One of our favorite local spots! Great food, friendly staff, and a really comfortable, laid-back atmosphere. I'm a big fan of The Mess. Definitely worth checking out! Cash only, ATM onsite! read more

I recently moved to Boulder Creek so I see this little restaurant every time I drive through Ben Lomond. The parking lot was packed and the reviews were good so I thought I would give them a try. There was one sweet older lady there zipping around taking orders and delivering food. She was go, go, go but very sweet and seemed to know most everyone by name. The food came out fast and it was a solid comfort food breakfast. The chicken fried steak wasn't chewy like some I've had at other places, a little on the thin side, but it was good. The potatoes were nice and creamy on the inside and had a nice crunch on the outside. The biscuits were super soft and fresh and the gravy was just right. Not too peppery or chunky. The only downside was walking out smelling like grease. It's a small place, so it comes with the territory. So if that bothers you think there is seating in the back vs the front. Solid breakfast spot. I'll be back. read more

Spanky's - Chicken fried steak - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

I LOVE this place. We are local and it is the best. Such a home kitchen vibe, the food is always so yummy and the people make it even better. Super kind and accommodating! Our favorite spot to grab a nearby breakfast/lunch! read more

How can it get any better? I'm not sure how, but the Eggs Benedict at Spanky's Restaurant is over the top! The cook is the best and the waitress is always exceptional when smiling and greeting all her customers! Thank you for the extraordinary meal! read more

See all

Just have to give another shout out to the best breakfast spot ever! We come here at least once a week and it's always the best. Food comes out super quick. Friendly service. Shout out to Erin! We always sit outside rain or shine because the covered outdoor area is so nice. read more

Spanky's - Lovely outdoor seating! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

See all

The mess is just amazing. The waffle Was also very good. I can't wait to go back and make another mess with another mess.. read more

Spanky's - The Mess!! Of goodness!! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

See all

The very best breakfast I have tasted globally!!!!! Wife and I give Spankys 5/5 stars and would give more if possible. The service was amazing, the menu perfect size, the energy of staff and patrons was of inclusion, happiness and laughter!!!! read more

Spanky's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

Quick service, simple menu and plenty of outdoor seating for your canine pals. Food was okay - did the job but not memorable. Cash only. read more

Spanky's - Veggie Eggs Benedict - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

This place has great seating, great food, and and great service! I moved to Ben Lomond six months ago and I've been on a mission to find the best brunch spot in town and Spanky's is at the top of the list right now. They have a big outdoor patio so I'm able to bring my dog along which is so great for me as a single dog mom who's still trying to work out care options for my girl. read more

Spanky's - The Mess - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

See all

Yep...it's awesome...on a low key vibe. The place is modest. However the food and service is top notch. Hot and fresh! I had The Mess and my wife had the Benedict. I wish I took pictures, but we both devoured the delicious food. Our waitress was on it! Definitely give this place a shot! read more

Food is always on point. Breakfast, Chicken Fried Steak & eggs amazing, The Mess cooked to perfection, pancakes & Chicken with Belgian waffles delicious. Lunch: The sandwiches & burgers great selection. Homemade soups are delightful. Nick always has a great menu to choose from. Service is great Ashley & team. Local favorite. Highly recommend . Great looking Boho decor and nice outside patio. read more

Cute cafe and great place to stop after a night at brookdale lodge. Cash only with an atm on stuff. Excellent staff, very kind, food came out quickly and hit the spot. read more

Spanky's - California benedict - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

I went here with my partner and a good friend one morning for breakfast. It was my first time and I loved their breakfast burrito. The lady that took care of us was super sweet? We sat at the bar and it was sweet. The coffee, the atmosphere and food all delicious! They only take cash! read more

Awesome Breakfasts ! Waitresses Rachel & Erin, are Very Attentive. Great Cook, Nick. Everything Cooked to Order. read more

The food was bad and right when we got home my son got food poisoning it's so trash if they made on improvement it should be their garbage chefs read more

a bunch of my college friends rented an airbnb for fourth of July weekend in Boulder Creek and came to Spanky's for breakfast on our last morning before heading home. our server (who's name i wish i knew/remembered) was soo sweet and lovely. the food was perfect for a bunch of hungover 20year olds in need of sustenance. really good portions and the food is amazing. i have a hard time with scrambled eggs that other people make for me but these were really good!! we sat outside with our dog and i noticed there's a ton of both indoor and outdoor seating! the vibes are so cute - very classic diner core (: read more

Spanky's - potato scramble - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

