Customers praised the unique and flavorful breakfast items, particularly the Dutch Baby and Giant Cinnamon Roll, but some found certain dishes bland or poorly executed.
Service Experience
While many reviews highlighted friendly and attentive service, several customers reported long wait times and instances of poor service.
Atmosphere
The cafe offers a cozy and vibrant atmosphere, though some found it too loud and crowded, especially during peak hours.
Pricing
Many customers noted that the prices are on the higher side, with some feeling that the value did not match the quality of food or service.
Reservations Recommended
Due to its popularity, especially on weekends, many customers advised making reservations to avoid long wait times.
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Craig Shults
2 days ago
5.0
They make a great latte, the menu is healthy and the staff is friendly.
MN
Mitchell Neller
4 days ago
3.0
Overall Plums Cafe was good, not great. Some things were solid, some things were mid, and a couple things were straight misses. Not sure if we hit them on a weird day or if it just did not live up to the hype for us, but that latte might be the only thing I go back for.
I ended up ordering the Hangover Burger, even though it sounds funny at a brunch spot, but it actually was pretty good. The burger itself was cooked perfectly medium rare, super flavorful, runny egg, bacon, good onions, all that. I paired it with their hash browns and that part was kind of a bummer. Hash browns were soggy, not crispy, which is the whole point of hash browns. I had to throw ketchup on there just to revive it a little.
My biggest complaint though is the English muffin they use as the bun. Nah. It got soggy right away, fell apart, especially with the egg. It just does not work as a burger bun. If they switched it to a regular bun, that burger would be way better. I would order it again, but it is not something that would make me say we need to come back here.
Now the thing everyone talks about is the Plums Famous Dutch Baby. This thing comes out looking insane. Like five inches tall, huge, full of berries, looks like a masterpiece. Then you take a bite and it is literally just a giant dough ball with no flavor. We literally had to ask the waitress how you are supposed to eat it because we were so confused. She told us to use the berries, squeeze lemon all over it, then sprinkle powdered sugar on top. Once we did that, it was actually good. But by itself? Not it. It tricks you with the looks for sure.
My wife’s experience was rough too. They messed up her food three separate times even though we clearly asked for scrambled eggs. Each time it came back wrong. The waitress was super sweet and apologetic, but they never comped anything which was kind of surprising after three mistakes.
The one thing that absolutely slapped though was the banana twist latte. Full 10/10. Perfect sweetness, great banana flavor without being fake, still tasted like coffee, plus the little rock candy on top was a fun touch.
Overall Plums Cafe was good, not great. Some things were solid, some things were mid, and a couple things were straight misses. Not sure if we hit them on a weird day or if it just did not live up to the hype for us.
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Tricia Enell
Nov 16, 2025
5.0
Gathered for brunch with a good friend. Our waitress kept checking in, refilled drinks promptly, and cleared table at end. Very nice time. Great food served as requested. We had a wonderful time catching up.
Dutch baby with berries ( fresh and flavorful) santa fe omelet. We both had coffee and water. Food was really good, well prepared and excellently presented. The price is average but the quality of food is superior so don't mind the price. Casual atmosprere.love this place. Lots of family's. Dog friendly patio. Not a quite place. But not so noisy you can't hear each other talk. Takes reservations for 2 so no waiting!! Love that feature.
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shiminatay
Nov 15, 2025
3.0
A little pricey for the quality but not horrible, the service is amazing truly everyone helps out but there isn't a Men's restroom
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Alexander Ruiz
Oct 30, 2025
5.0
No exaggeration this is the best breakfast food I have ever had in my life. The first bite for huevos rancheros was a burst of flavors. I did not know what would come next, was how good everything was. The ketchup, bacon, eggs, potato, jam, avocado. Then came the cinnamon and that was some of the best cinnamon of my life. The only bad thing is that I am not from California and will not be able to come back here. 10/10. The servers were also super kind.
Yes, Plums Cafe accepts reservations which can be made through their OpenTable page.
What are the brunch hours at Plums Cafe?
Brunch is served from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM Monday to Thursday, and from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
What type of cuisine does Plums Cafe serve?
Plums Cafe offers Pacific Northwest inspired breakfast, brunch, and lunch options, including party platters for groups.
Where is Plums Cafe located?
Plums Cafe is located at 369 E 17th St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, in the Trendy Eastside Costa Mesa neighborhood.
What payment methods are accepted at Plums Cafe?
They accept various payment options including American Express, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Diners Club, Apple Pay, Android Pay, Samsung Pay, and cash.
Does Plums Cafe offer pickup and delivery services?
Yes, they provide both in-store pickup and delivery options for customer convenience.
What is the typical attire recommended when visiting Plums Cafe?
Casual attire is recommended when dining at Plums Cafe.
Are there any nearby places to visit around Plums Cafe?
Yes, nearby places include Saddle Up Hat bar, a boutique hat shop, and Hairbyb, a beauty salon where you can get a fresh look before or after your meal.
What fitness and recreational options are close to Plums Cafe?
Double Ops gym and Cardio Barre Costa Mesa are nearby fitness venues you can check out for a workout before or after dining at Plums Cafe.
Are there other dining options near Plums Cafe in case I want to explore more?
Sure, nearby dining includes Mongolian Bar-B-Que Pan Asia, Frenzy Sushi, Shunka Japanese Restaurant, and Massimo's Pizza and Pasta, offering a variety of flavors close to Plums Cafe.