Known for its large portions, this local diner serves familiar American fare in a down-home setting.
Doug Underwood
We had a real nice dinner at CJ’s Cafe today.
My wife got the turkey dinner and it came with everything, turkey and dressing, vegetables, toast and some mashed potatoes with gravy.
I had the spaghetti and meatballs and I could just barely finish the portion size. It was really good we will both the definitely be going back.
… moreJeanie K. Smith
CJ’s is already our go-to for a weekly date night and frequent brunches w/family & friends– but now it’s also my favorite CATERING service. We just hosted a buffet dinner for 25 people, and Brad Sears and his catering team did a fantastic job for us. Multiple platters– meats, cheeses, fruit, veggies, rolls, charcuterie, dips & sauces– they did it all, with generous portions, vibrant and fresh plating, delicious food. It was all fabulous, beautiful, exactly what I ordered and even more. All my guests raved about the array of platters and the quality of the food– a huge hit!
Brad was easy to work with, good communication, and spelled out everything (with options) for our agreement. Cost was super reasonable, especially after I saw what he brought!
I will happily call on him again for future occasions– what a great addition to the popular cafe.
… moreJared Worthen
CJ’s Cafe in Arroyo Grande has earned a permanent spot in my routine and my memories. I hold morning business meetings there regularly — great atmosphere, attentive staff, and nobody rushes you out. On weekends it’s where me and my two boys do what we call Dude Breakfast, which has become one of our favorite traditions. And on the morning of my wedding, it’s where I sat down with my groomsmen before the whole day kicked off. That says everything you need to know about this place. Consistent food, warm hospitality, and the kind of neighborhood vibe that makes a cafe truly great. If you haven’t made CJ’s your regular spot in Arroyo Grande, you’re missing out.
… moreAARON “Ron” CARNES
This place is stunning, first time coming in we were greeted by nice and generous staff. The place looks amazing, the food is beyond comprehensive, and this might be the best cafe i have been at in a while. 100% would recommend.
… moreRichard Vandenberg
Great little dinner friendly staff good food so many options
… moreCliff
Well this is funny, looks like these disgraceful owners got my previous review down on yelp, so I will write it down on google. They can’t take a lick of criticism and try to hide it!! Just showing there true colors , but I had it saved just in case something like this happened. This place used to be one of my favorite chill cafes, but the new owners are absolutely ruining it. What was once a relaxed, welcoming spot now feels like they’re desperately trying to turn it into some kind of 5-star restaurant and failing badly. The changes they’ve made don’t fit the place at all. The vibe is gone, and atmosphere feel forced, and it’s clear they don’t understand what made this cafe special in the first place. What’s even worse is how the employees seem to be treated. You can tell something is wrong when cooks, waiters, and waitresses keep disappearing. Almost every time I come in, there are new faces. I’ve overheard multiple conversations about hours being cut, and the owner constantly seems to be on a power trip. Morale is clearly low, and it shows in the service not because of the staff, but because they look stressed and unsupported. Honestly, I haven’t heard a single good thing about the new ownership from anyone customers or employees. I feel bad for the workers who are stuck dealing with this and for the people who keep coming back hoping it’ll be like it used to be. Sadly, it’s just not anymore. Such a shame to see a great local spot being set back like this.
… moreDreamzville
Classic diners are hard to find, so boy were we happy to find CJ’s! The food is tasty and there are plenty of Americana-centric choices. The prices are right, the staff friendly and the servings generous! The atmosphere is spacious and restful. We will be back (again and again)!
… moreLance Fernandes
Great service and food went for a family birthday really enjoyed the hometown cooking mellow atmosphere and ability to have a conversation without loud distractions hometown cooking occasionally hard to find I think you guys for making this evening and opportunity with my family a good one.
… moreF R
We came for breakfast and dinner. The portions are more than we could eat and satisfying. Our waitress for breakfast (slender woman) was courteous and handled multiple diners lwith ease. Our waiter at dinner (young man w/spiky hair) was also courteous & proficient. Fish & chips were excellent, better than Pismo Fish & Chips. Mashed potatoes were homemade and tasty.
… moreYvette
I was so sad that I didn’t take a picture of my food. This place is very local dinning. Cafe setting. Very delicious. We had clam chowder, mushroom burger, turkey sandwich with fries.Our waitress Jess is very friendly and warm. Highly recommend.
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