no seed oils + dairy-free, gluten-free, & vegan options

Healthy, Homemade Breakfast & Lunch in Downtown Escondido, CA

explore our menu

Breakfast, bowls, & homemade Goodness

From hearty classics to build-your-own bowls, we craft feel-good meals that taste like home, made fresh and from scratch every time. Join us for breakfast and lunch, or order online for easy pickup or delivery.

Build Your Own Toast, Chica-Kiles, Classic Eggs & Potatoes, & Goodness Cali Wrap

Choose bases, eggs, sauces, & toppings

Mediterranean, Miami, Mexican, Earthy, Tropical Poki, The Fresh Bowl, Build Your Own Lunch Wrap

Choose bases, proteins, sauces, & toppings

House-brewed hibiscus fruit tea, sparkling mineral water, organic coconut water, & coffee

House-made mango tart (slice or whole), almond tart, & rich brownies (baked fresh)

our promise to you

Made Fresh & from scratch Daily

We’re a local, family-run restaurant dedicated to real ingredients and a welcoming vibe. Our kitchen is 100% seed-oil free, our sauces are gluten- and dairy-free, and we always offer gluten-free and vegan options—because eating well should feel effortless.

why choose us

What Sets Fresh Café Apart

We keep our standards high and our atmosphere warm.

Black silhouette of a family: two adults and a child, arms raised, signifying joy.

Homemade & Fresh

We prep and cook in-house daily—no shortcuts—so the food tastes like home and feels good.

Black award badge icon.

Award‑Winning

Proud winner of Best of Escondido Eats in our first year—a big thank‑you to our community!

Outdoor cafe with a table and chairs beneath a striped awning.

Warm, Inviting Space

High ceilings, lush greenery, and cozy seating create a beautiful setting you’ll want to linger in.

Gluten-free symbol: a wheat stalk crossed out inside a circle.

Gluten & Dairy‑Free Sauces

House sauces are crafted without gluten or dairy, keeping flavor big and choices easy for sensitive eaters.

Symbol of a drop of seed oil with a line through it, inside a circle, indicating seed-oil-free.

100% Seed‑Oil‑Free

We never cook with seed oils—no canola, soy, corn, or blends—so your meals are made with cleaner fats and real ingredients.

Leaf-like vegan symbol.

Vegan & Gluten‑Free Options

From breakfast to lunch bowls, you’ll find plenty of clearly labeled gluten‑free and vegan choices.

read the reviews

Loved by Escondido Locals

Neighbors choose us for the food—and stay for the feeling. Read what guests say about the flavors, hospitality, and space.

rent our space

After-Hours Venue

Host birthdays, rehearsal dinners, showers, workshops, or mixers after hours in our hidden‑gem space with high ceilings, lush greenery, and a cozy ambiance. Enjoy an indoor–outdoor flow with warm lighting, flexible seating, and a cozy patio—ideal for intimate gatherings and milestone moments.

partnerships & collaborations

Grow Your Business with Us

Vendors, instructors, musicians, and event organizers—let’s collaborate. From acoustic gigs to pop-ups and workshops to networking mixers, our warm indoor–outdoor space can host your next event, class, or showcase. We’re flexible on formats and love co‑promoting community happenings.

frequently asked questions

Quick Answers Before You Visit

Here are quick, helpful answers to common questions, so that your visit is simple from the first hello.

  • When is breakfast served?

    7:30am–12:00pm, with lunch offerings right after.

  • Which oils do you cook with instead of seed oils?

    We avoid seed oils and use alternatives like olive and avocado oils where appropriate.

  • Can I customize my bowl or wrap?

    Yes—swap bases, proteins, toppings, and sauces; our team can help you build it your way.

  • How do you handle food allergies?

    Our sauces are gluten‑ and dairy‑free, and we prep with care, but cross‑contact is possible; please note any allergies when ordering.