Awesome Breakfasts in Chico: Full of Flavor and Fun

365 E 6th St, Chico

(530) 433-0414

I've been grabbing a latte and some food for the last few weeks during my first semester at CSU Chico, and every visit to Tender Loving Coffee has been a delight. The staff is genuinely warm, and the coffee consistently hits the mark. Although I'm not vegan, I do try to avoid meat and dairy, and the options here make it easy to skip them altogether. This place really makes me love everything about it! - The Simple Biscuit is a perfect 10/10. It's excellent. - The Southwest Burrito is very good at 8/10. It could have been warmer, and the cheese wasn't quite melted. - The Ricotta Toast gets a near-perfect 9.8/10. Just a slightly higher quality bread could make it a full ten. I'm excited to return and try more. All the food being vegan is a big plus. The cafe is cute and affordable, and the Caramel Oatmilk Latte was a real treat. I had a nice chat with Emma, who is clearly passionate about her job. The default use of oat milk here is awesome. Although I had to rush and couldn't try all the food I wanted, the staff was super friendly. I tried the Hemp Coffee—an espresso shot over iced hemp milk, which was very tasty. I also enjoyed the Cesar salad with added meat. It's a bit on the pricey side, but the quality and taste make it worth it. They even serve cocktails and have pizza. Overall, a great spot that I'd recommend to anyone in the area!

265 Humboldt Ave, Chico

(530) 566-9476

We visited Cafe Coda for breakfast on a friend's recommendation, hearing it had the best French toast in Chico. When we arrived, a few people were already lining up before they opened, which seems to be a regular thing. The vibe of the place was great, and the staff was friendly and attentive without being overbearing. While waiting to be seated, we enjoyed playing some darts, which added to the fun atmosphere. I was impressed with the fresh and tasty food. The honey lavender latte was a highlight—finally, someone got it right! Another pleasant surprise was the shot recommended by the server, a mix of turmeric, ginger, citrus, and cayenne. I had my doubts, but it was surprisingly good. I tried the Coda Benedict with pork belly, which was excellent, just needed a touch of salt. Although the hash browns weren't great—they reminded me of dried-up twigs from a Redwood tree—the potatoes were crispy and delicious. I'd suggest choosing the sausage over the bacon for sides. Overall, Cafe Coda is a great find with yummy food and lovely outdoor seating. I'll definitely be back!

3221 Esplanade, Chico

(530) 287-5660

Deja Vu Breakfast Company in Chico was such a delightful find! The waitresses were incredibly helpful and kind, and the decor perfectly captures the vibe. The food was outstanding! I tried the carnitas dish, which was absolutely delicious, and I highly recommend it. My husband had the chicken and waffles; while the waffle was phenomenal, the chicken could have used a bit more flavor. Despite that, this place has so many amazing options on the menu that I’m eager to try next time. During a busy visit, we were seated within 10 minutes, and the service was excellent. The food took a bit due to peak times, but drinks came out quickly. For specifics, the Sunrise Mimosa was delightful, and the cappuccino was excellent, though it would be great if sugar was brought out automatically. I wanted to like the Strawberry French Toast because it looks fantastic, but the baguette-like bread was too chewy. A simple switch to Brioche and a bit more syrup would improve it. I’d definitely visit again to explore more menu options. The atmosphere is cute, and the omelets, French toast, and seasoned, crispy potatoes are a must-try. A few months later, I can confidently say their strawberry French toast is a standout dish, far better than other places in Butte County. The personalized touch, like the owner pouring champagne for a quirky opossum in a hat, makes the experience even more special. I’ll keep returning—it’s simply the best breakfast spot! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

156 E Eaton Rd suite e, Chico

(530) 809-2489

I love starting my day at Fresh Twisted Café in Chico, especially with their Fuzzy Peach smoothie. It's always delicious, and I appreciate that they can make any smoothie with freshly squeezed juice. The staff is generally pleasant, and they offer a nice variety of protein boosts and a pretty big food menu, though I haven't tried the food yet. My daughter enjoyed their chocolate ice cream and claimed it was the best she's ever had. Their sandwiches are tasty, but they did make a few mistakes with our order once. They were quick to refund the extra charge for a missing avocado, which I appreciated. The café has some lovely artwork on the walls and toys for kids, which my nephew loves. While their food is great, the prices are on the higher side. I was disappointed when I needed to use the bathroom before ordering and was told it was for customers only, which felt unwelcoming. On more than one occasion, the bathroom was out of order. Despite the good food and vegan options, my experience has been inconsistent, with a few order mishaps and unhelpful service. I hope they address these issues because they have potential. If you go, check your order, prepare for the prices, and plan ahead for bathroom access.

