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Buffalo Bruce's Mercantile
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Food Internet Cafes Restaurants Barbeque Coffee & Tea, Internet Cafes, Barbeque [Edit]
13661 Hubbard StSylmar, CA 91342
Neighborhood: Sylmar
(818) 362-8677
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- 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:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Ambience:
- Hipster, Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
40 reviews for Buffalo Bruce's Mercantile
Review Highlights
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"The owner, Vivian is very sweet." In 5 reviews -
"The best hot chocolate/Mocha's ever." In 4 reviews
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"Otherwise everyone needs to check this place out." In 3 reviews
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40 reviews in English
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Review from Chloé M.
LAKE VIEW TER, CA
4/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
This is not a restaurant...This is feasting out at your "cool" aunt's house...The one who dances all around, feeds you til you're stuffed, tells you awesome stories and you never want to leave. Yep that's it!!!!
Viv is her name and she is awesome... My family and I live less than 10 from this place, passed it all the time (we live in the area 16+ years) saying that we'll stop in and we finally did... THANK GOD !!!! I just want to hang out here now because the energy of the place is amazing, all you feel is warmth, peace and love. The food is the bombdotcom, once you finish eating you'll be ready to take a nap.
Viv is a beautiful person inside and out and her restaurant accentuates her personality to the T. We walked in right before she was going to close and she welcomed us with open arms (literally). We ordered her BBQ baby back ribs, chicken breast and a chicken sandwich, HOLY FREAKING PIG AND CHICKEN!!! It was absolutely delicious, her BBQ sauce is homemade and OH SO GOOD it's perfect actually... the perfect amount of sweet, spicy and tangy. She made us a fresh batch of potato salad and baked beans. The lemonade I ordered was huge.
She put on some music for us and laid down the house rule which is "Eat like you're at home, if that means you eat with your hands and use your arm as napkin then by all means do so because you are home" then handed us a full roll of paper towel. She told us, how long she's been there, how she has a concert in May and just started playing the bass then played us a song :] She had visitors stop in just like if you were at your aunt's house and neighbors rolled in and out.
She serves breakfast which I'll have to try but I did order a hot chocolate and it was DELICIOUS!!! Made with love she said and boy can you taste it.
On Saturday's at 10AM she has Chi Gong that you can participate in, in her backyard area of the restaurant which I also need to do.
Whenever you're driving up/down Hubbard and you roll by Buffalo Bruce... STOP IN, DO NOT pass this amazing little place by!Listed in: Why I love LA, Eat.. Eat... Eat
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Review from Jaymi W.
3/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
I can't believe that I have lived within one mile of this place for 2 years and have never stopped by. I am always complaining that San Fernando has nothing but Mexican restaurants...and here was this awesome place the whole time!
It's small, quirky, super home-y and the owner is a peach. They were very enthusiastic about the food and I was very excited to try their baby back ribs. I was NOT disappointed. Wow... the meat was totally falling off the bone. The sauce was smokey and delicious. The portion of the full rack and two sides was enough to feed three of us!!! We got the potato salad and baked beans which were both delicious.
The people at the other table got the bbq chicken sandwiches which looked AMAZING. I am going back this weekend to try those!
She even brewed me a chamomile decaf iced tea...which was so great since I am missing iced tea now that I am breastfeeding and can't have caffeine!!
The back patio has two tables with umbrellas. They have room enough for one more, which I hope they add for a little more seating. It's a casual, rustic, artsy, somewhat southwestern feeling on the back patio... there are some sweet cats that are super friendly, too. There is limited seating inside the restaurant...but it's a quaint little spot.
They have free wifi and there were a few friendly people just hanging out...
The service was very friendly and almost made you feel like you were in Vivian's home...Bruce was outside on the BBQ and told us that if we ever want to come for dinner, call first and they will stay open for us. How about that??? I am SO stoked to have finally discovered a place in my 'hood! We will be back soon! -
Review from Sara L.
Pacoima, CA
OMG OMG OMG OMG - these are the exact words I use when describing this place. What a hidden treat in my hood! Very friendly family owned BBQ/ cafe and the service and attention both are amazing.
