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The Express Gazette
Wednesday, September 30, 2026

California's Best Hole-in-the-Wall Breakfast Spot Named

Mandy's Breakfast House in Sonora earns top honors for creative dishes and hearty portions.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
California's Best Hole-in-the-Wall Breakfast Spot Named

Mandy's Breakfast House, a small cafe located in Sonora, California, has been recognized as the state's premier "hole-in-the-wall" breakfast spot by The Takeout. The publication highlighted the eatery for its innovative takes on classic breakfast meals, served in generous portions.

The cozy establishment, situated at 22267 Parrotts Ferry Rd., offers a diverse menu featuring items such as pork belly benedict, a biscuit diablo with chorizo and chipotle gravy, banana flambe waffles, and a French toast sandwich. Its extensive selection of a dozen omelet varieties, each accompanied by sides like hash browns, fruit, or pancakes, has also garnered a dedicated following.

The Takeout compiled its list by evaluating expert and national rankings, consulting food writers, and reviewing local publications. The criteria for a "hole-in-the-wall" establishment included small, unpretentious settings, distinctive local cuisine, and strong community ties, with consideration given to customer reviews and social media praise.

Mandy's Breakfast House has previously received recognition, including being ranked No. 29 among the nation's best breakfast restaurants by Yelp in 2021. Local media, such as The Union Democrat, has also named it the best breakfast establishment in Tuolumne and Calaveras counties.

Customers frequently praise the cafe for its friendly atmosphere, ample food portions, and consistent quality. Beyond breakfast, Mandy's also serves lunch options, including burgers like the jalapeño popper burger and a brunch burger.

The Takeout's evaluation also noted other West Coast eateries, including Otis Cafe in Lincoln City, Oregon, for its German Potatoes, and The Stilly Diner in Arlington, Washington, for its biscuits and gravy and cornbread pancakes.


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