Theresa and Johnnys Cafe

Theresa and Johnnys Cafe

817 4th St, San Rafael, CA 94901, United States

+1 415-785-3469

Restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Brunch restaurant, Guatemalan restaurant, Lunch restaurant
(671)
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About This Place

Theresa and Johnny’s Cafe, nestled in the heart of San Rafael, CA, is a vibrant gem for anyone craving a truly hearty breakfast, brunch, or lunch experience with a distinctive Guatemalan twist. This cozy and welcoming eatery at 817 4th St offers a delightful fusion of traditional breakfast staples and unique Central American flavors, making it a must-visit for food lovers eager to start their day or fuel up midday with something special.

Step inside and you’ll immediately sense the old-school diner charm blended with a lively atmosphere that feels both familiar and refreshingly authentic. The menu reads like a love letter to comfort food, with standout dishes like the decadently crisp 2 Pieces French Toast served with 2 eggs and regular bacon, whose golden, perfectly fried edges contrast wonderfully with the fluffy, eggy interior. If you’re in the mood for something savory, the Classic Eggs Benedict is a rich, velvety delight, while the Monte Cristo sandwiches — featuring turkey, ham, and Swiss cheese dipped in egg batter and fried to perfection — offer a harmonious balance of sweet, salty, and crispy textures.

Theresa and Johnny’s commitment to flavor shines through in every bite. The “Egg-cellently” crafted combos such as the Bacon or Sausage Two Eggs Any Style with a choice of toast, potatoes, or cheese grits create an indulgent yet familiar start to your morning. Their robust Huge Salsa Selection adds vibrant punches of fresh heat that elevate even the most classic dishes like the Denver Omelet or the Blueberry Pancakes, which strike the perfect balance of sweet and fluffy. For lunch, succulent choices like the Baja Shrimp Taco and the Fish Taco combine fresh seafood with creamy avocado and smoky chipotle aioli, delivering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Real diners appreciate more than just the food here. The warm, friendly service – punctuated by genuine moments of kindness like replacing a child’s dropped chocolate chip pancakes without hesitation – speaks to the café’s dedication to guest satisfaction. While a few patrons have noted slight menu surprises or minor mix-ups, the overwhelmingly positive vibe, flavorful dishes, and cozy ambiance keep visitors coming back time and again.

Whether you’re craving the indulgence of Chicken and Waffles with Scrambled Eggs, the savory comfort of a Ruben Sandwich, or the hearty simplicity of Two Eggs with Homemade Cream Biscuits and Sausage Gravy, Theresa and Johnny’s Cafe delivers a satisfying culinary escape. It’s a place where every bite feels thoughtfully prepared, where the rich aromas of coffee and freshly cooked meals mingle, and where both locals and travelers can enjoy a welcoming seat at a table filled with bold flavors and friendly smiles.

Service options
Outdoor seating Delivery Takeaway Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service Great coffee Great tea selection Serves local specialty
Popular for
Breakfast Lunch Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Assistive hearing loop
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Comfort food Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner Catering Counter service Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly Groups LGBTQ+ friendly Tourists Transgender safe space
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Paid parking lot Paid street parking Parking
Pets
Dogs allowed Dogs allowed inside Dogs allowed outside

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Tuesday
    06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Thursday
    Closed
  • Friday
    06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Saturday
    06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Sunday
    06:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Joanne Lee
    3 week ago

    We dropped by after a long hike. Ordered a variety of food. The ingredients were tasty but the waitress forgot to remove the raw onions per request. Atmosphere was fun. Service was overall decent. Will come back.

  • Jennifer R (Jenni)
    1 month ago

    Slightly confused about this place. Food and service was great but we had gone late afternoon fully thinking it was diner food. We get there and it’s only Salvadoran food? No other reviews state that this place turns into a different menu in the afternoon? Food was great though

  • Udellorti (Udellorti)
    1 month ago

    Amazing breakfast! So glad they are back open after 2 years. New owners but the food is still soooo good. Deep fried french toast with eggs over medium and bacon has always been my go-to, and it's still the same as it used to be. Prices went up just a little bit, but less then most other restaurants in the area... totally fair. Not sure but would assume they are still cash only. Servers are always pleasant and friendly and if not too busy will chat for a few; we love to catch up on the latest in downtown San Rafael. I tip well for the good and fast service... they always deserve it. $40 for 2 large breakfasts with coffees. (Coffee is much better than it used to be). I can't say enough good things about this place. Definitely among my top breakfast recommendations ever.

  • Carl Valdez
    2 month ago

    We came here on a recommendation after spending the night in the area. I was surprised it was not crowded at 9 am on a Sunday morning, but ok. The atmosphere was old school diner. Food came out hot. I had the crispy French toast. If you think that sounds decadent, it is. Italian sausage and potatoes were tasty. Wife ordered the ham and eggs, and was disappointed the ham was not a ham steak. The downtown was cute, but I guess not the hotbed on Sunday mornings. I'd come again.

  • Miles Hechtman
    2 month ago

    Always excellent food and atmosphere but this visit was extra special. My 11 year daughter was packing up her chocolate chip pancake leftovers and accidentally dropped them on the ground. She was quietly upset. Without any notice, our waitress told us they would make her another full order to go at no charge. This was so impressively sweet and made my daughter's day.

  • Jae Reed
    2 month ago

    I got the huevos Reveltos con jamon. It came with Platanos Fritos. The Huevos were solid, but the Platanos frito were the best I’ve had in a looooooong! Time! And I eat them a lot in other cities! They were perfect- the Platanos, the beans and the cream! Loved it.

  • M D
    3 month ago

    I LOVE breakfast. Was craving a big giant breakfast burrito. Came here and watched all the action at the counter and yummy breakfast items being prepared and plated. The line chefs were amazing and had such a rhythm. I enjoyed my breakfast burrito with a splash of hot sauce!

  • Kesha Lynne
    3 month ago

    Hungry and I wanted real food from a Black owned place. I searched Google and this was closer to me! I passed at first as it is small and rainy. Parked and went in. Immediately greeted by waitress casually and inviting! The head cook looked intently as I can imagine the different encounters. She inquired was I dining in or to go I said in. Whipped out the menu and utensils and sat anywhere is fine. Placed an order for hot chocolate and use the restroom. Came back ordered. My food arrived quickly, hot , with flare ! Let me just say- I’m not a breakfast person but will definitely come here ANYTIME I’m near! Thanks to staff’s hospitality & PLEASE keep the same COOK! He got skillz

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