We ordered a full rack of ribs (reasonably priced BTW for such a huge portion), and a BBQ Chicken sandwich. I was stunned by the amount you get for the price (HUGE) and the food its SO amaze-balls good. The bbq is not some over sauced mess - but instead a smoky pile of awesomeness. The sides are equally good - the slaw you can tell is fresh and the potato salad is definitely home made with huge chunks of pickle and celery.
The frozen coffee was huge and not too sweet with a lot of punch - hubby had a mocha..again for the price it was pretty amazing.
It's casual with a patio out back, and tables out front as well.
A great place for lunch/brunch/breakfast. I'm sad they aren't open later but I'll just have to plan dinner earlier if I want take out :) -
Review from Jenna J.
Granada Hills, CA
5/19/2012
Small place but amazing bbq!!!! You must try the "Oh my god Maria" best coffee chai drink ever
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Review from Maria O.
Updated - 3/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
Ok - confirmed, their BBQ iss fan-freaking-tastic. Plentiful portions and affordable, share with a friend. Smoky sauce , not too sweet, great slaw and tater salad on the side.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/13/2012
Love this quirky place. - It actually reminds me of local San Antonio spots from my short stint in… Read more »
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Review from Courtney H.
Los Angeles, CA
3/27/2012
These ladies did a catering event for an art show... I was lucky enough to same the chorizo and potato tacos. They blew my effin mind! Creamy, mouthwatering, and with a perfect, handcrafted balance of flavors. Their barbeque sauce is one of the best I've ever had... not too sweet, with a unique taste and the right amount of everything. I can't wait to check out their restaurant the next time I'm around their neck of the woods. I'll update when I do!
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Review from Miguel C.
Sylmar, CA
4/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
I came here for the first time wanting to try barbecue. I was not disappointed, it was really good and the potato salad was good as well. I will be a regular from now on.
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Review from k g.
Glendale, CA
Super random store/coffee house/bbq joint.
Located directly across from Jack in the Box on the same side of Foothill. had passed by it a bunch of times and a friend wanted to try it out. we just went for the bbq chicken sandwich which came with some coleslaw and potatoes. the barbecue sauce was pretty excellent, and the bread is interesting. it's not typical. it's sort of like an old smashed hamburger bun but denser, almost reminding me of the thick tortilla-things they use for certain sopes. for $8 it was a fantastic deal and surprisingly filling.
the ambiance is pretty random. there are a couple tiny tables with chairs inside and a couple outside in the garden/outdoor space that my friend said reminded her of the "oasis" that her hippy fourth grade teacher had outside their bungalow where the students could take turns doing their reading. but it's cute, super quaint, with the big barbecue nearly on the sidewalk. it feels like a real homey place, a neighborhood favorite, and the people who work there are super down to earth. i don't know why but i felt like i was in a different city, or state even. maybe tucson, arizona. there's a subtle southwestern flavor to the decor. or maybe it's just me. check it out, i say. -
Review from Jim J.
Sunland, CA
4/28/2012
We finally stopped by this funny looking place, and decided to try a few different beverages, and a BBQ chicken sandwich plate in order to see if we wanted to buy anything else. We ended up taking home a full rack of ribs, a tri tip plate, and some extra sides. Really good food, a warm friendly lady taking care of us, and Carl the cat keeping us company at an outside table. You need to have a little sense of humor and an open mind to eat here, but it is well worth it. Parking not good, everything else great. I will be calling in to pick up on my way home. Lots of interesting photos of the owner/cook with Bill Clinton, Arnie, Al Gore, and lots of neat carvings and other art work.
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Review from Brandy V.
Glendale, CA
2/1/2012
Love this place. I met a friend here because it had good reviews on yelp. We ordered iced coffees and they were HUGE. The staff were super friendly. I got an order of ribs to go and they were terrific.
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Review from Diana J.
San Fernando, CA
6/21/2011
I absolutely love this place!
Great cooks...great people...HISTORY people...HISTORY!
