In a town filled with bougie breakfast spots serving food more memorable for its price than its flavor, Vivian's is both a treat and a retreat. The place has been doing its thing since the 1960's, and they offer generous portions at prices at least a few bucks below the going rate. Perhaps it's because they own the building (it used to be a house), or maybe they just know how to manage their expenses properly. Whatever the reason, paying reasonable prices for amply served good food is reason enough for a visit. But it's far from the only reason. That converted house still holds 4 cozy tables at the front, and sitting in there you feel like you may be in a country cafe somewhere off the interstate. But out back there's a roomy courtyard patio with awnings and umbrellas, and foliage that's got nothing to do with Southern California. That foreign foliage, combined with the exposed brick of neighboring buildings, gives the impression of a breakfast nook in the French Quarter, minus the humidity and morning-after regret. The slightly off-kilter tables balanced carefully on the equally uneven cement complete the imperfectly perfect charm of the scene. Our server, Cait, was cheery and attentive, friendly and chatty, despite having quite a few tables to tend to. She carefully noted special requests, and kept things moving along. My wife ordered the Breakfast Combo of Pancakes, Scrambled Eggs and Bacon, and they did not disappoint. The pancakes were good-sized but properly cooked, with crispy edges and a moist interior (often, the bigger flapjacks fail the edge-to-center cook ratio, but these were on point). Eggs were well-made, and the bacon crispy. For my meal, I asked that the Italian Omelet be made as a scramble, and they happily obliged. The sausage neatly balanced sweetness and herbs for a truly Italian flavor profile. Scrambled together with eggs and sauteed peppers & onions, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, this was a hearty and satisfying starring feature. But the co-star -- house-made home fries, also with peppers and onions -- played its role very well, offering a lot more taste than so many potato sides served up across the town. Really a great breakfast, though you should know they have a full menu of lunch items as well. Common sense would say I should shut up, lest the place become too busy and I have to wait a long time for my next table; but real common sense says everyone should go and enjoy a good meal in a great setting, and Vivian's should stay in business for another 60 years. read more

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You know, I have to admit the outdoor seating in the back patio has to be one of the most amazing and serene environments. One of my friends invited me here now he has a breakfast sandwich because that's what he always eats but the potatoes that it came with season wonderfully I took a moment to try some but the real reason I had to come here was to see my friend sit out back and have a nice delicious latte, but I wasn't kidding around. My friend knew I meant business when I said I don't wanna double I wanna double double and that means four shots. My waiter had my drink to me less than five minutes and me and my friend sat and talked and he gobbled his sandwich so fast I don't even think the plate was left. The only issue with this place even around Background on the street parking is ridiculous so if you can sneak across the street, but the service is incredible the food is beautiful and this place is definitely worth every second you spend here and every dollar. read more

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Perfect spot for your next breakfast/brunch outing. Been here a few times now and decided it's time to leave a review. The food is excellent here! They don't skimp on the portions and the food is always on point. You're getting homemade quality food at Vivian's. Highly recommend you choose to sit in the patio area as indoor seating is very limited. I dropped in on a busy Sunday afternoon and didn't wait very long to get seated. Menu is extensive with plenty of options to choose from. read more

Great place to have breakfast. I love to sit outside. They do allow pets on the patio, so if that is an issue for you, you'll eqmt to sit inside. Local actors dine here. It's very pleasant. read more

Nice staff . Quiet Monday morning . Clean . Parking on street ! Good for breakfast ! They have a patio ! Looks very community and comfy cozy ! read more

Vivian's Cafe - 2 Slices of Toast - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Studio City, California

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Last month, my friend suggested that we have brunch at Vivian's Millennium Cafe. We found street parking a block away and got a table upon arrival at around 9:30am on Saturday. The cafe's indoor space is small, but there's more seating in the green outdoor patio. The service was fast and the staff checked-in frequently. We ordered a few items to share, including The Otis, Lox Benedict, and Ultimate Pancakes. My fave was The Otis because it was colorful and filling. I chose sourdough toast and cheddar cheese for the eggs. I was skeptical about the tuna, but it paired well with everything. Also, I really enjoyed the Ultimate Pancakes, which had interesting texture and sweetness from the grains & nuts. Overall, good, quality food and cozy vibes, so I'd come back if I was in the area! read more

