Big Kitchen Café

This is easily one of my favorite diners in San Diego. The ambience is unique and sends a message that is very clearly pro-human rights, which is a breath of fresh air in today's society who seem to have forgotten that everything is political. From the food we eat to the way we spend our money, everything is political and places like Big Kitchen matter. I am so grateful that safe places like this exist in this world. All of the art work and personal mementos and trinkets that line the wall give a welcoming feel for all. The owner Judy is a lovely human being who acknowledges and interacts with all of her guests and is an inspiration for all. She is so entertaining and beyond charming. It's like coming home to eat a home cooked breakfast, every time. Sometimes there is live music and sometimes Judy sings out a song herself. Each experience at Big Kitchen is unique, you never know what you will find The food is delicious. I haven't tried anything I didn't devour. The home style potatoes and the giant cinnamon rolls are my favorite, but truly you can't go wrong with anything on the menu here. I come here regularly and I will continue to do so ❤️

It was alright, but I was expecting more from one of SD’s highest rated breakfast spots. It does have a homestyle feel, but service was very slow even if it wasn’t that crowded. The frittata was average tasting, and the potatoes were bland. The waffles were pretty good.

Judy Foreman is a LEGEND. The owner works the tables, making everyone feel welcome and like family. She is amazing! Got the waffle and it was light and fluffy. Also came with a side of fruit. The staff come around often to refill coffee and water often. Highly recommend this local establishment!

What a delightful spot. Shady outdoor table, local jazz band and the lovely owner Judy making everyone feel welcome. The food was delicious and plentiful. Best potatoes. Worth every penny.

I order pancakes everywhere I go, and these are sadly the worst pancakes I’ve ever had. I can’t even finish them and it’s $11.50 for a pancake. I’m so sad because I’m under the weather and all I wanted was pancakes to go. The service from a brunette young man was great. I thought he was asking me if I wanted a single pancake or a double stack. I said double but I guess the pancakes come in a giant size. I told them I’d only need one, so he said I could just take both. Bummer that I can’t even finish one because I agree with the other review, it tastes like they used expired batter to make both of these. I’ve never had a pancake this terrible. I’d love to get a refund but unfortunately you can’t even get a phone call to go through to this place. I’ve tried calling 3 times. If the owner can somehow contact me back to give a refund I would love that. I came in around 9am on Thursday the 24th. Because I won’t be back :( I feel like pancakes should be easy for a restaurant or cafe to take on.

I guess I don't get the new "ugly and cheap = homemade and authentic" thing. The pancakes were disgusting and unfinishable. They tasted like old sour cream and the taste stayed in my mouth after I left. You sit on the oldest, dingiest, about-to-fall-apart furnishing ever. The service is fine and the owner is sweet so I'm hoping we just got a bad batch or something. We won't be back.

This is a great spot for down-to-earth, home-cooked meals. They have all the classics, plus creative newcomers and veggie/vegan options. It’s a little rough around the edges, but Big Kitchen Cafe is a fun, laidback spot in South Park that’s worth visiting. It’s a nice place for a solo breakfast or an (immediate) family gathering. I recommend the Denver omelette, tofu rancheros, and French toast. Enjoy!

I went here yesterday for breakfast. I saw the biscuits and gravy plate on the menu for $14. I asked what does it come with? Eggs? Hash browns? Bacon? Toast? "Nope, just two biscuits with gravy" For $14?? This is called a "side of biscuits and gravy" (and is worth about $5) so, realizing that they wanted to charge me $14 for literally two biscuits and some gravy..... I left, never to return.

