Serving fresh, delicious American cuisine with a French twist since 1987. In Palo Alto voted Best Breakfast in 2012- 2016, voted into Best Breakfast Hall of Fame 2017 – 2019, voted Best Sunday Brunch 2019. In Metro, Best of Silicon Valley voted in top three in Best Breakfast on the Peninsula 2017 – 2019.
Casual corner cafe serving lunch & dinner, plus a popular breakfast that’s available all day.
Hours
| Friday | 8 AM–2 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–2 PM |
| Sunday | 8 AM–2 PM |
| Monday | 8 AM–2 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–2 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–2 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–2 PM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 405 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Phone: (650) 326-6505
Website: http://joaniescafepaloalto.com/
Menu Photos
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Joanie’s cafe : Restaurant serving fresh, delicious American cuisine with a French twist since 1987.
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Reviews
Mario B
Joanie’s is a staple on California Ave, having been around for more than two decades. After many years, I decided to revisit the place recently.
Some things have changed but the place has mostly stayed the same as I remember it. With good service, decent food options, and lovely atmosphere, Joanie’s is a solid choice.
In the past, service has been a mixed bag. When we went recently it was mostly solid. There were quite a few instances where it took a lot of effort on our part to get a hold of a waiter but when we did, they were friendly, efficient, and got the job done.
The atmosphere, just like most of California Avenue, is more laid back, quiet, and communal. The lovely dining options outside, coupled with the beautiful weather, made the meal more pleasant.
The food itself is solid but nothing exceptional or mind blowing. While many restaurants have evolved over the years, it seems like Joanie’s in many ways is stuck in the past. While their French toast was yummy, their potato options (both the hash brown and potatoes) were just ok and a bit flavorless. The eggs were cooked exactly as requested but the beef hash left a bit to be desired. It seems like while others are innovating, here time has stopped.
Overall, Joanie’s is a classic that’s sticking to their roots while many places are evolving to better serve their customers. What may have been ok 20 years ago doesn’t necessarily make it good enough in today’s competitive landscape. The most I can rate Joanie’s Cafe is 4 stars.
… moreSome things have changed but the place has mostly stayed the same as I remember it. With good service, decent food options, and lovely atmosphere, Joanie’s is a solid choice.
In the past, service has been a mixed bag. When we went recently it was mostly solid. There were quite a few instances where it took a lot of effort on our part to get a hold of a waiter but when we did, they were friendly, efficient, and got the job done.
The atmosphere, just like most of California Avenue, is more laid back, quiet, and communal. The lovely dining options outside, coupled with the beautiful weather, made the meal more pleasant.
The food itself is solid but nothing exceptional or mind blowing. While many restaurants have evolved over the years, it seems like Joanie’s in many ways is stuck in the past. While their French toast was yummy, their potato options (both the hash brown and potatoes) were just ok and a bit flavorless. The eggs were cooked exactly as requested but the beef hash left a bit to be desired. It seems like while others are innovating, here time has stopped.
Overall, Joanie’s is a classic that’s sticking to their roots while many places are evolving to better serve their customers. What may have been ok 20 years ago doesn’t necessarily make it good enough in today’s competitive landscape. The most I can rate Joanie’s Cafe is 4 stars.
Philip S
We live in San Leandro and came down to get away from the fireworks. It was our 1st time at this restaurant, had about a 20-25 minute wait. The restaurant is pet-friendly and we had our Pom, so it was understandable to wait for an outside table. The service was great and food even greater. I have no problem taking a 45-50 minute drive to eat at this establishment.
… moreAnnushree Kumari
I recently had the pleasure of indulging in a delightful brunch experience at Joanie’s. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the warm ambiance and bustling atmosphere—a sure sign of a popular spot.
For my brunch selection, I opted for the breakfast medley and chicken Milanese, and I must say, both dishes exceeded my expectations. The breakfast medley was a delightful combination of flavors, while the chicken Milanese was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful with a satisfying crunch.
What truly set this experience apart, however, was the exceptional service provided by the staff. Despite the morning rush, they were incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest felt welcomed and well taken care of.
Overall, my brunch experience was nothing short of fantastic. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast or a delicious lunch option, this place has it all. I highly recommend paying them a visit—you won’t be disappointed!
… moreFor my brunch selection, I opted for the breakfast medley and chicken Milanese, and I must say, both dishes exceeded my expectations. The breakfast medley was a delightful combination of flavors, while the chicken Milanese was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful with a satisfying crunch.
What truly set this experience apart, however, was the exceptional service provided by the staff. Despite the morning rush, they were incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest felt welcomed and well taken care of.