Vivian's Cafe - Sign to Patio Seating - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Studio City, California

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There are innumerable things that I love about this place, but I think I really need to talk about the beautiful outside space Vivians has. I genuinely felt at peace while I had a chance to look at their very diverse menu. The staff here was super friendly and down to Earth, and I'm shocked that despite my own hubris, in dropping a sausage from my very tasty breakfast croissant, the waiter immediately, without even asking got me a new one. On top of that, the other staff was checking on us frequently, which was super kind and thoughtful. The food though, really knocked it out of the park, I had an arnold palmer opposite my breakfast croissant with sausage and pepperjack cheese, and it was not only filling, but every bite was savory with a very subtle kick. Their house potatoes were solid too, having very nice flavors that paired well with my meal. A place like this is why I even bother writing reviews. I want the greater Los Angeles area to know that good service and even better food awaits you, if you but follow your nose. Cheers. read more

Vivian's Cafe - Breakfast Croissant+House potatoes - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Studio City, California

Nice outdoor patio, good breakfast food, lots of choices. Quick service, despiteits popularity. Passed by this place on the way to some other place, and decided we liked the vibes here better, came back. read more

Vivian's Cafe - Poster - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Studio City, California

Such a cute little restaurant with natural lighting and beautiful trees outside. The service was great and the food was so satisfying. Everything tasted good read more

Vivian's Cafe - Bacon eggs and hash browns - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Studio City, California

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This was a last minute decision to come here before Universal. Our original spot was closed due to filming. This is your typical brunch location. It's small and there's seating. It was slow when we ate here. My omelette was pretty good. I got it when eggs were super expensive so it felt like a luxury and I'm glad they didn't cheapen it or replace the egg with mostly egg white liquid. My boyfriend's burrito was mid. He had these sautéed veggies as a side and I personally don't like it. Definitely stick to Hashbrowns and maybe an omelette. Service was alright. read more

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I just wanted to highlight Seth. He was the guy in charge of beverages. He went the extra mile for us. Checking on us, super attentive to detail. Even ran outside to find me when I forgot my coffee to go. read more

We came for a small vacation to Universal Studios and honestly we kept making bad food choices. It was so disappointing The morning we were leaving we saw Vivian's and we said let try We first walked in the ambiance was so chill Omg it was so fresh and so delicious like the cook to order it was hot and you can't tell nothing was sitting or premade thank god finally a perfect meal. Thank you to Our wonderful waitress i believe her name was Sharon if im wrong sorry We will definitely be back it was a pleasure coming to this lil heavenly oasis read more

Vivian's is truly a hidden gem. I've lived just down the street from it since 2007, but only discovered it last month. I'm not sure why it doesn't appear in more brunch guides, because it's a delightful spot. It's an erstwhile house-turned-restaurant, with haphazard patio seating and a giant avocado tree that they warn may drop its fruit on your head. The website greets you with the curly '90s Gigi font. But an unconventional setting, threat of danger whilst you dine, and an Angelfire-esque website are always clues that the food will be amazing, and Vivian's does indeed deliver excellence. The pancakes are absolutely bomb, fluffy and flavourful. All the brunch meats and the eggs are perfectly cooked. It's classic diner-style breakfast sans the glare of fluorescent lights. I ordered "Jenn's REALLY Big Sandwich". It was a simple chicken salad (read: nothing weird in the mixture like nuts or grapes) with some unexpected accoutrements. It seemed like the most interesting item on the menu, so I was jazzed to try it. ...... Have you seen the film "Madea's Family Reunion"? Jenn's concoction made me think of this film. A lot of elements that don't seem like they go together, but somehow oddly complement one another in the finished product. Soap opera melodrama, raunchy comedy, and celebration of African-American fortitude all in one movie? Feta cheese, bacon, and chicken salad all in one sandwich? But it comes together gloriously. We enjoyed aperol spritzers with our meal, and they also have specialty coffees, beer, and mimosas. The waitstaff was attentive and pleasant, and they plied us with all the condiments we needed so we didn't have to beg for anything - syrup, jams, hot sauce, ketchup were all brought to us or already on the table. Vivian's is definitely a place to try at least once, and it's likely you'll come back to try more of their extensive menu. read more

