March 8, 2024

Hey, Hayward! Wake Up to the Best Brunch Spots in Town

Craving brunch in Hayward? We've got the brunch spots that hit the spot!

Richard Gargan
Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
California
Hey, Hayward! Wake Up to the Best Brunch Spots in Town
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Loosen up your belt and raise your mimosas; Hayward's brunch scene awaits....

Romo’s Cafe

296 A St, Hayward

(510) 397-2044

Reviewed by:

Victor Forbes-Kielty

Definitely did not expect this random unassuming place to be so charming with a delightful back patio. The whole vibe transported me to Mexico and I almost forgot that I was in Hayward near a freeway. Saying “I don’t even care if the food is good, this is my new favorite place” wasn’t just talk, it was a feeling that stuck. Getting the avocado toast and iced chai was a decision well made. Both were delicious and satisfying, especially the bread which was totally worth breaking my diet for! Stealing a piece of bacon out of my partner’s sandwich turned out to be a great idea as it was also excellent. He made it a point for me to mention that the coffee was great, which says a lot coming from someone who only buys artisan coffee from a local roaster. This cute little place was the perfect spot for a brunch meet-up and a bit of chit-chat. It might be very small inside, but the outside boasts a lovely covered area that seems ideal for both big groups and small gatherings. The avocados on my toast were picked perfectly, adding to the joy of the meal. Deciding to order the avocado toast with 2 eggs and a chia bowl just cemented the good vibes of this place. It’s not just the food or the charming space; the very friendly staff also contribute to making this coffee shop a place I’d come back to. With breakfast, sandwiches, and pastries on the menu, there’s a good variety to choose from. The seating arrangement is thoughtful, with spaces at the back and front of the establishment, although parking on the side of the building is a bit limited. Nonetheless, it’s a minor inconvenience for such a lovely dining experience. Would definitely recommend a visit for anyone looking for a good vibe and great food.

Snappy's Cafe

978 A St, Hayward

(510) 886-8500

Reviewed by:

Maxi Sellas

This cafe has quickly become a go-to spot for me, especially when I want to enjoy some quiet reading time with a warm cup of coffee. What stands out the most is April's hospitality. She's incredibly kind and has created a welcoming space for everyone, encouraging the display of various creations throughout the cafe. If you're ever around, it's definitely worth stopping by! I can't get enough of the hot caramel Francis latte – it's fantastic. The convenience of its location is a big plus for me; it's close by, so I don't have to travel far. Plus, its quaint size adds to its charm. It's always nice to take a moment, sit by the small window, and wait for that perfect cup of coffee. For anyone looking for a quick, delicious breakfast, this cafe is a must-try. The owner is incredibly sweet, and she prepares all breakfast sandwiches fresh to order. It's the perfect spot to unwind. And, when it's available, they serve an original pumpkin spice latte right out of a pumpkin, which I absolutely adore. Additionally, they have a selection of very tasty pastries. Overall, this cafe is a delightful spot for a meal, offering amazing coffee and great vibes. It’s a place where you can truly chill out.

PEARL'S

26775 Hayward Blvd, Hayward

(510) 363-8336

Reviewed by:

Christine Mallinger-Noonan

Must stop by! Aunty Pearls is a go-to spot in Hayward, CA. The grilled Salmon & Chix Bbq sticks are so delicious. They also serve really good coffee! The owners are super nice and friendly, which makes the experience even better. Highly recommend trying their iced matcha and iced mocha—it tastes homemade but absolutely delicious! Every time walking into Pearl's, it's always nice and cozy. They always greet you with a smile and treat you like family. They serve decent coffee and some pretty good waffles too. This local cafe is a gem, and I highly recommend it. We weren't from the area and the hotel we stayed at didn’t offer breakfast or coffee, so we decided to give this place a try. Everything seemed very reasonably priced. My husband tried the Lox bagel and was amazed by how good it was. As for me, I ordered an iced white mocha and honestly, I think it’s better than Starbucks! I just wish we had one of these back where I’m from – I’d be here almost every day if I could!