Extremely yummy food. This place was very very yummy. Went with my friends celebrating Agustin's birthday. He was so crazy! had a great time. I sat next to the birthday boy. Ate breakfast burrito and huevos rancheros (split with my lovely gf). Both meals extremely yummy. I guess if I'm being honest I've been feeling a little empty lately and sorta like I've just been getting through things. Like my day was becoming one big checklist that I had to get through. But I didn't feel that way at breakfast. Felt good and happy. I felt a little empty sometimes this weekend though. It was a great weekend but maybe I'm just going through a funk. Our waiter was really nice. It was cash only so splitting the bill was a bit of a headache but I made a funny joke about everyone venmojng me and then I would send out the money. Had a few good jokes this weekend. I think when I'm around my gf in social settings she gives me strength. Now I feel a little sick from the food but it's just because I ate too much. I'm sure if I ate less I would be fine. 5 stars! P.S. if you're ever in Santa Cruz you have to check out the mystery spot ("wait, why is my mustache on my forehead??") ^inside joke read more

Awesome small breakfast diner. The gravy was addictive. Shoulda bought a quart to take home. Cash only!

Great menu with daily specials. The food is prepared fast and well and is made with fresh vegetables and or tasty meet. The corn beef hash is prepared on site. The breakfast/lunch menu is extensive. There are many community regulars which strongly indicates the desirability of this Ben Lomond restaurant in Highway 9. The Spanky's theme is endearing too. Combine the service provided by Erin, Ashley, Nick and their colleagues, and one finds Spanky's a welcoming place to frequent. read more

Good truck stop type breakfast, yum! I had an omelet and in place of toast they gave me the option of a pancake...I love that!

Omggggg my food was amazing and our waitress was the sweetest lady! The diner was gorgeous! We def will be back great stop on the side of the road heading back home from camping! read more

Spanky's - Inside of diner! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

See all

First time here, after 23 years living up in Boulder Creek. My friend treated me to a great breakfast. Special: sausage, mushroom, spinach and cheese scramble. Biscuit and gravy side, with fried red potatoes. It was really good. Yes, cash only. However, not a deal breaker. Very happy, will return. read more

Delicious breakfast!! Love The Mess. Nice staff as well. Cash only though, so be prepared.

I've always loved going to Spanky's for breakfast and a couple weeks back I discovered they had a sign outside saying they offered Family Nights from 4pm-8pm with burgers. I'd always only ever had breakfast so we decided to give them a try. NOTE: be sure to call first as it doesn't appear they do it every night and I got lucky that the night I decided to give it a shot she told me they would be open that evening. I've been to The Sawmill and honestly - while their burgers are good, the huge wait to get a burger after ordering (has been greater than 1.25 hours both times I've been down there) is excessive. Spanky's was full but not overly busy and let me tell you . . . One of the best Patty Melt I've had in some time. Spanky's gives you a full belly without emptying your wallet! Love this SLV gem! read more

Haven't been here in many years. How they have changed. Stopped in for breakfast. The food was great and reasonably priced. The service was excellent. Very clean and updated. Will be getting the word out and will definitely return to try their lunch menu read more

This place is great !! Haven't been in years until the other day. It was just as good as it was before !! Good food friendly people and an at home atmosphere, and the price is very reasonable!! Going to make this a regular stop for me!!! I had the chicken fried steak it was awesome, my friend had the blue burger it looked and smelled good as well!! read more

Beautiful little breakfast shop in Ben Lomond, up above Felton. Looks to be family owned, cash only. They have amazing home style breakfasts that are hard to beat. read more

You know what I love most about scratch cooking? It's unpredictable and delicious at the same time. This morning I randomly stopped in after a morning hiking and I was struck by the casual localness of this spot. I have searched high and low and in many states for REAL chicken fried steak and finally found the spot. The real hero was the gravy! Not too much, not too little slathered a perfect biscuit that was moist and firm at the same time. Hey look- if you want elegant looking dishes- move on. But if you want great food with people who are super hospitable- you've found home. I'll be back. Pro Tip: this is a cash only place and an ATM is located at the entry. read more

Spanky's - Chicken Fried Steak, biscuits and gravy, pan fried potatoes and scrambled eggs. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

Best freshly homemade breakfast in Santa Cruz County. Consistently excellent. Waitress Rachel a delight today; waitress on Saturday delightful and customer oriented also. Clean. The cook is hard working to deliver such delicious menu items promptly. Cute inside seating. Beautiful outdoor patio. Cash only. Its the only place we go for breakfast! read more

This is a wonderful restaurant.The food here is very good.I like their California melt.Everything on their menu is tasty.I love their decor.The staff here are very nice.I recommend this place.Make sure when you visit to have cash on hand as this is a cash only place read more