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Nice patio. Could use music since tables or so close together. Very basic food and service. read more

My fav. Breakfast spot wish it was open later but amazing food and ambiance, always kind service! A true gem! I recommend this place to anyone who wants good breakfast or brunch. read more

When we walked in, we were welcomed with the friendliest greeting. The guy asked if we wanted to dine inside or outside and I said outside, so he walked us to the outdoor seating area and we were able to choose any spot we liked. Inside, we saw a sign for White Chocolate Macadamia Pancakes. I immediately said ohh I'd like to try that. But then in the back of my head said that'll never happen because I doubt it is gluten free. BUT then when we saw our menus, I was very happily surprised that they could make their pancakes gluten free. I liked that when our food was brought to us, we were reminded, they were gluten free pancakes (this sets my mind at ease because then I feel comfortable that the chef didn't forget and make them with gluten). We were also given warm syrup and warm butter. I was very excited. The first bite I think my eyes got big. They were so good! We ordered 4 pancakes and another entree. And I ate 3 of the 4 they were just so good! For the pancakes alone I would give this place 5 stars! Unfortunately the other entree we got was underwhelming. It wasn't bad, just okay. We got the Steak, Mashed potatoes and veggies. The mashed potatoes were bland and def needed the gravy for flavoring. I am allergic to cruciferous foods so I couldn't try the veggies. The steak was decent. For sure if we go back again I want more pancakes, maybe I'll try different ones. The ambiance of the outdoors was nice. It was a clear sunny day and perfect to be outside. There's a fully outdoors section and a covered outdoor section. I chose the covered area and it was perfect. read more

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We came on a Sunday morning and surprisingly it was not busy. The times I've been here have always been good. The service is quick and efficient. The food is also delicious. The French toast was exactly what I was craving. Parking can be tricky since it is metered and very limited though. read more

Vivian's Cafe - French Toast Combo - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Studio City, California

I have always passed by this restaurant and would say "I need to eat at Vivian's Millennium Cafe one of these days". Well a few friends and I were in Studio City one day and were ready for lunch. We went to Vivian's Millennium Cafe and the food, wait staff and ambiance was amazing. There were 6 of us so we sat in the well shaded back patio. The menu has great breakfast and lunch items. We had ordered a variety of delicious items: hamburgers, fries, sandwiches, cole slaw, French toast with bacon and eggs just to name a few foods. There's parking meters right outside of the restaurant or you can park in the residential side streets. Just read the street parking signs carefully or you might get a parking ticket. The cafe also has fun merchandise: hats and t-shirts with their logo on it! read more

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I'm rounding up to four stars bc the service was really friendly and quick. The food was a miss on me though. I tried the NY steak sandwich and it had no flavor at all. The steak was well done, strips that had little flavor. I found myself wanting to add salt, ketchup, hot sauce, just something to liven up the sandwich. It came with a huge portion of thinly sliced sautéed red onion, but even that did not bring much flavor to the sandwich. The side I chose was potato salad, and that was enjoyable to eat. It had a nice ratio of onion, butter pickle, carrot, and potato. Alas, I regret not ordering a breakfast option. read more

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Leah Remini's family has a hidden gem of a café that I discovered, and it exceeded my expectations. I opted for the Brandon omelette Special, while my husband chose the country fried steak. Both dishes were exceptionally delicious. However, be prepared for a potential parking challenge. You might need to park in the residential area, we ensure that you read the parking signs carefully. The service is top-notch. I had the pleasure of being served by Leah's sister, Shannon, who was an amazing server. On my last visit, as I was leaving, George (co-owner) family member, walked in with groceries, so you might even catch a glimpse of a celebrity. Never got To see Leah, but maybe one day. The café has an outdoor patio vibe, giving it a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Although it can get busy, the food is consistently great. read more

Vivian's Cafe - Chicken Fried Steak Combo & The Brandon Special Omelette - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Studio City, California

