We arrived at about 11:00am, there as plenty of parking and no wait. The host pointed at a booth for us to sit at. We loved the old school vibe at the Cafe with all the knickknacks. A quiet young man came by to take our drink order.l, I got a coffee and my husband got a coke. Our server was Ramon and he was very funny, friendly and welcoming. I ordered the 3 egg build your own omelet with cheddar, olives, mushrooms, and ham. With my omelet I also received hashbrowns and toast. Everything on my plate was pretty good. I'm always a happy coffee drinker if they have good coffee and decent creamer, which this cafe had both. My husband ordered the French dip with French fries. He said the French dip was pretty tasty and he liked that the au jus wasn't overly salty and seemed to be made in house; which is a plus. Overall we were happy with our experience and would definitely come back again. We both felt that the food was good but nothing to write home about.
Overview
Antique Row Cafe, nestled at 1185 E Main St, El Cajon, CA 92021, is the perfect spot for a delightful dining experience. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this charming café is a must-visit destination. With its welcoming ambiance and mouthwatering menu, Antique Row Cafe has earned a reputation for offering both comfort and quality in every dish served.
Walking into the café, you’re immediately embraced by the cozy, vintage-inspired decor. The space feels both nostalgic and modern, offering a relaxed vibe for casual dining. Antique furnishings and rustic touches provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying a delicious meal, while the friendly staff ensures that every guest feels right at home.
The café's menu is a fantastic blend of classic comfort foods and exciting new flavors, designed to please a wide variety of tastes. One of the standout features of Antique Row Cafe is its dedication to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From the first bite to the last, it's clear that each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail.
For breakfast lovers, the café offers a hearty selection of options that will set you up for the day. The famous breakfast burrito, stuffed with eggs, bacon, and a blend of savory cheeses, is always a hit. If you're in the mood for something lighter, the fresh fruit bowls, paired with yogurt and honey, make for the perfect start to any morning. But for those who enjoy a classic breakfast experience, the fluffy pancakes and eggs benedict are simply irresistible.
Lunchtime at Antique Row Cafe brings an array of mouthwatering sandwiches, wraps, and salads. The café’s turkey club sandwich, with its perfectly toasted bread and tender turkey slices, is a top choice. The roasted veggie wrap, filled with seasonal vegetables and drizzled with a tangy dressing, is another standout. Pair any of these dishes with the café’s signature house salad, topped with fresh greens, ripe tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette.
But it's not just about the food - Antique Row Cafe also excels in its beverage offerings. Whether you're in the mood for a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a smooth latte, the café’s baristas are skilled in crafting the perfect drink. They also offer a variety of teas, smoothies, and fresh juices, making it easy to find the perfect accompaniment to your meal.
Many visitors have shared glowing reviews of their experience at Antique Row Cafe. Local patrons often highlight the cozy atmosphere and friendly service, making it a go-to spot for regular visits. The café’s team is known for being attentive and knowledgeable, offering suggestions that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing afternoon or a quick bite, this cafe offers something for everyone.
If you're planning a visit to the area, Antique Row Cafe is easy to find, located conveniently on Main Street in El Cajon. It's a short drive from many of the local attractions, making it an ideal place to stop for a meal after exploring the town. Whether you're looking for a casual brunch, a cozy lunch, or a place to unwind with a cup of coffee, this charming café is the perfect destination.
What truly sets Antique Row Cafe apart is its commitment to creating a dining experience that feels personal and unique. The owner’s passion for great food and a welcoming atmosphere shines through in every aspect of the café. Guests regularly return not only for the delicious meals but for the warm, inviting environment that feels like a home away from home.
The café's reputation for consistency and quality has garnered it a loyal following, and it continues to thrive as a beloved part of the El Cajon community. Whether you're stopping by for a quick bite or spending the afternoon sipping coffee and chatting with friends, Antique Row Cafe offers the perfect setting for any occasion.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-in âś“ DeliveryHighlights
âś“ Fast service âś“ Great coffee âś“ Great dessert âś“ Great tea selectionPopular for
âś“ Breakfast âś“ Lunch âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Coffee âś“ Comfort food âś“ Healthy options âś“ Quick bite âś“ Small platesDining options
âś“ Breakfast âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Bar on site âś“ ToiletAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ CosyCrowd
âś“ Groups âś“ TouristsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ High chairs âś“ Kids' menuParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lot âś“ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
Following GPS directions was a little confusing. It is next to a bar, and that is more prominent. Food and portions were good. Service was exceptional!
Amazing home make tasting food without having to make it yourself. Very lovely and kind staff. I’m as old as the diner itself and feel like I went back in time. Highly recommend this place for a lovely brunch. If you don’t come say hi to the wonderful staff, you’re missing out. Tell the lovely lady I said Hi. - Coffee 6/10 (kept hot, taste like regular coffee) - Sunrise sand which 9.5/10 - Hash browns 7/10 (unsalted, good thing. Salt at your own personal sodium’s needs. I personally have high sodium on a daily so very nice to have a place that doesn’t salt their food like crazy to “enhance” flavor when it’s unnecessary) - HOMEMADE SALSA {picoso} 7.5/10 (not too spicy of a bite to your tongue and very flavorful topping)
I've been coming here every Tuesday for about a month or two now. The food is consistently great and the staff is very friendly. They make you feel welcome, there are a couple of waiters who are jokesters and make the place fun to dine at. Their Steak and Eggs are great, always cooked well. Their pancakes are really good, the Kielbasa omelet is delicious and I love their biscuits and gravy. The coffee is free refills and is always really good. Anyone looking for a nice place to sit down and have breakfast should absolutely give this place a shot!
Ive lived in El Cajon my whole life and never stopped in here. I came in on a Saturday closer to 12. It was not busy and sat down right away. Immediately got tended to by the sweetest lady. I ordered a pretty standard item off the menu — French toast with sausage and egg. Can never go wrong and it indeed didn’t. Can’t wait to come again and try something new.
Ive been coming here for years. Great food! Wonderful, friendly service! If you’ve never been, you need to go!
The food was amazing. The beans did not taste like canned beans like most restaurants. The salsa tasted like authentic Mexican salsa. All food tasted fresh made. Our server Ramon was also very nice and helpful.