 5/2/22 & Had The Senior Omelete. Wow that's Some Good Tasting Food & The Service Was Great. I Think My Waitess Name Is Wendy Thank You for comenting on my Smile. read more

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Maritess C.

Elite 25

1027

2102

11967

10 years ago

I came here for breakfast while my cars get oil changes a block away. As we entered, we were greeted by a nice gentleman and told us to sit anywhere. We sat at a booth. I was craving pancakes so I got the pancake combo. It came with two eggs, two pancakes and supposedly two sausages but I got one. I didn't want to bother with the missing sausage. The pancakes were buttermilk. It was moist and thick. It came with a small cup of butter and a container of syrup. Everything was delicious. Service was excellent by our waiter. He kept checking up on us. This place looks like it's family owned. Everyone is friendly. I'd definitely come back for breakfast. They sell other items on their menu. Pretty reasonable prices here. Great place to take your kids and family. read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - My breakfast - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Kathy B.

Elite 26

286

521

8 years ago

The staff here is wonderful and the portions are large, but the food itself is just basic comfort food. It's a good option for breakfast as prices are fair and the menu is fairly extensive. I was hoping to find California style Eggs Benedict (made with turkey instead of Canadian bacon) or chilaquiles on the menu, but sadly they had neither so settled on a combo plate of which the pancakes were tasty and an omelette that was average. read more

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Valentina C.

6 years ago

I've been wanting to try this place for a while now. Constantly drive by since moving to the area a year ago. So glad I made an order to pickup today. My husband and I shared the breakfast burrito and French toast special. Everything was EXTRA DELICIOUS!! The cashier was also super nice - a plus. Recommend stopping by and supporting a local place here in Lemon Grove. Look forward to coming back (: read more

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Zack C.

3 years ago

This is a great cafe! The coffee is flavorful, they have refreshing juice and healthy food. It's a pleasant place to get a coffee or a bite to eat. read more

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Shelley C.

Elite 26

240

249

7 years ago

Have always wanted to stop in and FINALLY did. Well worth the wait!!! Great little dinner with a twist - a little bit American, Greek and Mexican. The breakfast was delicious. We have found our new fav for breakfast. read more

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Shaun D.

4 years ago

We used to love Lemon Grove Cafe. It's a pretty low frills place, but they've been there a long time. Last time we went in, we saw they had a B grade from the health inspector, but we went in anyways because we've been going there for 15 years. The food was mediocre, service wasn't great. And unsurprisingly our tummies saw the results of the B rating when we got home. I had the gyro and chicken souvlaki, and my dad had the fish and chips. Fish portions were small and mostly batter. My souvlaki was delicious, but gyro was bland and greasy. In their current situation, I can't really recommend them. read more

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Sheila C.

Elite 26

864

1020

8 years ago

Great service, good food and convenient location. Went in for breakfast. Steak and eggs were good, the biscuits and gravy OK.

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Boris R.

8 years ago

We were attended right away. They have good food selection. You get a good amount of food at a great price. Food was delicious. Waitress was attentive. I got the gyro and eggs and my girlfriend got the banana and nut pancakes. It was great. read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - Gyro and Eggs (with hash brown and toast). - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Lara Cali Baby C.

7 years ago

Wow amazing flavors..great size of meat with the chicken fried steak ..it taste really good...my first time eating breakfast here read more

Lemon Grove Cafe - Chicken fried stwak, eggs w/cheese, country potatoes, strawberry jam - American Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Reptile E.

6 years ago

Great food and great service. Fast and convenient. Staff is friendly and love this place!

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Page 4 of 10

3521 Lemon Grove Ave
Lemon Grove, CA 91945
Directions
(619) 644-1031
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.lemongrovecafe.net

Full menu

Hours

What time does Lemon Grove Cafe open?

Lemon Grove Cafe opens at 7:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Lemon Grove Cafe close?

Lemon Grove Cafe closes at 8:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Lemon Grove Cafe closes at 3:00 PM on Sunday.

Mon-Sat 7:00 AM - 8:00 PMSun 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Lemon Grove Cafe take credit cards?

Yes, Lemon Grove Cafe takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Lemon Grove Cafe have catering options?

No, Lemon Grove Cafe does not have catering options.

Does Lemon Grove Cafe have a drive thru?

No, Lemon Grove Cafe does not have a drive thru.

Does Lemon Grove Cafe serve alcohol?

Yes, Lemon Grove Cafe serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Indoor Amenities

Does Lemon Grove Cafe allow dogs?

