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Red Kettle was a staple for my Idyllwild trips growing up, and I was thrilled to bring my best friend during her first visit. It's just as cozy as I remember! Honestly I think this trip was blessed because I magically got a parking spot out front and despite expecting that we would have to wait, we were seated right away. It was poppin so it took almost 30 minutes for the food to come out but it was delicious and the coffee is good. It's right in the heart of town so there's plenty to explore afterwards. They don't take reservations and it's very popular, but definitely worth it.
RED KETTLE @ IDYLLWILD Parking is limited to street parking only, but there are plenty of spots around the small town. It's free and super easy to find. My boyfriend and I came on a Saturday afternoon and found parking within minutes. My boyfriend has been coming to The Red Kettle for the past two years every time he visits this town, so I was really excited to finally try it. When we arrived, there was already a line out the door with people waiting. We put our names down and waited about 20 minutes, which went by pretty quickly. Once we were seated, we got our menus, and the girl who took our order was incredibly sweet. I loved her energy and the recommendations she gave. We ordered a hot chocolate to start, and it was amazing, definitely on the sweeter side and piled with whipped cream, so if you have a sweet tooth, you'll love it. My boyfriend also got a black coffee, which comes with unlimited refills. The staff walks around offering more, so you never run out. For food, my boyfriend got the Junkyard Omelette, and I ordered the French toast with bacon. We also shared a half-order of the biscuits and gravy. The food took about 30 minutes to come out, which is understandable since it was packed. Just keep in mind that weekends get super busy. The restaurant is open from 7 AM to 2 PM daily, so if you're visiting, try to come before noon so you don't risk getting turned away near closing time. Now the food, honestly incredible. I'm not even a big biscuits person, but their biscuits and gravy were to die for. They were savory, soft, and had the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. I highly recommend getting them. You can choose between a half-order or full order. For a group of 2-3 people, the half-order is perfect, but the full order is great if you're really hungry. My French toast was delicious, and although my bacon came out a little burnt at first, they remade it super quickly. The eggs were great too. My boyfriend's omelette came with crispy hashbrowns that were honestly so good. It all tasted fresh, hearty, and very home-cooked, like something you'd make with your family. I loved the classic diner vibe and the cozy ambiance. Overall, I would definitely come back to The Red Kettle if I'm ever in Idyllwild again. The experience was great, the service was amazing, and the food was absolutely worth the wait.
My husband wanted to surprise me and take me somewhere new for my birthday. We don't live close by but I want to see some snow. The drive up there was beautiful even though I am afraid of heights. It's cute little diner type of place with a lot of posters. Friendly people, since I am allergic to eggs I have to go to places that servers breakfast and lunch which they do. They menu look great I was excited to get the usual for me is either patty melt or Reuben . The service was awesome, outstanding coffee. Unfortunately the rest of our food was NOT outstanding. They burned my bread so bad that all I could taste was burned bread and not the rest of my Reuben sandwich! Normally I would send it back but they were so nice that I didn't have the heart to do it. My husband ordered breakfast burrito and it was nothing to brag about. I would go back for the coffee and friendly people.
Red kettle is a must go brunch spot when visiting Idyllwild. Pros: being the only brunch spot in Idyllwild the line can get very long. This could be a really good thing because the food is really good, but this could also be a bad thing because you might be waiting a long time. I arrived in the late morning and was able to get seated within 20 minutes for a table of two. The food here is really good. I ordered the junkyards omelette and it was very filling, had a side of hashbrowns and toast and the flavor was great. My girlfriend ordered the French toast combo which came with two eggs and her choice of sausage or bacon she chose bacon. I also ordered a coffee and she ordered a hot chocolate. Both were really good and coffees had a free refill. There are two bathrooms within the inside and they were very clean. Cons: first con would be the long wait times depending on what time you show and when you visit during the year. Because it gets very busy, service could be slow for me. The service was good, but the food came out a little longer than it should have. I didn't mind because I didn't have any anywhere else to go so that was fine with me, but just keep in mind, you could be waiting a while. Verdict: before this time I came to red kettle at least twice before every time that I visited Idlewild and I will continue visiting because it's very good food. I always have a good time there and it's really the only spot to get brunch and not a wild, I would recommend this to anybody visiting.
