Cici's Cafe

Cici's Cafe, Tarzana, CA

Tiramisu Pancake

Apple Crisp French Toast

Double Chocolate w/ bananas French Toast

It was Sunday morning and I wanted to eat a light breakfast/brunch that will last me throughout the day because it was my final stay and I had eaten so much already. My sister and her boyfriend suggested to go to this highly popular breakfast joint called Cici’s. I totally agreed since I’ve been hearing them talking about it and they couldn’t wait to take me. 

As we arrived, I noticed the restaurant wasn’t flashy whatsoever. I could've missed it while driving on Ventura; I wouldn't have even taken a glimpse at this spot. It was a simple restaurant joint that was covered with a brown curtain-type sheet saying Cici’s. It was inside this plaza/shopping center that was surrounded by an old vintage CD shop and abandoned looking Chinese restaurant. I noticed people forming a line outside so this gave me in indication that this place is no joke. Minutes passed and I started to notice more and more people come with their pajamas still worn and families from every ethnic background. I thought to myself, “This has got to be a great place”. 

Cici’s kind of reminded me of Berkeley, CA, a small intimate and family-friendly restaurant with dedicated customers. The place is spacious inside with lots of seating including some bar seating but the issue was the heavy crowd of people inside. There wasn’t much space between table to table which made it tight to fit through. This doesn't stop people from wanting more of their breakfast and trying the experience. 

The menu is filled with a list of unique-made pancakes, french toasts, omelets, bacon/sausage/ham, etc. The creations of each item has it’s own blend of flavors and mix of different ingredients. The prices ranged from $9-$16 to be satisfied. The portions are huge which matches the price as well as it’s taste. I could tell Cici’s is a top of the line restaurant in the breakfast/brunch category because this is all they serve; they dedicate their time and food towards breakfast only. This is also the only location so it is an in-demand spot to go to in the mornings. 

I ordered their special tiramisu pancakes which was a stack of three. The thickness of the pancakes and the rich batter from the pancakes made me full after halfway through. There were chocolate chips melted inside each pancake that created a swirl. I enjoyed the taste of Kahlua liquor which is used as an alternative for rum or espresso The Kahlua wasn't over used either so the pancakes still maintained it’s batter taste to represent the taste of lady fingers. My favorite was the creamy mascarpone that mixed with the whipped cream. It was thick, rich, and mixed with cocoa powder. As I sliced a layer of the pancakes for a bite, I watched the mascarpone cream soak through each pancake like a sponge. I got every flavor from the ingredients used from the tiramisu pancake. This item was based at $11 which isn't bad at all because the portion is huge and packed with lots of the toppings. 

Cici’s guarantees to make you full and wanting more! This is one of those restaurants that deserve the upmost respect for what they create and deliver to their customers. They are a family-friendly restaurant that welcomes all and make sure people feel at home. This is a breakfast spot people shouldn't miss out on!

…. I’m still deciding on which French Toast flavor to get next time lol

Photo by: Allister de Vera

Cici's Cafe, Tarzana, CA