The are not kidding when they say "Kisk ass!" BBQ....they have the best smoked chicken! And their ribs fall of the bone good! You can even buy a whole rack.
A must sight to see...and enjoy!
FYI.... try their "Taco Omelet" -
Review from Bob R.
Sylmar, CA
5/6/2011
If you have a hankering for BBQ, you gotta go to this place. Don't let the exterior fool you, its kinda funky, looks like something you'd find down south somewhere. The owners, Buffalo Bruce and his wife Vivian with the help of waitress Trudy, dish up incredible BBQ. Three of us there tonight for the first time, one friend tried the BBQ chicken breast, I had the dark meat chicken and the 3rd friend had the baby back ribs. OMG, it was out of this world. Tender, juicy with just the right amount of seasoning and incredible "Kick-ass sauce" the side included some of the best potato salad and cole slaw. They also serve up incredible, roasted on site coffee and can whip up any kind of coffee beverage you want.
5 Stars all the way!!!!! -
Review from Mae D.
Los Angeles, CA
5/19/2011
Sweet Owner. Friendly Staff. Amazing BBQ. Good Service.
Note: You will smell marijuana here as they do have a dispensary on the side. -
Review from Steve R.
Chicago, IL
2/4/2011
If you have not come in and had an exchange with Vivian, than you are missing out on a national treasure!
The environment is real inviting and comfortable, and artistically inspiring.
I had some yummy Hot chocolate, but I was informed of there baby back ribs, Chicken and Beef, and chorizo plate... Sandwiches, (paninis) Burritos.. there's something for everyone.
Proceeds of Buffalo's Mercantile go to support Sophia's Angels foundations. A wonderful charity.
-Like getting a meal, from you Nana
--Vivian
Come by and check this place out
Enjoy!!! -
Review from Gina G.
12/1/2008 2 photos
My friend brought me here ages and ages ago, but I never forgot. This was sooo my style. Funky, eclectic and very "homey" with the best goddamn hot chocolate in town!
I can't wait to come back.Listed in: Places to go
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Review from Berna P.
LAKE VIEW TER, CA
9/29/2011
Best BBQ spot at very reasonable prices. The employees were absolutely down to earth people. Very welcoming and friendly environment and their food is totally worth trying. I have yet to try their coffee and other menu items, but I am totally looking forward to it.
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Review from Elizabeth Rodriguez N.
North Hollywood, CA
12/17/2010 3 Check-ins Here
Excellent coffe!!! Mocha Joe and the Oh My God Maria drinks are yummmo!!! Quaint place with quarky flare, a vintage touch and a lot of free artistic expression. You WANT to be friends with the owners cause they're just great souls... Great live bands nights and other fun things always! Can't say enough about this place and to top it all off, kick a** BBQ too!!!!!
Best coffee in L.A., better than delicious home-style food. Even the most hectically busy person can work and/or unwind here! Family-owned and operated by some awesome people! Lovin' life with life lovin' people at Buffalo Bruces Merchantile & Lounge! Live music jams and movie nights and more! Even koolaid!!! -
Review from Joe S.
San Fernando, CA
2/12/2011
This is one of the most interesting places you can visit in the san fernando valley. There is a wide variety of drinks and foods as well as entertainment as well as other services.
Your experience there is always unique due to the background and history and energy created by the Owner, Vivian Hartman and her friends and family.
I don't want to suggest anything specific, it's all good! Just get down and and meet them and start trying everything -
Review from Francisca H.
Colma, CA
9/29/2011
This is my new favorite BBQ spot. I have no complaints whatsoever! The employees were very courteous and friendly. Everything about this place felt down to earth and I love that. The atmosphere was very home-like a relaxing and their menu prices were very reasonable. The ribs taste amazing. A must try for anyone who enjoys a great BBQ dish. I cannot wait to try their other BBQ menu items. They also serve coffee and smoothies, which I am very eager to try during my next visit.
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Review from Adolfo H.
9/3/2008
It is a small but welcoming space. It friendly and inviting. Just from the colorful paint on the outside one can feel there is something different going on inside. The staff is always friendly and the a place that deserves more word of mouth.
