Karen's Little Café

Karen's Little Café

Tower Market Center, 2290 Nicolaus Rd #106, Lincoln, CA 95648, United States

+1 916-434-7300

Breakfast restaurant, Cafe
(330)
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About This Place

Nestled in the heart of Lincoln’s Tower Market Center, Karen's Little Café is a beloved breakfast and café spot that delivers a truly comforting and satisfying experience for morning and midday diners alike. Specializing in hearty American breakfast classics and café favorites, this cozy eatery invites you to unwind and indulge in dishes crafted with care and a touch of culinary magic.

The cuisine at Karen’s Little Café is a delightful celebration of robust flavors and generous portions, perfect for those craving a warm, satisfying start to their day. Their extensive menu reads like a breakfast lover’s dream: from fluffy, buttery pancakes to the crispy, golden hash browns that customers rave about. Don’t miss the signature Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs, a savory powerhouse of southern-inspired goodness, or the Meat Lover’s Omelette, bursting with hearty, flavorful fillings. If you’re after something packed with flavor and a little twist, the Breakfast Burrito served with cottage cheese and the Denver Omelet stand out as true favorites.

On the sweeter side, their Hot Chocolate and Belgian Waffles—particularly the indulgent “Waffle Wonder”—offer a perfect balance of rich warmth and sweet satisfaction. Sandwich enthusiasts can delight in a broad selection, ranging from the classic BLT varieties (BLT, BLTA, BLTT, BLTTA) to more substantial choices like the Club House or Crispy Chicken sandwich, all made with fresh ingredients and crafted to satisfy any appetite.

What truly elevates Karen’s Little Café, however, is its inviting atmosphere. The café exudes a warm, neighborhood charm that makes every visit feel like coming home. Friendly, attentive service complements the food perfectly, as many reviewers have noted how the staff treats you with genuine kindness and care—making guests feel like part of a welcoming family gathering. Regulars praise the consistency and generosity of portions, and the owner’s friendly nature adds a personalized touch rarely found in casual dining.

Customer testimonials paint a vivid picture of the café’s magnetism. J Frank’s poetic praise of the biscuits and gravy captures the essence of Karen’s culinary skill—a perfect blend of fluffy, buttery biscuits and creamy, peppery gravy that comforts the soul. Beckyjack1976 highlights the perfectly crispy hash browns and delicious corned beef eggs Benedict, emphasizing the outstanding quality and attention to detail. Others, like Leslie Cannon, cherish the homestyle atmosphere and heartfelt service that make every visit memorable and leave you eagerly anticipating your next meal.

Whether you’re seeking a hearty breakfast to fuel your day, a cozy spot for a leisurely brunch, or a reliable lunch to grab on the go, Karen’s Little Café offers a delightful mix of flavors, warmth, and care. It stands as a true gem in Lincoln, inviting you to savor classic comfort foods crafted with love and served with a smile.

If you find yourself in Lincoln, CA, don’t miss the chance to experience Karen’s Little Café—where the food feels like a warm hug and every meal is a celebration of comforting, flavorful breakfast traditions.

Contact: +1 916-434-7300
Location: Tower Market Center, 2290 Nicolaus Rd #106, Lincoln, CA 95648, United States

Service options
Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee Great tea selection Serves local specialty
Popular for
Breakfast Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee Comfort food Healthy options Quick bite Small plates
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Quiet
Crowd
Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    07:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Tuesday
    07:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Wednesday
    07:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Thursday
    07:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Friday
    07:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Saturday
    07:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Sunday
    07:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • J Frank
    4 week ago

    I wandered into Karen’s Little Cafe expecting a modest breakfast and left convinced Karen might be some kind of culinary sorceress. Let’s talk about the 1/2 order of biscuits and gravy—and by “1/2 order,” I assume Karen means “half the size of a carb-based asteroid.” Fluffy, buttery biscuits were smothered in creamy, peppery gravy that whispered sweet Southern nothings to my soul. I’m still dreaming about it. My cardiologist probably is too. Then came the corned beef hash with 4 eggs—yes, FOUR eggs, because I live dangerously. The hash was crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and clearly made with real love, or possibly black magic. The eggs were cooked exactly how I ordered them, which almost never happens. Either Karen has telepathic abilities, or she actually listens to orders. Revolutionary! The staff was friendly, the coffee was strong enough to raise the dead, and the whole place has that cozy, lived-in charm that says, “Yes, we will feed you until you question your life choices in the best way possible.” If you haven’t been to Karen’s Little Cafe, fix your life and go. But wear stretchy pants—you’ve been warned.

  • Kathy Ure
    1 month ago

    Well let’s just say this places gives MUCH. Lunch ready for the road. Fast friendly service. Lots of locals so you know it’s consistently excellent. Owner super friendly. Thanks love Canadians

  • Leslie Cannon
    1 month ago

    Karyn’s Little Café is such a gem! I ordered the Casper chili cheese dog and my husband had the French toast — both were absolutely amazing. You can taste the love in every bite. The service was truly perfect, the kind that makes you feel like you’re sitting at the family table… only better. We left already talking about what we want to try next. Highly recommend this cozy spot!

  • Andrea Prenares
    2 month ago

    Karen's Little Cafe is a nice little neighborhood cafe. The staff were especially nice and we were well attended. The food was very good. My only issue, although small, was that the bill we receive was not an itemized bill. I like to look over the bill especially when there is often an unspecified service charge or tip already added. We will definitely go again and I'll ask for an itemized bill.

  • beckyjack1976
    2 month ago

    First time we tried Karen’s Little Cafe for breakfast, and we loved it! Our hash browns came out exactly as ordered (crispy), and the corned beef eggs Benedict was delicious. Service was great too!

  • Dale Colclasure
    3 month ago

    I was out in Lincoln recently visiting my brother. After a quick Google search, I suggested we visit this restaurant. Tyler Brooks, our server, was attentive, informative, courteous and delivered our food exactly as ordered. They have a great selection of breakfast choices, and I would highly recommend this restaurant for a very satisfying meal and experience! We ate out on the patio. Tyler did an especially great job of setting up a table for us, making sure it was spotless and had our hot coffee delivered immediately. Throughout the meal, he checked in with us to make sure everything was to our satisfaction and made sure we had everything we needed. My brother and I got to relax, catch up and take our time enjoying our great breakfast selections. Keep up the good work. I look forward to visiting during my next trip out from Colorado!

  • Peppertaz
    4 month ago

    We were greeted with a super friendly staff and great service. I didn't even know this part of Lincoln and found this little gem and decided to get some lunch with my mom. She got a nice BLTA sandwich with order of fries and macaroni salad and she finished almost all of it. I opted for a cheeseburger and fries and was full with just the fries. The refills on drinks were on point and they were there for anything you needed and very attentive. Such a nice local place. Cash only right now so be prepared.

  • Thomas Saint
    4 month ago

    Such a wonderful experience! The staff super friendly. Great portions, delicious coffee too! Can't wait to come back!

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