Brandon’s Diner on Magnolia in Riverside is easily one of the best local spots I’ve visited, and it deserves every bit of this 5-star review. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at home. It’s the kind of place that balances a classic diner vibe with a comfortable, modern feel — perfect for a casual breakfast, lunch, or dinner with family and friends.
Let’s start with the food selection because, honestly, that’s where Brandon’s Diner truly shines. Their menu is extensive, offering something for everyone, whether you’re craving breakfast all day, a hearty burger, Mexican dishes, or even something a little lighter like a fresh salad or sandwich. I love that they don’t cut corners with their ingredients — everything tastes fresh, flavorful, and well-prepared.
I’ve tried a variety of dishes here, and each one has left me more impressed than the last. The breakfast burrito is a must-try — generously stuffed with eggs, cheese, potatoes, and your choice of meat, all wrapped in a perfectly grilled tortilla. It’s huge and incredibly satisfying. The pancakes are another standout, fluffy and golden brown, served with just the right amount of butter and syrup. For lunch or dinner, their burgers are top-notch — juicy patties cooked to perfection, served with crispy fries that are always hot and fresh. And if you’re in the mood for Mexican cuisine, their carne asada plate is flavorful, tender, and seasoned just right, served with rice, beans, and fresh tortillas.
What really sets Brandon’s Diner apart, though, is the service. Every time I’ve visited, the staff has been friendly, attentive, and efficient. Even during busy times, the servers manage to keep things running smoothly without making you feel rushed. They’re quick to refill drinks, check in on your table, and make sure you have everything you need. It’s clear that the staff takes pride in providing a great experience for their customers, and that level of service is something I truly appreciate.
The atmosphere at Brandon’s Diner is another reason I keep coming back. It’s clean, comfortable, and inviting, with a classic diner aesthetic that’s both nostalgic and refreshing. The seating is comfortable, the lighting is just right, and there’s a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to relax and enjoy your meal. It’s the perfect place for a family breakfast, a casual lunch with friends, or even a solo meal when you just want some good food and a pleasant environment.
One of the things I love most about Brandon’s Diner is how consistent they are. Every visit has been a positive experience, with delicious food, great service, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s clear that the team here puts a lot of effort into maintaining high standards, and it definitely shows.
If you’re in Riverside and looking for a great spot to grab a meal, I highly recommend Brandon’s Diner on Magnolia. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll find something delicious on the menu, served by a friendly staff in a comfortable setting. This place has become a go-to for me and my family, and I’m sure it will for you too. Five stars all...
Read moreDon't get me wrong. I love Brandon's food and would have loved to handle this with management. I was told the manager name was Toni, was not there, did not know the last name or when the manager would be in. I placed an order to go. When picking up my food a young lady with pajama pants and 2 masks walked in behind me and went behind the counter. When she started to help me I quietly said, I don't want to offend you, but you just walked in, would you please wash your hands. She did get offended and said she would only be ringing my order. I said ok but if you will hand me my bag or prepare my drink, I would like you to wash your hands. After taking my payment she went to wash her hands but she asked a male employee to finish assisting me, he was very nice. Had she just washed her hands at my request orl et me speak to a manger when i called I would not be on yelp. After returning home, I called Brandon's and asked for a manager. Someone said he was on another call. Then some came on and ask if they could know the reason and I said no. Someone else got on the phone and said the manager wasn't there and only the lead. I said let me speak to the lead. The young lady said she was the lead. At that point only the manager could assist me. I want to know that regardless of the role, when entering a restaurant to work are employees required to wash thier hands? It was not busy in the restaurant and several other employees available to assist, but I was not in a rush either. A bad start to the New Year 2025 because Brandon'son Magnolia was my favorite place to eat breakfast. All I wanted to do was speak to a manager to have him or her educate thier employees. I begain to get heated from the run around, raised my voice so I said I would end the call and try to reach the manger another way. I could have been from the health department or decide to just report it to the...
Read moreI was bummed that the waffle and chicken combo went up in price 30% and the amount of chicken reduced by 25%. If you look at their online menu the waffle and chicken shows and states you get the waffle with either 1/2 chicken or 4 strips when in reality you now only get 3 strips. I can understand the price increase but why a price increase and a chicken reduction by 25%? I paid cheese cake factory prices for one waffle 4.5oz of chicken and two eggs. I had to request replacement chicken because the chicken on my plate was over cooked and tough. Last I noticed the strips on the online menu were not the same as what I was served and was told the strips on the online picture were served at the Fontana location and not Riverside. The breakfast my wife ordered was fantastic which was cinnamon roll French toast. Wait staff was excellent but again I do understand raising prices but reducing the amount of chicken from 4 strips to three at the same time made me feel like I was being gouged. Fix your online menu pictures to match what you are actually serving and switch to the type of chicken strips that you serve in Fontana, the strips served in Riverside Magnolia location do not fry very well and are too chewy for me to eat. I’ll definitely go back here to eat again just won’t touch the waffle chicken plate. I should have a sent my plate back and tried something different. Service and atmosphere...
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