Established in 1973, and Family owned and operated since 1985, Royal Cafe has been serving high quality, home-style breakfast and lunch to our neighborhood for over thirty years. Our goal is to serve good, fresh food made from scratch, and treat our customers like family. We have watched generations of families grow right along with us.
We support our community by offering fresh, local products whenever possible. All of our pancakes, waffles, muffins and scones are made from scratch daily in our own kitchen. Our juices are fresh squeezed. Our coffee is also organic and fair-trade. We hope to see you soon! The mission is simple: serve delicious, affordable food that guests will want to return to week after week.
We support our community by offering fresh, local products whenever possible. All of our pancakes, waffles, muffins and scones are made from scratch daily in our own kitchen. Our juices are fresh squeezed. Our coffee is also organic and fair-trade. We hope to see you soon! The mission is simple: serve delicious, affordable food that guests will want to return to week after week.
Reviews (27)
Mackenzie G.
Jan 22, 2022
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Don G.
Dec 05, 2021
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If the Royal Café were to open tomorrow, just as I did when my COVID vaccine was first available to me, I would be pushing older people out of the way to be first in line.
I've been a big fan of the Royal Café for 43 years now. It's not that their food is the best in the world and it's not that their prices are better than any other omelette house. It's the people. I'm reminded of the old TV show CHEERS where, when Norm would walk in, everyone would call out his name. When I would walk in, the owners and staff would frequently look my way and smile like they were
I've been a big fan of the Royal Café for 43 years now. It's not that their food is the best in the world and it's not that their prices are better than any other omelette house. It's the people. I'm reminded of the old TV show CHEERS where, when Norm would walk in, everyone would call out his name. When I would walk in, the owners and staff would frequently look my way and smile like they were
Arlene W.
Jul 02, 2021
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The pandemic Covid-19 hurt a lot of businesses. I really miss Royal café.
I miss your yummy French toast, especially your homemade scones, blueberries pancakes, my naughty Charlie, Denver omelette, quesadilla, homemade bacon, the delicious chicken soup. I can go on and on......It's been over more than a year.
I'm waiting for you to open.......soon
Your loyal customer..with LOVE
I miss your yummy French toast, especially your homemade scones, blueberries pancakes, my naughty Charlie, Denver omelette, quesadilla, homemade bacon, the delicious chicken soup. I can go on and on......It's been over more than a year.
I'm waiting for you to open.......soon
Your loyal customer..with LOVE
Kristina S.
Dec 31, 2020
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Royal Cafe is my #1 favorite brunch spot in the area. Consistently delicious food, good service and the most yummy banana coconut pancakes ever. I love sitting on the patio near the bougainvilleas :) I've been thinking about them during this pandemic and hope they can survive. If anyone knows of any ways to support please share!
Albany D.
Sep 15, 2020
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Debi Russell
Aug 26, 2020
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Alisa L.
Mar 03, 2020
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Jane M.
Feb 29, 2020
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Solid brunch spot.
They don't take reservations here, so you may have a bit of a wait since this place is popular. Parking is easy with a small lot located on the side of the restaurant and plenty of nearby street parking.
We both got some version of their Eggs Benedict. He got the Eggs Blackstone: poached eggs, smoked bacon, grilled tomato. I got the Eggs Brady: poached eggs, hot smoked salmon. Both were quite tasty. The eggs were cooked perfectly with golden runny yolk. The bacon and salmon were wonderfully smokey and generously portioned. The hollandaise sauce was creamy and plentiful
They don't take reservations here, so you may have a bit of a wait since this place is popular. Parking is easy with a small lot located on the side of the restaurant and plenty of nearby street parking.
We both got some version of their Eggs Benedict. He got the Eggs Blackstone: poached eggs, smoked bacon, grilled tomato. I got the Eggs Brady: poached eggs, hot smoked salmon. Both were quite tasty. The eggs were cooked perfectly with golden runny yolk. The bacon and salmon were wonderfully smokey and generously portioned. The hollandaise sauce was creamy and plentiful
James A.
