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Ardella's Kitchen
Category: Restaurants Breakfast & Brunch Breakfast & Brunch [Edit]
77 S Main StWillits, CA 95490
(707) 459-6577
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Breakfast
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
36 reviews for Ardella's Kitchen
Review Highlights
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"One was over the corned beef hash concoction; the other was..." In 2 reviews -
"com/x-22137-Mendocino-Region-Travel-Examiner." In 3 reviews
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"Like fresh veggies and quality meats with your eggs." In 5 reviews
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36 reviews in English
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Review from Pat S.
San Luis Obispo, CA
1/18/2012
Thanks to reviews on Yelp, we stopped here to have breakfast at lunchtime last October while on vacation. Louisiana Hash (an egg dish) for one of us and oatmeal and pecan sticky roll for the other. There were so many interesting things on the menu, it was hard to make a choice. If we didn't live hundreds of miles away, we'd be regulars. Great food and great people.
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Review from Diane G.
Ukiah, CA
9/12/2011
Visions of Cinnamon buns with caramel sauce lures me every time! I don't always succumb and get one [ to share of course] but it's very tempting. I have to say they are one of the best bakery items I've ever eaten. But for this Inland Mendocino county area, Ardella's is pretty much the best bet for breakfast around-- especially on Sundays, when so much is closed.
Not as often as I'd like, we make the 20 some mile drive to Willits to splurge on breakfast here. Bring the Sunday paper, expect to wait in line-- but that doesn't always happen. It's OK in the pleasant weather, but in cold mountain winter weather, not so good; theres really no wait space inside. And I must say, when sitting at certain tables in the colder weather, the frequent blasts from the opening door is hard to take.
But with that said, seated, surrounded by windows & happy eaters, coffee poured, it's close to perfect. The staff is always great-- courteous, quick, remembering the regulars. Just a really welcoming atmosphere.
And the food... I've liked everything I've had here... all the breakfast items are hot, fresh & ample. I'm making plans already to get myself together & go have breakfast on Sunday -
Review from Richard H.
Manteca, CA
8/26/2011
Ardella's wasn't open on the Monday we were traveling to Eureka, but it was on the Friday that we were heading home.
We were impressed with the menu, but even more impressed with the food. This is a great place to take a break and enjoy a delicious meal. My only complaint is that it is very loud, to the point of having difficulty hearing my wife. Other than the noise level, this is a great place to eat! -
Review from Phil P.
Sacramento, CA
6/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
A very popular place with the locals as it was packed when we visited.
An excellent place to stop-in while heading to or from the Emerald Triangle.
The corned beef hash was delicious but a little heavy on the potatoes, but maybe that's just me as I see others rave about'em.
Looking forward to our next visit. -
Review from Heather T.
Fremont, CA
3/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
Delicious curry rice chicken soup!
I had the portabella panini with mozzarella cheese and pesto.
Laid back casual atmosphere where locals go to hang out.
To give you a perspective of the local scene: A Prius car parked outside on the street had those silver-boob-and-butt-women plaques, truckers usually have on their mud flaps but she was holding a book instead!!!!
BONUS: Generous iced tea
Only draw back is they don't take credit cards! -
Review from Ian H.
Santa Barbara, CA
12/15/2011
Let me just say, saying the breakfast here is outstanding would be the understatement of the century. It's hella delicious. The only reason I give it a 4 star rating instead of a full 5 star rating, is that the lunch there can't compare to the breakfast. The lunch is still good, but after eating a plate of Biscuits and Gravy from Ardellas, it is difficult to find something off their lunch menu that compares in deliciousness. If you are looking for a nice Breakfast on a Sunday morning, Ardella's is a safe bet. Be prepared to wait, it can get quite busy.
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Review from Mark P.
Fremont, CA
8/8/2010
It was if someone had tapped into my subliminal mind and figured out EXACTLY what I would like to eat if I could invent a meal.
The Louisiana hash on Saturday morning! Best meal I've had in at least 20 years. Probably not to everyone's liking but like I said it was if they'd read my mind and made me the meal that struck every right note.
First time here driving up to Humbolt County and I told my wife it's a good thing we don't live here or I'd weigh 300 pounds. The meal must have been a zillion calories and all of them fat calories but once in a lifetime is o.k. -
Review from Heather S.
