Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot

Restaurant · Baldwin Hills/Crenshaw

Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot

Restaurant · Baldwin Hills/Crenshaw

1

3710 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Suite 121, Los Angeles, CA 90008

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Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot by null

Highlights

Catfish, chicken & waffles, grits, biscuits, shrimp & grits  

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3710 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Suite 121, Los Angeles, CA 90008 Get directions

chefmarilynsbreakfastspot.getbento.com

$10–20 · Menu

Information

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3710 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Suite 121, Los Angeles, CA 90008 Get directions

+1 323 364 8282
chefmarilynsbreakfastspot.getbento.com

$10–20 · Menu

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Last updated

Sep 1, 2025

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@infatuation

The 14 Best Soul Food Restaurants In LA - Los Angeles - The Infatuation

"The full name of this three-decade-old casual takeout spot near the corner of Adams and Crenshaw is “Chef Marilyn’s, Queen of Down Home Southern Goodies,” which speaks to the royal presence of the restaurant’s namesake/owner. Much like Dulan’s, you order here from a row of steam tables, and while service is quick, there’s usually a line of customers around lunchtime—most show up at opening to get first crack at the daily specials. Few places can top Chef Marilyn’s food in terms of sheer variety, so expect to leave with a styrofoam container groaning with things like succotash, buttered cabbage, gravy and rice, pork neck bones, baked salmon, or their rightly famous fried chicken." - nikko duren, garrett snyder, brant cox

https://www.theinfatuation.com/los-angeles/guides/the-best-soul-food-in-la
View Postcard for Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot

skijelli skijelli

Google
Chef Marilyn's breakfast spot is truly a neighborhood treasure. Chef April's culinary skills shine through every dish—especially the catfish, which is always cooked to perfection. The chicken and waffles are absolutely delicious and a must-try. The welcoming service from Millie and Janet always comes with a smile, making the experience even better. The grits and biscuits are superb—I'm usually not a fan of biscuits, but theirs are so good, they’re worth every bite. If you're looking for an amazing breakfast spot, this place is a must-visit!

Cooper Vanhoose

Google
Awesome spot for breakfast. Had shrimp and grits that were great. Biscuits are made fresh. Waffle and pancake batter made from scratch. Hot link sandwich was top notch. Staff is very friendly and accommodating. Definitely a place to frequent, and work your way through the menu. Next time I’m having the meatloaf sandwich, and the catfish. Free parking behind the little shopping plaza off MLK. Glad we found this spot, and can’t wait to go back.

Joely Simpson

Google
We used to visit this location. When it was called the village cafe. It's been empty for some time and now. It's chef Maryland's breakfast spot. They're still working on the ambience, it's a good start, it's clean and it's brighter and more colorful, nice music playing, we order chicken and waffles and the Crenshaw Blvd Which is eggs? Any style grits or home potatoes sausage and a biscuit We had cucumber and lemon water, and my mom got a can pineapple Fanta soda. The one waitress Mini and partner of Chef maryland's is nice, friendly, and pleasant to talk with. We will be supporting this black woman owned business

Jonas W

Google
First of, what a surprise and hidden gem! This reasonably priced restaurant sits in a tranquil location, is laid out beautifully and is dishing out some of the best and most delicious breakfast. I love breakfast, so no sugar coating from me. I ordered the "The Crenshaw Blvd", which is actually a complex dish as it is prone to br watery/saugy due to the ingredients. It was cooked beautifully! All of the staff were professional, friendly and were working very efficiently in making sure all customers were taking care of. All of the food looked very appetizing and based on the faces and reactions by the other patrons everything was delicious. Do not miss this gem, and bring your family and/or friends by here asap for a great and enjoyable breakfast. There is plenty of parking and the restaurant is conveniently located right by the parking lot. If you live further away, trust me it is worth the trip and you are supporting a local woman owned establishment too. It's a win-win!

destinationsaturn

Google
Hidden gem! Find it and enjoy! I had the chicken and waffles. Was streaming "We're the Miller's" and gave me ranch dressing on request. Wonderful single restroom in the way back City Hiker

Jamila Hill

Google
This was my first time coming to this place since the name was changed, mind you it used to be called the village it was an old restaurant that's been in the neighborhood for years. I had the fried chicken wings, Waffles and a side of potatoes on a scale on 1-10 I'm going to give it an 8, because my chicken didn't come out with my Waffles and the wings were big. But my waffle was seasoned to perfection and so were the potatoes. One tip I'd give is to cook the grits in advance so they can stay warm and creamy...

eugene hunter

Google
This is such a quaint cozy little spot. The vibe is really laid back and very comfortable and homie. We got chicken and waffles shrimp and grits and pancakes. The shrimp and grits were so well prepared! Flavorful, seasoned, nice cook on shrimps. Chicken crispy, also well seasoned, not greasy. Cook and waitress were personable, attentive and added to thr ambiance. Definitely worth a visit. We will be back many more times.