Mission Hills Cafe

275 Industrial Pkwy, Hayward

(510) 940-8969

Reviewed by:

Fernando Johnson

Hidden gem. Excellent food. Great location, especially when seated outdoors overlooking the golf course. And the food is just superb, highly recommended. We just passed by here for a quick lunch stop on our roadtrip to Monterey, and what a pleasant surprise it was. The service really stood out. The waitress that attended to us was lovely and attentive. Not only was the food delicious, but she also went out of her way to bring my dog a little water tray, making the experience that much more enjoyable. Thank you for such a nice experience! This place has quickly become my favorite spot for breakfast. The food is always fresh and well-prepared. It's hard to find service as friendly as this elsewhere! And sitting outside, taking in the view of the golf course, adds a beautiful touch to the meal. Had an unforgettable time here, celebrating my first hole in one on #2, 144 to pin. It was perfect to buy drinks for my friends and the two regulars at the bar to celebrate. Also, tried the Philly Steak, which was decent, and my friend enjoyed the Hot Pastrami. The service was friendly and fast, making the whole experience even better. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a great meal and a friendly atmosphere, whether you're a local or just passing through.

Amy's Grill & Cafe

31103 Mission Blvd, Hayward

(510) 489-7030

Reviewed by:

Jim Marly

Let me tell you about my brunch experience at Amy's Grill & Cafe in Hayward. It's worth noting that even though table wait times can stretch a bit, the quality and taste of the food more than make up for it. Every dish that made its way to our table was delightful and flawlessly prepared. We decided to dive into a few of their specialty omelets, and I must say, they did not disappoint. Among them, the California avocado florentine eggs stood out as my absolute favorite. Though we had every intention of trying the waffles for dessert, their milkshakes captivated us entirely, leaving the waffles for a future visit. It's a must-try spot for anyone! The place exudes coziness, complemented by excellent service. The food, simple yet akin to something you might whip up at home when pressed for time, has its charm. I opted for the veggies with cheese omelette paired with hash browns — a straightforward, comforting choice. Meanwhile, the mushroom melt my partner chose echoed the same homely vibe. We did find the garlic fries a tad mushy, lacking that anticipated crispiness. Yet, the service remained top-notch throughout our visit. This cafe might not dazzle you with its culinary offerings, yet it's the warmth and straightforwardness that might linger in your memory. While my experience suggests the chef could inject a bit more passion into the dishes, the diner nails the basics with perfectly cooked meals. If you value crisp hash browns and cottage fries, this place will not disappoint. Here, it's about appreciating good, classic home cooking where the seasoning subtly enhances the natural flavors, a refreshing departure from the overly sweet and seasoned fare at more mainstream establishments. A heads-up for those seeking conversation along with their meal, the staff might prefer to keep interactions brief, which slightly dims the overall experience. Despite this, Amy's Grill & Cafe undoubtedly deserves a visit, boasting as one of the top dining choices in California. The array of food, attentive service, and the delightful presence of Amy herself ensure a memorable dining experience. The omelets are exceptional, and the chicken sandwich is a revelation in both size and taste. Fresh, hot, and deliciously prepared food makes this cafe a go-to destination, urging me to return as often as possible. Hats off to Amy and her team for creating such a wonderful dining haven!

Rosy's Cafe

22616 Vermont St, Hayward

(510) 258-3880

Reviewed by:

Jennifer Hutcheson

Loved my food at Rosy's Cafe for brunch in Hayward, and everyone was incredibly friendly. It was my first time visiting, but I'm already planning to return. I tried the chilaquiles and beans, which were absolutely delicious! They offer a wide variety of other breakfast items as well, catering to all sorts of cravings. The service was top-notch, contributing to a great dining experience overall. If anything could be improved, it might be the coffee, but that's a minor detail in the grand scheme of things. This place has earned my respect and has quickly become my go-to spot for breakfast. I usually have my favorites like the Hungry Hobo, but it's nice to mix things up and try different spots. At Rosy's Cafe, it seems like you can't make a wrong choice – everything on the menu is guaranteed to satisfy. Great food paired with great service; what more could you ask for?

