Lita's Cafe

1973 Mendocino Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, United States
+1 707-575-1628
$$$ Cafe
(173 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Lita's Cafe sits comfortably on Mendocino Avenue in Santa Rosa, offering a breakfast-focused spot that feels warmly local without fuss. This isn’t the kind of place you rush through; it’s where mornings stretch out over hearty plates and familiar, comforting flavors.

The atmosphere is casual and accommodating, with a flow that suggests many patrons are regulars—locals who know the staff by name and stop in for breakfasts that hit the spot every time. The service here leans friendly and flexible, capable of handling large groups with a smile and keeping the coffee cups topped up.

The menu leans heavily into classic, satisfying breakfast plates with a Californian twist, such as the Loco Moco — a substantial dish combining rice, a hamburger patty, poached eggs, and generous brown gravy. There’s also a creative flair evident in options like the Three Amigos Omelet and hearty combos featuring waffles, French toast, and different types of sausage, including vegetarian alternatives.

Dishes like the breakfast sopes stand out for bringing bold flavors and just the right kick of spice, while staples such as corned beef hash and crab cake eggs benedict balance tradition with a local touch. The vibe suggests diners most often arrive for a lingering weekend brunch or a relaxed weekday breakfast with friends or family, enjoying peaceful meal times rather than a quick bite.

With the casual charm of a neighborhood cafe, Lita’s attracts those who appreciate a good-quality coffee alongside well-executed comfort food—and who value an attentive, personal service experience. The place feels lively but never rushed, making mornings here feel comfortably unhurried, even on busy days.

Best times to visit are typical breakfast hours, with a local crowd that values consistency and generous portions. If you’re looking for a breakfast spot that’s rooted in Santa Rosa’s daily rhythm—where you can dig into both classics and uniquely crafted morning plates in a space that feels relaxed yet buzzing with friendly energy—Lita’s fits that need well.

Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great coffee
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Best for
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

7:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Tuesday

7:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Wednesday

7:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Thursday

7:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Friday

7:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Saturday

7:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Sunday

7:30 AM - 2:00 PM

173 Reviews
Rebecca Rainbolt

05 Jan 2026

Very enjoyable breakfast. Im not from this area and asked my phone where to go for breakfast. It led me to Lita's. So glad it did. Very local and very delicious.

Shawn Sumpter

02 Jan 2026

I don't know who thinks up the combos for their breakfast specials but, they are genius! I had the bacon, Brussels sprouts bowl with hash browns and eggs, topped with some special aoli sauce and it was phenomenal! Service was awesome and they very sweetly accommodated our large party without notice.

Erin Scholl

26 Dec 2025

Wow. The breakfast sopes were outstanding. Not only is it a unique dish, each component had its own delicious flavors that all came together perfectly. Perfect amount of spiciness for breakfast too. Unfortunately the quiche was microwaved, so don’t get that until they figure out a better way to heat up slices. But regardless, do yourself a favor and get the breakfast sopes. Wow.

Levi 501

29 Oct 2025

I was excited for the Loco Moco, this review is based on this meal as it was my 1st time there. Went to 6 other people, they all enjoyed their meals. The loco moco was very nice, a large scoop of rice with a good size hamburger pattie smothered in a dark brown gravy and 2 over easy eggs. Gravy tasted like it was from a can but it was very good. Service was the best part, coffee was always topped off and the people working there were delightful. Would go back to try other things.

Cassidy Dalton

17 Oct 2025

I was very impressed with this place. Both our breakfasts were delicious. Perfectly cooked eggs, lovely country potatoes, and delicious verde sauce (I don't even like green sauce). Will definitely be going back.

Angela Werner

04 Oct 2025

I am so glad I found Lita's! I was craving a yummy & full brunch dish after waking up late & this veggie hash hit the spot!! :) The service was friendly & attentive. The atmosphere was lovely - nice relaxing outdoor eating area. And the prices are super reasonable!! I highly recommend & a great place to bring friends or family - I will have to do that next time! Thank you Lita's, I will be back <3

Zarinah Pasha

29 Sep 2025

Food, Service, Ambiance, Music, People and vibe was upscale, beautiful artsy, and reminded me of my lifestyle in Miami. Hats off to the chef. My boyfriend ordered the oxtails and they were so good, we also ordered the prawn pasta, pepper shrimp, kale salad and plantains. All of the food was 5star amazing. My taste buds and body were fully transported to Miami and the Caribbean. To the chef, staff and creators of Lita Thank you for this breathtaking experience. Zarinah

Angela Ngo

16 Sep 2025

This was the most serendipitous discovery on our trip. We were looking for a brunch spot that served more than just basic staples and didn't charge $$$ for a few eggs. When we saw locomoco on the menu, we knew we had to visit. The service was extremely friendly and sweet, like visiting relatives who were excited to see you after a long time. They were more than happy to accommodate for my diabetes and substituted sauteed veggies instead of rice/bread. My coffee was never empty either! Food came quickly and was exactly what we were craving. We had such a great experience the first morning, we went again the next day! This has quickly become a favorite for the area; can't wait to visit again next year!

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