This little breakfast spot was small but completely packed--and honestly, that just proved how good it is. Even with every table full, the customer service never missed a beat. Our hostess and our server were both incredibly attentive, kind, and on top of everything. The breakfast was absolutely delicious, and their amazing service made our day trip to Idyllwild even more special. Definitely a place worth the wait!
The staff here couldn't be friendlier--seriously, they're hustling nonstop but still manage to make you feel welcome. The place was packed with locals, which pretty much guarantees it's the spot to be. It's got that cool, old-school diner vibe with tons of tables and counter space, plus outdoor seating if you want to soak up the sunshine. And the food? So good. We ordered the muffin sandwich with hash browns, yummy! Everything came out exactly how we ordered it--hot, tasty, and totally hit the spot.
This is as good of a breakfast as you'll get! Tourist towns can be tough but this place is great. The staff is beyond friendly. They're enough to get me to return. The Griddled Potato Scramble is delicious and HUGE. The omelet was great as well, but I can't speak to it because my partner devoured it before I could try it. That speaks for itself, I think. Get the biscuit. It's fluffy and perfect. Just do it. Also, go early. Like, as soon as they open. Otherwise, you're going to be waiting a while.
4 years ago
Score: 8.5/10 Buzzwords: comfort food, great bite, breakfast/brunch We were quickly seated inside on a Tuesday afternoon visit and most patrons were in the middle if not finishing up with their meals. Initially, I had not been so hungry and was looking for something on the snacky side - not too heavy but would still hold me over for the next few hours - so I had ordered the sandwich special and along with it, an Arnold Palmer. My Turkey sandwich was simple yet effective, and the corn cream with bacon bit side soup that came with my plate was a little scoop of heaven. The final leg of my combo was a small hand-sized cherry pie which had a great crumbly crust topped with fluffy whipped cream. The Palmer was a bit on the sugary sweet side, which I found to served well as a great refresher between bites. My girlfriend ordered a spicy chicken sandwich & side salad with a regular iced tea. The sandwhich itself was really flavorful without being too runny and sloppy to hold like most other chicken sandwiches are when loaded like this one was - peppers, melted cheese, pickles, and lettuce. Side shoutout to our waitress Kim, did a spectacular job and addressing our needs despite juggling so many other tables! Overall, great place to grab an early morning/brunch meal in a charmingly interiorly decorated and well lit space. read more
9 months ago
One of the rare places that was open for breakfast in Idyllwild at 7am. I had a carry out order of breakfast burrito. It was good. Taking order was also good. There were many customers having breakfast inside before going to work. I can't comment on service since I did not stay inside. read more
We came up here to getaway for the day! Just a nice ride and a beautiful place with so much snow! We stopped in town and decided to eat! This cute little coffee shop was packed so why not! We sat down and it was a little like going back in time! We ordered and the food came quickly! It was great I downed my fast as I was hungry and my wife said hers was good! They are open for Breakfast and lunch only! Our server was very nice and gave me a Togo cup filled with coffee! That hit the spot! read more
Great breakfast spot! We stopped here during our camping trip, and it was such a delicious spot for breakfast. I ordered the Denver Omelett (with cheese), fruit, and sourdough bread. The omelette was huge, I couldn't even finish it. The fruit was nice and fresh and the bread was perfectly toasted. The wait staff was very friendly and attentive. They have a cute patio with a good bit of outdoor seating that allows dogs. My dog loved the place and her plain scrambled egg. read more
3 years ago
It was freezing when we visited idyllwild, and I was sooo looking forward to a hefty breakfast meal. This place did it. The staff is super friendly here, and you feel that they're trying to welcome you. The place is small but very cute. Totally has the small cabin/diner vibes, but it's clean and very warm inside. They do have some lighter, healthier options, but I ordered everything covered in gravy. The gravy, if I'm being honest, doesn't have a lot of flavor. A lot of pepper and butter but can easily be saved by some tobasco. Large portions and my friend had their pie and I was advised pie was absolute 100. I, sadly, couldn't have a single bite because I ate my whole plate. Will visit again when I'm in the area. read more
8 months ago
1 year ago
3 years ago
Authentic Idyllwild Cafe Come here for the people. Sit on the patio and talk w the locals and watch people downtown Idyllwild- be idyll. The food is okay, but well portioned. The refills are amazing - they are in it. But the staff makes this cafe a great hangout! read more
1 year ago
4 months ago
3 years ago