Eon Coffee

24970 Hesperian Blvd #2440, Hayward

(510) 264-0507

Reviewed by:

Corvette Andrews Jr

Today, I decided to check out Eon Coffee for brunch on a friend's suggestion, and I must say, it didn't disappoint. We started off with a cafe mocha and a juice drink, and shared a delicious macadamia nut cookie that was just out of this world. The ambiance of the place struck the right balance for me; it wasn’t too cramped nor too spacious. Both the indoor and outdoor seating were basic but exceptionally clean and thoughtfully arranged, creating a cozy atmosphere. The staff at Eon Coffee were a highlight for me. They were not only friendly but also efficient and considerate, paying attention to little details like asking if I preferred whipped cream on my drink, which I usually pass but often forget to mention. It's small gestures like these that make a big difference in customer experience. As someone who enjoys a good background tune, I appreciated that the music was kept at a pleasant, low volume, allowing for easy conversation. It was also nice to see that the café managed a steady flow of customers without any noticeable queue forming from the time we were there, around 2-4 pm, indicating prompt service. Another thing that stood out to me was the café's evident commitment to health and sustainability. It's refreshing to see establishments making conscious choices beyond the norm of massive corporate chains. This place now adds to my list of go-to spots, offering an alternative to the usual Panera Bread visits. Not only was the cafe mocha a treat, but we also ventured into trying their Italian and Cubano cappuccinos, both of which were rich in flavor and a testament to the quality of coffee they serve. The availability of both indoor and outdoor seating, along with wifi access for guests, adds to the convenience and comfort of the place. While we also tried the food, including a tuna melt and a turkey pesto, which was tasty, they felt slightly on the smaller side for the price. Nevertheless, the drinks and overall ambiance more than made up for it. The lemon loaf bread and pineapple smoothie were additional delights during our visit, rounding off an excellent brunch experience. Eon Coffee has certainly impressed me with its offering, from the delicious coffee to the pleasant atmosphere and the efficient, friendly service. It's a place I'll happily return to and recommend to anyone visiting Hayward or looking for a new coffee spot to try.

Casa Del Toro - Cocina & Tequila

1034 B St, Hayward

(510) 274-5577

Reviewed by:

Natalie Alexander

Had a fantastic lunch here on a Saturday afternoon. The food was absolutely amazing and the service was great, making the experience even better. The fried chicken sandwich caught my eye, and it certainly did not disappoint. The chicken was both juicy and crispy, and the spicy aioli that accompanied it was the perfect touch. My wife opted for the Casa Tequila Salad, which came with jumbo prawns and was very good as well. The selection of spirits was impressive. Ended up trying the Peach cider, which was incredibly refreshing and paired well with my sandwich! We were also pleased to find a kids' menu, which had the perfect option for our toddler - fideos. She absolutely loved it, making our meal even more enjoyable. We decided to make a reservation for Father's Day brunch, not realizing there would be a preset menu. It was a bit of a surprise, but that was likely on us for not checking in advance. The menu was a bit limited, and the pricing felt higher due to the preset nature of the meal. Although the appetizers were tasty, the portions could have been larger, especially the pork belly. The entrees did not disappoint, however, with the potatoes being a standout for their perfect seasoning and fluffiness. Dessert didn't quite hit the mark for me, as the flan was a bit bland. The service, while generally great, had a few hiccups, including needing to remind our server about water and to remove the reservation fee from our bill. Despite these minor issues, the experience was positive. The restaurant offers fantastic ribs—possibly the best I've ever tasted—tender, flavorful, and with just the right amount of spice. The ceviche platter was also a hit, fresh and well-prepared. Appreciated the menu's attention to dietary restrictions, and the wine selection and full bar did not disappoint. The staff was friendly, attentive, and responsive, which added to the overall positive experience. The only downside was the noise level, which was a bit high. The calamari was exceptional, possibly the best I've had, and the bottomless mimosas are definitely worth a try. The chicken and waffles were another highlight, with perfectly seasoned and crispy chicken alongside fluffy, delicious waffles. Despite some mix-ups with the order and a slight delay in service, the staff was incredibly accommodating and made sure to comp us for the inconveniences. Overall, highly recommend visiting for a quality meal in the East Bay. The menu is concise, ensuring everything is fresh and flavorful. This has quickly become my favorite local spot!