Petaluma, CA
9/21/2010
On advice of a local-looking fellow at the gas station, we headed to Ardella's on the way back from an outdoor adventure. So, so glad we did. Everything you want from a diner, and then also two important bonus features: special sticky bun, house-made with the dark, caramelly syrup from whence it came, and the "large" orange juice (Odwalla), which for a shockingly modest price, comes in a glass that might be mistaken for a pitcher.
I had the eggs benedict, which was delicious with homemade hollandaise. My husband had a pancake combination (the 2x2x2) and thought it was exactly perfect. I brought my mother the sticky bun as a thank you for lending me her tent, and she reported that it was perhaps a little too large, but otherwise pleasing in every way.
The service is swift, competent, and cheerful (but not obnoxious). It's small-ish, but you should consider sitting at the bar, which is well-tended and roomy enough between patrons to be quite comfortable.
NOTE: When you arrive, write your name (or an assumed name if you're one of those sorts) and the number of people in your party on the white board to the left of the entrance. They'll call out your name...if it's nice out, wait outside. -
Review from Jennifer M.
Ukiah, CA
7/31/2011
Don't be fooled! It looks like a diner, it is NOT though. They have some really great FRESH food! Their eggs bennie is some of the best I have EVER had. You have to try their cinnamon roll too! It's huge! and very yummy!! I drive there on the weekend just for breakfast!
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Review from Corey G.
10/10/2009
Dude! Is there anyplace to get breakfast in Willits????
Country Skillet---CLOSED (on a Sunday!)
Perkos---burned down on monday (dang!)
Ardella's---Awwwwwww, yeeeeee-yah!!!
What an awesome little joint in downtown Willits! This was the only place we could find open on a Sunday. We had a big group (the Humboldt Crew---hollaaaa!!), and they were able to set us up nicely.
I ended up going with the Churizo Scrample. Oh man, it was damn good. The churizo was *MWAH* (kissing fingers). The eggs were tasty, and the potatoes were cooked just right. I stole a bite from a fellow diner's biscuits & gravy and they were alright (said diner thought they could have been better...still a little dough-y on the inside).
What stands out most for me, however, is the service. It was a Sunday morning, the place was hoppin', we had a BIG group, and our server totally hooked us up. Throughout the meal, she did her best-es-es to keep us all happy and content (and I know I was). I wish I could remember her name, so I could give her some props---well, left her a BIG tip & that'll have to do.
So, if you're looking for breakfast in Willits, Ardella's is THE place! (oh, and bring cash, cuz they don't do cards....there's an ATM a couple stores down though). -
Review from Angela T.
Willits, CA
10/28/2011
Amazing food, amazing service! Enough said :-)
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Review from Jay G.
Willits, CA
9/1/2008 1 photo
This is a popular meeting place for people in local business, government, the arts -- and anyone else who appreciates a fine breakfast. Yes, they serve lunch with some healthy salads, etc. -- but their fame comes from Lori's incomparable omelets. Like fresh veggies and quality meats with your eggs? This is where to find them. There may be a wait on weekends, but this is truly a fine breakfast.
As for conflict of interest, this is a town of 5,000 people on Highway 101 (our Main St). This place is iconic. EVERYONE knows the owners and most of the customers know each other. It's a chance to be part of a friendly atmosphere, whether you're stopping on your way somewhere else or, smarter yet, stopping over.
There are numerous restaurants along this part of Highway 101. Visitors are likely to be pleased wherever they stop to dine. This is just the premiere stop for fun and good food during the day. If you have questions about Mendocino County, ask the folks at the next table. There is a lot to see in Willits!
Yes, I used to be the Travel & Features Editor of the Willits Nickel & Dime free weekly "good news" paper. Ardella's does not advertise with us -- or anyone for that matter. They stay pretty full without it. (They already moved from a smaller place.) This is a sincere review of a place I regularly take visitors from out-of-town. Only two insisted they have to move here. One was over the corned beef hash concoction; the other was swooning over the spinach and herb cheese omelet. There are countless others.
You can read my views of other places in Willits and throughout Mendocino County at: http://www.examiner.co...
Eating should be fun AND healthy! -
Review from Kevin H.
San Francisco, CA
6/12/2008 1 photo
Ardella's Kitchen...
