Janet’s Café
BREAKFAST B I TES
Antique Row Café: A Nostalgic Embrace
Walking into Antique Row Café is like stepping into a cherished memory. Here, owner Steve Asaro has woven a tapestry of warmth and hearty flavors since 1999. The café, with its charming antique decor, evokes a sense of nostalgia, a place where time slows down just enough for you to savor every moment. Steve grew up in the restaurant business, working alongside his father at Mario’s in National City. He then took a 20-year career in accounting, before setting his roots in downtown El Cajon with the Antique Row Café. Steve’s favorite part of running this establishment is the long-time locals, including many City staff from the police and fire departments to councilmembers and mayors. Signature Experience: The California Omelette was a revelation. Each forkful, bursting with the rich flavors of bacon, tomatoes, onions, olives, jack cheese, and the crowning glory of guacamole, was a celebration of comfort food done right. The bustling energy from downtown regulars added a lively backdrop to our meal. Atmosphere: It’s not just the food but the people that make this café a gem. The servers, with their perpetual smiles and ‘never-empty’ coffee cups, made us feel like we were part of the Antique Row family.
As the easternmost city of size in California, El Cajon greets the sun first, setting the stage for a breakfast culture as rich as its first light. We embarked on a culinary quest, guided by the City’s own residents through a social media poll, to explore the top breakfast destinations. Join us on this delicious journey! Tyne Coffee: A Modern Escape The industrial facade of Tyne Coffee’s neighborhood belies the contemporary oasis within. Owners Selina and Josh Brown have crafted a space that resonates with El Cajon’s vibrant spirit. With Selina’s local roots and Josh immigrating from Newcastle upon-Tyne, England, this spot is a melting pot of ideas and flavors. The minimalist decor, with its clean lines and soothing palette, provided a serene backdrop for our morning caffeine fix. Personal Touch: Josh’s Bacon Loaded Bagel was a hearty start to the day, while Selina’s Salmon Lox Avocado Toast was a delicate balance of flavors. The window bar, lined with aspiring entrepreneurs sipping on
locally roasted lattes, added an inspiring energy to the space. Ambiance: Tyne Coffee is a testament to the diversity of El Cajon – a place where different worlds harmoniously collide over expertly crafted coffees and engaging conversations. Janet’s Café: The Heart of El Cajon Janet’s Café, nestled in the northeast corner of El Cajon, is a culinary institution. As we entered, the lively chatter and the aroma of home cooking enveloped us. The staff, seemingly knowing every patron by name, added a personal touch that made our visit feel more like a family gathering. Comfort Food at Its Best: The Country Fried Steak & Eggs was a nostalgic journey back to the heart of American breakfast tradition – hearty, comforting, and utterly delicious. Warmth and Familiarity: Janet’s Café is a reminder of what makes El Cajon special – a place where everyone is family, and every meal feels like a homecoming.
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SPRING ISSUE 2024 • MY EL CAJON
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