Hill's Coffee Shop

21458 Foothill Blvd, Hayward

(510) 733-0191

Reviewed by:

Oscar Guzman

This place is amazing, the food is delicious, and the staff adds a special touch to your breakfast. It's your typical coffee shop with excellent food and good prices. My husband and I discovered this gem over the weekend, and I'm so glad we did! The interior is really cute, and everyone was incredibly sweet. I opted for the Hill's special but decided to sub linguica for ground beef, and it was a delightful choice. Unfortunately, I always forget to take a picture before I start eating, so the photo I would have attached shows a meal that I've already begun to enjoy. My husband chose the mushroom burger and was very satisfied with his pick! We're definitely planning to come back. Be aware, when it's busy, parking can be a bit of a challenge. We managed to find a spot after waiting for just about 3-5 minutes, so it wasn't too much of an inconvenience. This place really stands as a testament to the saying "don't judge a book by its cover." Upon my first visit, my expectations weren't sky-high, but I was pleasantly surprised by both the attentive service and the quality of the food. One thing to note is that the space is quite small, so finding seating might be tricky during peak hours or for those with larger families.

Denny's

25010 Hesperian Blvd, Hayward

(510) 925-2771

Reviewed by:

Lola Mejia

Walking into this Denny's in Hayward for brunch was an absolute delight. From the moment we arrived, it was clear this wasn't just any ordinary Denny's. The place looked spotless and inviting, with a fresh appearance that made us feel right at home. Outside, there were fun activities set up like giant connect four, corn hole, and chess, perfect for keeping the family entertained. Our breakfast experience was elevated by trying the new crepe breakfast, which was incredibly tasty and well-prepared. But what truly set this visit apart was the exceptional service we received. Our server was the epitome of kindness, going above and beyond by leaving a pot of coffee at our table for refills, which was a nice touch. Onkar, our host, left a lasting impression with his amazing hospitality. He made us feel so welcomed and attended to, ensuring our brunch was perfect. Another gem at this Denny's is Cynthia. Her service was nothing short of extraordinary. Always wearing a smile, she treated us with so much care and affection, making us feel like part of the family. Her recommendations, like extra toppings to enhance our meals, were spot-on and much appreciated. Her efficiency and warmth made our dining experience memorable. The atmosphere in the restaurant on a Saturday was so welcoming and warm. From the moment our waitress greeted us, until the time we left, her niceness shone through, adding to the enjoyable meal. And speaking of the meal, the food was absolutely delicious, leaving us already planning our next visit. This Denny's in Hayward has become our go-to spot for brunch, largely due to the exceptional service and delightful ambiance. It's clear the staff here goes the extra mile to ensure guests have a wonderful dining experience. Looking forward to coming back soon!

Bay City Bistro

3979 Trust Way, Hayward

(510) 786-4271

Reviewed by:

Deanna Bush

Sat down at Bay City Bistro for a brunch experience in Hayward and must say, it was a pleasant surprise. The coffee was rich and robust, just the way a good brew should be to kickstart the day. Opted for the avocado toast, and it didn't disappoint; it's a great spot especially if you're familiar with the area and convenient for those working nearby due to its large selection of items. However, there were some misses as well. The Asian chicken salad didn't live up to its description or the image on the website. It promised a mix of chopped lettuce, cabbage, carrot which is typical for an Asian salad, but what arrived was a simple bed of romaine with a scant topping of chicken, peanuts, and crispy noodles. While the dressing was flavorful, it wasn't what was anticipated. Also, an order came with missing extra Au Jus for the beef sandwich, and the customer service at the pickup counter could have been better. The orange chicken seemed overdone and lacked the expected accompaniment of broccoli. Despite these hiccups, the brunch experience at Bay City Bistro had its moments of delight. Plus, the convenience of continuing discussions along the nearby wildlife sanctuary, just a 2-minute walk away, adds a refreshing touch post-meal.