I've been here once before, years ago, and enjoyed it as well. The servers are always so friendly and ready to help. I'm not side if the older woman is an owner, but she's always around and friendly. The orange juice is fresh squeeze and absolutely delicious. The pancake was buttery and yummy. I only finished half, but it was good. The bacon tastes fresh and cooked perfectly and the sausage was delicious as well. The inside is a little small and outdated, stuffy, but I am see how it could have been charming back in the day . I prefer to sit outside. Especially if it's a nicer day, does get a little breezy but overall this is a charming breakfast spot with the transitional staples. Also, target is right across the street, and who doesn't love target

2 stars only because we got a huge discount without even requesting it, which was very appreciated. This was one of the most interesting dining experiences I've had in years... Came here on Mother's Day and they initially offered us a table next to the dumpster. We decided to sit out front instead and the plastic table cloth was extremely dirty and rundown. I ordered a bowl of chili and I wasn't informed they were "out of it" until half of my parties' meals were getting dropped off. Why wasn't I informed 20+ minutes ago? I was about to order something else when the server miraculously came over with a bowl of chili that the cooks just decided to make. So this tells me that they probably make a huge batch of it and when they run out, that's it. So it's not fresh. So my chili should've been fresh then since they just decided to make me a bowl, but I have never seen anything like it. I know there's different types of chili but this one was so dry and not soup-like at all. I don't even know if what I actually ate was the black bean chili and they just brought it out as the regular chili that I originally ordered. Or if they just threw a bunch of ingredients together. Who knows. I ate a quarter of it and didn't bother to take the rest home. Which says a lot because I always take home leftovers. The food was mediocre and overpriced. The breakfast burrito was more like a quesadilla and the salsa was more like tomato chunks, like from a can. The poached eggs came in a very sad bowl, separate from the English muffin. So it was like we had to build our own. The English muffin and fruit also came out first, then several minutes later the bowl of poached eggs. It was just so interesting the presentation and delivery of the dishes.. I had requested flour tortillas and they brought out corn tortillas. They accidentally left a plate of buttered sourdough toast on our table that we were pretty sure was meant for another table. I used to be a server, you don't let guests' plates touch another guests' table! Anyway, the server forgot all about that toast. As well as the pancake that we ordered at the very beginning of our meal, so we forfeited that. On top of all of this, the owner Judy came over to our table and spoke with us, while engaging in unwanted touching of my Husband's shoulder. I mean, it didn't bother me personally, but.. you just don't touch your guests, period. The water tasted like unfiltered tap water. The freshly squeezed orange juice and fresh fruit were good though. At the end of our meal, we made a joke about going to McDonald's after. The staff are friendly but this was a horrible dining experience. I'm not returning and I'm not recommending this restaurant to others.

Walk in, and don't know how 20 people can eat here. It's like you're sitting in your grandma house . Old and not painted. It's clean, the server friendly, but the kitchen is open, and they play their music,so you don't enjoy your meal. The food was good, but like I said, you feel like you're at some one house. So why come out. Will not be back, sorry.

We were going to the shawarma guys across the street but the music brought us and attracted us to this shop, with a cool little vibe. Felt like I was on a different planet, and or heaven. Everyone was friendly, nice, highly recommend recommend!!

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.

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.

Finally I got to go to the Big Kitchen Cafe!! This is a local favorite in South Park that is a favorite in my family for exactly what they advertise: classic, American diner and family-friendly fun. I have only ever eaten outside on their pati, under the wispy trees and sun. The owner is always there, dancing with the diners, having a great time. If you are to get anything here it is the on big buttermilk pancake. Best thing to share as it takes up the whole plate and is fluffier than clouds. Fun fact, Whoopie Goldberg used to dine here! Now one thing I will say is that the cafe is a very popular place to dine so the wait can be very long and service is a little slow with getting to your table. Just make sure to come early!

This was a neat little breakfast spot in a quiet area of San Diego. It is a good mix of outdoor and indoor seating with lots of people eating with their dogs. We were greeted at the door after about 10 minutes by the owner, Judy and casually seated at a shaded table. Our server came out about 5 minutes later and took our order. The food arrived shortly after and was excellent quality and served from their quirky menu. You could absolutely enjoy food here and take in the vibe of the area.

Yum! The food is so good here and very large portioned (got the veggie omelette with potatoes and rye bread). The fresh squeezed orange juice is delicious and pulpy as well. The owner is so lovely and aware of the slow service (it was quite the wait but they would check in regularly). There is both outdoor and indoor seating; there was a musician singing outside when I was there. Street parking in this area.

