Tommy L.
Yelp
About once a month, I drive up to Oxnard for business, and every time, I find myself on the hunt for a great local spot to stop for breakfast. This time, I was at a shop asking around for recommendations, and a gentleman told me he goes to Vineyard Café all the time. That was all I needed to hear--I thanked him and headed straight over to check it out.
Walking in, I immediately noticed the cozy, inviting atmosphere. It's nothing too fancy, but it's got its own charm and warmth--exactly the kind of spot that makes you feel right at home.
Looking over the menu, one item immediately stood out to me--Pastrami Benedict. Now, I love a good classic Eggs Benedict, and I definitely love pastrami, but I had never seen them combined before. That alone made it a must-try.
When my plate arrived, I could tell I had made the right call. The English muffin was toasted just right, the pastrami was lean and tender, and the poached eggs were perfect and ready to break open with that golden yolk. But what really brought it together was the beef gravy--a bold and rich departure from the usual hollandaise sauce. It added a deep, savory flavor that paired beautifully with the pastrami. The red potatoes on the side were crispy, golden, and well-seasoned--an ideal complement to the hearty dish.
Since I was already treating myself, I couldn't resist ordering a Cheese Blintz as well. I went with the fresh strawberry topping, and wow! The crepe was thin and delicate, with a slight crisp at the edges, wrapped around a smooth, creamy cheese filling. The fresh strawberries added the perfect amount of natural sweetness, and the light dusting of powdered sugar tied it all together. It was simple yet absolutely delicious--a perfect way to end my meal on a sweet note.
Vineyard Café ended up being a fantastic find, and I can definitely see why it was recommended to me. The food was unique, flavorful, and satisfying, the portions were just right, and the atmosphere made for a relaxed, enjoyable breakfast experience. If you're ever in Oxnard and looking for a solid breakfast spot, this place is absolutely worth stopping by!