• Nestled in the heart of Mendocino Village, Café Beaujolais—alongside its sister establishments, The Brickery and The Waiting Room—stands as a cornerstone of Mendocino's vibrant culinary landscape. Whether you're stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these dining destinations promise a refined yet approachable experience that resonates with locals and visitors alike.

    At the helm is the talented Chef Julian Lopez, whose worldly influences shine through in every dish. Drawing inspiration from his travels across Europe and Southeast Asia—including a deep dive into Italian traditions and the bold, vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine—Chef Lopez crafts a menu that’s both innovative and timeless. Housed in a 1893 Victorian farmhouse, Café Beaujolais offers a warm, intimate setting that perfectly complements its menu, which evolves with the seasons.

    Chef Julian's philosophy centers on sourcing the very best—think humanely raised, organic meats and wild line-caught seafood straight from Mendocino’s waters. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared with a simplicity that allows the purity of the ingredients to shine, marrying tradition with a modern flair.

    Café Beaujolais also boasts a wine list to delight any oenophile, featuring over 300 carefully curated selections. The list highlights Mendocino’s finest wineries alongside celebrated bottles from around the globe, ensuring every sip enhances the culinary journey.

Café Beaujolais

  • One evening in December, the Cellar Mouse Team dined at Café Beaujolais and the evening began with a show-stopping Brioche with Dungeness Crab, a dish that celebrated the season’s first catch. In addition, a Pear Mixed Green Salad that included a delightful interplay of textures and flavors—Point Reyes blue cheese, candied pecans, crisp Nye Ranch greens, juicy pears, and a delicate champagne vinaigrette combined.

    To follow, entrées were nothing short of extraordinary. The New York Strip, perfectly seared and bursting with savory richness, was elevated to new heights when paired with the velvety Goldeneye Pinot Noir from Anderson Valley, its lush cherry and spice notes echoing the dish’s bold character.

    Equally enchanting was the Ossobucco, slow-braised to tender perfection and nestled atop a golden saffron risotto. This comforting dish found its soulmate in a glass of Navarro Vineyards Pinot Noir from Anderson Valley, whose earthy, nuanced profile complemented the Ossobucco’s richness.

    Wild chanterelle mushrooms—fragrant and earthy—added an enchanting depth to the meal, leaving us thoroughly captivated by the artistry of the evening and satisfied.

The Brickery

  • The Brickery, located just steps away, is a haven for wood-fired pizza enthusiasts. With its rustic outdoor setting, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy artisanal pizzas, fresh-baked breads, and hearty dishes prepared in the wood-fired oven. The smell of smoldering oak and the sight of blistered crusts evoke a sense of warmth and conviviality. Chef Lopez’s approach to The Brickery is both creative and rooted in tradition, offering flavors that are as comforting as they are innovative. Don’t miss the signature Margherita pizza, where simplicity meets perfection, or the rotating seasonal specials.

The Waiting Room

  • Completing the trifecta is The Waiting Room, a charming haven tucked behind the last door on Ukiah Street. With its warm ambiance and versatile appeal, it’s Mendocino’s coziest escape, no matter the hour. Mornings start with the enticing aroma of artisan coffee paired with house-made baked goods, crafted with care. As the day progresses, the space transforms, offering a carefully curated selection of microbrews and bites inspired by the dining room menu.

    The Waiting Room is more than a lounge—it’s a pause button on the day. Pull up a stool at the bar and nibble on small plates, sip a craft beer on the sunlit deck, or linger by the fire with a glass of vintage Port, as vinyl records crackle in the background. It’s the perfect blend of casual comfort and thoughtful indulgence.

    Together, Café Beaujolais, The Brickery, and The Waiting Room form a culinary trifecta that embodies Chef Julian Lopez’s vision. Each destination tells a story of Mendocino’s unique terroir and vibrant community. More than just meals, these are immersive experiences—celebrations of hospitality, connection, and the unparalleled flavors of the Mendocino coast.

    We look forward to visiting again in the Spring, when we will stay at Café Beaujolais' sister hotel, Nicholson House.