South Pine Cafe-Grass Valley

102 Richardson St, Grass Valley, CA 95945, United States
+1 530-274-0261
$$$ Brunch restaurant , Breakfast restaurant , Cafe , Lunch restaurant , Restaurant
(892 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

South Pine Cafe in downtown Grass Valley is a lively brunch and lunch spot that leans into a cozy, American-style diner vibe with a dash of eclectic charm. Located on Richardson Street, this cafe is a favorite for locals looking to start their day with more than just a quick coffee—think generous portions and a menu that blends classic breakfast staples with inventive twists and diverse influences, including some Mexican and vegetarian offerings.

The atmosphere here tends toward bustling and welcoming, especially in the weekends or mid-mornings when families, friends, and solo visitors spill in. The interior feels warm and approachable, dotted with local artwork available for purchase and underscored by a rotating selection of 80’s tunes that add a relaxed, slightly nostalgic backdrop. It’s the kind of place where waitstaff keep things moving without being intrusive, balancing busy shifts with genuine attentiveness.

South Pine Cafe’s strength lies in its hearty dishes and the variety that respect different tastes and diets. The lobster scramble and carne asada scramble illustrate how they combine familiar breakfast formats with flavorful protein options, while the Olallieberry pancakes and French toast showcase local ingredients pulling in that Sierra Nevada seasonal character. Vegetarians and vegans will find thoughtful choices like the tofu scramble and nutburger, reflecting a menu aware of diverse dietary preferences without feeling like an afterthought.

For drinkers of fresh juices, their freshly pressed carrot juice and other squeezed fruits offer a refreshing counterpoint to coffee—a highlight here with several espresso-based options and substitutions like oat milk that speak to a community mindful of quality and inclusivity. There’s a comfortable rhythm to mornings and early afternoons: solo workers tapping away on laptops, families enjoying brunch, or friends catching up on weekend plans.

One practical note is that this place gets busy, especially on weekends, so visitors looking for a quiet, slow-paced meal might find the energy a bit high. Portions are generous, which makes it a great spot if you’re hungry and appreciate a substantial brunch or lunch without the fuss of fine dining. The home fries might be a softer, more homey style rather than crisp, a detail that may sway repeat visits depending on your potato preference.

Visitors who appreciate a spot that feels lived-in and local, offering solid classic dishes with some unique regional inflections, will find South Pine Cafe a reliable choice. Whether it’s a casual breakfast before a day exploring Grass Valley or a lively lunch with friends, expect friendly faces, a satisfying meal, and an environment that’s authentically connected to its small-town California setting.

Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great coffee
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves healthy options
Serves organic dishes
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
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

8:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Tuesday

8:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Wednesday

8:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Thursday

8:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Friday

8:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Saturday

8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Sunday

8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

892 Reviews
Amanda A

05 Jan 2026

We visited with a group of friends and had such a great time. The restaurant had a great variety of options - mostly American and some Mexican, Asian, and vegetarian options. They offer fresh juices, coffee options, and other drinks as well. There was beautiful artwork on the walls for sale, a great mix of 80's music playing in the background, and attentive staff.

Mary P

01 Jan 2026

Visited with my friends November 21st. It is located in downtown Grass Valley. This place is Always busy! I had to see the dentist in a bit so just had an egg and toast. It was good! Waitresses are hustling! My friends stayed longer as I had to get to my appointment and they were being entertained by their two kids! It's a very popular spot with a funky but cool atmosphere. Everyone seemed happy and enjoying their food! Note: they get really busy and you need to sign in when you get there. Bring your patience when waiting for your food! They have bar seating as well. I know they have beer and wine but don't know if they have a full bar.

M H

16 Dec 2025

Food is good not great. We had the breakfast burrito and southwest turkey melt. The meat was of good quality but seemed to be oddly seasoned tasted like cinnamon? The home fries are just not my preference I prefer a crispier potato. Service is friendly not attentive we only got one water refill. The house made garlic feta salad dressing has fantastic flavor.

Jo Hanna

15 Dec 2025

The portions were huuuuuuuuuge! But the food so delicious! We got a table quickly and the food as well even though it was busy. Very cozy american style place !

Anonymous

24 Oct 2025

I came here on the day after Thanksgiving with my family. I ordered a mocha and a half order of ollaliberry French toast, expecting a semisweet berry sauce on a moist and supple toast. Instead, the French toast was lukewarm, dry, and flavorless, more akin to cardboard rather than bread, and the berry sauce was so bitter I could barely eat it. I managed to eat one of the four slices, washing away the bitter flavor with sips of coffee, before my mom told me I should ask for something else if I couldn’t finish it. The server was apologetic and incredibly kind, and even though it was almost closing time and the kitchen was shutting down, she let me order something else. I didn’t have much of an appetite left after the French toast experience, so I asked for a cup of soup. I was soon served a cup of delicious tomato & red pepper soup. It was creamy, warm, and flavorful, with just the right amount of red pepper kick. When we received the bill, I saw that they kindly had not charged us for the French toast. TL;DR: good restaurant, except for the French toast.

Tryston Thomas

19 Oct 2025

Food was so so very good. We are on a road trip from ogden to ft bragg n this place is the first place my 5 yr old son ate all his food AND EGGS. We will definitely be back on our way home kids asked specifically for that place again today 3 days later hahaha

Chad Osborn

26 Sep 2025

It's a small place with with a large taste! This was the place for us and our Vegan friend to all find something we would love! We had the Lobster Benny, Lobster Scramble, The Portabello Tofu Scramble and the Chile Rell the reno Special. All made to perfection. I had the Jalapeno Hollandaise sauce on the side...it's so good. BlackBerry/Mango Jam and the Habanero sauce are a must. It's a bit loud Inside and we waited about 30+ mins, but well worth it!

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