Dec 27, 2019
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The place is a big restaurant that has a classic vibe. There are a bunch of old posters of different things from the 60s. The staff was so nice every time I came in that it just puts a smile on your face.
I ordered chicken and waffles and the food was great. The chicken was so juicy and the waffle was so good. I'm definitely going back to try more food.
I ordered chicken and waffles and the food was great. The chicken was so juicy and the waffle was so good. I'm definitely going back to try more food.
Jennifer O.
Dec 27, 2019
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Delicious comfort brunch fare. Banana coconut pancakes are life.
Food: hubby and I went for brunch here a few days after Christmas due to stellar yelp reviews. I ordered the banana coconut pancakes with no topping (whip) and hubby got chicken and waffles. We both LOVED our dishes. The pancakes hit the spot and didn't require being drenched in syrup to be eaten. The flavors went together perfectly and the pancakes were fluffy! Hubby's chicken was perfectly fried and went well with his waffle when topped with hot sauce, syrup and butter. Healthy? Nah. Delicious? Damn right.
Service
Food: hubby and I went for brunch here a few days after Christmas due to stellar yelp reviews. I ordered the banana coconut pancakes with no topping (whip) and hubby got chicken and waffles. We both LOVED our dishes. The pancakes hit the spot and didn't require being drenched in syrup to be eaten. The flavors went together perfectly and the pancakes were fluffy! Hubby's chicken was perfectly fried and went well with his waffle when topped with hot sauce, syrup and butter. Healthy? Nah. Delicious? Damn right.
Service
Evan C.
Nov 30, 2019
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Here for breakfast and we were a party of 7. Got a table pretty quick. I am not a breakfast food person so I had the BLT. Very limited non breakfast items on the menu.
Everyone had something thing different and everyone thought the food was ok. My wife was impressed with the scone with lemon curd.
Service for 7 people can be tough so we'll leave that one alone.
Decor was pretty cool, 50's type of items throughout the place, maybe even earlier. This is definitely a locals spot for breakfast.
Everyone had something thing different and everyone thought the food was ok. My wife was impressed with the scone with lemon curd.
Service for 7 people can be tough so we'll leave that one alone.
Decor was pretty cool, 50's type of items throughout the place, maybe even earlier. This is definitely a locals spot for breakfast.
Lisa T.
Nov 13, 2019
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I sat at the counter to beat the wait, and had a perfect breakfast, soundtracked by The Commodores. The pancakes were big, light, and fluffy, and had that homemade flavor.
I ordered house-made sausage which was delish, but it was a bit pink inside so I asked the waitress to throw it on the grill for a sec. She suggested they butterfly it first, which was excellent advice. Basically now you have two pieces of sausage, with a lovely browned crust.
The coffee was excellent, too.
It was a big meal so it was a breeze to box up half of it to take home. My bill including tip was $20, which is a bit spendy
I ordered house-made sausage which was delish, but it was a bit pink inside so I asked the waitress to throw it on the grill for a sec. She suggested they butterfly it first, which was excellent advice. Basically now you have two pieces of sausage, with a lovely browned crust.
The coffee was excellent, too.
It was a big meal so it was a breeze to box up half of it to take home. My bill including tip was $20, which is a bit spendy
Chadie G.
Nov 09, 2019
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Brunch with my lovelies and so glad they enjoyed the atmosphere. Lots of vintage radios, pics and odd end items to look at. Busy place. Fast service and a great menu to choose from. Orange juice BOMB! Scone with Lemon Curd BOMB! Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon BOMB!!! Potatoes hella BOMB!!! Just right portions and definitely a place to come back to. The only issue, would've gave it 5 stars, but parking was horrible. Next time I hope I'll get lucky to get a parking in the lot.
Sara A.
Oct 27, 2019
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Definitely a pleasant surprise! We were actually planning on going to another breakfast place down the street instead, but since they weren't open, we decided to give this spot a try.
