• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Welcome to Big Kitchen Café

At Big Kitchen Café, we celebrate the charm of classic breakfast and brunch with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Located in San Diego, our café stands out for its commitment to hearty, delicious meals—ranging from big salads to unique burgers, all served with a dash of love. Our beloved owner, Judy, fosters a welcoming environment, recalling the nostalgia of traditional diners. Guests rave about our pancakes, corned beef hash, and variety of veggie options, making it a favorite for families and friends. With outdoor seating and a casual vibe, Big Kitchen Café is the perfect spot for a comforting meal to start your day.

Big Kitchen Café: Reviews & Ratings

Donald C.
Donald C.

What a great experience! Really appreciate you Judy for taking care of our big 80th birthday party. Food was perfect.

Dj R.
Dj R.

I lived in SD all my life and I just recently visited this restaurant... What is wrong with me. Judy the Beauty!!! Her and the staff are top notch! The place takes you back to what a diner is back in the days. I ordered the Andre special and my wife the cheese & chive omelette. Bomb! Would you go back you ask? Yes!!! Even just to see Judy the Beauty again. You should to! (well... I shouldn't be telling you what to do). Just a suggestion.

Fried E.
Fried E.

Why go here? The food is splendid and the owner Judy is the sweetest women you will meet. They have a variety of foods for breakfast and anything you get is going to be amazingly delicious I got the corned beef hash and it was delicious

Ryan K.
Ryan K.

We came on a Saturday morning and only had to wait for about 5 minutes. Outside seating only I think. We split a pancake, eggs, ham and home potatoes. Pros - the pancake was big. Filled up the entire plate. It was one of the better pancakes I've had. The ham was really good. Can't compare it to much because I don't really get breakfast ham. The salsa was really good. I had it with the eggs. Idk what they added to it but it gave it a tiny bit of sweetness I think. The potatoes were also very good. - friendly owner and staff Cons - none really. Could of had More potatoes maybe. -$31 (no tip) for what we got. You can be the judge if it's worth it from the pictures. (It's San Diego so it's expected I suppose.) Overall 8/10

Candace C.
Candace C.

Our go-to no frills classic breakfast diner spot for delicious plates. Equivalent to your favorite neighborhood dive bar but make it breakfast/brunch. If you're not in the mood for waiting hours for mimosa flights or glitzy interiors, we've got a recommendation for you. Judy is a true gem and the servers are very nice. We would come here every weekend when we lived in South Park. The coffee cake is a staple. Indoor and outdoor seating (bar seating and booth seating inside) and they've got everything from hasbrowns, potatoes, pancakes to bacon and eggs, country fried steak, omelettes and more. Also some specials on the menu. Large portions and fair prices.

Israel G.
Israel G.

There's something nostalgic about this place. The old photos of celebrities, the worn floor where thousands upon thousands have paid homage to a simple concept: live in a small world and a big kitchen. Life is a good with a big kitchen where people feel welcomed like family, where the portions are as big as the smiles, where no matter who you are, you'll walk away satisfied and just a bit wiser because of the time you spent with friends and loved ones eating, laughing, and chopping it up. I had the combo with bacon and eggs and potatoes. Those potatoes had so much good flavor as if it was made on Christmas morning with everyday spices. My daughter brought me here and I loved it. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Location

Welcome to Big Kitchen Café, a charming breakfast and brunch spot nestled in the heart of San Diego, California. Located at 3003 Grape Street, this café promises a delightful experience for those seeking hearty, homestyle meals. With a laid-back atmosphere and a welcoming vibe, it feels like a step back into the classic diner experience.

One of the standout features of Big Kitchen Café is its extensive menu, which proudly caters to various dietary preferences, including a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options. Some fan favorites include the homemade soups, the renowned Big Kitchen Chili, and the Big Mack N Cheese – a comforting dish enriched with green chilies and sausage. Each plate is prepared with care, showcasing the chef's passion for wholesome ingredients.

  • Specialties: Indulge in hearty bowls of soups such as Black Bean Chili, or savor the hearty Brown Rice with Black Beans and Tortillas.
  • Veggie Delights: Options include sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, and seasonal vegetables paired with brown rice.
  • Burgers: Their burgers are not to be missed! Try the Germaines Ghetto Burger or the flavorful Serrano Burger, which packs a spicy kick.

Beyond the food, the café's ambiance is equally inviting. With outdoor seating available and a casual, family-friendly vibe, it’s a perfect spot for gatherings, whether you are celebrating a big milestone or just enjoying a laid-back brunch with friends. Notably, the café also accommodates kids and pets, making it an inclusive space for all. Plus, with amenities like Wi-Fi, happy hour specials, and options for catering, it’s a versatile venue for various occasions.

What truly sets Big Kitchen Café apart, however, is its owner, Judy, who has received numerous praises from customers for her warmth and attentiveness. As one diner put it, "Judy is a true gem," embodying the heart and soul of this vibrant eatery.

If you're someone who values quality breakfast served with a side of nostalgia, Big Kitchen Café deserves a place on your culinary itinerary. With reasonable prices and a commitment to making every meal special, this café is sure to become your go-to spot in San Diego. Don’t just take our word for it—visit and experience the deliciousness for yourself!

For reservations or inquiries, feel free to call at (619) 234-5789.