Upscale diner spot, I'm a fan. We got the Rozie's Special - scrambled eggs with onion, bacon, and cream cheese, how could you go wrong? It comes with your choice of home fries, toast, or rice. We ended up with home fries and sourdough toast! We also got the chili cheese omelette, a little messy, but worth it! Service was quick, kind, and at the ready with coffee refills.

Cute little outdoor seating breakfast place in South Park. This place has so much potential! Unfortunately our experience was not so wonderful. We had a party of 3. Hubby ordered eggs, home potatoes, white toast, bacon with fresh orange juice. The potatoes had a very interesting flavor. Possibly herbs de Provence? Sadly, his platter was served lukewarm. I ordered the Laurel special in hopes it would be so much more than hubby's plate. I like a good presentation, even a sprinkle of parsley makes a boring non seasoned breakfast plate better. They were out of white bread and raisin bread for French toast. Target was directly across the street, just a suggestion. So I chose a waffle. How about warm syrup? That might have made it better. Fresh chopped fruit? No salt, pepper or ketchup was offered. My daughter ordered the protein pancake. It was huge! I enjoyed it, she said it tasted like overripe bananas. The bacon had a strange taste to it, like it was old. Again, this spot has so much potential to do better. Even a dash of garlic salt would've been nice on my cold scrambled eggs. Our coffee was served lukewarm with cool milk and plain sugar. Meh. I'm glad others have enjoyed this quaint joint but I don't see us returning.

I have to give my review an update since my last post was over 2 years ago. We have probably ate here at least 5 times since then but the most recent one was today and man we were in sticker shock with their change of prices. Most everything on their menu went up in price and I'm not saying $1-$2 dollars but more like $4-6 dollars. I get it food is more expensive but paying for something that used to be $13 dollars and now it's $18 dollars it hits differently. If it wasn't a Saturday and the music wasn't there I'm not sure if I would go back and pay that for the food. The food is good but I liked the price of the food before.

Very friendly casual setting. They have not just one, but two outdoor sitting area - in front of the cafe under a shady tree, and a smaller, more intimate one in the back. Fast, friendly service, generous portions. Loved a delicious frittata with blue cheese. A very dog-friendly place. On the day of our visit, they kindheartedly hosted a mobile adoption event for the Friends of Tijuana Humane Society! Will be back for sure.

The food was delicious! It is a cozy little restaurant with seating both inside and outside. Each visit can come with a history lesson as well. SO much decor and pictures from local and US history. It felt like every single inch of the restaurant has a story. The seating inside is mostly a large rectangle counter where I believe a lot of great conversations have happened. The swivel wooden chairs were a bit uncomfortable for me... but that's just me lol The Denver frittata was so yummy with the perfect amount of vegetables and ham. The side potatoes weren't my favorite, I just personally didn't like the herb seasoning on them. Overall, service was great. It seems like a restaurant where a lot of the servers know the regulars and there's a strong sense of community.

This place was ok. Good average food at decent prices. Service was great and friendly. The decor and ambience was a little kitsch but I liked it. Corned beef hash was good and had nice flavors. The eggs are also good. The salad looked fresh and delicious. My friend liked it. I'd go back. Definetly better than the chain diners like Denny's and breakfast republic.

Well, if you don't know JUDY THE BEAUTY, you haven't been in San Diego too long. We went on Sunday, just because, and sat outside. On Saturdays, there's music. Judy was there and came out to greet my husband Chris, who goes more regularly. We've been going 40 years! Hands down, best fresh squeezed O.J. in San Diego. Judy took a picture with Chris, I will hope to add it, it's adorable! And Judy saw my "grandma to bee" button and said "I'll be right back with a surprise for you". She brought three glasses of orange juice and we toasted our soon-to-be granddaughter! The French Toast I ordered was done perfectly and the portion was super generous. My husband had eggs, ham and potatoes with coffee. He ate the whole thing and it was huge. Come hungry, come early, ask for Judy, and be prepared to feel like home!