Started out as a tiny diner and has since upgraded to take over a large restaurant on Main Street that seems to never stay occupied for more than a year. I feel confident that Ardella's will be the exception to the rule and continue to be a breakfast fixture in Willits for many many years to come.
The women who run Ardella's are amazing--their friendly, laid-back attitudes truly set the tone and make the place a classic local diner hang-out. But don't worry if you're just passing through town--you'll feel warmly welcomed whether your face is familiar or not!
Oh and the food! You can be as nice and as friendly as you want but if your food sucks no one will bother. When it all comes down ti it, it's the food that has and will continue to make Ardella's a success. Everything I've had on the menu, from waffles to omelets have been perfection!
Mmm just writing this makes me eager for my next trip back to Willits. Hometown here I come!Listed in: I Was Born in a Small Town...
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Review from Tonya I.
Alameda, CA
12/1/2008
Stopped here for lunch on the annual trek to mom's house in Eureka from SF for Thanksgiving. This place is the perfect stop at the 1/2 way point going north or south. Right on the 101 as it goes through Willits. A cute, clean diner with fast and friendly-service. Food was delicious. I had SOTD (white bean w/ paparika and chorizo) and the grilled chicken salad (chicken was tender and all the veggies were fresh) and my man had the blt (nice thick applewood smoked bacon.)
For those with babies/toddlers -- the highchairs were clean; no changing table but the restroom closest to the dining room has a decent sized counter for an impromtu diaper change. Staff was sweet and smiley with the little one. -
Review from Ron P.
Los Angeles, CA
8/19/2011
great stop in Willits. The food was ok - the atmosphere and the people better. nice local place - jovial and welcoming.
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Review from Art A.
San Francisco, CA
1/13/2009
Great place for brunch if youre around Willits.
Staff is incredibly funny and friendly. -
Review from Lorelei S.
Santa Cruz, CA
8/26/2008
I went here based on yelpers reviews, and I'm glad I did. Everything is home made (the blackberry jam was unbelievable). The service and other customers were very friendly. My friend and split 2 breakfasts, because we couldn't decide. We had a veggie omelet, and a sausage omelet, both were delicious.
I will definitely come here again, and would recommend it to anyone.
We came back after walking around the town and shopping, and even thought they were closed, they let us get a lemonade to go (it was so hot!) and use the bathroom before we got on the road. Super nice people.
Oh Yeah! The only thing that you should be aware of is that they only take cash or checks. Lucky for me they thought I was an upright citizen, and took my check, 'cause I was out of cash!!!! Hit the ATM before going. -
Review from howard h.
San Francisco, CA
11/8/2009
Me and my lady friend had lunch here. It was great. We were trying get some breakfast but came too late. i was very impressed with the promptness of the service and the clean goodnees of the food. Even though i got a philly steak i felt like it was fresh. The bread was not soggy and the phillyness was not mushy.
The wait staff looks a little rough but is friendly and outgoing.
One weird thing was the day we went the soup of the day was chilli. I understand that soup and chilli are similar but i think of chilli more of like gravy, stew or sause than soup. Maybe chilli is its own category. I ask the waitress and she said yah people had been wondering that all day.
Overall .... get in there and get some im getting hungrey thinking about it. -
Review from Jim L.
Springdale, AR
7/20/2008 1 photo
Willits was our first stop for gas while motoring from Eureka to the Bay Area. When asked the clerk where we could get a decent breakfast and without hesitating, he said, "Ardella's".
Now that we've experienced this fine little diner, I will not hesitate to also recommend it. Ardella's is easy to find (right on the main drag), full of friendly people, WONDERFUL food and great coffee. And they don't skimp on the toast, either. My wife tried the Challah French Bread while I savored an custom-built omelet that included pepper jack and--get this---smoked apple chicken sausage. If you're shy about ordering, the girls will prompt you kindly but vigorously. Next time we come to Northern California--we're comin' to Ardella's! -
Review from David C.
Concord, CA
7/11/2011
I had Ardellas yesterday morning. I was just passing through Willits and decided on Ardellas. The people were nice, definately a lot of local regulars (always a good sign) but I noticed that there menu was pretty small. I guess it doesn't really matter since my meal was fantstic.
It was an omelet with gouda with a side of potatoes and toast. It's rare that I don't finish a meal, but this was one of the best I had in a while -
Review from Jill M.