Overall, my brunch experience was nothing short of fantastic. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast or a delicious lunch option, this place has it all. I highly recommend paying them a visit—you won’t be disappointed!
Kimberly Iwamoto
This restaurant had a high review score, so we chose it.
We got a seat right away on Saturday lunchtime, and the menu is very traditional American breakfast and lunch.
I ordered Crepes , which has mushrooms, ham and cheddar cheese, and a side of house-made Hash browns & fruits for $23.90. To be honest, the food is average, nothing special, and the price is a bit high, I think because it is in Palo Alto.
2 persons : 2 breakfast + 2 coffees $68 plus tips , over $40 per person for breakfast !
… moreWe got a seat right away on Saturday lunchtime, and the menu is very traditional American breakfast and lunch.
I ordered Crepes , which has mushrooms, ham and cheddar cheese, and a side of house-made Hash browns & fruits for $23.90. To be honest, the food is average, nothing special, and the price is a bit high, I think because it is in Palo Alto.
2 persons : 2 breakfast + 2 coffees $68 plus tips , over $40 per person for breakfast !
A P Y
One of the first places we visited / tried when we moved here. And I must say it did not disappoint. I loved the french dip sandwich. And loved their coffee too. Place is busy / packed during weekdays and they serve on a first come first served basis. Would definitely come back when we crave for sandwich.
… moreSrujan N
Breakfast at Joanie’s Cafe was good. Pancakes were great but the Veggie scramble was a bit bland. Service was quick and friendly.
… moreJoshua Yuan
Pretty busy on a weekend but there should be street parking around. Food is quite plentiful with a normal wait time for a busy restaurant. Food is good and as this seems to be a very standard brunch place.
Servers will likely be busy. There seems to be outdoor heated seating too. I’d return 🙂
… moreServers will likely be busy. There seems to be outdoor heated seating too. I’d return 🙂
Alex Circei
Joanie’s Café in Palo Alto has become my go-to breakfast spot, and for good reason. This cozy, family-owned café delivers the perfect balance of comfort, quality, and consistency, making it an essential part of my morning routine. Whether I’m looking for a quiet moment to start the day or a place to meet with friends or colleagues, Joanie’s never disappoints.
Atmosphere & Service
The atmosphere at Joanie’s is warm and welcoming, with a classic French café vibe mixed with the charm of a neighborhood diner. The space is cozy yet lively, and even when it’s packed (which it often is), the energy remains friendly and inviting. The staff is exceptional—always greeting me with a smile, remembering my usual order, and making sure everything is just right. They manage to strike that perfect balance between being attentive and giving you space to enjoy your meal.
Despite its popularity, service is impressively efficient. Even on the busiest mornings, I rarely have to wait long for a table or my food. They have a great system in place to keep things moving, and I appreciate how smoothly they handle the morning rush.
The Food – Quality & Variety
Joanie’s breakfast menu is extensive, featuring both American and French-inspired dishes, all made with high-quality ingredients. I’ve worked my way through most of the menu, and I can confidently say that everything is consistently fresh and delicious.
… moreAtmosphere & Service
The atmosphere at Joanie’s is warm and welcoming, with a classic French café vibe mixed with the charm of a neighborhood diner. The space is cozy yet lively, and even when it’s packed (which it often is), the energy remains friendly and inviting. The staff is exceptional—always greeting me with a smile, remembering my usual order, and making sure everything is just right. They manage to strike that perfect balance between being attentive and giving you space to enjoy your meal.
Despite its popularity, service is impressively efficient. Even on the busiest mornings, I rarely have to wait long for a table or my food. They have a great system in place to keep things moving, and I appreciate how smoothly they handle the morning rush.
The Food – Quality & Variety
Joanie’s breakfast menu is extensive, featuring both American and French-inspired dishes, all made with high-quality ingredients. I’ve worked my way through most of the menu, and I can confidently say that everything is consistently fresh and delicious.
Amber Pahlke
Great place for brunch!
We were here on a Sunday, lots of bustle in the streets with the market going on. We waited maybe 15 minutes around noon for a table outside.
The service was great, the food tasted very good. Pretty good sized portions.
… moreWe were here on a Sunday, lots of bustle in the streets with the market going on. We waited maybe 15 minutes around noon for a table outside.
The service was great, the food tasted very good. Pretty good sized portions.
Sally W
Have been coming here for a few times Spent a morning to catch up with friends in the outdoor area to enjoy the lovely weather and nice food. We spent quite a while talking during and after meals, and the server didn’t come to bother us. Feel relaxed not pressured. Both of our brunch items were prepared well, just how we like them. Very consistent quality. Parking is not a problem because there is a multi-level parking garage right across from the street.
… more