Anna's Coffee Shop

444 Jackson St, Hayward

(510) 582-9185

Reviewed by:

Jannie Ariens

Finding a cozy spot for brunch in Hayward led me to the corner of Jackson and Winton Ave, where Anna's Coffee Shop sits like a welcoming beacon. The cafe, reminiscent of a quaint 70's diner, offers a delightful blend of American and Mexican breakfast delights. From the savory eggs and cactus with a side of rice, beans, and tortillas to the sweet indulgence of waffles and French toast, every dish is a testament to the kitchen's commitment to freshness and flavor. The atmosphere is as warm as the coffee, which comes with generous refills, prompting conversations and drawing a diverse crowd that ranges from locals to families, all raving about the food. The portions are substantial, ensuring no one leaves hungry, and the culinary finesse, particularly with those perfectly spiced and crisped country fried potatoes, is noteworthy. Although the doors don't open until 7:00 and they're somewhat understaffed, the hardworking waitress manages to keep a good attitude, making every effort to ensure a pleasant dining experience. The diner's slightly retro vibe, coupled with reasonable prices, makes it a gem worth revisiting. However, it's important to note a less than stellar encounter involving an issue with cold syrup and an interaction with a staff member that was far from professional. Such experiences can mar the overall impression of a place, underscoring the importance of consistent service quality. Despite this, the culinary offerings are compelling enough to warrant a return, especially for those in search of a hearty brunch in the Bay Area.

Starbucks

22288 Foothill Blvd, Hayward

(510) 888-0447

Reviewed by:

Radha Harmon

On a Wednesday morning, I decided to swing by Starbucks for brunch in Hayward, and I must say, the atmosphere immediately took me back to the early days of Starbucks. The place had a welcoming vibe, plenty of seating, and an incredibly friendly staff. It's become clear to me that from now on, I'll be skipping the Safeway Starbucks and making this place my go-to. Despite its bustling nature, mainly due to a high volume of app orders which seemed to receive priority, the cleanliness of the cafe and the decent music playing in the background made for a pleasant experience. The service did appear a tad slow, likely because they were short-handed – I even noticed a hiring sign posted. Yet, despite these minor hitches, the cakes and other offerings were as delightful as ever. The cafe was somewhat crowded, with many patrons on laptops occupying the seating area, even those who weren't currently enjoying a beverage. This did make finding a spot to sit and relax a bit challenging. When I inquired about dark roast coffee, I was told it's only available in the early morning, which was a bit of a letdown. Patience was definitely a virtue during my visit, given the slower service, pointing to a need for additional baristas or cashiers to streamline operations. The seating arrangement wasn't ideal for staying long or getting work done, as the chairs lacked backs, which isn't great for comfort during extended periods. However, the staff's pleasant demeanor and efficiency made up for these shortcomings. For those looking for a quick mobile or to-go order, this Starbucks in Hayward is definitely recommendable. It's a spot where the quality of the food and drink, combined with the cheerful service, outshines the minor inconveniences.

Atlas Coffee & Sandwiches

1075 B St, Hayward

(510) 630-6868

Reviewed by:

Bashkim Murshed

The wife and I had a delightful brunch experience at Atlas Coffee & Sandwiches in downtown Hayward. It was a spontaneous decision, driven by our desire for a local spot that wouldn't require much travel. Downtown Hayward seems to have undergone quite the transformation, and Atlas fits right into this revitalized scene, presenting a vibe reminiscent of a cozy San Francisco cafe. We decided to indulge in their breakfast offerings, opting for a veggie crepe and a Nutella strawberry crepe. My initial choice, the veggie crepe, unfortunately, didn't meet my expectations as it lacked flavor and had a somewhat unpleasant texture. On the other hand, my wife's Nutella strawberry crepe, although difficult to go wrong with such a classic combination, was also not quite what we hoped for. However, the service was polite, if a bit formal, reminding me of the community feel of local cafes I've loved in the past. Not deterred, we also tried the breakfast crepe and chicken sandwich on another visit, which turned out to be an excellent choice. The flavors were spot-on, and the Thai tea we ordered alongside was refreshing. The only slight letdown was the cappuccino, which didn't live up to our expectations. But honestly, everything else we tried was delectable. Atlas has become a favorite spot, perfect for working, dating, or catching up with friends. The commitment to fresh ingredients, especially in their juices and crepes, is clear, even if some dishes can be a tad oily. It's one of those places I wish were just a short walk away. In all, despite a few hitches, the experience at Atlas Coffee & Sandwiches has been overwhelmingly positive, marked by tasty food and a warm atmosphere. It's a gem in Hayward that I look forward to visiting again.