Kisha

Google
Went there for breakfast on d 25th and that was d worst place to go ever. We only went to support since it's black own. When we walked in, no one said hello or good morning. One young lady was on d phone for a while n d chef didn't want to take our order because she only cooks. Smh. Long story short, we walked out n went to CJ's where we got excellent service n food was great. I feel sorry for d owner of Marilyn's.
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Jacqueline S.

Yelp
That fried catfish is delicious and they give you the whole piece and the baked salmon is delicious too. I love the cabbage, greens and Mac and cheese too.
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Tami W.

Yelp
I was super excited to try this place. It's at least a 40 minute drive from my home and I arrived starving. First thing I noticed, it's in a line of very dilapidated buildings and the parking "area" is mostly dirt. However, when we entered the restaurant, it was really very cute and tastefully decorated. We were greeted warmly by the hostess and told to take a seat anywhere. We arrived at 10:30 on a Saturday and it wasn't crowded at all. Our server was attentive and kind. Here's my issue: I love breakfast, I mean LOVE! But on this day I decided to try chicken and waffles, just to step out of my comfort zone. The chicken was fresh and very hot, but it totally lacked seasoning and it was fried way too hard. Literally like a dried out rock. The waffle was m'eh and I'd asked for cheese on the bottom and top of my bowl of grits. They just put it on top. I was not happy with my meal, but there're sooooo many other things I could have gotten! I'm definitely coming back and I will stick with breakfast items I know I like. I will again request cheese on the bottom and top of my grits, because everybody knows SUGAR DON'T GO ON GRITS!!!!!!

Kiona F.

Yelp
Ordered eggs Eggs (2) with cheese, received tiny salmon cakes (I don'tlike salmon). I wanted eggs with my Grits Cup. The Pork Chop is the thick-cut one if that matters to anyone (it does to me)
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harold b.

Yelp
First time here. I got The Crenshaw Blvd, with a side of French toast. The French toast was perfect! Turkey sausage was interesting. I wish it had more spice. The home fried potatoes were seasoned well, a little mushy. They reminded me of smothered potatoes. Eggs over easy were good. I opted for the biscuit which was very soft & fresh. I didn't try their coffee. But I saw they serve that mushroom coffee I see advertised online. I plan to return. The service was decent and the spot was clean. Isn't this the same location as BLVD Cafe from many years ago in the 80s? I usually go to Cukver City for breakfast. Glad this spot is here & close to home. I saw it advertised on instagram.
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Tranell D.

Yelp
This place is good ! Today was my second time coming ... my first time I had NO complaints ... this time my only complaint is the "chicken sausage" sandwich that taste like a beef link. I know it's a beef link I just didn't want to argue with the woman . After a bite I instantly spit it out . I'm irritated because I'm hungry and have no time to get food.
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Dutches M.

Yelp
This place is so cute and hidden off in the cut. I'm definitely coming back and getting more than the delicious piece of coffee cake. The people were friendly. They brought me my order quickly. I can't wait to bring other people and enjoy a proper meal here.
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michael t.

Yelp
Enjoy the shrimp and grits great portions food and service is great convenient location parking access. Everything is great.
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Joely S.

Yelp
We used to visit this location. When it was called the Village Inn cafe. It's been empty for some time and now. It's chef Maryland's breakfast spot. They're still working on the ambience, it's a good start, it's clean and it's brighter and more colorful, nice music playing, we order chicken and waffles and the Crenshaw Blvd Which is eggs?Any style grits or home potatoes sausage and a biscuit We had cucumber and lemon water and my mom got a can pineapple Fanta soda. The one waitress Mini and partner of Chef maryland's is nice, friendly, and pleasant to talk with. We will be supporting this black woman owned business

Kevin M.

Yelp
Great service and even better food! I ordered the shrimp and grits with a piece of catfish on the side... oh and how could I forget the delicious kool-aid!
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Katherine S.

Yelp
I decided to stop by Marilyn's Breakfast Spot today after noticing it tucked away in a strip mall near Chef Marilyn's other takeout location on Crenshaw. I'm so glad I did! I came with my family, and all four of us were impressed with our meals. My son had the breakfast burrito and loved how well-portioned the ingredients were. My other son and husband enjoyed the French toast and eggs so much that they cleaned their plates! I had the shrimp and grits, and they were flavorful and authentic. The restaurant has a cozy diner vibe, with a few tables and a wrap-around counter. The service was great, and the decor and hospitality reflected the best of the Crenshaw area. I love supporting local businesses that celebrate this amazing community. Next time, I'm definitely getting the chicken and waffles -- I saw them being prepared, and they looked fantastic!
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April D.

