Cafe Mimosa — Restaurant in Petaluma

This past Saturday, while my mother and I were retreating in Sonoma County, we decided to take a drive to Mimosas for brunch during our first time exploring the area. We chose this spot based on its stunning photos and stellar reviews online, feeling inspired for a lovely brunch experience . While the restaurant clearly has a strong reputation, our personal experience was not as warm or welcoming as we had trusted, particularly due to the service we received from Sophia.

Upon arrival, there was a wait for a table, which we saw as a positive indicator of the restaurant’s popularity. We chose this spot based on the beautiful photos and glowing reviews online feeling inspired to make it a highlight of our trip. The ambiance was lively, and we were looking forward to a delicious meal together. While there were elements we appreciated, our overall experience was less than welcoming, particularly due to the service we received from our server, Sophia, whose interaction with us felt off from the start.

From the outset, her demeanor was dismissive and unaccommodating, lacking the hospitality that creates a positive dining experience. For example, when my mother requested water without ice, Sophia’s response and body language was curt, and the way it was handled lacked the graciousness one expects in such an establishment. Simple requests like this are opportunities to make guests feel cared for and welcomed, but instead, we felt dismissed.

Later, when we inquired about adding a side salad to one of our brunch orders, Sophia initially said it wasn’t possible but then suggested adding it to one of the entrees. We followed her recommendation, but instead of adding the salad as an extra, she replaced my mother’s breakfast potatoes with the salad, which was not what we requested. When we brought the mistake to her attention, Sophia became defensive and unaccommodating, further diminishing the experience.

Additionally, throughout the meal, our plates were never cleared from the table. We found ourselves eating while maneuvering around dirty dishes, eventually having to place them at the edge of the table to indicate they needed to be removed—but they never were. This lack of attentiveness made us feel highly overlooked dismissed and unwelcome.

While the restaurant has much potential and is clearly beloved by many, our visit fell short of the welcoming, attentive experience we were anticipating for. We trust this feedback encourages reflection, as gestures of kindness, care, and attentiveness can make all the difference in creating a memorable and fulfilling dining experience.

With more warmth and genuine consideration, Mimosas’ service has the potential to provide the exceptional experience my mother and I had looked forward to and were delighted to discover, especially considering my 13 years of experience in the...

Mimosas have entered the group chat. Cafe Mimosa has three locations (in case you miss the first exit - Petaluma, Rohnert Park and Santa Rosa). We were happy to try the Petaluma location and were not disappointed at all. The place is packed, indoor and outdoor seating but it was worth it. The team is so friendly and patient, especially since we had a toddler joining us for girls day. Food came out in a timely manner and left us all super full. I'm a HUGE French toast gal and I found my order of French toast to be okay, I was full though, but I think I might prefer more butter. Mimosas were great and the nachos that we ordered for the table? Chef's kiss. Everyone around us seemed to be having a good time which is a great indicator that this place is perfect for your next brunch day. And don't forget, they also have 10+ flavors of mimosas and mimosa flights! Cannot wait to try their...

The 40+ minute wait for so so food was surprising. I figured with a line like that the food must be great but it's just, meh. The country fried steak was thin sliced pieces of beef breaded with panko. It came with 2 very small pieces and tasted mostly of the frying oil. Then the sausage gravy has no sausage. It was like thick bland skim mild. The eggs were not seasoned at all, I guess you add your own salt and pepper at the table? A small glass of orange juice was $7. You think the bulk amount of OJ they go through they would price gouge juice. It's the same price as a mimosa? Why? Over all a very lack luster place that cost $73 + $12.50 tip for 3 breakfasts 2 juices and I...