I give it six starts for the quality of culinary experience, class, the excellent coffee (better flavor & body than any Starbucks), friendly wait staff, classy & vibrant deco, & great quality of food. Bestest waffle I've ever had. Soft, fluffy, well done. one bite and the flavor of butter milk & goodness exploded in ur mouth. Light on stomach; not greasy nor heavy. While we relaxed here, two aged cyclists walked in in their cycling apparels, sat down, & started reading newspapers. Nice. We had coffee, trout hash, farmer's wife & waffle. Bill ran up to $32. Not bad at all; dinning in place this classy, cute & beautiful can easily cost an arm & a leg in NYC. While we waited for fresh coffee to brew for refill, we can smell nice aroma from the kitchen... so mouthwatering!! FYI: no wifi. Signs all over the place with "no cellphone" means in-person conversation & quality time at the table. lunch served 11:30 -. There is wall outlets to charge ur electronics. The wait staff were, indeed, kind. :-) Thanx for a great bkfst experience! read more

See all

The breakfast was incredible! The orange ginger scones were perfectly soft on the inside and had the a great crunch on the outside-- we ordered 4 of them! (Highly recommend pairing it with the homemade raspberry jam!!) The new management is efficient, kind and serves even better food from the original menu. Will definitely be coming back again! read more

Cafe Bernard - Orange ginger scone - French Near Me - Basalt, Colorado

Stopped by on a Thursday around 10am and the cafe was closed even though the hours on the window said open Tuesday-Sunday 8am-2pm. No sign indicating what happened. FAIL. read more

lamb shanks were absolutely INCREDIBLE and i've had some realllyyyy good food there salads are great i've heard the breakfast burrito is really good only thing i'd say is it can vary we went for brunch once, super busy because it's a teeny place and they were closing soon, i had an amazingg italian sandwich there once but the one i got that time was eh i'd still try to get it again though read more

We love Cafe Bernard, great food and hospitality always. A small trip to France and so welcomed,

No time for pictures... a couple was exiting as we were entering and they told us how good it was, they did not exaggerated. We had the trout hash and the Cobb salad. All delish. read more

Under new ownership hence new chef. If any thing better than before. Always great for breakfast with morning buns and croissants that people travel for. Lunch fabulous with delicious sandwiches and soups at very reasonable prices. But dinners have become memorable with some OMG additions to Bernard's traditional favorites. Some of the best not so French, but all served in a very French feeling bistro, and now that it's summer, classic outdoor seating just enough off the street. Fun! read more

Quaint spot. Wonderful service. Delicious food. It's been awhile since we've been here. So happy that the "new" owner/chef is serving beautifully prepared food. My husband had the steak and eggs. The sauce was amazing and the steak was cooked perfectly. I had the lox and bagel - simple and fresh. We're going back for dinner tonight! read more

Been there on/off for years and menu didn't change really, I think I had it all, it's solid but honestly after a while it's missing something new or a highlight. I still love their simple but yummy morning buns which you can preorder and eg freeze for delightful later time eg afternoon sweet tooth crave. Here and there you seen a famous person in there and it's hard to hide in there because it's pretty small. Friends servers and owners even though idk if Bernard's is sold or not. read more

Ordered the trout. Very disappointed, it was overcooked and bland. Many of the items on the menu are no longer served and although the Restruant was empty, the food took 40 min to arrive. I don't recommend eating here. Much better Restruant's in the area that are better. read more

Went in around 9AM when wasn't crowded to say the least. Took 10 minutes to get a cup of coffee. Waitress had no personality and almost seemed like I was bothering her asking her for creamer and jelly. Very poor service and food mediocre. Then, lastly, with a bill of $15, there is a $25 minimum to use a credit card. Bad experience! read more