YIKES! What happened to Vivian's Café?! It had been a long time since I last dined there, and I was really looking forward to it. I even hyped it up to my husband, telling him how great the food was. Unfortunately, it was a huge disappointment. We both had the worst breakfasts--truly. The pancakes were awful (how can you go so wrong with pancakes when you advertise how great they are), and the service was lacking. The waitresses seemed cranky and unfriendly, although one of the waiters (or maybe he was the host?) was very pleasant. I hope he lands a better gig somewhere else. It was just an all-around yucky experience, especially after I had gone on about how good it was. My husband gave me that look--he had wanted to go somewhere else, and I should have listened. Honestly, I don't know how they make those pancakes, but they don't hold a candle to our own. I'd rather grab breakfast at a fast-food place like McDonald's. Toodle-oo, Vivian's! read more

We found a restaurant close to where we were staying! Vivian's was so unassuming but surprising. You walk into the store front and there is limited inside seating. We decided to go with outdoor seating because the weather was good and we like being outside. That was a good idea to go with the patio seating. We went there between 10:30 am - 11:00 am (after breakfast/before lunch). There was a disclaimer to watch out for falling avocados. The rains this past year brought in a good bumper crop and a possibility of getting clocked by a falling avocado. We lucked out. Service was good and efficient. I had the salmon omlette and asked for the salmon on the side. I should have committed and had it inside the omelette because it was just eggs/onions with salmon on the side. If I go back, I would try the waffle. My friend had that and I was a little envious. Parking is offstreet. Restrooms are outside (did not use it). read more

Located in Studio City and serving patrons since 1964, Vivian's is a classic diner option in the valley. It's very small on the inside with only a few large tables. They also have more seating in the back, but we were able to find a seat for two in the front for a 10:30 Sunday brunch. They don't have a dedicated parking lot so it will be metered street parking, which is not that hard to find in the valley. Our server was polite and all of our items came out quickly. I am giving 4/5 stars because the food quality isn't as good as some other places close by like More Than Waffles, Bob's, or Paty's and the inside could use a cleaning. The floor was very dirty under our table and the table next to us even complained about it. I started off with a Coffee, which is my go to order at any diner. For my meal I chose the Eggs Benedict with a Biscuit on the side. The Eggs Benedict had a nice flavor but the eggs were undercooked and runny. They did not have the true poached consistency with the yolk covering the dish, it was too watery and splashed out as soon as I cut into it. Also the biscuit was as flat as an English muffin and really lacked the biscuit or buttermilk flavor. We also ordered the 2x2x2 and the pancakes were actually very good, but it's also very hard to mess up pancakes. It was not a bad meal by any means, but certainly not as good of one as others I have had close by on the same street. Overall I would say it could be an option if you're already in the valley and the more popular spots have too long of wait times. read more

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Nice place. They could do with patio heaters. We went for bfast on my bday with our dog. So we had to sit outside. Nice patio. Wait staff were solid. Food was good. My wife thought her small oatmeal was huge. And my latte seemed like a capucinno. I like the place. read more

The staff is very friendly. We were greeted from the start and felt very welcomed. The outdoor dining area feels very warm and inviting. It feels like an family members backyard. The pancakes were next level delicious. Highly recommend the pancakes. This is a great place for a date or to come with friends. read more

Vivian's Cafe - White macadamia gluten free pancakes - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Studio City, California

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Such a perfect breakfast spot! The food came out fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The portions were generous without feeling heavy, and everything tasted homemade in the best way. The staff was warm and welcoming, and the service was quick even though the place was busy. The vibe is cozy, clean, and exactly the kind of place you want to start your morning at. Definitely a new favorite--I'll be coming back for sure! read more

I was in town yesterday and decided to swing by and have breakfast at Vivian's. Not only was the food absolutely fabulous--fresh, flavorful, and perfectly prepared--but the service was just as impressive: warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. It's clear that Vivian's goes above and beyond to make every guest feel at home. Apparently, I'm not the only customer who appreciates their incredible food and hospitality! Check out this great article: https://www.culturebuzz.net/vivians-millennium-cafe-a-studio-city-gem-with-celebrity-roots-and-resilience read more

I'm here often--usually later in the day for La Spud Guys or Smash N Bite--but this time I was in the area earlier and decided to try the actual café. Glad I did. I ordered the Vivian's Scramble, which came with toast, hashbrowns, and some really well-made scrambled eggs. It was a solid brunch meal, especially for the price--simple, satisfying, and hits the spot. The waitress was super nice and welcoming, and the outdoor area had a very chill vibe. Definitely feels like a great spot to sit, relax, or even have a casual meeting. I'll for sure be back to try more from the café side next time I'm around earlier in the day. Hidden gem for sure. read more