Service was really friendly. The omelette was fluffy and good even though the spinach was a bit undercooked. The side of fruits was very sweet and fresh. The turkey burger is juicier and tastier with the grilled onions. The fries were thick and very crispy. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
We enjoy this place every time we visit Idyllwild. They have the most friendly staff. The food is delicious, we have enjoyed both breakfast and lunch at this wonderful place. They have a nice little outdoor patio where we were able to have our pup with us. She even enjoyed some egg and bacon. I highly recommend this great place. read more
A quaint cute cafe right in the heart of town. First time here as well as the town. You won't miss it as it's situated right in the center of the town underneath all the town banner. Beginning of the week and about 2 hours to closing time, it was still pretty busy. Walked in and was told it was seat yourself, which was fine. Patio was all taken so opted for a table near the window. Menu is pretty much on point with breakfast and lunch. You have all your classic, omelette, pancakes, and so on. Didn't take long till one of the waitress came over to take our order. Food, wasn't crazy long but kind of expecting it as there were a couple of tables that was ahead of us and hadn't received anything yet. I did noticed that not only was it loads of tourist but loads of locals as well. A local hotspot for the locals. Food came out looking great and quite tasty. Stuck to the basic, omelette and chicken fried steak. Everything was great, drinks refill was also available without asking. Price wise, very reasonable. They come up to you with credit card swiper whenever your ready to pay. Overall, food was good. It does get busy so probably avoid the weekend. read more
9 months ago
3 years ago
This local spot is seriously Amazing !!! The food was delicious , they kept the coffee coming, & Grandma Kat is the sweetest most genuine soul!! We will definitely be back !! read more
Fun lunch experience with the antics of Kathy or maybe Michelle. Lol We had a seat on the small patio. Husbands ordered fish n chips and the wives ordered the 1/2 sandwich special with delicious egg Florentine soup and guess what.....it came with a half slice of scrumptious fruit pie. I also splurged on a mug of decadent hot chocolate. Mmmmm Go here. read more
We came here for lunch on a sunny day and decided to sit on the patio. The employees know that they have a lot of bees buzzing around the patio and didn't tell us. I spent the whole time waving them away and hoping they wouldn't sting me. I gave up on eating my turkey sandwich and just placed a napkin over it. Fortunately I wasn't stung. I told the waitress about the bees and she said that they are here all the time. Thanks for the heads up- NOT!! read more
We just returned from our annual sojourn to Idlewild. Five lovely nights there; five delicious breakfasts at the Red Kettle! The entire staff are friendly and professional with the meals come out of the kitchen as ordered and hot! Granted, we usually visit during Thanksgiving or Presidents' Day; however, the place is always booming with locals as well! My wife and I would like to thank Tamra and Bonnie for their cheer and service! By the way, 3% off for those who pay cash! read more
2 years ago
Pretty good diner place and opens fairly early compared to the other restaurants in the area if you want a good, heavy breakfast before a hike. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the corned beef hash with eggs breakfast plate. Cooked just the way i like it with the hash brown edges crispy and doesn't taste greasy at all. The pancakes were okay, nothing special but still cooked well, only let down would be the apple pie - didn't taste like it was freshly made and the crust was soggy and just fell apart. Seems to be a fairly busy local spot in the morning, came in at 7.15am and we already took the last available table inside. We didn't have problems with parking (side walk parking) since it was early but leaving the diner around 8am there was already a queue and tons of car waiting out for parking. So come early or prepare to park further away :) read more
2 years ago
1 year ago
4 years ago
Came the Red Kettle today after our visit to Living Free Animal Sanctuary & the red kettle staff was very friendly/attentive/& welcoming! They had such a good attitude which sometimes dealing with the public could be challenging & I know but we enjoyed our food which was delicious my bacon cheeseburger was nice & juicy along with my onion rings were also very good not crazy greasy or hard they were just right! I recommend when in Idyllwild. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
2 years ago
Stopped by this place after just arriving in town. The staff are all very nice and attentive. The burger definitely hit the spot. And the fries were cooked perfectly. I'll definitely go back next time I'm in town. read more
3 years ago