Parking is the only factor as it has mostly street parking.Listed in: Open Mics
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Review from Alex C.
Loma Linda, CA
4/23/2010
Awesome place, especially for those who want to work with wifi outdoors and charge your laptop at the same time. That in itself is a luxury. Even better for people who have a dog with them. The coffee is good here. I won't say it's outstanding, since I'm not a coffee purist and just about anything that isn't instant coffee is good enough for me. I highly recommend if you find yourself in Sylmar and need something to do or somewhere to go.
Best points are the warm ambiance and dog friendly outdoor patio (large in size) that's equipped with a couple electrical plugs for those with laptops that need charging. Coffee is on the above average side and not watered down. Wifi coverage is also good throughout the patio. The music the day i came is a broad variety of jazz, everything from classic Etta James to overtly audacious Michael Brecker. I appreciate jazz. I came at 9:30AM on a Friday and stayed past noon. It was fairly peaceful and I was able to get some good work done while the dogs explored the garden patio. The owner hosts movie nights on her patio from time to time and tries to keep things fresh and fun.
Negatives are few and not too bad. I wish there were more electrical plugs on the outdoor patio. I was the only one out on the patio, so I had priority seating to sit right next to the outlet. There's a woodshop behind the patio and you can sometimes here the buzzsaw going which spoils the serene atmosphere. The smell of varnish is, presumably from the next door woodshop, quite noticeable, but I can live with it.. I can see how parking can be difficult, but it seems to me that you'll find a spot reasonably nearby.
If I lived in this area, this would be on my list of usual haunts and I'll definitely be back when I'm in the area.Listed in: LA - Dog Friendly Places to…
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Review from Cassie B.
Valencia, CA
8/28/2009
Just went here for lunch and I'm a happy camper!! Had some ribs with potato salad, coleslaw, and a big ol' cup of iced tea!! All for about $10!!
Had some hookah to go with lunch as well for an extra $10.
The ribs were tender and the sauce... I don't know where to start. It was delicious. The bbq Tuesdays and Thursdays, so today was a "leftover" day but it was still scrumptious! I can't wait to see what its like fresh!
If you are on your lunch break, its wise to call in your order 10-15 prior. Its all homemade so its slow service, but totally worth it! -
Review from Vicente A.
San Fernando Valley, CA
2/28/2011 2 photos
Tucked away among the mundane streetscape and below the dramatic mountains, there is an eclectic space that will simultaneously inspire you, feed you, and caffeinate you. The space is pleasant and inviting. The people are friendly. Weekly BBQ deals. Alternatively: Saturdays are Raw Possibility- healthy raw and vegan food and drinks, an alternative to the Jack In The Box sitting smugly across the street. Be here and escape the world outside for awhile.
Listed in: 818 Valle
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Review from Gabriel H.
Van Nuys, CA
12/2/2009
The coffee is good. The service is just too good. One day when I came to get a coffee, I was included in a spiritual healing the owner was doing for a customer because she had just lost a patient.
At one point they were selling BBQ for lunch. I recommend consistency with the quality of food. 50% of the time the BBQ was amazing but not always consistent.
I also recommend they open a bit earlier so I can stop by for coffee before I start work. 7 AM would be good.
Otherwise everyone needs to check this place out. -
Review from dieu p.
Sylmar, CA
8/10/2011
This is my favorite place to get coffee in Sylmar and has great energy thanks to the owners, Vivian and Bruce. Much love to this shop - they make me feel right at home. Super fun place to hang out at in the shop or outside in the back. I highly recommend this to anyone to stop by for a coffee or just say hello to feel the good vibes.
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Review from Edgar M.
San Fernando, CA
Updated - 4/21/2010 6 Check-ins Here
Forget the Caramel Joes! (Wait, no, they're still excellent.) I'm officially in love with this place after have a pulled beef sandwich. O-M-G. That is all folks.
Actually, no, wait (again), that's not all. The best part is that they sell those sandwiches EVERY DAY, unlike their BBQ Chicken & Baby Backs, which are only available Tuesdays and Thursdays. I still haven't gotten the chance to try them, but at least they have this sandwich. It comes with some mashed potatoes--dry, but still quite edible. It was the end of the day, so maybe I missed out on some better ones.