The waitress and waiters are some of the nicest people I've met. I'm a college student who can't study at home due to having multiple energetic siblings, and the libraries are closed Sundays so I usually come here. Even though I stay a few hours and ask for lots of coffee, they never treated me badly, and were always friendly, understanding, and even cheering me on. They accommodated me even during peak Sunday lunch rushes. I will always be grateful. When I am no longer on a student budget I plan to come back many times and splurge and spoil everyone. read more

Vivian's was our first restaurant stop on our first visit to the Los Angeles area in 2022 and we loved it. The atmosphere is charming, the menu offers a good and slightly unique selection and the food is fresh and quite good. To top it all off, the cool staff ensures a warm and friendly environment. I've been there many times since our first visit (I am a local now-yay!) and I am always delighted by the experience. read more

What a gem! My coworker and I come here every so often and the food is great. The staff is always friendly and the atmosphere is adorable. There's also a little bit of parking in the back. I really enjoy their tuna melt. It's not overly saturated with mayo. The fries are excellent too! read more

Excellent ambiance, service was right on, food was tasty, coffee was perfect in a big cup not a tea cup like most places... Recommend to try read more

Well, probably time to update my 2007 review. I wasn't sure Vivian's survived the pandemic, but there it was as I was driving down Ventura this morning, so I parked and had me a yummilicious chili cheese omelet. It was excellent, service was great - there was only me and one other table. This will now be my regular breakfast place on the days when I eat breakfast, although I do remember the chicken salad sandwich I mention in my first review. Next time it'll be the Eggs Benedict, which are the best in town, and I'll re-try the breakfast burrito, too. The ONLY irritant were the two people at the other table, talking loudly about all their "deals" they had in the works for various movies - the palaver was non-stop and frankly I didn't believe a word of it and yes I may as well have been sitting at their table - that's how loud they were. Anyway, long live Vivian's and it comes highly recommended by the likes of me. read more

Wonderful! Service was fantastic, super welcoming and attentive. Food was delicious and I love the ambiance on the patio. Great spot for brunch or a family breakfast! read more

Vivian's Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Studio City, California

Unfortunately my camera died after I took picture of the storefront. Chicken fried steak delicious, gravy cooked perfectly. Eggs and home fries cooked just right. The Geoff sandwich Grilled chicken breast with avocado on sourdough bread. Generous portion and very tasty. Outdoor seating looks like a little paradise however the weather was bad so we did not enjoy that. It is my understanding this place opens as a pizzeria in the evening. Hector was very polite and helpful with menu. read more

Vivian's Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Studio City, California

Love love love the patio here Food is fast and delish They really cater to your dietary needs. I had a Turkey burger wrapped in lettuce and it was big and filled me up My husband had a burger and fries and said it was good. The burger is black angus beef so that made my husband so happy Service was great - the owners are around so that's fun as people seem to enjoy it read more

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Cane here for a business breakfast with a friend. Great service, my simple breakfast of two over easy eggs, crispy bacon and hash browns potatoes was an excellent way to start my day. read more

We had a really interesting experience yesterday. Unfortunately, the waitress/owner didn't come across as very welcoming, and the overall service felt cold and disengaged. I completely understand that working in hospitality can be tough -- I've served myself -- but part of running a business is creating an atmosphere that makes guests feel comfortable and want to return. Even if someone is simply being themselves, the interaction felt unpleasant, which made the visit less enjoyable than it could have been. read more

I got really bad food poisoning from the bagel and lox plate. I've never felt this sick before. Also off-vibes from the front of house staff. read more

Super cute diner in Studio City. We stopped in for breakfast on St Patrick's Day and was happy to see green pancakes on the menu! The place is much bigger once you walk in and has outdoor seating, something I'm not used to in CA but I love it! Great customer service, everyone was friendly and prompt service. Also, I loved that when I ordered hot tea, they gave me a little carafe of half and half, which I appreciate it. I ordered scrambled eggs with the green pancakes which were fluffy, and bacon was crispy. I definitely will return for breakfast and try it for lunch too. We found parking on the street. read more

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