13670 Anderson Brothers Dr, Chico

(530) 343-1901

I had a fantastic breakfast experience at CJ's Last Chance Diner. The food was great, and the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making the entire visit enjoyable. The place has both indoor and outdoor seating, and I liked that you order at the counter and the food is brought to you. The ambiance is charming with a cowboy country house feel. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich, and my son tried the cowboy burger. We also shared fries and French toast, and everything was excellent. The staff and owner went out of their way to make us feel at home. The portions were generous, the food quality high, and the pricing fair, even with the note about potential credit card fees on the menu. Having owned restaurants and cafes in larger cities, I can confidently say this is my new favorite spot in NorCal. The beef dip was the best I've ever had, and the pulled pork wrap was delicious with a perfectly balanced smoky flavor and homemade BBQ sauce. My sons devoured their cowboy burgers, and we all enjoyed sharing a large order of onion rings with various sauces that were so good. The diner also has a full soda fountain, and I noticed some patrons enjoying bottled beer. There's plenty of parking, and the bathrooms are clean and spacious. It's a hidden gem worth the drive out of the city. I can't wait to return and explore more of the menu. Definitely a place to take the kids for a hearty meal. Go get your grub on!

352 Vallombrosa Ave, Chico

(530) 342-9717

As a first-time customer at Morning Thunder Cafe, I was truly blown away. The food was delicious, and I'm so glad my daughter recommended this spot while I was visiting her. Without a doubt, this will be my go-to breakfast place every time I'm in town. It's easily my favorite diner in Chico. Their pancakes are phenomenal, but I find it hard to resist their fantastic waffle! If you’re looking for something unique, definitely try their champagne float. It's an amazing combination of a pint of champagne with a dollop of fruit sorbet. Seriously, it's out of this world. For a classic dining experience, Morning Thunder Cafe is the place to be. The service was exceptional. The staff checked in regularly, offering more coffee and water, and making sure everything was just right. It felt like my food arrived in no time, just after a few sips of coffee and a small chat. The portions may look small, but they’re perfectly satisfying—not too big, not too small. Plus, the coffee was really good. The cafe's interior adds to the experience, with a classic vibe that makes you feel like you've stepped back in time. I'd absolutely return and highly recommend checking it out. The bacon is thick and tasty, and the maple syrup is the real deal. On a busy Sunday morning, the service was truly exceptional. Even sitting at the bar, every staff member was spectacular. Their training puts them a cut above, and it really shows.

800 Bruce Rd #600, Chico

(530) 892-2244

Bellachinos Cafe is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Chico. The staff are incredibly friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming. I tried both the blackberry banana and peanut butter banana smoothies, and they were phenomenal—10/10 would recommend. The waffle was a bit of a letdown at $8 plus an additional $2 for a mediocre sausage patty, but the overall selection of teas was impressive and delicious. On a return visit, I had a wonderful sandwich recommended by one of the kind staff members. It was hearty and delicious, though I can't recall the name. I also appreciated that dogs are welcome on the patio, and they even provide a water bowl for them. The experience is always worth the wait, even if it takes a little time. We were greeted as soon as we walked in, and the service was quick. I enjoyed the Piggly Wiggly on an Asiago bagel, while my partner loved the Early Bird. The cold brew was exactly what I needed. The cafe has a warm, cozy vibe with a great variety of pastries and excellent service. The cinna bean latte was a highlight of my visit. Bellachinos Cafe is a spot I will definitely visit whenever I'm in the area.