I SOOO wanted to LOVE Cafe Bernard after several friends recommended, but it was not meant to be. I noticed upon being seated that the waitress was not in a good mood. I've had friendlier migraines. Upon being immediately subjected to her nastiness, I should have left. But I stayed because I wanted to give it a try. The short of it is: always trust your instincts. 1. Rude waitress served me warm white wine. 2. Bland Caesar salad was practically thrown at me by mean waitress. 3. The lightly pink filet I ordered was burned and had no taste. The obnoxious waitress blamed me for not ordering rare. I walked out after paying for salad and wine. Makes me sad as I love little French cafes, but the service and food leave much to be desired. read more

Great burger and outstanding fries. The rest of the more "upscale" meals looked wonderful but the burger is pretty darn outstanding, and I don't usually order a burger. I plan to go back and try something different - soon! read more

We are locals who LOVE Cafe Bernard. It's our favorite place in the area. The food is always delicious!! I cannot understand any bad reviews. Like every restaurant in town, they have had trouble hiring helpers since Covid. Be patient. The husband and wife owners need our support. Any wait is well worth it. read more

If you had asked me yesterday, I would've given a good review. The waitresses are super friendly, the food (very basic, but classic diner-style food) came out quickly, and the prices are very reasonable. I went back today because I wanted a simple bagel and green tea breakfast, and I've left feeling pretty awkward about the dining experience. An older gentleman was there (I presume him to be the owner, as he was harshly micro-managing EVERYTHING that the waitresses did) and he made the experience pretty uncomfortable for me. It was just me, so instead of seating me at an available empty table in a reasonable spot, he decides to separate a four top that another couple is sitting at, move the table about 4" away from them into the middle of a walkway and seat me there. Luckily, the waitress realized that (obviously) it would be uncomfortable for both the couple and I to be seated 4" apart and moves the table over a little further, which he is then yelling at her for. So then I proceed to try to sit down and he tells me "NO! You can't sit on that side or nobody will be able to get through." So I sat facing a wall, by myself, unreasonably close to the table next to me and trying not to listen to their conversation and make anybody even more uncomfortable than we all already were. Eventually, I just asked one of the waitresses if I could move to another table and she allowed me to. I just don't understand the mindset that's it ok to yell at customers and tell them what to do and make them feel awkward and uncomfortable. Also, if you didn't put me in the middle of a walkway to start with then I wouldn't have been in the way. Much credit to the waitresses, though, because they're fast, friendly, and VERY patient people! read more

Super bummed! New owners changed from world class "sold out daily" pastries to run of the mill commercial bakery! Why change something if it is not broken? Disappointed and even sad..... RIP morning buns, chocolate croissants and Friday donuts. ‍‍ read more

The first time I ate at Cafe Bernard was 4 years ago. I still remember the homey atmosphere and great food. I brought my boyfriend this time and it did not disappoint: Farmer's Eggs and Annabele's Waffles are simply delicious. Add to your list next time you stay or drive through Basalt. Yumminess! read more

Fine, chef-prepared breakfasts at diner prices. Came here for a really enjoyable breakfast recently. I had the Farmer's Eggs: two nicely scrambled eggs with cheddar, served over lots of sautéed veggies (peppers, onions, mushrooms, broccoli, zucchini, potatoes) and chorizo, plus two slices of hearty, homemade multigrain toast. Really tasty, filling, and healthier than what I'd have had if I'd gone to a diner instead. From the way the vegetables were carefully sliced and cooked, to the eggs and the nice balance of flavors, you could tell that a well-trained chef was paying attention to the details. The cafe itself is small, quaint, and charmingly furnished - a comfortable, homey place with personal touches. Service was friendly and very attentive. The eggs, decent coffee and a large OJ came to $12 - essentially diner pricing, only for food that's far better. Bravo! read more

Bernard is a genius in the kitchen. Dinner: The muscles are some of the best I've ever had, served in a very light tomato broth with fries (do not ask for ketchup!). The lamb is so tender and juicy. Also have tried the trout almandine, which was delightful, and the venison. All beautiful and tasty. Dinner can be expensive, so if you would prefer a less extravagant meal, try breakfast or lunch. The farmers eggs is a personal favorite and the pain perdue is served with loads of fresh fruit. I enthusiastically recommend Cafe Bernard's. The food is consistently great and the restaurant is in the heart of a small historic mining town. What could be better? read more