A quick jaunt up the hill to Idyllwild for some mountain air and a small walk to do a bit of shopping landed us here. We've yet to have eaten at this place over the years but decided on the American cafe thing today. A very small mountain cafe populated by locals and visitors with a small deck outside if the weather permits. A common American themed menu with many house-made offerings like pies, muffins and some of the salad dressings. A service staff of some very friendly folks worked as an orchestration to fend off the busy crowd during the lunch hour. Food was good (flavors, seasoning and texture) and plentiful. We had lunch but I think the breakfast seems to be what we missed. Good stuff up here at elevation. Dicks read more
4 years ago
I'm here in Idyllwild for the weekend with the family and when looking for a breakfast spot this morning we stopped by Red Kettle. First off this place was packed!! Which was a sign that it was probably really good if so many people where here. The atmosphere is neighborhood/local hearty breakfast cafe. It is small inside but honestly that adds to the cozy and welcoming feel. Service was warm and friendly. From checking in to our waitress, everyone was super nice and very easy to talk to and they checked in on us our entire meal. Portions are very generous and the prices are excellent for the quality and quantity of food you get! I am very glad we decided to eat here and it is a must next time we visit. read more
2 years ago
Nicest, most attentive and helpful staff I've ever met. The food is delicious and portions are very very generous. You are always welcomed as soon as you enter and seated immediately. The restaurant isn't recognizable from the photo but it is a very warm and welcoming dive with outdoor seating, patio heaters and they are very dog friendly! I'm going to walk a mile in the snow to get some breakfast there, believe me, it's worth the hike. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
We were recommended this place by a friend who visits often. Had high expectations so it was easy for them to miss the mark. Our server was absolutely lovely, but the woman behind the bar clearly favours the local's and told our server to take their order first. Our server actually questioned her saying we've been there for a while. Food was ok, but not good enough to make up for the service and wait. read more
Really great tasting breakfast/brunch! I got the eggs benedict and my mom orderned the tuna sandwhich. We both really enjoyed our meals. I especially loved my eggs benedict. The hollandaise was perfect in flavor and texture. The ham was on the thinner and slight saltier side but I found myself really enjoying it especially in contrast to the sweet vanilla milkshake we got. Which wasn't actually too sweet nor was it too thick! I loved it! The cottage fries I got with on the side were interesting. Chunky but crispy! It was nice to try. I enjoyed my mom's side of sweet potato french fries better. But overall everything was great! read more
I visited the Red Kettle for lunch while camping in Idyllwild with a group of friends and our dogs. As a big time pie fan, I was immediately drawn to the half sandwich special which comes with a slice of pie. I chose the turkey sandwich (there's an option of turkey, tuna, ham or egg salad) and found out that fries could be substituted for the cup of soup or chili. The turkey sandwich was basic with just lettuce, tomato and mayo. I asked for mustard and the waitress brought a bottle of yellow mustard to the table. The sandwich was okay but it was the slice of pie that really made the meal. I chose the berry pie and it was the perfect way to end my lunch. read more
3 years ago
Red Kettle serves diner breakfast food that is tasty and served with down to earth humor. The servers all work together so coffee is filled and the comfort food is served hot. I had the ham and eggs with rye toast and the hash browns were crispy. The ham was plentiful and the rye toast was buttered with love. My eggs were cooked perfectly. The hubby had French toast and I tried it. It had a lovely cinnamon flair. The Red Kettle impressed me with both their food and service. read more
2 years ago
Let's start with the positive: the service, as with most places in Idyllwild, is friendly and fantastic. The restaurant is cozy and has a very welcoming environment. The negative was my steak and eggs. Priced at $20, the steak was rubbery and the eggs were runny, not over easy as I ordered. The toast and English muffins were burnt, but the kids did seem to enjoy their breakfast burrito. I will be returning next time in Idyllwild, but I would also recommend trying Mile High Cafe if breakfast is what you're looking for. read more
More info about Red Kettle
54220 N Cir Dr
Idyllwild, CA 92549
Directions
(951) 659-4063
Call Now
Visit Website
http://perrysredkettle.com
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Ask the Community - Red Kettle
Are dogs allowed on the patio?
Yes. Visited Sunday 8-22-21. There Were 2 Next To Their Owners on The "Outside" Patio Deck
Is this dog friendly?
I love the Red Kettle. They have a patio area where you can have your fur babies with you. Just keep in mind that it's cooling down up there and you might want to bring a jacket for you and your fur babies. Go, enjoy!
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Red Kettle - breakfast_brunch - Updated May 2026
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