118 W 2nd St, Chico

(530) 965-5908

Naked Lounge in downtown Chico is a charming, simple cafe that truly knows how to do coffee right. The menu isn't overwhelming, which I appreciate because it allows them to really focus on quality. The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming, adding to the overall positive experience. I loved relaxing in their comfy chairs, sipping on my coffee and enjoying a bit of people-watching. It's wonderful to find a place where the vibe matches the excellence of the product. The atmosphere is chill, and the employees are pleasant, which makes the visit even more enjoyable. The homemade syrups are a delightful option, and they definitely enhance the coffee experience. While it was a bit warm inside, which made it slightly difficult to enjoy my coffee to the fullest, it didn't overshadow the overall great experience. Naked Lounge is a cute and simple spot that stands out in downtown Chico for its fantastic coffee and friendly ambiance.

817 Main St, Chico

(530) 892-1281

I can't express enough how fantastic my breakfast experience was at The Roost Cafe in Chico. The hollandaise sauce was incredible, and the corn beef hash truly is the best in town. Given the quality, the prices are fair compared to other local spots. The staff was friendly, and the service was impressively quick. It was a nice touch that the owner stopped by our table to check in on our meal. This cafe came highly recommended, and it definitely lived up to the hype. The food was absolutely amazing. I ordered the Country Benedict with Sausage, while my guest tried the 1+1+1 combo. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and despite being busy, it was a pleasant experience. The seasoned country gravy was a standout, and overall, I was thoroughly impressed. This place is a must-visit, even if finding parking can be tricky. The menu may seem standard at first, but the kitchen does an outstanding job. The front-of-house staff truly shines, always being friendly and efficient. Having driven past The Roost's previous location on Park Ave many times, we finally visited the new spot early on a Sunday morning. We were pleased with the spacious setting and choice of seating. After ordering coffee, we explored the generous menu. I opted for the Roost Omelet, which was perfectly done, and my wife enjoyed the breakfast special. The hashbrowns were crispy, and the bacon was flawless. Despite being a bit pricier than some other breakfast spots in Chico, it was a delightful experience. The fresh ingredients and overall quality made it worth it. While there are less expensive options in town, I'm glad we finally gave The Roost Cafe a try, and we'll likely be back in the future.

209 Salem St, Chico

(530) 893-3447

Hands down, those have been the best eggs benedicts my girlfriend and I have ever had. We couldn't stop eating until every bite was gone. The potatoes were perfectly crispy, too. The atmosphere feels like stepping into the past, making it a unique and cool place to visit. I met some friends for brunch to celebrate new graduates, and the food was fantastic with hearty portions of fresh ingredients. They've got coffee drinks and cocktails, and the rates are very reasonable for what you get. I usually end up with two meals from what they serve. Mom's is a great spot for a morning drink and yummy breakfast! Their bloody Marys are top-notch, complete with all the fixings. I ordered the veggie scramble, and it was delicious. I sat on the patio with nice views and enjoyed the great service, awesome drinks, and amazing food. Even though it was packed and there was a line, we were seated in 15 minutes. The server was fantastic, and the food came out quickly and super delicious. We've found our new breakfast spot for sure. 4.5 stars don’t do this place justice. 110% recommended.

1387 E 8th St, Chico

(530) 894-2800

Beatniks | Coffee House & Breakfast Joint is one of the best spots in Chico for a delicious breakfast. The food is incredible, offering a range of healthy and tasty options. I personally loved the green juice and veggie omelet, and the French toast was beautiful. My mom really enjoyed her latte too. My favorite dish has to be the Huevos Rancheros—it's better than any other place in town, with perfectly cooked, delicious ingredients. The coffee, especially the house brew, is wonderful. The atmosphere is casual and comforting, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. The staff is incredibly kind, and the patrons are pleasant, making for an all-around great experience. It's truly an awesome coffee shop and restaurant, and I highly recommend it for a delightful breakfast.