Yes, Lemon Grove Cafe allows dogs.

Does Lemon Grove Cafe have TVs?

Yes, Lemon Grove Cafe has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Lemon Grove Cafe have bike parking?

Yes, Lemon Grove Cafe has bike parking.

Does Lemon Grove Cafe have outdoor seating?

Yes, Lemon Grove Cafe has outdoor seating options.

Does Lemon Grove Cafe have parking?

Yes, Lemon Grove Cafe has parking options. Private Lot Parking, Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Lemon Grove Cafe wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Lemon Grove Cafe is wheelchair accessible.

Does Lemon Grove Cafe have free WiFi?

No, Lemon Grove Cafe does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Family owned business, specializing in American, Greek, and Mexican cuisine. We take pride in sourcing fresh ingredients from local vendors.

History

Established in 2012.

Our local and loyal Lemon Grove family gave us a warm welcome in the year 2012. We are happy and grateful to see families grow and new customers coming back.

More Info

Health Score

Lemon Grove Cafe Reviews in Other Languages

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1 Review

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Del's Hideout

Ordered 2 meat plate with cornbread and Texas toast. The cornbread was nice my Texas toast came out…read moresmooshed but was still tasty. I got pulled pork and the smoked meatloaf. The pulled pork was delicious and the smoked meatloaf had just the right amount of smoke. For sides, I got the bacon, potato salad and the Street corn. I've had both of these sides before and they hit just right each time. I also ordered the bourbon pecan pie to go. This is the first time having the bourbon pecan pie. I did find some shelves in it, which were a little unpleasant, but at least I know that it's real pecans. It does have a strong bourbon flavor so it may not be the best for kids. To drink, I got the guava lemonade. I arrived with my pup and we sat outside. Everybody was super dog friendly. They brought a nice bowl of water for my guy. I ended up taking 2/3 of my meal home because the portions are big enough for two.

Welcome to the hide out! A little tricky to get to, parking is a bit of nightmare fuel... just do…read moreyour best. Plenty of seating Clean rest rooms Very hip/country style vibe. A space for kids to play (toys need some attention, broken slide, and personally think the outdoor toys have been used to the fullest.) Definitely could improve on a nice simple budget. Knocked a star off for safety issues, hygienic and over used items. A small arcade/claw machine area. Full bar Weekly deals We stopped on after a very long day, and felt relief when we walked in. Fresh feeling, welcoming vibe while we were losing our minds with our kids melting down as well from hunger. Extremely tentative fast service, food came out hot and fresh. Our waitress was so amazingly kind, felt like she knew what we were going through with our kids and we were struggling a bit. She offered every possible way to keep our littles happy, so that made us feel very comfortable and just a breathe of relief. A++ on customer service. Food was pretty spot on, kids ate free today with purchased adult meal. Our kids ate every crumb... which is incredibly rare for our kids being so darn picky. They enjoyed it. We shared the 2 ppl plate with the brisket, pulled porked, chicken and sides. Everything was delicious, cornbread was a bit dry imo. But honestly no deal breakers here. Delicious BBQ Great variety Plenty of alcohol Plenty of TVs Great music Great service. We'll be back!! Happy yelpers!!

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The best mac & cheese

Lemon Grove Bistro

The food was very good. The wine suggestions were perfect. The prices were surprisingly reasonable…read morein this climate of price gouging.

Service was amazing…read more We got seated immediately and there was soft jazz which I loved, very calm and welcoming. My friend got the meatloaf I of course had to steal some and it was flavorful and just the right amount of dense without feeling heavy and the other sides paired so well and the seasoning was even through out the dish I got the pasta and I would say we came around 4 pm so this was perfect for after my workout. The pasta was cooked perfectly, the chicken was juicy and well integrated with the pasta sauce didn't feel like the sauce was just sitting on top. The pesto sauce was amazing, definitely tastes homemade and cooked with love. Also the brown butter cake ????? worth every calorie is all I'll say. Will be back !

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Inside: barstools, TVs and swag

Fisherman's Stew

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Dessert with mom

Mastiff Kitchen - La Mesa

Private parking lot, 2 gender-neutral restrooms and space available for large groups…read more We drove down to La Mesa just to check out this place and it was worth it. We ordered the 'That's My Boy' and 'Meet Meat' pizza plus their fries. Their deep dishes were light and crispy. I loved the sweet sauce, jalapeño and ricotta cheese combo on That's My Boy pizza. The Mastiff Fries had a wonderful crispy texture. They are like thinly sliced potato wedges. (Our order is without cilantro which normally comes with it) The staff was super friendly and the restaurant was clean. They did have two tv screens playing the sports channel and had a variety of draft beer options.