Yelp
My husband and I had such an amazing breakfast at this cute little spot. Even although it's tiny it's mighty! With literally only 2 women inside we had such an amazing experience. Im very big on hospitality and obviously great food and thats exactly what we received. The host was very attentive to each customer. The cook was pumping them orders out! From listening to other customers you can tell they were extremely satisfied. We will definitely be back!
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Tiffany A.

Yelp
Love this small quaint Breakfast Spot when I in the mood for breakfast. When I went all the seats were taken and the Door Dash orders were popping so the one server was doing the best she could. With a little patience my chicken and waffles arrived and I couldn't be more pleased. The owner came and jumped right in making sure everyone was being taken care of which is a great look! Will definitely be back again! Side note: If you can catch the Sunday Brunch, DON'T MISS IT! The menu is a little different and the Gumbo Greens are AMAZING!
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Andy M.

Yelp
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot is very cozy & welcoming. My girlfriend & I spend our Date Day here for breakfast, every Sunday. We're quickly seated. Food comes out fresh per order. Friendly cooks & waitresses, the owner is there often to politely greet guest & make sure everyone is satisfied. She's very polite & has no problem with speaking with every guest. I come here so often they've named a sandwich after me. "The GGwAp Sandwich" (Deep fried cat fish & shrimp, Baccon,Egg,Lettuce,Chipotle Sauce,)
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A'dhron B.

Yelp
I'm trying to get them to know my name so when I walk in, it'll be like on the TV Show "Cheers". You know, where everybody knows your name! ~Mike~ The Bomb!
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Cerwin D H.

Yelp
Admittedly, I've never been to the original spot further up Crenshaw, so I'm only basing this review off this MLK location. The place looks fairly new (used to be a pizza/Italian spot). I see the vibes the owner is going for, and given the challenge of the area they're in, I wish them well. However, the food needs to be to be considerably better. My wife had the shrimp and grits and said the shrimp tasted old. I had an omelette - nothing was technically wrong with it, but it didn't taste better than anything my wife or I could make at home. The toast was served without butter, and it wasn't until we were well into the meal did the server (nice but inexperienced) ask if we wanted butter. Given that you have restaurants like Post n Beam nearby and M'Dears not terribly far away, people like my wife won't mind paying a bit more for better tasting breakfast dishes, especially places that make better versions of what this menu offers (like shrimp n grits). The salmon croquette balls were pretty good. Also, have at least one high chair for the little ones. Takes away from the experience when folks can't focus on the food or ambiance bc they gotta keep their tykes from roaming.

Myiesha W.

Yelp
The service they are to slow for the food to be cooked in dirty grease salmon croquettes is the size of hush puppies no flavor potatoes looks like they re cooked them
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Kassandra T.

Yelp
Cute and quaint little spot. Quick and friendly service. Breakfast is delicious! I share with friends and highly recommend. Check their hours because they open and close early.
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Kyaw L.

Yelp
The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere with cozy decor, complemented by a friendly and attentive staff.

Austin F.

Yelp
Excellent food great menu! we went there for breakfast and everything was delicious. Definitely recommend the pancakes the shrimp and grits the catfish the breakfast bowl

Jeane T.

Yelp
Chef Marilyn is well known as her food is delicious! This spot is holding true to her mouth watering meals! The salmon croquettes, grits, shrimp and grits and fried chicken wings were so good and hot from the stove! Milli was running the place like a well oiled machine...the food was prepared to order. This was my first time there but it certainly will not be my last.

Anna H.

Yelp
If I could I would give zero stars! Through the app "Too Good To Go" I ordered the 'school coffee cake' which is advertised as better than... and gluten free. For $4.99 I was to get that and one other item, all I needed to do was pay $5.46 and bring my own bag! Not a problem. I was given a window of time to get there so I left home 2 minutes after my window started. I live extremely close. I get there and the young woman at the hostess stand greeted me and with the most lackadaisical attitude told me that "He" I don't know who he is hadn't delivered the coffee cake and that I was the 2nd person this morning coming in for their order. While the lack of product may not have been the establishment's fault, it's the restaurant's responsibility regardless. Had the young ladies attitude been a little bit sympathetic this would have been a totally different review. I've never eaten here and now I never will. If you can't fulfill the order cancel it or don't participate in the program. Btw, I'm not to sure about any eating establishment with a live chicken out front, lol

Beverly H.

