By Kathy Chouteau
In the shadow of Richmond’s “heart tree,” Café McBryde stands as more than a local eatery, but a living testament to the power of community and the bonds that form over shared meals. Owner Denise Ruff cultivated a cozy café serving breakfast and lunch, where regulars aren’t just customers, they’re family, and their stories are woven into the very fabric of the café’s menu.
A Richmond native, Ruff purchased Café McBryde ten years ago, continuing the legacy of a beloved neighborhood spot. Rather than overhaul the menu, Ruff honored the tastes and traditions of longtime patrons, slowly introducing new items while keeping favorites intact.
“I didn’t want to start changing what they’re used to eating every day,” Ruff said. “I’m constantly adding things to the menu, or I’ll put it on the special board, because there’s really no room, but I like to come up with different things.”
The menu: a tribute to loyal customers
What truly sets Café McBryde apart is its menu, where each dish carries the name and story of a cherished regular. There’s “John’s Huevos Rancheros” and “Mia’s Omelet,” named for two loyal patrons who came every day during the pandemic and whose support helped keep the café afloat. The “Stonebreaker Scramble” special—scrambled eggs with chicken apple sausage, bacon, cheese, onions, mushrooms, zucchini, jalapenos and avocado—tips its hat to Richmond Police Department Capt. Matt Stonebreaker, a frequent patron, whose namesake dish is among the most popular items. Vegetarian and vegan options were inspired by regulars like Jeff, the contractor who helped remodel the café, and Segundo, a CHP officer who transitioned to a vegan diet.
The sense of family extends beyond the menu. Ruff’s twin daughters are honored with dishes, and her daughter, Kylie, is preparing to join the Richmond Police Department, continuing a tradition of service to the community. “We have a lot of regulars. It is really like family here,” Ruff shared.
Café McBryde is a favorite among Richmond Police Department officers, including soon-to-be Chief Tim Simmons, who stops in for a simple plate of scrambled eggs and toast.
“He’s amazing. He loves Richmond. He’ll say all the time how much he loves the community,” said Kylie, who also works at the cafe, adding, “So he’s a really nice guy. They definitely chose a good [chief].
San Pablo officers frequent the café too.
Stories that bind
The café’s family spirit is reflected in the stories of its patrons. One customer, Lee, will celebrate his 90th birthday this month and has followed Ruff from place to place throughout her restaurant career. Capt. Stonebreaker, recognizing Ruff’s care for Lee, offered to help him in any way he could, from changing locks to regular visits. Another café regular sold his beloved vintage Chevy pickup to support his daughter, who was about to give birth, only to have his wife track down and repurchase the truck years later as a surprise. Customers share their stories with Ruff and become part of the café’s fabric.
Café McBryde is a hub for community events, hosting gatherings like “Coffee with a Cop” and supporting local initiatives. Ruff’s commitment to fresh ingredients and early morning prep underscores her dedication to quality, care and flavor.
Find Café McBryde at 4925 McBryde Avenue in Richmond. Check out the menu here and visit the café for breakfast or lunch. Questions? Contact (510) 231-9192 or [email protected].
