OCEANSIDE — Jennie’s Cafe on 1034 S. Coast Highway 101 boasts colorful murals, unique stained glass and, the patrons say, delicious food. The restaurant was the former Grubby’s Diner, until a waitress who worked there bought the restaurant, revamped the interior and exterior, refined the menu, and reopened it as Jennie’s Cafe in January.
Restaurant owner Jennifer Duffin describes herself as a career waitress. It is a job she has always held and enjoyed.
“I’ve been a waitress my whole working career,” Duffin said.
She added that her favorite part of the job is the friendships she forms with customers. Staying in touch with regular customers is exactly what prompted her to buy the restaurant.
Jennie’s Cafe has the decor and charm of an old-fashioned diner. Booths line the perimeter of the restaurant. Food is also served at an L-shaped bar where diners can get a better view of the big screen televisions. There is a chalkboard wall where an inspirational daily thought is posted.
Outside there is additional dining at umbrella-covered cafe tables where pets are welcome.
After purchasing the restaurant Duffin made some changes to the menu, but said she made sure to keep customers’ favorite items and the same cook.
“We kept the stuff we knew everyone liked,” Duffin said. “It’s a standard breakfast cafe.”
A breakfast favorite served at the restaurant is the California benedict, which is piled with avocado and bacon, and served with a side of home fries.
For lunch, popular favorites are the grilled chicken torta with Monterey jack cheese, and the half-pound Angus burger, which both come with a choice of a side. Fries are popular, but there are also the options of homemade soup and a large fresh salad.
Jennie’s Cafe is uniquely friendly. Every customer is greeted like family. Waitresses bubble with pleasant conversation and remember regular customers’ usual orders.
“I know my customers’ cars and know where they sit,” Duffin said.
The decor also embraces the local community. The stained glasswork that decorates the windows is by artist Don Myers who has an art studio across the street. The outside seascape murals were painted by local artist Paul Knebels, who is a regular customer at the cafe.
Duffin puts in about 50 hours a week managing and working in the restaurant. She said it is exactly what she wants to be doing.
“It’s crazy hard work,” Duffin said. “It’s family I meet and feed.”
Jennie’s Cafe is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m..