Pretty good wings and smash burgers. The fries reminded me of McDonald's fries. None of us were…read morecrazy about about the VERY THICK square pizza-it was hard with entirely too much breading/dough. The service was good-you order at the register and food is then brought to the table. The ambiance is a "bar vibe." *NO military discount. *

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Double Smash Burger

Left is 'That's My Boy' and right is 'Meet Meat'

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Mastiff Fries

Grubz Takeout

I've been here before about a few years back, and I really liked the menu and all the various…read moreoptions that you could choose from. You could literally choose from fried oreos to burgers to sandwiches to whatever your mind concoct...they even make Hot Cheeto nachos! My description of their menu choice doesn't cut it, however I'll post the menu in my pictures so you guys can lose yourselves at their many many choices! Last time I came, I got the waffle bun and that's what I got again this time because breakfast all day is something that you don't play with! It's what I would consider the most ultimate breakfast sandwich for the fact of not only it's size, but the amount of food that it is stacked on top of each other. Two freshly hot waffle buns with a scrambled egg and sausage patty and freshly melted cheddar cheese. And the best part about it is, you can have it for breakfast lunch or dinner or as a little munchy type meal. This place has literally everything that I would want to find at the fair right over here in the college Grove area. Come check this place out and say what's up to Jose and the staff who also provide wonderful friendly and attentive service. It's in the back of the little shopping outlet right beside the laundry mat!

The customer service was very great. I was greeted and they brought me out my order while I waited…read moreoutside. I ordered the pollo asada tots large. It was freshly made. The only thing is it was under seasoned and the red sauce wasn't spicy at all. The sauce also lacked flavor and spice. Hence why I deducted a star. Overall I appreciate the friendliness and quick take out.

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Fried Oreos (4)

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Breakfast Tater

Eureka!

We were seated quickly even when it was the World Cup. The service was friendly and nice. Lots of…read moreTVs around to watch sporting events. Space is Good for a large group for a casual dinner. My sandwich was good with the exception of my bread being EXTRA toasted. It wasn't bad but it wasn't as good. I always eat at eureka because of their drink menu so I'll come back - probably order a different dish lol

Came here on a Monday evening before a concert, and the place was absolutely packed with a 2-hour…read morewait for a table! Luckily, we managed to snag some seats at the bar. If you don't want to wait for a table, they also have a separate bar service line where you can grab drinks and lounge by their outdoor fire pits, which looked super cute and cozy. We just missed happy hour which ends at 6 PM, but since it was Monday, they had a $10 martini special. The espresso martinis seemed to be the crowd favorite, but I opted for a classic gin martini and it hit the spot. The Korean Beef Frachos were pretty good. I wasn't a huge fan of the black beans in the Ahi Tuna Stack. Parking around here is a hassle. Just an FYI for anyone driving. They do not validate if you park in the Trader Joe's structure, so be prepared to pay or look for alternatives.

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Farmer's Table

The food is spot on every time we come no matter the menu offered. The service is wonderful as well…read moreenvironment

Food was amazing. The ambiance and decoration was spectacular. The service was also very homely and…read moremade us feel at home. Thank you to our very pretty server, Liliana!

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Acai Bowl

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Fried Shrimp Calamari

Coin Haus

Such a unique spot where you can play games for free all day on Sunday! Combine that with their…read morehappy hour and you're in for a good time. They have classic arcade games here like Frogger Pong, Super Mario and pinball. There are a few newer games like a version of beer pong, Halo, Mario Kart and 4-person Pacman. We played every game within an hour and felt a bit bored after that. I'd love to see a Dance Dance Revolution game here! The plethora of beers, hard seltzers and ciders on tap looked like an expansive collection. There was something here for everyone. They even had a chocolate espresso martini on tap. I didn't drink but those in my party enjoyed every sip and got a good buzz goin. I love that you can pay for your drink by the ounce and you don't really have to commit to a whole drink if you don't want to. Perfect to taste test everything if that's what you desire. I'll be back in the area when I'm feelin in a fun and drinky mood.