It's 8 bucks for the BBQ sandwich and potatoes--seriously worth it. Grab a frappe if you're here as well. I'm so glad my city finally has a lovely gem. Too bad it's still difficult to find parking around here...!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/1/2010
I FINALLY decide to stop in after SO many years of always driving by this place.
It definitely feels… Read more »
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Review from Eder V.
San Fernando, CA
12/13/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Who said there was nothing fun to do in the northern SFV? Visit Buffalo Bruce's Mercantile! The place is extremely chill. The hostess/cook/waitress/owner of the place is very friendly. They have live bands playing and other forms of live entertainment on select nights. The atmosphere makes it feel like you are at a private residence rather than a coffee shop. They will treat you like family. The BBQ is the best ever and will go good on anything. Vivian will tickle your taste buds with awesome tasting quesadillas and sandwiches. The coffee drinks are all delicious and wait, they serve Kool Aid! Before I discovered this spot, I thought Kool Aid was a thing from my past. They have seasonal sales (eg pumpkins in oct, xmas trees in dec). Support the local business. You will not be dissapointed. It will be a psychadelic experience!
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Review from Anna G.
Los Angeles, CA
8/5/2011
My friend said he knew a great place for coffee. He shocked me when he said, "by the way, they have awesome BBQ". I have passed this little colorful tiny shack so many times hanging out in Sylmar, near LA Mission College. It is very close to the 210. There's a lot of art in the backyard, where it is very comfortable to relax and eat. The BBQ chicken has a strong smokey flavor and comes with a fresh well dressed side of Cole slaw and a side of potato salad. All I can speak for is the BBQ chicken. But according to my friend, they serve BBQ ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, and coffee. He says they also throw movie night in the back outdoor seating area, they sell pumpkins and Xmas trees during the holidays, and they are a licensed medical marijuana supplier. The women working there are very warm and they take care of you, asking about your meal and they are very inviting. It is cash only, and they have an ATM machine inside. Bottom line: go there for hanging out, bring cash, get sweet service, and have great food.
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Review from Sal d.
6/23/2010
Came here in the middle of the afternoon, and this place is so chill. I actually didn't mind waiting a minute cause it was just a relaxing afternoon. We asked the owner if she could make us some frapachinos and, she did. We got very large vanilla and caramel fraps, they were both delicious. Total cost was about 8 bucks which is competitive with Starbucks, but twice the size and taste. They also have food here, and it's a cool place to chill at. Plus they have hook a, $15.
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Review from Justin S.
CANYON CNTRY, CA
4/28/2011
I knew when I first saw this little gem back in August of last year that it would be cool, but I has no idea that i would want to go back as often as I could.The Owner Vivian makes you feel like you're hanging with her in her living room. While you're looking around at this unique and bohemian decor, you can relax and chat while you have a coffee drink or a burrito, or the worlds best hot chocolate. I've worked in some pretty cool coffee places but this by far is the best. You can also learn more about how to donate on different levels in the area of curing different diseases.So you should check out the valleys best kept secret.
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Review from C P.
Los Angeles, CA
11/9/2011
It was like my mom and uncle were cooking BBQ and I was lucky enough
to arrive just in time for lunch! Walking into this easy going place
was by far my only option in the Sylmar area for something fresh,
seasonal, delicious, and homemade! I was only visiting the area but decided to Yelp and see what might be good to eat. This spot shone brighter than all the other Mexican restaurants in this area. Viv (aka "Mom") was very welcoming and real...what a change for LA...and the rest of my experience was a ride on the same welcome wagon. I decided to order the smoked chicken BBQ sandwich plate for $8 bucks....yes, $8. It included two big sides of cold slaw and potato salad and I have to say there aren't any places I know that walk to the BBQ smoker, ask "Bruce" (aka "Uncle") to pull off a perfectly smoked chicken breast, shred it right in front of you and dress it up with a homemade BBQ sauce (nice hint of heat) and plate it up with freshly panini-toasted cibata bread. Excellent choice for lunch...and look for daily specials like Saturday's tri-tip BBQ and Wednesday' hot dog and sausage specials! I'm sure both are worth the trip! -
Review from Astrid O.