Visited Big Kitchen for the first time on a Saturday morning. The sidewalk seating was buzzing and the music playing. We decided to sit indoors. They have a small but efficient countertop seating. We seated at the counter and were given menus. It did take a while to order and get water but having read about it online prior to coming we were prepared. I decided to order the Mexican Scramble with home potatoes and corn tortillas. The scramble was yum served with chorizo. I really didn't care for the home potatoes- the seasoning simply doesn't belong with a bfast dish. Husband had the andres suggestion- biscuits and gravy with a side of eggs and bacon. Lots of fun! The biscuit was giant! The size of the plate kinda fun but totally unnecessary. I hear their coffee is great but we opted for a latte from down the street. All in all great experience, happy to know we have this diner near us and love the hippie vibes inside. Lots of images, stickers, memorabilia to look at inside while you wait

love it here!!! beautiful vintage decor and even more seating outside! no parking lot, but close enough to public curbside parking spots. definitely a vibe and very grateful i found this place (: came in on a friday morning and wasnt too packed at all!

Came here for the first time at the suggestion of a friend a few weekends ago on a Sunday and it was disappointing to the point that I will never go back. Just going to give my key points: 1. Cleanliness: We were the first people in for the morning and none of the tables, including our own, had been cleaned. It was just covered in syrup and other junk and our server didn't bother cleaning it when we sat down. There were already multiple people there, too, so someone could've, and should've, cleaned before opening (at the end of the prior shift if this place were run professionally). 2. Prices: I had a pancake with 4 strips of bacon and 2 eggs (I asked for 2 sausage links and 2 bacon but all bacon's what I was brought - he got my friend's order wrong, too) and it was $25+. That's wild to me, even in this economy, but I'd have just accepted this if the food was above average and if not for the next point... 3. Cleanliness, again: As I was finishing my pancake (which was fine, nothing special), I found a big ol' hair in it. I'm not an overly sensitive guy so this alone wouldn't have been enough to turn me off of the place (it happens, I get it) but just as I was commenting about said hair to my friend, the people in the booth behind us were making a commotion because there was a huge spider climbing up the wall between us. That, the hair, and the dirty tables all taken together led me to conclude that the place has some sanitation issues. 4. Service: Our server brought us our food and never came back the whole time, not even to give us the check (and it wasn't yet busy enough at that point to justify that). Having been a waiter for many years, myself, that's a big no-no. TL;DR: Average food that's too expensive at a dirty place with poor service. I'm sorry to sound so harsh, but there's just way too many legitimately great places to eat in San Diego to risk food poisoning at this one (and, as I mentioned, having worked in food service before, myself, it's very likely an above average risk there). The "cozy" and "charming" old school diner feel other reviewers have talked up isn't cozy or charming enough to make me give the joint a pass on its problems.

Thanks a whole lot to Rudy the future owner of this historic cafe restaurant. I never knew that Whoopi Goldberg worked here at one time. The pancake is For Real and so is the homemade Juicy Sausage Patties. I should've brought a bowl of rice for that!_! I love all of the decor and old fashioned stuff and photos from that era of the early days of 1900's! Hey Rudy you remember my wife asked you for Latte and offered her straight up coffee only here you said. She really loved the breakfast with the tomato slices you put out on our table. Can't wait to stop by again after dropping our son off to school

Had bacon, biscuits and coffee cake. All was great! Service was very friendly (even though I came like 1:30pm on a Sunday.) The coffee cake was the best I have ever had ! Didn't even think I would ever like coffee cake. It was moist and lots of flavor!

Breakfast this morning was more than a good meal, it was a delightful experience! The food was good, (those breakfast potatoes tho!!) as was the service. The prices were a little high, but when you factor in the entertainment and joy that comes with your meal, you will find yourself planning to come back!

