Located in Cathedral City CA. I was hungry and didn't know the area. Naturally, I checked my Yelp app out and looked for something close. That brought me here. This cafe is named Michael's Cafe, but could easily been named Marilyn's Cafe because of all the Marilyn Monroe decor. This place is plastered with Marilyn from posters, framed art, to collectible dishes. Even Marilyn's Playboy cover shot is on the wall I thought that the service here was great. It is one of those places that prides themselves on customer service. Was greeted by most employees, service with a smile, and a little small talk with the waitress. Food is ordered and comes out pretty quick too. The menu consist of your basic diner, cafe, or Denny/IHOP type food. The difference is that you have that home cooked meal feel. I had the turkey burger with a bowl of chili. The turkey burger was a bit dry and the bun extra crunchy. I actually like it like this so it was good. The chili is was also good. Just wished it had more meat and less beans. Overall portions and prices is decent. Just a side note: There's signage all over this place to turn your phone off. When I say all over the place, I mean at every single table/booth. Not sure the true reason for this, but they say it's out of respect for the other patrons. I followed the rules after I sneaked my check in. read more

Friends recommended this place and accompanied us. They though it was excellent. I beg to differ. First of all, 8 zillion pix of Marilyn Monroe around the place. That was strange. Then the friends kept saying that they overcook everything, and that to get something medium you have to order rare. (Why were they recommending this place? I'm a medium-rare guy and they are already telling me I'm gonna be disappointed!) I forgot what the table had, but I ordered a cafe staple to see if they could execute it decently: grilled cheese on sourdough with bacon-medium. What came? The sourdough was fine, but the cheese wasn't a real cheddar slice (it was that fake processed cheddar crap that melts into what looks like orange thickened oil). The bacon? Medium? Nope, my friends were right. It was cooked WELL past well-done. Fries were ok. Service was fine. Waitress was familiar to my friends. Crowd there was "suspect". Virtually everyone was over 65. Weird for the late summer, because during that season, one usually sees locals of ALL ages in places like this. You know, Don and Sweet Sue's down the street ALWAYS does breakfast and lunch PERFECTLY. This place? I won't be going back. It's mediocre, and I'm really not THAT crazy about Marilyn Monroe. read more

2 Stars I only question the over priced specials by $3 a plate everything else looked reasonably priced. No Wi-Fi not my cup of tea! read more

A terrific breakfast/lunch place. The owner is preoccupied with Marilyn Monroe and the decor shows it. Staff goes out of their way to make you feel welcome and as if you are dining with family. The chili - cheese omelette is the best in the Coachella Valley. French dip sandwiches made with freshly braised brisket are amazing. The Michael's Omelette with spinach, mushrooms, and American cheese will put a smile on the face of both meat eaters and meat-freers. read more

Michael's Cafe - Note Marilyn in the background photos. - American Near Me - Cathedral City, California

This review is for the last two visits. Previously, I went for breakfast and was treated to rare basted eggs. I sent them back for more work, but the experience was pretty mediocre. The next (and last) visit started and ended with the busboy pouring coffee and waiting for a server. None stopped at my table although I sat for 10 minutes and no one was curious what I was doing there! Finally, I got up and went to pay for the coffee. The counterman comped the coffee, but never inquired whether I enjoyed my breakfast or anything about my experience. Obviously, management isn't involved anymore and the decline of a once great diner has begun. I hope management reads this because I wish them well, but I will go on to other places that value their customers more. read more

We were looking for a place to to take the boys before our game without having to eat fast food. Michael's Cafe was just what were looking for within walking distance from our hotel. One thing to be aware of before you come in here is that Marilyn Monroe is everywhere, and I mean everywhere. I went to use the bathroom and there she was, staring at me. I almost had a case of stage fright. Anyway, this place is somewhat reminiscent of something between a 50's diner and a small town cafe. We went in with a group of 15 and most of us bellied up to the counter while others were strewed around the restaurant. The menu offers many options however I decided to keep it basic and went with a BLT. The bacon was piled high and the tomatoes and lettuce were fresh. The sandwich was served with fries and a crunchy garlic dill pickle. As I said, simple but very good. The service was decent with the exception of a couple messed up orders.....nothing major however. They were friendly and quick to serve. Price here was reasonable. For three of us, it was around $30. read more

