Looking for new brunch options? How about having an AYCE Sunday Brunch at the Cal Baptist…read moreUniversity Commons? Yes, it is open to the public, and the array of food is mind boggling, and just as good as any other good breakfast spot.
It is located in the Commons which is located in the center of campus. It is easily found from the front entrance on Magnolia Street. Huge numbers of parking spaces are nearby. There is a large, lush, grassy, tree-lined area open for school events in the center, spaces for young children to run and play, and bathroom facilities aplenty. It has been a fairly well-kept secret until some TikTok'ers, You Tubers, and Instagrammers recently let the secret out that they are open to the public.
Curious, we came around noon a few Sundays ago and the line out the door was overwhelming. Mind you, the line was made up of mostly non-students. For any late-rising students (those that live on campus), they got priority entrance because their meals are pre-paid, and many have nowhere else to eat, unless they have a car. It's only fair.
So we left that day without eating and saved it for another Sunday when we could arrive earlier. They open at 9:30 am. Close around 2.
Almost classy for a campus cafeteria, it is the main and largest of the several cafes and restaurant locations on campus. It has a sleek, modern look, is well maintained, and offers a broad selection of foods that is appealing and upscale. I had my eye on the carving center (tri tip available on this day) and custom omelet stations (there are two, one at each end), but there are so many more entrees and side dishes to choose from, including beverages and desserts. Grab a tray, take your time, and browse the many stations first before you start loading up. There is plenty for all. But if you walk away hungry, it's no ones fault but yours.
This is also a place where students can get a respectable, part-time job on campus while "edjumacating" themselves. Better yet, it must be comforting as a parent knowing there is well prepared, healthy food available for feeding your son with a hollow leg. It is not the despicable, monotonous dorm food I had the misfortune to experience many decades ago (obviously not here).
While very popular with students and public alike, there is a tremendous amount of seating for all, indoors and out. There are highchair and booster seats for the little ones. Very family friendly. Our bill for 2 seniors, 3 adults, and 2 children came to around $130, quite affordable when Grandma and Grandpa are treating. And everyone left satisfied.