This review is for the service. The service was lacking and I am most disappointed by Judy. We loved this place pre-baby. Today, we brought our toddler here for the first time. The food was good as usual but I am starting to feel that it is overpriced. The Mexican omelette, andres suggestion, one bowl of fruit, one orange juice, and one coffee, cost us $54 before tip. I had a really tough morning with my toddler so I wasn't exuding happiness. On top of that, I was feeling frustrated that asking for a kid's cup with water was so difficult. Someone brought me a large size coffee cup with a lid -- no water or no drinking straw. Judy comes by and tells me I look hungry and that she will send an appetizer over (that didn't happen and that's ok). I asked Judy for a kid's drinking cup and she said she would check but she never came back with one and continued to greet tables then I asked a third person and he brought me a small size coffee cup with a lid, again empty. I had to ask him to fill it with water and for a straw. In hindsight I could have been more specific if there was confusion but I've been so used to establishments providing a small drinking cup with water for kids without any issues. Sure I wasn't oozing fuzzy feelings outwardly but I kept my frustration to myself and was polite to the servers who came by our table. Then I sat and waited for any server to come by and get our order. Waited at least 10-15 minutes and secretly nervous inside that my toddler will get hangry any minute. Here is the kicker: Judy came by again and asked me if I needed anything and if I had dinner last night. I'm confused by her question and told her yes. She answered with, "Well, it seemed like you haven't had anything to eat since then." My face in total confusion wanting to convince myself that she is not being passive aggressive like I think she is being. I told her that I was fine and I was waiting to order and I was wanting to feed my toddler before she gets hangry, and someone came by in that moment to take my order. My husband wasn't present for the convo because he was walking around with my toddler to burn off her energy. He was also surprised and disappointed by the interaction. I approached Judy at the end of the meal and told her I didn't appreciate her comment. I really wish I told her that she could have approached me with more compassion and empathy instead of choosing to be snarky with her words. She tried to tell me that I should have seen my own face and how angry I looked. Like you never know what someone is going through and I was not outwardly rude to the servers. I was trying to mind my own business and all I wanted was to get food in time to feed my toddler who is unpredictable with her appetite. She apologized and said she can be such a B. I'm not sure how heartfelt her apology was but I needed her to know that it was not ok to talk to me like that. I always viewed the establishment was neighborhood friendly and her behavior was not neighborly to me.

I love this South Park staple! Such a great spot to grab some home cooked breakfast or lunch. The patio in back is charming and intimate, and the seating out front is great to people watch and enjoy live music on the weekends. Judy is a fabulous gem of a person! We've enjoyed many meals here and I love how they make their salsa in-house. The portions are very generous and the service has always been great!

Wasn't even eating here. Just sat at an outside table to wait for my dad and they checked on me multiple times and were super nice. Very good customer service

I love Big Kitchen Cafe! The fruit and vegetables here are always fresh. The orange juice is fresh squeezed. The coffee cake is just like my grandma used to make. I'm always happy with the service even when they are busy. They are always there when you need them and not so much when you don't. This place is a local gem. Recommend

The portion sizes were huge and the food was delicious. It's small but cozy and the staff is really nice.

BKC is extremely slept on, honestly. I've lived in the area several years and this is still a fav breakfast spot for us to hit up! The inside is small but they have outdoor sitting in the front and also in the back! The back is smaller but super cute, it feels like you're in someone's backyard. The outdoor sitting is probably my fav because it's right in the middle of South Park, it's such a nice local feel. Please do not skip out on the coffee! This is the only place I love to drink the coffee without anytime type of milk or creamer because it tastes so good alone; they serve Kona coffee! My go to are there tofu rancheros and this last time I added soyrizo- so fire! I love that for a small mom & pop shop they offer plenty of veggie options. Hubz always opts for one of the omelettes and they never miss. Service is always great, everyone is always super friendly and welcoming.

I've been coming here over 20 years and now my whole family is hooked. Judy is reason enough to come but the food and atmosphere are amazing as well. I always get the Cindy's choice and my wife loves the BK Frittata. The coffee cake is an absolute MUST! Enjoy!

The menu had vegan options, which I appreciated. The service was prompt, the shaded outdoor patio seating was lovely, and the prices were affordable. The veggie biscuits and gravy were very yummy--especially with added tofu and soy chorizo. The coffee was the only thing that was just average.

Vegan gravy baby... for those mornings you need that biscuit and gravy in your belly..... yummy.

My FAVORITE BREAKFAST SPOT ! Breakfast potatoes are amazing ! Homemade hot sauce, jam, and orange juice ! The sausage and egg breakfast is my go-to! But the Rudy's rancheros is a unique choice ! Love Judy the owner , live music outside on weekends ! Service is great , Rudy always takes good care of us !!