When we came in at about 10 o'clock on a Saturday morning there was a bit of a waitlist going. HOWEVER! Open counter seating :) my husband and I nabbed two seats quickly and were greeted and served immediately.
The decor of this place is really fun- they have lots of vintage machines- espresso, jukebox, etc. and TONS of photos to look at. It really gives off a huge home-like vibe which is always nice
When we came in at about 10 o'clock on a Saturday morning there was a bit of a waitlist going. HOWEVER! Open counter seating :) my husband and I nabbed two seats quickly and were greeted and served immediately.
The decor of this place is really fun- they have lots of vintage machines- espresso, jukebox, etc. and TONS of photos to look at. It really gives off a huge home-like vibe which is always nice
Janet B.
Aug 25, 2019
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First time trying out this spot. Great ambiance and sort of friendly staff! I tried Naughty Charlie with smoked salmon instead. I was expecting one of those soft thinly prepared smoked salmon slices but theirs was more like a smoked salmon chunk. Too salty so I wasn't a fan and was little disappointed. On the other hand, their poached egg and potatoes were on point!
Maybe I'll come again and try their French Toast.
Maybe I'll come again and try their French Toast.
Nonie Kent
Aug 14, 2019
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Royal Cafe has consistently good food, service and a clean yet retro decor. The service is always spot on, it is like the can see the level in my coffee cup. Good homemade sausage, no nitrates. Love their homemade salsa. Small parking lot, which can be challenging but personally the food and service are worth it. I try to avoid this place on the weekends due to the crowds, though they move fairly fast.
Uwe Druckenmueller
Aug 08, 2019
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Mimi N.
Jul 03, 2019
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I have to admit, Royal Café serves a pretty wicked serving of yummylicious pancakes. Came here for brunch with a few friends and all I can think about when writing this review, is the pancakes. Rawwwwr.
Things to note:
Wait Process - get your name on the list and wait
Parking - there is a small lot located next to the restaurant (for free!)
Interior - super cute and retro! Think old diner style that was set in the 50s
Service - could have been better....Had to ask for water several times and it was pretty difficult in trying to get our server's attention at times.
Drinks - Do try the
Things to note:
Wait Process - get your name on the list and wait
Parking - there is a small lot located next to the restaurant (for free!)
Interior - super cute and retro! Think old diner style that was set in the 50s
Service - could have been better....Had to ask for water several times and it was pretty difficult in trying to get our server's attention at times.
Drinks - Do try the
Justin R.
Jan 15, 2019
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Great restaurant, great service and great atmosphere w/ the 1950/60s diner theme. As soon as you walk in, you want to slide a nickel (that's what it cost in those days) in the jukebox and play your fave Motown hit!
Only been here for brunch but would love to try their lunch/dinner menu some day. If you love Eggs Benedict, then this your spot. They have multiple options. The hollandaise is fresh, creamy and has the good old butter for your soul. The waffle with fresh fruit and their homemade maple syrup feels like your first kiss!
Only been here for brunch but would love to try their lunch/dinner menu some day. If you love Eggs Benedict, then this your spot. They have multiple options. The hollandaise is fresh, creamy and has the good old butter for your soul. The waffle with fresh fruit and their homemade maple syrup feels like your first kiss!
Mariana D.
Jan 14, 2019
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Still a 4/5 star to go slot in the El Cerrito / albany area. Appreciate how quickly they seat you when 9 parties are ahead of you :-)
1. Bacon is still amazing crunchy - highly recommend the Solano (egg white scramble with tomatoes, bacon. Spinach, tomatoes) with a side of Yukon gold potatoes
2. They serve up some great ACME bread and other options
3. Waffles and cinnamon raisin bread
4. Amazing Benny's
Avoid :
1. Coffee is bitter - bummer
2. Watermelon mimosa- alas some fruit wasn't created for champagne
1. Bacon is still amazing crunchy - highly recommend the Solano (egg white scramble with tomatoes, bacon. Spinach, tomatoes) with a side of Yukon gold potatoes
2. They serve up some great ACME bread and other options
3. Waffles and cinnamon raisin bread
4. Amazing Benny's
Avoid :
1. Coffee is bitter - bummer
2. Watermelon mimosa- alas some fruit wasn't created for champagne
Craig G.