Bernard is there. Typically he'll greet you in French. Bonjour Bernard! The server (Yes One) is awesome and delightfully sarcastic/whitty so stay sharp. It's this vibe between the two of them that makes this place so special. There's about 5 tables (Unless it's warm enough for outdoor seating), there's one waitress and between all the copper cookware on the walls and the French you hear you'd swear you're in Europe. The food is great and this is hands down the best deal for good lunch in the valley. $8-9 for a sandwich & great house salad is unparalleled in the RFV. Apparently, it's great for breakfast too. Too many Aspenites sleep on this place for dinner as well (Leave the Roundabout!!!!). The Shrimp Curry is awesome and so many other dishes hit all the good notes. read more

This place is AMAZING!! We went here for breakfast, snd it did not disappoint. They have a wide variety of coffees, omelettes, waffles, and so much more!! My favorite was the Annabelle's Waffles. SO delicious, we will definitely be back!! read more

Excellent service for lunch. Walked in randomly off the street with my wife and daugther. Our infant daugther received some leery looks from many of the patrons, but the staff loved her. Our waitresses were attentive and the food was excellent. The soup of the day was worth the trip by itself. Highly recommend. read more

Amazing breakfast!! They have a cozy cute little outdoor seating, which is perfect during the summer! Loved our time over here!

I spent a day flyfishing and stopped in town to see what was available for dinner. It was 8:45 and there was a couple seated outside, I asked if they were still serving and they gladly sat me down. Being a mountain town (near Aspen) I expected the prices to be higher than normal and I was not disappointed. Bernard stopped by to check on me and make sure that my order was taken. The menu has a good selection but it was late and I wanted something light. I settled on the Shrimp and curry over Risotto. Delicious and cooked perfectly it ultimately was too sweet towards the end. All said I enjoyed my meal and the services. I'll have to go back some day and try a few of the other menu items! read more

Unfortunately they are so understaffed that we had a poor experience. Three stars because I love a local breakfast spot and supporting small businesses. We waited for an hour for a table and another hour for food. I think they should just have fewer tables if they can't service in a timely manner. Hope they can turn it around! read more

I grew up in the Roaring Fork Valley. My grandparents lived on Homestead Road when I was born. Downtown Basalt has changed a lot since I left. In February 2009, I took my girlfriend "home" to see where I grew up. A gracious friend lent us her condo for the weekend. A neighbor knocked on her door the morning after we arrived to see if she was home. I wandered to his door later to ask if he could recommend a great place in town for breakfast. I was told Cafe Bernard was the only place to go. Other than being his father's cafe, he said the food was fantastic. We were not let down. It was a Saturday morning and the small cafe was crowded. We didn't wait long for a table to be available. We sat down and looked over the menu, and quickly decided what we wanted to order. There was one person running the whole front of house and she was doing an amazing job. As I noticed the artwork on the walls, and appreciated all the copper items hanging on the large wall behind the counter dividing back of house from front, I noticed how many regulars she called out by name. The atmosphere was charming and comfortable. When our food was presented to us, I was equally as impressed. Being a native to the area, I couldn't believe I hadn't been to this cafe that sits half a block from the old post office. Great value for your meal, dare I say it is underpriced? I'll definitely go back next time I'm in town. read more

Well this the third or 4th visit to Cafe Bernard and each time the service gets worse and worse. Yesterday's experience will probably be the last 4 quite a while. It took over an hour and 20 minutes to get a glass of water much less the wine we ordered. All of asked the waitress numerous times since we very thirsty upon arrival. It was my birthday so I was looking forward to their food which is good and reasonably priced for its quality and location.. However, They were ouut of several of the items we wanted so we ended up simply getting some calamari and an order of the linquine carbonara . The bill came out and our 3 oz glass of white wine was 18 dollars a piece. We had no clue because we weren't given a wine list nor was it mentioned. The house wine was originally 10 dollars and I think the last time maybe it had risen to 12 but an 18 dollar small glass of an American wine is crazy. Very disappointed for a 135.00 of nothing. read more