See all

The most incredible breakfast spot. My partner and I have been coming here consistently for over a year now and have never been disappointed by the food. The staff is lovely and very kind and their french toast is the best french toast I've had. It's a great spot if you want a nice home cooked breakfast. read more

This was Our first time in...seated right way. Comfortable environment and the staff was SO FRIENDLY! This was our only breakfast a lot on our Honeymoon. 100%!!! Food was hot and DELICIOUS! FIVE STARS all the way! read more

Spanky's - The Mess ... this Marine LOVED it! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

Spankys is definitely a locals joint but I've found it to be a friendly one. When you arrive plan to seat yourself either inside or go through the rear gate for the patio. It's not immediately obvious you are supposed to do this so I wanted to point that out since I saw other reviewers mention it. Fyi, this is a cash only restaurant. I've ordered multiple things here but my hands down favorite is the biscuits and gravy. The gravy is incredible and the biscuits are too. Just give me a big ole plate of it and I'll be happy. Chicken fried steak was also great - fair warning the plate is massive. It also comes with biscuits and gravy! Likely could have split it between two people and then ordered a side or two. The only thing I haven't enjoyed is their scrambled eggs. The last time I went they were super rubbery so I left them behind. Next time I'll order over easy. Do yourself a favor and add this to your breakfast bookmarks for the next time you're in the mountains! read more

Spanky's - Chicken friend steak with biscuits and gravy - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

See all

My favorite traditional breakfast place in the US of A, hands-down. All the folks there, from the owner to the servers to the cooks, are kind and responsive and just looking to feed hungry customers. American classics without needless-adjectives on ingredients. The place to go: for classic American breakfast plates, solid coffee, with delicious scrambles, fluffy pancakes, large portions, etc. Not the place to go: for booze-brunch, a no-foam-soy-milk-half-caff espresso drink, an egg-white avocado toast on gluten-free bread, etc. read more

Health food nuts and vegans, you may leave now, heh heh. I don't always eat out, but when I do, I choose places with great food, low prices, and lots of character. Spanky's of Ben Lomond, bully on all three counts. Spanky's is NOT a romantic date place. It's casual, brash, and as quirky as Santa Cruz. Pictures of Our Gang, including the most famous of them all, Spanky (hence, the name). I think management is careful about who they hire. Not only are the staff all good at what they do, but they have personality. They love to chat with the customers, crack jokes, and mess around with each other. Looks like a fun place to work. And when staff does these things, it naturally makes for a memorable meal. I came in on a hot June day, fill myself up before a redwood hike and that night's Phil Keaggy concert at Mount Hermon. The tall tattooed girl with the headband, and the long-haired blonde girl with the jeans, were both checking up to make sure I got my food and it was good, treating me as if I was a long-time local. The two cooks occasionally came out of the kitchen to add to the theater. The food? Well, the chili could win a chili cook-off, and the beef had a good strong taste. Even better with Tabasco. I don't always eat my burger with a knife and fork, but when I do, I'm trying to keep the chili from falling out. The girls bragged on the potato salad, and it was as good as they said. Breakfast and lunch only. Cash only, ATM provided. Dinky parking lot. SLV locals, keep eating at Spanky's, it's worth the business. Tourists driving to Big Basin, Spanky's is a little hard to find, so make the effort. read more

Spanky's - "I write for Yelp, naturally I must take a photo of the food. Let me know if you want to be in it." (girl = "noooo") - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Ben Lomond, California

See all

This is a nice country dinner. Only Breakfast and Lunch. They close at two so be prepared to hit it early in the day.

Their chicken fried steak with potatoes, biscuits and gravy is delicious!!!!! Highly recommend!

A classic themed restaurant that serves hand made, unique and reasonably priced breakfasts and lunches. Locals come often making it feel like extended family. There are regular breakfasts like "The Mess" and great Benedicts. Located in the redwoods, Highway 9, in quaint Ben Lomond, California. The service is great! read more

First off Spanky's is located in the coastal hills in the sleepy town of Ben Lomond. It has been around for ages feeding locals and the many who holiday in the redwoods. Specializing in breakfast, their chicken fried steak with eggs and biscuits and sausage gravy are the very best! Their menu is eclectic, so everyone should be able to find something to ring their bell! Just a note, they only take cash! There is a high fee ATM on site, so be forewarned and have cash! This is a favorite of bikers who roam the forested area with winding roads! Enjoy! read more

Best staff, always friendly and helpful. Yummy food! The Veggie Benedict is super good!