Hole in the wall kind of diner. Breakfast and lunch only. Good food at good prices. Nice alternative to places like IHOP and Denny's. They have plenty of Elvis and Marilyn Monroe memorabilia on the walls, if you're into that sort of thing. If you're looking for a simple breakfast spot with simple breakfast food, this is that kind of place. read more

Another joint that is successful in spite of itself. Location, location, location. Been there a few times. Nothing special. Quick in and out. BUT TODAY was nuts! Had a reuben sandwish and the pastrami was black, BLACK around the edges and was advised they had changed vendors because the prior vendor had complaints about it being too fatty. Don't they know what they order? Moving on...my guest had biscuits and gravy and emphasized that the bacon should be extra crisp. Not to be had. Sent back and the next go around was fine. I could only stand eating half the sandwich and the busboy took the plate over to "Michael.' (I assume to point out why it wasn't eaten.) Check in hand I walked over and before I could say anything Michael spouts off with "everytime you're here you complain!" (Where did that come from..I told him i've never complained.) He then volunteered, "..and there was nothing wrong with the bacon." He served plenty of rudeness and must have had a bad day at the ATM. Seriously folks, I've dined all over the world over the years and have never been treated in such an inexcusable way. This wayward owner wont be seeing our money again. MM would be turning over in her grave. read more

One of the best club sandwiches ever. Reuben was amazing as well. Oasis of decent, well priced grub in the desert. read more

Michael's Cafe - Ruben. - American Near Me - Cathedral City, California

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Loved the biscuits & gravy!! Michael's, should be called Marilyn's, it is a cute and small old fashioned cafe. The whole place is covered in Marilyn Monroe memorabilia, they even have T.V.'s showing her movies, last time we were there we watched Niagara while we had breakfast. The Owner was very nice and chatted with us about her summer plans in Rosarito,MX, and our waitress was very pleasant. The food is down home, quick & tasty. Our usual breakfast is pretty simple, eggs, potatoes, bacon or sausage and toast. We do have to mention their amazing biscuits & gravy, absolutely the best in our area, hands down. It's not the fanciest, or the most grand of menus, but it is fresh, fast and Delicious. If you are in the area and find yourself hungry for some home-style cooking, we definitely recommend Michael's. read more

Been here many times and always like the place. The waitresses are nice, service fast. I asked why there were signs saying we can't use our phone(the signs are everywhere) and was told many over abuse the phones while eating disturbing others. Amen! I couldn't agree more- simply going in social media or reading the news is fine. Do think there's a few to many signs tho. Always ordered simple breakfast fare, which was prepared well. Do wanna try the salmi and cheese omelet next time. read more

Pretty good breakfast place. Lots of items to choose from on the menu. Prices are avg. Food came out fast. I'd come back. read more

Michael's Cafe - Marilyn Monroe is everywhere! - American Near Me - Cathedral City, California

First visit there and overall it was an average experience. We went for Sunday lunch. It was definitely a mistake to miss out on the inside ambience of the Marilyn Monroe memorabilia in favor of the outdoor seating with the picturesque view of the Parking Lot and Palm Canyon drive. And without any operating fans, the flies were more plentiful than usual. Service was friendly but a bit on the slow side (only one person working the outdoor area along with many indoor tables I imagine so I blame more the management on that one). The busboy also couldn't keep up with our water demands so my partner kept on stealing my water when my head was turned. As for the food, I opted for lunch. The teriyaki burger with seasoned fries was advertised as wonderful and popular, which factored into my decision to try something a bit unique instead of something I could make myself and unfortunately, I found it to be semi-tasty but way to soggy and difficult to eat. Adding the swiss cheese and mushrooms just added to the mess. The seasoned fries were above average so a star is dedicated just for them. The salad portions (which someone else ordered) are good and plentiful so consider that option if you like to have an extra meal for another time but order your dressing on the side. I'd try the breakfast next time as it seemed to have some nice options, but I will only come back on someone else's suggestion. read more

