El Jefe Cafe
Located at 106 E Escalones, San Clemente, CA, El Jefe Cafe brings the zest of Cuban cuisine to the heart of California. This family-run restaurant has become a beloved local spot, offering a cozy and friendly atmosphere that makes everyone feel like they're part of the family. With a menu packed with both Cuban classics and American twists, this is a place where flavor knows no boundaries.
Whether you're in the mood for a savory Cubano sandwich or a fresh and satisfying vegetarian tostada with mushrooms, potatoes, and onions, El Jefe Cafe offers something for every palate. The unique blend of traditional Cuban ingredients with a Californian touch sets this café apart from the rest.
An Authentic Cuban Experience with a Local Twist
What makes El Jefe Cafe stand out is its dedication to authenticity. The restaurant uses only the freshest ingredients to craft each dish, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. The Cubano sandwich, with its perfectly roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, is a favorite among regulars, while the vegetarian tostada offers a savory alternative with its blend of tender mushrooms, crisp potatoes, and sautéed onions.
However, El Jefe Cafe isn’t just about Cuban flavors. The menu also offers a variety of American options like club sandwiches and fish & chips. These dishes are a nod to the restaurant's roots, giving visitors the chance to try something unexpected and delicious.
Why El Jefe Cafe Is San Clemente’s Hidden Gem for Casual Dining
In addition to its delicious menu, El Jefe Cafe is known for its inviting atmosphere. With a sunlit dining room, cozy indoor seating, and a well-stocked bar, it's the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing meal with friends or family. Whether you're sitting down for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you'll always be welcomed by the friendly, attentive staff who go out of their way to make you feel at home.
For those who prefer outdoor dining, El Jefe Cafe offers a spacious patio where you can enjoy your meal al fresco while soaking in the Californian sunshine. The restaurant also offers takeout, making it easy to grab a meal on the go. While delivery is not currently available, the fast service ensures you won’t have to wait long for your food.
A Commitment to Customer Service and Quality
The heart of El Jefe Cafe lies in its commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction. The staff takes pride in their friendly and personalized service, treating every guest like part of the family. From the moment you step through the door, you’ll experience a warm welcome, and the team is always available to help guide you through the menu if you need recommendations.
El Jefe Cafe’s dedication to quality goes beyond just the food. The restaurant’s commitment to cleanliness and a welcoming environment ensures that every guest can enjoy their meal in comfort. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, you'll always leave feeling satisfied.
El Jefe Cafe: A Diverse Menu Catering to Every Taste
One of the highlights of El Jefe Cafe is its diverse menu, which caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you're craving comfort food, quick bites, or something light, this restaurant has it all. Their menu includes a variety of options such as:
- Breakfast favorites like huevos rancheros and breakfast burritos
- Lunch and dinner options like hearty sandwiches, salads, and Cuban specialties
- Comfort food like fish & chips and club sandwiches
- Small plates and quick bites perfect for sharing
No matter what time of day you visit, you'll find something to suit your craving. The café also offers a selection of cocktails, beer, and wine, making it the perfect spot for happy hour. Kids can enjoy their own menu with kid-friendly portions and flavors, ensuring that El Jefe Cafe is a great choice for the whole family.
Reviews
Gooooood stuff easy and fast and super nice. Waiter was helpful, food was SUPER, and I am enjoying my time in this city
In the heart of San Clemente is El Jefe, a family run and operated business. They are mostly mexican food, with some staples that carried over from the previous owners which include a club sandwich and fish & chips. It may seem odd to enter a mexican restaurant for british style fish & chips, but it is what they are known for. They have taken the popularity of this dish forward by using the same fried fish that was a staple in this fishing town for the fish tacos too. Family members greet you at the door and can also be found in the kitchen and as servers. They have a light filled sunroom, a cozy dining room, and a bar to choose from for the seating options.
The picture would not have done it justice, El Jefe has the BEST chicken tortilla soup in town (maybe everywhere I've been in SoCal). I called in an order for take out because I was sick and the staff was very polite. They've recently re-done the inside of this "hole in the wall" appearance from the outside. I cannot wait to come back and dine in when I'm feeling better. Soup came with seasoned tortilla strips, onions and cilantro and a red chili sauce that opened my sinuses, tender generous chicken thigh meet (trimmed of all fat), tomato, peppers and onions. Absolutely delicious!
Delicious, fast, good prices. We can walk here from our house so it's a love/hate because it's so good and convenient!
Outstanding and huge portions. Pastor was out of this world and the Cajun Fajitas will feed two or more. Service was excellent and friendly. My kids recommended and the under played how great this is. Will definitely return.