1717 Esplanade, Chico

(530) 896-1147

Nash's Restaurant is a delightful spot for breakfast in Chico. From the moment we walked in, we felt welcomed by the friendly staff and the charming interior decor. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it a perfect start to our day. The menu was extensive, offering generous portions that left us satisfied. My daughter opted for the Chilaquiles and couldn't stop raving about it. My wife enjoyed her Biscuits & Gravy with Eggs, and I have to say, the Chicken Fried Chicken was a hit, especially the crispy-yet-soft potatoes that accompanied it. They reminded me of the perfect balance you find in Tater Tots. What made our experience even more enjoyable was the excellent playlist featuring many Taylor Swift songs—a bonus for any fan. The prices were reasonable, and we never felt rushed, which was great for when we wanted to savor a few extra drinks during their bottomless champagne brunch. All in all, Nash's is a lovely family-friendly restaurant with good food and a pleasant atmosphere. We look forward to visiting again on our next trip to the area!

690 Rio Lindo Ave #1818, Chico

(530) 345-1149

The breakfast experience at Farmer's Skillet in Chico was fantastic. The tables were very clean and well-stocked with sauces and creamer, which I appreciated. Our server arrived quickly and brought us coffee, which was really good and warm. Our order was taken efficiently, and the food arrived in about 8-10 minutes, which was impressive given the number of people there on a busy Sunday morning. Our server was attentive and constantly checked in on us, refilling my coffee before I even had to ask. I had the country fried steak, and it was exactly what I expected—very satisfying. The crepe was delicious, and my kids loved it. While the pancakes weren't out of the ordinary, that's exactly what we were hoping for. I enjoyed the combo deals, and on Saturdays, kids under 10 eat free, which is a nice perk. We were able to switch out the pancake for a waffle, and the sausages were fantastic. Although I'm picky about how my potatoes are cooked, I loved almost everything else. Despite the bustling crowd, the environment was welcoming for families, and our kids felt right at home. It was also a good spot for my business meeting, even with the small portions being somewhat bland. The sausage patty and my mom's slice of ham were both good. Although I prefer real cream in my coffee, the overall experience was positive thanks to the nice atmosphere and clean tables. 100% recommended.

2290 Esplanade, Chico

(530) 879-9200

While visiting Chico, we decided to try Sin of Cortez for breakfast based on a friend's recommendation, and it surely did not disappoint! The atmosphere was welcoming, and I was particularly impressed with the diverse mimosa flight—each flavor was unique, with the Brazilian and pomegranate standing out as my favorites. My coffee was beautifully presented, adding an extra touch to the meal. As for the food, the pancakes were massive, fluffy, and moist, and the rosemary potatoes were a delightful surprise. I also really enjoyed the breakfast sandwich and the strawberries and cream pancakes. Our server, Tanner, was fantastic—friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. Even though the restaurant was busy and the wait on a Sunday morning was about 35 minutes, Tanner's service made the experience smooth and enjoyable. He even helped keep our table clear of dishes throughout the meal. A noteworthy point for out-of-towners is that Sin of Cortez is a cash-only spot, but there's an ATM on site in case you need it. While my Sunnyside up egg was slightly overcooked for my liking, it was a minor hiccup in what was otherwise the best breakfast we had in Chico. If you're looking for gluten-free options, this place won't let you down. I wholeheartedly recommend giving Sin of Cortez a try—you won't regret it!

2485 Notre Dame Blvd # 800, Chico

(530) 345-9905

Country Waffles in Chico is my go-to spot for breakfast, and it never disappoints. The food always arrives quickly, and the prices are comparable to other breakfast places. The waffle, two eggs, and two sausages I had were particularly good, with the sausages cooked just right. The staff is busy but attentive, regularly checking in on us, which makes the experience pleasant. While the place could use some cleaning, especially in the bathrooms, and there are noticeable issues with cleanliness around the counter area, the atmosphere and food are similar to a typical waffle house. They have a big menu with a nice variety, which is a plus. I've tried the bagel avocado sandwich with over-medium eggs, and it was delicious—eggs cooked perfectly, and adding hashbrowns and ketchup made it even better. Overall, Country Waffles offers a reliable and satisfying breakfast experience with friendly and accommodating staff.