The usual very expensive and very small breakfast you find in Basalt. But I will say, my omelette was delicious! A la carte, though, so make sure you order some toast. I love their hot tea options. Service was lovely and I loved the decor in this place. On a side note, this town hasn't gotten wind of gluten allergy options. read more

Great food. We have been going here since 99. Sticky buns and farmers eggs! Have not had dinner but it's probably as good as breakfast. Small dining room. Mochas read more

AWFUL experience with new owners!!!!! I ordered eggs & bacon. Eggs were over cooked & hard, bacon too crispy almost burned!!! I "politely" sent it back.... The server/new owner admitted that the whole batch of bacon was crispy, so I ordered sausage. Only to receive completely undercooked runny eggs!! I refused the whole plate. She then tried to put in a To Go box and charge me for the entree. I was SHOCKED. She continued to argue with us insisting she was going to charge us, no joke!! (~I miss you Bernard & Cathy. You were awesome ALL those years!!) read more

Very cute, quaint spot in downtown Basalt! We enjoyed a lovely little breakfast here. The veggies with our eggs were super fresh and nicely sauteed. Coffee was tasty, and the house-made apricot jam was amazing! Also, breakfast prices are super reasonable for the valley. Would definitely stop here again. read more

Cafe Bernard has been a breakfast favourite of mine for years. There is a group of moms who meet for breakfast, and Cafe Bernard is always our first choice if possible. The morning buns are their specialty, a local delicacy even, though their other pastries are excellent as well. Their other breakfast offerings are also delicious! There is generally only one server,so yes the service can sometimes be a bit slow, but she is very cheerful and efficient. There are a lot of locals that pop in and get their meals to go and there is always quite a crowd before 9:30, when the breakfast rush slows a bit. I have been for lunch a few times, as well, and always found the food fresh and delicious. I highly recommend this spot! read more

This is a gem of a place! We were very pleasantly surprised on our visit. The morning buns are incredible, croissants fantastic, omelets .....well let's just say they didn't need to box anything up from our table! The coffee is great, I just can say enough about our pitstop on the way to Snowmass. French influence, clean neat decor. You won't be disappointed. read more

Big menu with many good choices. Shared a house salad with my wife; very fresh with lots of goat cheese and candied pecans. One of us had chicken picata and the other lamb chops; both were excellent. Prices very reasonable and service friendly and quick! read more

The service was terrible. The waitress was rude and pushy and the atmosphere was not enjoyable in the least. The place was so tiny I felt claustrophobic and the food was average , at best. For the price point there are so many better venues in the area. Extremely disappointed read more

LOVED this place! When we got there, it was pretty quiet, so our server was very attentive. They talked about their famous iced tea, and so I ordered it...I was not disappointed. My dad and I both ordered the "Cowboy" (egg in the hole), and it was delicious! Just the perfect amount, too. read more

My absolute favorite restaurant in the area, Aspen to Glenwood Springs, for dinner, Bernard is like a New Yorker (he use to live there), he doesn't take sh** from anyone, but he knows how to cook and his menu and wine list is second to none! Give him a hard time intelligently, and he'll respect you and give it right back to you, you've got to have a sense of humor to spar with him, otherwise keep your mouth shut and say thank you. Either way, if you want good food this is the place to go! Breakfast and Lunch are headed up by his wife Cathy, Bernard only works for dinner. read more

Amazing breakfast! One of the best omelettes I've ever had - great service! Clean and Charming atmosphere. I would definitely come back.

I had to get up to ask for water, then again to ask for bread, then again to ask for the check. The salad greens were wilted, old and tasteless and the carrots dried out. Dressing was gelatinous and far from homemade. Roll was yeasty, dry and stale. Probably the worst lunch I've had in many years. read more

I love this little French breakfast/lunch place. Their home bake chocolate croissant is so good!