Coin Haus is such a fun concept. They always have something going on, whether it's weekly specials,…read moretrivia nights, or other events that give you a reason to come back. It was a little smaller than I expected, but it's still easy to spend an hour or two here with friends. They also serve food, which I'll have to come back and try another time. Instead of ordering drinks at the bar, you start a tab by leaving your credit card with the cashier. They give you a tap card that lets you pour your own drinks. You can sample just a little or fill up a whole glass. It's completely up to you. They have everything from beer and wine to a few craft cocktails on tap. If you want to try something different, you can swap out your glass and keep exploring. The same tap card also activates all of the arcade games, which I thought was a really cool touch. It makes everything feel connected instead of having to carry around a bunch of tokens or cash. When I visited, they were hosting trivia night. It definitely brought in a crowd. Most of the tables were full, so walking around got a little tight because the space isn't very big. Even so, the atmosphere was lively. It felt like everyone was having a good time. I ended up trying the Cranberry Mule, which I really enjoyed. It was nice being able to pour just the amount I wanted instead of committing to a full drink. Overall, I had a really fun time here. It's a unique spot that gives you something a little different from your typical bar. Once you're ready to leave, you just close out your tab and head home. I'd definitely come back with a group of friends.

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Coin Haus located in La Mesa

Self-serve taps

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Smokey and the Brisket

This place is freaking awesome! Great briskets. Great drinks. Kate and Emily are such awesome…read morepeople's! Knowledgeable on recommendations. Kills on cocktails. Y'all are f'ing awesome!!!

Halle was the best , great service and over all experience. Will definitely come back soon the food…read morewas great

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Bar seating from outside

Brisket Burnt Ends & Jalapeño Mac 'n Cheese

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Our burgers and fries are a match made in heaven!

Key & Cleaver

Locally owned & operated

Free WiFi

Great service and a really good, quality burger. No lettuce or tomato as to block out the taste…read more Two great patties, cheese and grilled onions. Slightly peppery, but well seasoned. The fries may be the best I've had. Crispy but soft inside. $15 for a soft drink, fries and a burger. Great deal. We'll be back. Josh, our waiter, was great. Helpful and informative.

I love this place. I went here for the first time. Seat yourself, laid back vibe with great…read morecocktails. Quality ingredients and the owners are great. I've had the buffalo wings with blue cheese crumbles, the American Burger, the Smash Burger, and the BBQ Burger. All of them were great. The fries are to die for, they normal ones are some rosemary seasoning, but they also have them fried in a beef tallow. Just brought the kids to dine and they enjoyed their food. Street parking only but totally worth it. Oh...they have a happy hour everyday from 3 to 6pm...I believe.

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Best burger in San Diego

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Inside view of tables & bar

Kinchana

The relaxed and friendly atmosphere coupled with retro video games and a comfy couch corner made me…read morefeel at home at Kinchana. I appreciated the ability to customize my menu items based on wide dietary preferences, which I took advantage of by subbing the pork bacon for veggie bacon on my Goth Burger. While waiting for our food, offspring and I played some Fox v Link on the N64, which was a great way to pass the time. Food came fast, and we were generously comped an order of Horchata cream filled churro bites--they were the ideal final sweet morsel to end the meal. Burgers are slim, creative smashburgers, with lots of fun Mexican and Asian influences. The only item that fell slightly flat for me was the Mexican poutine, as the mole wasn't my favorite, but I'm a bit of a mole snob so quickly fixed things by dipping the yummy crinkle fries into ketchup instead. If you like fun retro vibes and delicious, creative smashburgers, then come on over to support this local small biz!

Found Kinchana on IG with happy hour deals! They absolutely have the best vegan chicken wings!…read morerestaurant is a little small but they have a cool play room inside with old video games! Parking is limited but super easy to find on the weekdays. The owner is amazing and always so helpful.

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GOTH TOPIC

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Curry fries

Giardino Neighborhood Cucina

Family-owned & operated

Giardinos is an excellent restaurant. Amazing food and atmosphere. Roberto was so attentive, fun…read moreand his service was impeccable!!! We will definitely go there again. Julie

Celebrated my aniversary there its a beautiful place we order pasta for dinner and it was…read moredelicious. The waiter was super nice and made sure we had all we needed. We even got gifted acake from our waiter for our aniversary we will definitely be back soon.