2396 Esplanade, Chico

(530) 343-3968

My first visit to Kalico Kitchen for breakfast was fantastic, and I'm definitely planning to return. Initially, we tried another spot but didn't want to wait 45 minutes, so we ended up here. I'm glad we did. The staff was incredibly friendly, and our waitress was a delight. The food hit the spot, and everyone in our group of four left satisfied. I’m thrilled that Kalico Kitchen is less than four miles from my house. It's hard to beat their prices for such great diner food! The cheeseburger and fries for $7.99 is a steal, and the mini breakfast at $9.99, which includes eggs, hash browns, and a pancake or toast, is perfect. The waitresses were speedy and friendly, which added to the pleasant experience. I also took a chicken fried steak special to-go, which was just okay since it was late in the day, and I skipped the soup and salad. Unfortunately, the food was a bit cold and runny, and I didn't get the garlic bread I ordered, leaving me a bit disappointed. However, their chicken fried steak is usually excellent. And don't miss out on their roasted salsa – it’s a great addition to the eggs. Overall, Kalico Kitchen is a great place for breakfast with excellent service and reasonable prices.

1695 Mangrove Ave, Chico

(530) 895-1195

Our breakfast experience at Cozy Diner in Chico was a delightful surprise. The highlight was their Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice, a rare find among breakfast spots in the area. My companion had been looking for it everywhere, and seeing the machine right there in the diner was a treat. We visited when it wasn't too crowded, so we received great service, particularly from our server, Imelda. She was efficient and friendly. We tried the Veggie Crepes, which were tasty with a good mix of broccoli and tomatoes. After chatting with Charles, the manager, we found out you can request extra spinach, which is a nice option. The dish was beautifully plated with fresh avocado and was definitely worth four stars. I also ordered the ham with three over medium eggs and hash browns. The rye bread was a pleasant surprise—thick and lightly toasted. The ham was large, just as Imelda had warned, and perfect for ham enthusiasts. This filling meal is another four-star dish. The freshly squeezed orange juice was the best part, and for $4.95, it earned a full five stars. It was a refreshing touch that sets Cozy Diner apart from bigger chains. We also picked up some bread pudding, which was delicious. They have some intriguing specials, like the two-for-one free-range fried chicken on Mondays, and an all-you-can-eat fried fish on Fridays, which I'm eager to try. In comparison, their clam chowder on Fridays is better than most places and comes with warm cornbread. On a different visit, I noticed the fish in the fish and chips had declined, and the salad wasn't great, but the service was still friendly. This goes to show how restaurant quality can vary. Overall, Cozy Diner offers great prices and tasty food. We came with a big group, and the staff handled it well, which isn't always easy. They have plenty of space for large gatherings, and everyone left happy, especially the kids. I highly recommend their French toast, made with cinnamon roll bread—it was delicious. The breakfast special, which includes country fried steak, eggs, sausage, bacon, hash browns, and more, is an amazing deal at $13.99. It's a must-try. Cozy Diner is a solid choice, especially for large groups, and I look forward to trying more of their menu.

1990 E 20th St, Chico

(530) 965-5857

During my visit to Black Bear Diner in Chico for breakfast, the experience was truly delightful. The waitress provided fabulous service, making the meal even more enjoyable. On a previous visit, I had some issues with the food being burnt, but after speaking with the professional and down-to-earth manager, I was invited back for another try. This time, everything was cooked to perfection. The gravy was spot on, the biscuits were irresistible, and the poached eggs were cooked just right. The chicken fried steak was fabulous as well. The atmosphere of the diner is charming, with cute bear-themed decor. Mandy, the hostess, was phenomenal, and the service overall was top-notch. I loved the newspaper-style menu, which showcased the company’s pride in their employees and locations. The portion sizes were generous, reminiscent of hearty country cooking. The fresh orange juice made daily was a nice touch, and the huckleberry malt was a highlight—definitely enough to share. Even with a large menu, everything we ordered was really good. The only small critique was my mom's chicken tender on her waffle being a bit salty, but it tasted great regardless. I highly recommend visiting Black Bear Diner in Chico, and I'm hopeful they expand to Wisconsin soon. The exemplary customer service and quality food make it a place I’ll definitely return to.