This place is awesome. A little blast from the past with photos of 50's era celebrities all over, especially Marilyn Monroe. Food was great and coffee was great too! I got a Bloody Mary and it was only $4. It's cheap and delicious and has a great atmosphere. Service was really good and I never had an empty cup! I highly recommend! read more

My wife hated it and I loved it. She got the ham and eggs and she said that the ham tasted funny and that they ruined the hash browns with green bell peppers. Her sourdough toast was barely toasted. I asked for the special, a gigantic biscuits and gravy with sausages that was outstanding. The place is all about Marilyn Monroe, so if you are a fan of her you will be in paradise ;-) read more

One of my favorites for breakfast in the Coachella valley. Food is very fresh and tasty. Staff is nice. Only open for breakfast and lunch. read more

Michael's Cafe - Chicken fried steak and eggs. Yum - American Near Me - Cathedral City, California

The place has Marilyn/Elvis memorabilia everywhere. I ordered an omelette (cheese with onions), fruit cup (which is huge) and hash browns and toast. Everything was fresh and well prepared. The place is neat and clean, staff are friendly and efficient. Reasonably priced with good food. Popular, and probably a bit more crowded earlier in the morning. read more

This is my 3rd visit and it didn't disappoint. This time I got the salami omelette with biscuits. Great.

New ownership and a really different vibe. New wait staff haven't learned the menu yet. Miss the old time, friendly waitresses that used to work there. I used to eat there about twice a week, but probably won't be going back. read more

This place has been here how many years? I've never seen or heard of it until this morning, we went as guests of a friend. In a strip mall, plenty of parking and walked into a cool diner with tons of Marilyn Monroe stuff. Great servers and good coffee. I had the Chili/Cheese Omelette, was excellent. Wifey had the Biscuits and Gravy, best I've had here in the Desert. Now that we know about Michaels, we plan on being regulars. read more

Michael's Cafe - Yum - American Near Me - Cathedral City, California

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Third time coming here and it was time to right a review. 5 stars for price, food, and service. For a small little breakfast and lunch dinner this place does a great job. Hash is good and pancakes are perfect. Plenty of parking and room for groups of 6 to 12 hungry golfers and business breakfast or lunch meetings. read more

Michael's Cafe - Can't beat it for seven dollars. #3 special. - American Near Me - Cathedral City, California

The Staff is fantastic, and I love the eggs benedict. Very affordable. I've been eating here since 2004 and love it.

Polite and generous with their great food, portions and their many smiles. Do you love all things Marilyn Monroe? This place will have you surrounded by the buxom beauty! **** Chinese chicken salad is Delicious! read more

I've eaten here many times but today the service wasn't the normal good service. Waited a bit before anyone asked if we wanted drinks, then waited again for the waitress to finally take the order. Food was good and as always you get a lot so be hungry. read more

A friend told me about this place and also said that they are dog friendly... so we decided to give it a try. Pulled up and the parking lot was pretty full. Brought our dog and saw a few tables outside, so we asked the waitress if we can have the next available table. She said yes. We sat down to our table and it was cleared immediately, then we were greeted by the hostess. She brought us the menu along with a treat for my dog, so sweet! Drinks were offered right away, and brought out in record time.. along with a bowl of water for my dog. This place draws a crowd and now we know why. Friendly and nice staff, quick service and attentive. We ordered the Sunday special, the eggs benedict along with a side of fresh fruit. We really enjoyed it. My dog met a few other dogs while dining outside. This place is a little gem and we'll definitely be back to try more on the menu. read more