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Garlic Bread

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Molten Lava Cake

Lido's Italian Foods

Some friends wanted local old school Italian so Lidos it was. We were greeted with a. Email and…read moreseated in the bar area quickly. The lighting was on the bright side but the atmos was old school for sure. I had friends that had never been so the great menu hunt was on. They settled on chicken cacciatore and pasta. They said it was yummy and ticked all the boxes. I had a late lunch so I had The Alps / sausage, meatball, peppers in a red sauce then covered with cheese and baked. So good. Our server was very friendly and kept our ice teas filled which is always a good thing. It photos as my friends and I were having to good a time talking but Lisos is a good solid place.

Ah, Lido's. The name evokes visions of candlelit dinners, flowing Chianti, and the soothing strains…read moreof Italian music in the background. What do you actually get? A gastro-adventure straight to the snack aisle of your nearest convenience store. Let's start with the hors d'oeuvres, or as Lido's likes to call it, "a chef's journey into the heart of the '90s lunchroom." Picture this: a plastic ramekin filled with precisely seven Cheez-It crackers (yes, I counted) and a square of Lunchables cheddar. No garnish. No flair. Just the unapologetic crunch of nostalgia and the slightly sweaty texture of processed cheese. Très magnifique! The waiter presented it with such flourish you'd think he'd just handed us the Mona Lisa of appetizers. "Our finest pairing," he said, without a hint of irony. I half expected him to pull out a Capri Sun and pierce it for us tableside. I politely asked if this was a joke. His response? "That's how we keep it casual here." Casual? Sir, this isn't casual; this is culinary gaslighting. The rest of the meal wasn't even worth salvaging. The breadsticks were cold, the pasta was overcooked and drowning in bland marinara, and the tiramisu was a soggy mess that tasted like someone spilled coffee on a sponge. But honestly, after the snack attack that was the starter, everything else just felt like a backdrop. The only redeeming part of the evening was the exit, where I got to share a knowing, pity-filled glance with another couple clearly wondering if they'd accidentally wandered into the wrong restaurant. In summary, if you're looking for a unique dining experience that will have you laughing, crying, and questioning your life choices all at once, Lido's is your spot. Just be sure to BYOP--Bring Your Own Pepperoni. Apparently, that costs extra. Lido's isn't Italian--it's an insult.

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Family House of Pancakes

First but not the last time we are coming here. Just down the street from my house. Passed by…read morethousands of times. Some of the best places are right under your nose. Ate here for breakfast with the wife and grandkids. Plenty of seating. From big parties to a single person. Family House Of Pancakes can accommodate any size party. Service was diner friendly. Everybody we came in contact with was nice. Didn't wait long for service and food. We came in on a Thursday. The food was delicious. We ordered assorted items. Everything was perfect and everyone was happy. This coming from picky grandkids and wife. Large menu of items to pick from. There is something for different tastes. Support local businesses especially the good ones. Family House Of Pancackes is awesome. Our new regular breakfast spot.

After our church family's Adopt-a-Freeway cleanup, we stopped by Family House of Pancakes for…read morebreakfast, and once again they did not disappoint! The restaurant was busy, which is always a great sign, but the service was still friendly, attentive, and efficient. Our food arrived fresh, hot, and absolutely delicious. My favorite is the Shrimp & Grits with Cajun sausage, and it never disappoints. The shrimp were perfectly seasoned, the grits were creamy and flavorful, and the Cajun sausage added just the right amount of spice. It is hands down one of the best breakfast dishes I've had. Everyone in our group enjoyed their meals, and it's easy to see why this restaurant continues to be one of our favorites. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the consistency is outstanding. Whether you're stopping in after church, bringing your family, or just looking for a great breakfast, Family House of Pancakes is always a wonderful choice. Thank you for another fantastic meal and excellent service. We'll definitely be back! Highly recommended!

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Finding area

Strawberry crepes! My childhood fav!

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Lumberjack

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29 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Deanna M.

3 years ago

If you're willing to overlook a few minor inconveniences for the sake of exceptional food and service , then this hidden gem is the place for you! While the patio and parking situation may leave something to be desired, the delightful dishes served here more than make up for it. Let's start with the patio. The tables are simple but functional, and despite the lack of modern amenities, the overall atmosphere is charming and inviting.The limited parking spaces in the vicinity can make finding a spot a bit tricky, especially during peak hours. However, if you're determined to try their amazing food, don't let the parking situation discourage you. Trust me, it's well worth the effort! Prepare to have your taste buds taken on an extraordinary journey! Each bite is a symphony of flavors meticulously crafted with the freshest ingredients.I highly recommend trying their carne asada plate, which left us absolutely speechless! Their passion for delivering outstanding service is evident in every interaction, making you feel like a valued guest. read more

Samantha C.