We came here (hoping) for breakfast. Got sat at a table outside that was literally caving in. We had to balance our cups on the condiments so they wouldn't knock over. We got coffee and then.... Nothing. We sat for 30 minutes and no one came back to take an order. Eventually we had to go up and ask for someone to take our order, which they said someone would come over. After another 5 minutes of waiting we paid for our coffees and left. The runner seemed nice, and said it was the server's first day, but there was also 3 other servers who initially came to our table.

Judy is such a delight. We stumbled upon The Big Kitchen and ended up having such a fun and healing morning. The food is good and the atmosphere is even better! Upon asking for a bit of history on the place, Judy was kind enough to bring out a framed letter detailing previous owners. After chatting for awhile about her experience as a women's rights activist, she brought us into the back of the restaurant to show us Whoopi Goldberg's influence and tell us more about the rich history of the cafe. We were absolutely stunned by her hospitality and will be returning customers for this reason. If you're looking for a fast-paced, impersonal experience, this cafe is not for you -- The Big Kitchen is the closest thing I've ever had to a slow, peaceful morning in my grandma's cabin. Highly recommend.

So no one has the guts to say it? Ambience is important while eating whether it's outdoor or indoor. Indoor seating is historical, nostalgic, and leads to great conversation. Outside with natural trees and in South Park, speaks for itself. The problem is rickety poker folding tables, covered with stale smelling vinyl covers from somebody's closet and a mish-mosh of chairs that I'm sure were donated or picked up from "Free off the curb." Condiment jars are obviously not cleaned nor sanitized between diners and this alone makes one wonder about what is happening in the kitchen. It's quite easy to make the outside more inviting to the eyes and stomach. Big Kitchen-level up! And because I've been eating here for decades, I know the quality, flavor and portion of food the Big Kitchen can deliver. I ordered my staple, pancake and egg whites. Best egg whites comparable to many restaurants. The reason the pancake is a highlight is because it is large but light and fluffy. The only pancake I've eaten that is NOT heavy on the stomach. Yet, the most tasteless syrup. So I bring my own. And I enjoy every bite. Service is what is expected. I do appreciate that the servers each have an interesting story or hobby if you just ask. Cash is still preferred. And credit cards are now accepted. The variety of meal creations is creative and appreciated. Although I stick to my staple dish. If you're a local, Big Kitchen is in the heart space and you enjoy coming here. If you're a visitor, the ambience will be off-putting and you can get good food and ambience elsewhere. After all we are America's Finest City.

Love this place happened upon this little local hideaway and so happy we did from the staff to the owner who is the charm to this place the food was amazing we missed out on the crumb coffee cake :( cause it sold out that quickly (next time) perfect reason to make it back enjoyed the live music outside I can't say enough good things.

The place seemed old and not very clean. The service was extremely slow. The food was mediocre.

The food and service were amazing! We'll definitely be back. Judy was awesome took us on a tour as well. Very interesting history. Highly recommend.

"Judy, the beauty, on duty" is the hostess with the mostess!! "The Big Kitchen is a place where the body is nourished along with the soul." Big Kitchen is your home away from home, guaranteed to make you feel like you belong, and get some great grub! THE JAM ++++ home made and a secret recipe, this stuff is the jam of the ages. Like a croissant that I'm desperately craving when I get off the plane in Paris, this jam is the only thing I'm thinking about when I arrive in SanD. It comes in a jar normally (covid has it in smaller plastic cups), and you can just spoon it out and all over your toast or muffin until your glucose level goes off the scale. Do it. OTHER FAVORITES ++ whoopie's breakfast ($16) Whoopi Goldberg worked here back in the day) is your classic plate of eggs, bacon, potatoes, toast and OJ ++ avocado, cream cheese and chive omelette ($14) tip: ask for it "easy" and you'll get a perfect, light and delicious cook on this beauty. PERSONAL -- THANK YOU, JUDY!!! My late brother Seamus (RIP) made the BigK his regular gathering spot on Mondays after the weekend theater runs, and bring so many folks together for a hearty meal, with the one-and-only Judy the Beauty as their host. God bless you, Judy!! Come and experience this wonderful local gem, "one of the 10 best breakfasts in the country" --Bon Apetit.