LAKE VIEW TER, CA
10/29/2011
Delicious! Loved it so much the first time I couldn't resist going for dinner the following night. The tri-tip was super tender, flavorful and juicy, and the servings were just right. The potatoe salad is amazing, best I've had. I don't like miracle whip and relish and loads of goop, so if that's what you expect that's not what you'll get. If you want great BBQ and an eclectic/groovy atmosphere with caring owners, then head to the mercantile!
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Review from Theresa L.
Santa Ana, CA
6/10/2007
This is definitely the valley's hidden gem! They have a great mocha recipe. The owner is really friendly and she has decked out this hole in the wall with eclectic decorations. It's very fitting for an offbeat coffee shop. Other positive attractions include: the gifts she also sells, the nice patio space in the back, and the free wi-fi. The two cons that prevent me from assigning it the full 5 stars: the parking sucks and sometimes the store is closed during business hours with that "sorry we missed you" sign telling me when they will return. . There are three spaces in the lot. Other than that, you can get street parking and I think she said the Jack in the Box was cool with customers parking there... (I don't remember where the Jack in the Box is). Please visit this place a lot so they can hire more people and be open more consistently!!! Please!
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Review from Laura Lily R.
Canyon Country, CA
5/3/2010
Buffalo Bruce's is DELICIOUS! They have THE best BBQ chicken in the ENTIRE WORLD! I absolutely LOVE IT! I went one day on my way to school and was curious to try this place out. I'm not much of a coffee person so when I saw the BBQ sign outside, I had to try it. It was TOO good! I love BBQ ribs from all sorts of places and I usually never get chicken.I'm not a fan, but this place made me see BBQ chicken in a whole new way. The only downside would have to be parking, store hours and that they only have certain foods on certain days. (Chicken is on Tuesdays) I crave the BBQ chicken late at night but I know they close early. It is definitely a must if you happen to be in the area!
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Review from Lisa L.
Valley Village, Los Angeles, CA
8/8/2010
Ewwww sick... it smells they have animals around kitchen and there is this sick creepy dude who bugs n the weed smell omg
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Review from lori d.
7/30/2010
I started going to BB's when it first opened in the 90's. It was a great place. Viv was super cool and helped support a lot of the great music that was going on then. She use to let us play all the time and it was a cool spot for a safe all ages show. They even did a write up on the scene back then in some newspaper. i still have my copy, because i am in the picture accompanying the article. and i heard the article still hangs there to this day, which is pretty cool. i haven't been there in a very very long time, in fact i wasn't sure they were still open because i don't live close. however, when my schedule allows i will be in soon to try the BBQ and get a coffee and I'm sure it will be amazing. Support your local businesses.
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Review from Linda G.
Chatsworth, CA
8/17/2010
I love this place; the owners are extremely friendly, as is the vibe. The food is outstanding, the coffee is delicious; all in all, this is a wonderful place for any meal of the day, or simply to come and hang out. (Be sure to stop by their Sophia memorial.)
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Review from Kristina M.
Sylmar, CA
8/21/2007
Love Love Love Buffalo Bruce's! The best hot chocolate/Mocha's ever! The owner, Vivian is very sweet! The only drawback here is the parking as mentioned in the other review. But you my get lucky and find street parking right in front. Definitely worth your trip!
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Review from Dan S.
Los Angeles, CA
8/27/2010 1 photo
OUTSTANDING PLACE!! Viv and Bruce are the BEST HOSTS! I drive here from Burbank for their breakfast burritos. Coffee is FRESH roasted and DEFINTELY worth the drive. Never had coffee this good.
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Review from Ben T.
Oxnard, CA
9/1/2010
The fresh roasted coffee and eclectic atmosphere make for a great combo. The patio is large, relaxing, and filled with potted succulents and brightly colored chairs. Best coffee shop in the area for sure!