Elite 18

242

308

2 years ago

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Lemon Grove Cafe and trying their chorizo omelette. I have to say, it was one of the best omelettes I have ever had. First of all, the atmosphere of the cafe was warm and welcoming. The staff were friendly and attentive, making my dining experience even more enjoyable. As soon as I saw the chorizo omelette on the menu, I knew I had to try it. When the omelette arrived at my table, I was impressed by the generous portion size. The omelette was filled with chunks of flavorful chorizo, perfectly cooked eggs, and a mix of vegetables. The presentation was also beautiful, with a sprinkling of herbs on top. The first bite was a burst of flavors in my mouth. The chorizo added a delicious smokiness to the dish, while the vegetables provided a nice crunch. The eggs were cooked to perfection, fluffy and moist! read more

April A.

12 years ago

This place is AMAZING. Its somewhat hidden and hard to find, its right across from starbucks (on the other side of the street). The Gyro Plate is so delicious and tender. The waitresses are all very kind. I never knew of them, as they just came here about a year ago. For Lemon Grove, i wouldn't expect such a nice and well kept spot. So happy they are here. Will be having lunch here regularly. The restaurant is very big also. read more

Ellen C.

11 years ago

Found this place after the other local place I use to eat shut down and it seems many the other regulars from the old haunt have chose to do the same. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting with a decent size diverse menu. My breakfast is always hot and coffee cup is kept full prices are reasonable and portions are not huge but far from skimpy. Definitely my new place for breakfast in Lemon Grove. read more

Sal R.

124

1 year ago

Unfortunately, I have to retract the attached review. When I checked in, the App had this place as the closest restaurant. As it turned out, these restaurants are named similarly and about 500'ft apart (Caddy corner from each other). One is Lemon Grove Cafe, thr other is Lemon Grove Bistro. The review I wrote was for the Bistro. I have another review for the Cafe. Both good restaurants. read more

Keith M.

9 years ago

Great service! And Food was great for the most part! the only reason why I'm giving it 4 stars it's because I ordered their seafood omelette and was disappointed with the seafood aspect of it; the omelet had something like 3 shrimps and the rest was all imitation crab. The sauce,side, and pancakes were all good- I will definety come back and try more things, but probably not that dish. read more

Possum C.

2 years ago

Everything about this place has been graced by humanity's urgency of success and ambition. This cafe is absolutely the most wonderful best cafe in all of the west coast and dare I say in the entire united states. In all my years of living i have never experienced such an experience as wonderful as dinning in this wonderful place. A small little piece of heaven on earth. read more

Martha W.

2 years ago

The ultimate weekend destination, serving up an eclectic menu of brunch favorites with a creative twist. The pancakes are fluffy and come with a variety of unique toppings, while the avocado toast is elevated with the addition of poached eggs and spicy salsa. The lively atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to unwind with friends or family." read more

Reviewer V.

8 years ago

First time here and my husband and I liked it. So oldschool and homelike. The waitress Flor was very attentive we had never had this much attention at a restaurant. The food was good we were here for breakfast but they serve mexican, greek and american. They have parking on the side also street parking. read more

Marva S.

4 months ago

Welcoming arms invite you to each table when you are seated. Wendy, my server, really has such gracious hospitality skills, making the food taste 10 times better! I especially liked the kaleidoscope of colors on the upholstery--giving me the sense of traveling on Route 66, across state lines, too! read more

Gabe H.

7 years ago

Popped in because I was craving something made fresh and this place definitely came through I got the classic burger and couldn't have made it better myself if your hungry and don't know what to get go here they will definitely satisfy you stomach! read more

Bernadette R.

12 years ago

Oh my gosh, hadn't been here in years. they have new owners and believe me this cafe is thee best! Service and food is thee bet! Had thee best breakfast, everything was good and price was reasonable! Must take your family here! read more

Nancy O.

13 years ago

This place is so GOOOOOOOOD. Prices are very reasonable. Great for a family event. The service is great. Mirium is very attentive. You most defenatly have to check it out. Five stars for sure.... read more

Dave E.

12 years ago

I always enjoy the good food and service here. The servers are always very attentive and friendly and the food is close to home-made. The prices are very good as well. I highly recommend them. read more

Finn G.

9 years ago

The food is delicious and made to order. The service is fast and the prices are affordable. The only reason I chose 4 stars is because the place looks old and needs an update. read more