Sacramento, CA
4/11/2011
Do not miss on your trip through Willits. Glad we finally found you and stopped! Louisiana hash ... mmmmm
Obviously popular with the locals, I'd imagine finding a seat here is tough if you don't time it just right (when church gets out, for example). -
Review from Sandi M.
Ukiah, CA
4/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
The staff was very nice. The food arrived quickly. The place was filling up quickly also. We had a very good meal for a very reasonable price. Will we eat here again.
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Review from Whitney E.
Santa Rosa, CA
3/3/2011
Have ate here for years. Awesome menu for carnivores herbivores and anything in between LOL! Great portions. My only issue after eating here for 10 years is... You often have to wait a long time to get a menu, place your order and get your check. I mean come on you see the plates are almost empty and after the huge portions who needs dessert...so GIVE ME THE CHECK. I should not have to ask for to order or to get my check as we sit at a table with empty plates. Otherwise PERFECT. CASH ONLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Review from Robin O.
Redwood Valley, CA
9/9/2009
One of the best restaurants in mendocino and sonoma county for a great breakfast. The portions are large and the food is made with fresh ingredients. Personable staff and lots of food.
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Review from Kara A.
Willits, CA
3/15/2009
This place is the best for breakfast in Willits, Great service, I love to go to small businesses where you actually deal with the owners and they are involved in their business and in touch with their customers. Awesome food cooked with love, soooo yummy!! Great fun atmosphere as well.
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Review from Lana O.
McKinleyville, CA
9/30/2011
Best place in Willits for breakfast hands down.
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Review from Jay G.
Willits, CA
3/29/2010
This is THE place for meet 'n greet in Willits AND great egg dishes (especially). For photos of patrons and most popular dishes, check out http://TinyURL.com/Ard....
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Review from Richard W.
San Francisco, CA
4/15/2009
Excellent and friendly diner. Can't claim it's the best in town, because I haven't tried any others, but it was good enough that I don't expect to try any unless I happen through when Ardella's is closed.
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Review from Bruce P.
Shingle Springs, CA
9/16/2010
Great breakfast stop on 101! I can't believe I've never stopped here before. The menu was great and everyone at my table said that their meals were fantastic. Pancakes, eggs, omelets, it all was great. Nice atmosphere inside. Kids are certainly welcome. I'll definitely be at Ardella's next time I roll through Willits.
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Review from john w.
Rohnert Park, CA
3/9/2009
This place has the best breakfast on the 101 freeway from San Diego to Eureka. For the service,quality and volume of food, hard to beat. I love coffee, the only down side is typical hotel type coffee. Not, Pete's level of quality.
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Review from Kevin M.
San Francisco, CA
11/9/2008
Great place for Sunday brunch. The servings are generous and sumptuous. Starting off with the pecan sticky bun is a sure way to raise your blood sugar level. Service is classic dinner style. Definitely going back for more.
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Review from David G.
San Jose, CA
7/26/2009
Delicious blueberry pancakes, very friendly service. It appeared to be the only place open on Sunday morning and was crowded, for good reason as we discovered.
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Review from BarbaraLee L.
Willits, CA
6/5/2010
The best place in town for breakfast. And it's right on 101 which still goes thru town. Fresh local ingredients and a friendly staff make this our first choice for after church or for entertaining out-of-town guests. Try the omelettes. Not a bad choice in the lot.
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Review from Chi chi R.
Willits, CA
12/5/2010
ALWAYS GOOD! Bourbon brownie pancakes are deeeeelish!! Southern fried chicken salad...mmmmmmm. Everything is great!! Nice owners too!
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Review from MAMMALO M.
Willits, CA
9/12/2008
hey taxi! does stop here...cell phone does work here...bathrooms(2) are wheelchair accessable...bulletin board to place business cards...good locals community meeting and eating...choices of breakfast...never had anything that i did not like here...served at the table or booth or counter...newspapers to read...
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Review from David F.
Scottsdale, AZ
10/19/2008
We had not passed through Willits in many years, and for this trip found Ardella's through http://yelp.com (where else?). Both the service and the food were excellent, we were not disappointed. On a more particular note, I have a thing for Rueben sandwiches and I have to say that Ardella's ranks among the best.