Yelp
Chef Marilyn is Thee Absolute Best Local Spot hands down!!! Food is delicious and the serving portions are Great!!!

karina r.

Yelp
Just go, she is an amazing hardworking woman who lives to make food for others. Plus the place is so beautiful.
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Liily B.

Yelp
We went after trying Honey Bees who was closed and they had plumbing issues. We will try again. The atmosphere gave Mel's Diner type of vibe. We went on a Sunday. Just late posting a review. Will love to try again on a better day.

Sherrie Sherrell B.

Yelp
Food was good. Purchased chicken and waffles with eggs and grits. I added extra comments to the food and to my surprised they accommodated my request. Not often when you ask a restaurant for extra essentials and they follow through. Sometimes the food may not be great but when you make certain requests its ignored. Thank you so much. Will i eat there again yes most definitely

Jonas W.

Yelp
First of, what a surprise and hidden gem! This reasonably priced restaurant sits in a tranquil location, is laid out beautifully and is dishing out some of the best and most delicious breakfast. I love breakfast, so no sugar coating from me. I ordered the "The Crenshaw Blvd", which is actually a complex dish as it is prone to br watery/saugy due to the ingredients. It was cooked beautifully! All of the staff were professional, friendly and were working very efficiently in making sure all customers were taking care of. All of the food looked very appetizing and based on the faces and reactions by the other patrons everything was delicious. Do not miss this gem, and bring your family and/or friends by here asap for a great and enjoyable breakfast. There is plenty of parking and the restaurant is conveniently located right by the parking lot. If you live further away, trust me it is worth the trip and you are supporting a local woman owned establishment too. It's a win-win!
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Shannon H.

Yelp
The food was AMAZING you should try it but for real TRY IT. The service was great and the vibe very friendly.

AL M.

Yelp
This place surprises me every time I go and I can't stop. It has the BEST of EVERYTHING the Good Awsome the service is Impeccable If you have not gone, you are missing something very special.

Deborah H.

Yelp
By telephone I ordered breakfast takeout this past Saturday morning and I must say that from the moment Millie answered and took my order, I knew all was going to be well!! Millie was so sweet and patient, offering suggestions from a menu that displayed an array of good ol' down home breakfast choices. I could tell that she enjoyed her work by her charming attitude. The food was excellent... we could taste the LOVE! It is wonderful to have such a sweet spot in the neighborhood! Thank you Chef Marilyn and Millie! Dr. Deb

Joyce E.

Yelp
Marilyn the food is delicious, served a smile very accommodating.But with knowing you for all these years and your expertise in being a chef keep doing what you are doing . You can't satisfy everyone and if you do they prefer to be negative. Next time I come I hope you are in.
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Monica S.

Yelp
Do yourself a favor and get the chicken and waffles!!! They were so good I forgot to take a picture. The light breading on the chicken is immaculate in flavor and the waffles are fluffy and buttery. The coffee was also great quality. Strong and robust just how I like it. Shoutout to the cooks April and Janet as well as the owner! Every detail down to the infused water and pink dishes is thought of. You'll definitely wanna make this your new breakfast spot.

Michael M.

Yelp
The Chicken And Waffles with Grits Or "Geart" Good Customers Service. Good Breakfast food.

little E.

Yelp
Refreshing service. Cute and comfortable down home feeling. Always fresh flowers. Consistent menu. Two thumbs up

D'Nira M.

Yelp
This breakfast diner is a must try. You will return for your favorites and to try the many items on the menu. The food is fresh and truly made with love. My personal favorites are the BLT with avocado and the pork chop sandwich, YUM! They are my quick go to for my morning rides to work. The staff is extremely nice and attentive. I highly recommend enjoying breakfast at Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot. Stop by for a great meal and the smiles.

John A.

Yelp
Excellent food just like the restaurant on Crenshaw. Great prices especially in these times of high inflation. Courteous service
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Abi M.

Yelp
yummy!! food and love Milli she is so amazingggg :) gotta show my love here. will definitely be stopping by soon

Vic S.

Yelp
Chef Marilyn's Breakfast Spot, "Is The Spot!" The owner and her staff are very hospitable. You feel like family when you first walk through the doors and the food....Superb!!! Looking forward to enjoying breakfast here soon!!! A+++

Ms. Lady M.

Yelp
I have been to The Breakfast Spot a few times. The food is Great and definitely made with love. A place definitely needed in the area. The employees are very personable. They make you feel at home. They are accommodating to any food needs. The ambience is like the neighborhood cheers. Make sure you check them out. It will definitely be your regular breakfast spot. Hot Link Sandwich, Shrimp and Grits, chicken and Catfish is a must try.