Big Kitchen Cafe has been a San Diego staple for more than 30 years... That's quite a while! With good reason too. Judy, the owner, is such a great lady. She showed us around her restaurant before seating us. Lots of patrons dining but there were quite a few tables set outside too so we didn't have to wait very long for a party of 2. Very casual, home feel, restaurant where the tables/seats don't match and if you're missing a seat, Judy grabs a chair from a different table! The food is great too! I honestly wouldn't say "5" stars for just the food, but the overall feel of the restaurant earned them this rating. Ordered the Denver Scramble which came with their infamous potatoes! Both were delicious, but I liked the potatoes a little more. The huge pancake was the star of the show! It was awesome! IDK what kind of batter they use or how they cooked it but it must've been one of the best pancakes I've tasted! The portions are huge here, so sharing is caring! We had plenty of leftovers. Fairly priced entrees (all on their website) and the staff are all really nice. Judy was definitely the star of the show, though! So entertaining and kind. Lots of street parking around the restaurant. Be prepared to wait a while though, it gets busy here, but it's worth the wait.

Awesome crew and yummy food. I had biscuits and gravy with eggs and bacon and my brother had a BLT. Great home fries!!! Thanks!!!

Yikes. Definitely not what I expected from the reviews I saw here in yelp. The coffee was really watered down and it was serve lukewarm. Yuck. They were out off all French toast options so I swapped out the Laurels special with a waffle. The waffle tasted like it was warmed up from Eggo waffles, not the best. Bacon and eggs was something I could have made from home with more flavor and love.

Phenomenal breakfast spot that we stumbled upon. Judy was so welcoming and walks around getting to know every customer. She sets a great example for the rest of the staff who were all very welcoming to us and our dog. In addition, all the food was great and very affordable. This place truly sets the gold standard for a local restaurant.

If I could give this place 10 stars I would. Food is home cooked and most definitely made with love. Judy makes you feel like she's known you your whole life; just like family. Great food, quick service, the sweetest staff and the best atmosphere. One of the best restaurants in South Park!

I wouldn't recommend coming to the Big Kitchen on the weekends. I have given it a shot three times now, each visit about 2 months apart. Each time I have come it has taken 1 hour+ to order food, and then at least another hour to receive said food. Judy is super sweet though, I love the live music they have on their patio - and I understand that it is hard getting staff hired and trained up but hearing the "we are understaffed" excuse doesn't make the issues go away if it's happening over and over again. I think it would be a good idea to let customers know how their process of seating works. And to also give a warning when they are understaffed as to the wait times being longer. The first two times that I came here the food was amazing which was what brought me back despite the wait times. Today, however, we only received part of our order and the food was cold and lacking. I'll give them a shot on a slower weekday morning but for now I wouldn't come back on their busier days. Best of luck!

What a little gem in South Park. We always pass this place when walking around on the weekends and finally stopped in. It is unpretentious with plastic tables outside and meals served on plain plates and utensils. I got the corned beef hash and we sat outside on the patio. There are shady spot under trees to stay cool during the summer. You can just tell this is one of those community restaurants that brings friends and family together. The environment was great, the staff was super friendly and the food was delicious!

I will always recommend this place. Especially if you can get there before 9, there isn't usually a line. Everything on the menu is so good. Plus the live music on the weekends is so great. Never disappoints

Finally made our way to Big Kitchen and it didn't disappoint. Best omelet I've had in a while, I had the Turkey Omelet and it exceeding my cravings. Huge and filled with real shredded turkey, fresh spinach and mushrooms, cheese, and paired with the best home fries - so perfectly mouth watering good. Road side, small town, everyone's a friend or neightbor vibe and excellent service.

I'm a bit of a breakfast snob as you can tell by my other reviews Big Kitchen Cafe in San Diego never disappoints!! The food is so delicious and you MUST try the coffee cake. I also appreciate that they will sub tofu for eggs if you so desire! Judy the owner is a beautiful soul who built a beautiful place to come and eat and enjoy

Breakfast burrito split for two. Perfect breakfast. On corn tortilla with chunky salsa...potatoes with rosemary and spices.. tasty Love the outside random tables with random chairs.