Between the beautiful beaches and hikes along the coastline, there’s a lot to do in the Mendocino area, and no one wants to have to stress out about lunch when they’re in the middle of a fun-filled day. Regardless of whether you want to grab something quick and keep on adventuring or sit down for a while and relax, we’ve got the perfect lunch spot for you in this curated shortlist.
Feature Photo: @mendocinocafe on Facebook
With a fusion of flavors to choose from, Mendocino Café is a go-to for many in the area. For something unique, try their Thai burrito with house-made peanut sauce or their Healing Bowl with soba noodles and red miso broth. In the mood for seafood? Don’t miss out on their fan-favorite crab cake sandwich draped in creamy tartar sauce and crunchy coleslaw. If it’s a nice summer day, make sure to ask for a table outside in their adorable garden patio. Hours vary are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m. every day.
10450 Lansing St, Mendocino
707.937.3140
This little bakery is tucked away in a lush, backyard garden with plenty of outdoor seating to sip your coffee, munch on a taco, and savor the day. Like many bakeries, they offer your classic mix of traditional pastries like blueberry Danishes and cinnamon rolls, but unlike the average bakery, they also serve up fresh carnitas tacos, Chile relleno burritos and red salsa pork tamales. Garden Bakery is the perfect place for a satisfying lunch that you can take at your own pace without worrying about table service. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday and on Tuesdays and 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Wednesdays. They are closed on Mondays.
14957 Caspar Rd, Caspar
This casual yet classy restaurant is located in a historic California roadhouse, offering a simple yet elegant menu. All their sandwiches are served on their house-made bread, such as their flavorful pulled pork sandwich with kumquat kosho and coleslaw. For vegetarians, try their veggie sandwich with carrots, fennel and a pesto hummus. They also frequently host events and live music, so if you’re lucky, you might get some entertainment with your lunch. Hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday through Sunday. They are closed Monday through Thursday.
32096 North Harbor Dr, Fort Bragg
707.962.3046
With two outdoor decks right on the waterfront, Princess Seafood boasts some incredible views to go with their equally incredible seafood. Tuna lovers simply have to get their ahi poke bowl, complete with edamame, avocado, seaweed salad and more, all atop fluffy sushi rice. Just as popular is their grilled rockfish sandwich, rubbed in their own blackening spice and served on a toasted rustic loaf. And if you head over to their fish market area, they also sell jars of marinades and sauces for you to take home. Hours are 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursdays, 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday through Sunday and 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mondays. They are closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
6101 S Hwy 1, Elk
707.877.3544
For a quick grab-and-go lunch during a busy day, you can’t go wrong with Elk Store’s incredible deli. If you’re planning on a picnic on the beach or a hike along the coast, pick up a fresh caprese sandwich with basil pesto on sourdough or a veggie panini with red onions and provolone. They also have a great selection of craft beer for those craving a cold drink, and organic French roast coffee for those needing a caffeine boost. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except for Tuesdays, on which they are closed.
