Enjoy An Incredible Brunch At This Charming And Delicious Restaurant In Southern California
By Natasha Kayes|Published July 03, 2024
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Natasha Kayes
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I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
You know those places you only go to once in a great while and every time you go back, you fall in love with them all over again? Café Nouveau in Ventura, CA, is one of those places for me. While downtown Ventura has tons of cool eateries and coffee shops, you have to stray a bit from the main drag to find it. It is a marvelous little brunch spot and every time I step through the door again, I wonder why I don’t eat here more often.
It may not look like all that much from the street, but perhaps that's because it was not built as a fancy restaurant. Café Nouveau is located in a 1920s Spanish bungalow in a mainly residential part of town.
Once inside, you will discover a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere with cozy, intimate dining spaces, warm lighting, thoughtful decor, and beautiful mosaic-tiled tables.
The outdoor patio is as lovely, if not more pretty, than the inside. You can enjoy a relaxing meal in garden surroundings with umbrellas, heaters, fountains, and a fire pit.
If you are in the mood for more savory flavors, I highly recommend the Bacon, Gorgonzola, and Caramelized Onion Fritatta. The many omelets and other egg specials are also delicious.
Not only is the food amazingly good, but the presentation is stunning. The portions are also very generous. I am often in the mood for something sweet, and the brioche French toasts never disappoint - from the chocolate to the blueberry cherry crumble to the French toast breakfast sandwich. The pancake and waffle options are just as awesome, whether you like green tea, s'mores, bananas foster, pineapple upside down, or even a simple choice like berries and whipped cream.
While breakfast and brunch probably bring in the most crowds (and raving customer reviews), Café Nouveau serves lunch and dinner, too. I have never had the burgers, but they look yummy! The post-brunch menus are as creative and tempting as the morning ones.
All I can think is, is it brunch time yet? Have you enjoyed a beautiful and delicious meal at Café Nouveau in Ventura, CA? What is your favorite dish here? Share your thoughts with us in the comments! Find hours, updates, and even more mouthwatering photos by visiting Café Nouveau on Facebook. This is a perfect spot to fuel up for a fantastic outdoor adventure or to unwind afterward. Sound good? Then check out this gorgeous bike trail from Ventura to Carpinteria. And if you are visiting Ventura (or a local planning a little staycation) and need a place to stay, you will love this Spanish-inspired Airbnb with an amazing roof deck!
Find more food inspo by exploring our collection of unique places to dine in Southern California.