Very nice people -- but that's where it ends. In my opinion, mediocre food (indeed, it seems as though it's declined), what may be the use of poorer quality ingredients than in the past, and certainly smaller portions, than I remember. We live locally part-time but commute all year, and we're saddened to see that Michael's Cafe has not been able to escape the trend of local area restaurants, once the backbone of the community, seem to be succumbing to cost pressures (and, in my opinion, not in a sustainable way!). Unfortunately, it appears that more and more locals are gravitating to "chains" and "groups" of restaurants, in part for consistency in product and service. We'll go back, as we really want to support local establishments and workers. However, even with this objective, we DO have our limits, in terms of what we expect. BTW, in my opinion, the vegetables, particularly, have taken a nosedive in quality. read more

Very comprehensive selection of food. Love be the salads and breakfast options. Very large portions and friendly service. Fun place to find for good breakfast and lunch. Reasonable prices too! read more

This place rocks!! Tutu is the greatest waitress. The food is very good and plentiful. Marilyn Monroe memorabilia everywhere. This place is a must go to stop if you are passing thru Cathedral City!! read more

They never get your Togo order right always missing your food from order

This is my husband and my favorite breakfast spot in all Coachella Valley. We always order 2 JD's. Michaels is always packed but they get you seated quickly, served in record time, check in on you, and slide you the bill so it's the waiting when you are ready. I love this place. read more

Great breakfast, nice waitresses the only thing I have an issue with here I have been to this place like 10 times and every time the hash browns taste like old oil that has been uses over agian love the quiet ambiance read more

Wanted to try a new spot for breakfast so we decided to try Michael's. It's located in a small strip mall in Cat City. Plenty of parking and there is seating both inside and out. I ordered their 2 egg breakfast w/bacon, fruit & ordered a side of biscuits & gravy. It was good, especially the bacon but not outstanding. Biscuits & gravy was a little disappointing... Also got their ham & cheese omelette which was average. The service here is good, portions are plentiful and everyone is super friendly! read more

Their website and Google says they are open until 2Pm. We showed up for lunch at 1:45, and the hostess said the kitchen had already shut down, and they could not serve us. It seemed so strange because we saw a table that had just been served. I had to wonder if we appeared too ethnic, because I am mixed race. But we politely left. AND WE WON'T RETURN. We rushed to get there because they were supposed to be open. We ended up going to the burger place called "Tony's" in the same strip mall and had a great meal. read more

Bad experience. Walked in,was told to sit wherever i wanted. waited for 20 min No one would approach us to take our drink or food order. Got dirty looks from the lady in the front because of red hat I was wearing. There was a Couple before us and they served them very fast even got them there food order and the server wouldn't even look at us. Maybe we were the wrong color to be in the restaurant that's what they made us feel like. read more

I enjoy going to this Cafe. Always has large portions, the prices are seem very reasonable and the staff is always friendly and nice and the bloody Marys are good too! read more

We have been coming here for a long time. They closed for a few months over the summer. Glad to see them back open. Serves lunch and breakfast and we never had a bad meal here. The staff is always friendly and it's always the same folks, that says something in itself. Highly recommend for breakfast. read more

Third time to visit this place and third time that I was treated like I was invisible. Everyone around me got waited on but me and this time I even sat at the counter. Terrible place. I even told the gentleman at the register as I left and I'm not surprised that he didn't even care!!!! I would tell everyone not to go. read more

So sad that you can't review the menu and no website. Hmmm what are they hiding? Was there a few weeks ago plenty of empty tables that weren't bussed and the food warm at best. Not the same place it use to be. I would not recommend. read more

Wow! What great food and service. I have never been there and I brought friends with me and they raved about the service and portion served.

I just wish they had decent coffee. It tastes like hot water, so I pick up an Espresso on the way. Otherwise the food and service is good, plus the fun photos of Monroe. read more