Bandoleros cafe can only be described as a hidden gem. And hidden it is, tucked in an unassuming strip mall, between an insurance agent and an RC hobby store. Don't let the vinyl sign fool you, this place is here to stay.

Walking in you can see someone took great pride in building this place. All the decor is subtle, but makes it feel warm. It is immaculately clean (restrooms are, too!) top to bottom.

To start, I was greeted and seated promptly in the tastefully appointed faux-gray-wood adorned table on the similarly gray wood floor. Someone here loves grayed wood! The booths looked comfortable, and the wood chairs (mahogany this time, not gray!) were, as well.

I received my coffee and a complimentary pink and white pan dulce. Pan dulce is not my thing, but this was quite good. I was told they were made in house, which makes it that much more special.

The coffee was standard for a cafe: a little paper pulpy and thinner, but a bit stronger than similar places. I'm pretty picky about coffee,, so this isn't surprising. It definitely was drinkable, and there was a creamer and Half&Half selection on the table, for those so inclined. They also have espresso based drinks. I would likely choose a cappucino next time.

The service was prompt and attentive. Everyone looked genuinely happy and I felt well cared for throughout. My coffee was refilled a couple times, once without me noticing. When they noticed I was using regular cream, they brought more with the cup, without asking, which was a nice touch.

I ordered the chilaquiles Verde and added braised short rib. I'm very glad I did on both counts.

The generous portion of chilaquiles Verde was covered in a rich, thick, and deep green sauce with little translucency, like something freshly blended. It popped with a ton of flavors, was well balanced and had a nice, bright acidity at front. Heat was mild.

The chilaqiles chips were tasty & texturally excellent, maintaining a softened crunch throughout the meal, which is no small feat!

The short rib was truly special - spiced wonderfully with sumptuos and complex flavor that exploded as the meat melted in your mouth. It was well worth the $6 upcharge. I just wish there had been a little more, as it was enough for maybe half the quantity of the rest of the dish.

The dish was finished with ripe avocado, crema, cotija, and micro cilantro - all great choices and of excellent quality.

On the side of the chilaquiles was the two eggs on beans. I had ordered eggs over medium and they were perfet - the fried white was cooked through and the yolk was still soft, but thickened. It was just right when broken open and combined with the Verde sauce on the chips. The refried beans were a nice surprise, with a bit of bonus chorizo and cheese placed on it, hidden under the eggs.

The restaurant seemed to get more crowded on this Sunday as it got to be 11, with many multi-generational families coming in groups of 4-8. There looked to be a bit of a wait outside by the time I left. I'm guessing this might get to be the norm, as word spreads.

The kitchen in the back was spotless and the two cooks were friendly and smiling, playfully working with one another. This is generally an excellent sign of a well managed and positive work environment, which is always good to see. When I told them they made really good food they brightened even more. Keep kicking bootie, guys!

Prices were mid-upper for a cafe, with most dishes running $14-20. It included more latin inspired breakfast and brunch items, french toast, and the basic "American diner" breakfast fare. Given my experience, I would steer toward the latin side, as this seems to be where their magic lies. They seemed to be doing some brisk take-out business, as well.

All told, the coffee and chilaquiles with short rib was about $30, tax inclusive. I'm a good eater and maybe got through 60% of the plate, of which the last 20% I ate just because it was so good! It's definitely of a shareable size - at least if your partner doesn't try to hog the avocado.

Want to try lunch! Yum