Dec 21, 2018
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It's been a minute since we have come here with sooo manny breakfast options around. However I have come here for 30 odd years. Always solid food consistent friendly service, and typically 10-30 min wait unless you know some secrets.
Oh did you think I was gonna share? Ah then it wouldn't be a secret!
Indio and outdoor (dog friendly) patio.
Scone with lemon killer must try! Check out the ancient but very functional expresso machine! It looks like the jukebox, toasters radios, and other kitschy Americana items, proudly displayed all throughout the place... but it actually works!
Oh did you think I was gonna share? Ah then it wouldn't be a secret!
Indio and outdoor (dog friendly) patio.
Scone with lemon killer must try! Check out the ancient but very functional expresso machine! It looks like the jukebox, toasters radios, and other kitschy Americana items, proudly displayed all throughout the place... but it actually works!
Jenae Lien
Nov 04, 2018
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Delightful decor for a hustle of a morning! This place is the breakfast spot in town. The line is worth it. Plan to wait 30 minutes. Come with a group of 8 or just by yourself!
I tried their famous scone, served with a lemon sauce. Perfectly crumbly, and totally messy. I also got their homemade granola with soy milk and let it sit to soak up the soy and get soft. Delicious. Matt got a breakfast omelet with cheddar, bacon and avocado.
Real maple syrup is on the tables along with salsas. Those details matter! Free coffee refills and the servers are on it, never had a cold cup.
Credit cards accepted
I tried their famous scone, served with a lemon sauce. Perfectly crumbly, and totally messy. I also got their homemade granola with soy milk and let it sit to soak up the soy and get soft. Delicious. Matt got a breakfast omelet with cheddar, bacon and avocado.
Real maple syrup is on the tables along with salsas. Those details matter! Free coffee refills and the servers are on it, never had a cold cup.
Credit cards accepted
Rachel M.
Oct 02, 2018
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One of my favorite brunch places with the best pancakes to boot! Prior to that judgment, I had yelped "best pancakes" near the Richmond area and Royal Cafe popped up. Since we were nearby, I knew we had to go.
Upon walking in, we were transported back in time to a cool 1950's diner. There are lots of interesting paraphernalia on the walls and shelves, enough to entertain us as we waited for our name to be called. Note - come early on the weekend or be prepared to wait!
The menu has several delicious options, including an array of Benedicts, chicken and waffles, scones with
Upon walking in, we were transported back in time to a cool 1950's diner. There are lots of interesting paraphernalia on the walls and shelves, enough to entertain us as we waited for our name to be called. Note - come early on the weekend or be prepared to wait!
The menu has several delicious options, including an array of Benedicts, chicken and waffles, scones with
Erik Aranda-Wikman
Jun 02, 2018
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My plus 1 and I ordered a couple of hollandaise dishes, and they were delicious! I order the Naughty Charlie, which was heavenly. The better half of my life ordered traditional eggs benedict.
The decor is very retro and fun. My only request is the removal of the demon Kellogg corn flakes picture (attached) as it is super creepy.
The decor is very retro and fun. My only request is the removal of the demon Kellogg corn flakes picture (attached) as it is super creepy.
Jorge Padilla
Dec 23, 2017
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This is our first and last time here, food is allright, nothing special about it but the prices, wow this place is very expensive and the portions are VERY small, even "ihop" gives you bigger portions. Any other places you expect to pay 25 to 30 bucks for 2 persons tax included and you leave with a full belly, also if your party is 6 persons or over there is an automatic 18% tip "surcharge"
Angelie Khu
Jul 27, 2017
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J. Esparza
Jun 06, 2017
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