IHOP

22222 Foothill Blvd, Hayward

(510) 886-2244

Reviewed by:

Roscoe Elizabeth

After deciding to branch out for brunch during my stay in Hayward, I stumbled upon IHOP, conveniently located just a short 5-minute walk from our hotel. Despite the full dining room upon our arrival, we were pleasantly surprised to be seated in under 10 minutes. Right from the start, the staff welcomed us warmly, making the entire dining experience exceptionally pleasant. Our waitress stood out with her attentive and friendly manner, ensuring our needs were swiftly met. The food came out in a timely fashion, and it didn’t disappoint. From the fluffy French toast and silver dollar pancakes to the crispy bacon, savory eggs, and sausage, every bite was a delight. I personally indulged in the Chicken and Waffles, which I found absolutely delicious, while my friends were equally satisfied with their choices. The environment was notably family-friendly, and the service was top-notch, always delivered with a smile. Reflecting on the meal, the French toast was a standout, though I thought a bit of cinnamon could elevate it further. It brought back nostalgic memories, reminding me of the French toast I loved in middle school. However, it's worth noting that there’s a bit of a wait, which is pretty standard for popular brunch spots like this. Another highlight was the Fruity Tootie Blueberry breakfast combo. Choosing to skip the extra whipped cream turned out to be a good call, as the blueberries and syrup provided just the right amount of sweetness, making the entire meal enjoyable without being overly sugary. In comparison to other dining options like Denny’s or Black Bear Diner, IHOP in Hayward stood out, not just for the quality of food but for the friendly and efficient service. It’s not just a meal; it's an experience that I would recommend to anyone looking for a satisfying brunch spot. Peace and blessings, y'all. If you're in the area and searching for a good meal with great service to boot, this IHOP is definitely worth a visit.

Country Waffles

30182 Industrial Pkwy SW, Hayward

(510) 429-9100

Reviewed by:

Archie Shaw

Great little breakfast place! The combination plate was VERY filling. Eggs were cooked perfectly in a skillet, country potatoes were so tasty, and both the ham and sausage were delicious. Not to mention the bacon – it wasn't the thin microwave type you often find elsewhere, which was a pleasant surprise. I found myself having to really focus to finish off the biscuits and gravy because of how full I already was! Despite a few hiccups, like the thin bacon and the omelette and potatoes being a bit cold, the biscuit was the star of the show - very hot and delicious. Although I expected better quality food for the price, the friendly server and clean restaurant made up for it. The service was outstanding; the staff really went above and beyond to ensure a fantastic brunch experience. The avocado toast with poached eggs was divine, and the fresh fruit juices were such a refreshing treat. The chic décor and natural lighting in the place added a touch of elegance to the morning. The atmosphere was wonderful, the interior super clean, and the food was phenomenal. Even when there was a slight mistake with our orders, the server was quick to make it right. Definitely a restaurant worth visiting for brunch.

Black Bear Diner

25202 Hesperian Blvd, Hayward

(510) 670-9100

Reviewed by:

Jenny Rocha Salas

We went for dinner on a Friday night at Black Bear Diner in Hayward, and were seated immediately. The whole experience was truly enjoyable from start to finish. The little black bears in the gift shop caught our eye as soon as we walked in, and we couldn't resist taking several pictures with the carved bears outside - they're just too cute! The server we had was fantastic; so friendly, attentive, and professional, making our dining experience even more pleasant. For my meal, I chose the tri-tip and rib combo, accompanied by sweet potato fries and broccoli. The portions were generous, and everything was prepared exactly as I requested. It's safe to say that the food here is delicious, and I'm already looking forward to my next visit. It's a great place to bring the family too. They have a really nice deal where kids eat free from 4pm-9pm, which is definitely a bonus. Our plates were a delight, especially the pancake shaped like a bear with banana slices for eyes and chocolate chips to top it off. My two small children were thrilled, and the wait staff were incredibly nice to them. Even when my toddler wanted to roam around after dinner, it wasn't a problem. Despite a small hiccup with a request related to dietary restrictions, the experience was positive. The need to request a children's menu as an adult due to dietary restrictions should be more straightforward, but eventually, it was provided. It's important for restaurants to be more flexible with their policies regarding portion sizes and dietary needs. All in all, we'll definitely be coming back. The consistency in the service and food quality at Black Bear Diner makes it a favorite, and the Hayward location, with its adorable bear theme and family-friendly atmosphere, didn't disappoint.

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