When it comes to college students and eating out, there are always two things that immediately come to mind: price and variety. 

Whether it’s waking up at noon on the weekends or just looking for a good bite to eat with a reasonable cost, Redwood Cafe on Old Redwood Highway in Cotati always sounds appealing. From their broad range of menu options to their quick service, the cafe is a top choice for Sonoma State University students. 

“Redwood Cafe is the place to go for brunch on the weekends,” said SSU junior Catie Dumount. “Their breakfast is always to die for.” The cafe serves breakfast all day, every day and many of the options include classic breakfast delights. From the eggs benedict to the pancakes, the taste of the food is pleasing and it’s rare for a customer to leave unsatisfied. Another bonus the cafe gives to their customers is the option to pick from many selected vegetarian breakfast items. Allowing those who live a different lifestyle to choose what classic meal they prefer. The only difference in the entrée is the substitution of a type of vegetable instead of a meat. However, the delightful taste remains the same.

Another particular difference about Redwood Cafe is the setup and theme of the restaurant. 

From the moment one walks in, a traditional and family-like atmosphere is noticeable. 

The theme of the cafe is a country one with wooden floors and walls and vintage looking pictures hung all around. A stage is set up in the front of the restaurant where live performances go on during specific nights. 

Sometimes, Redwood Cafe has open mic nights  and conversely, has individuals playing an instrument and singing different songs. Overall, all of these aspects give the cafe a warm and comforting atmosphere. 

 Another student, Kayla Swenson, couldn’t get over how quick and easy the process of ordering and receiving one’s food is. 

“The first thing you do when you walk in is go straight to the counter where you order your food,” said Swenson. “After that you get a number and can pick whatever table you choose to sit at. Then I swear your food is out and in front of you within 10 minutes.” 

Swenson’s favorite place to sit? Outside, on the side of the restaurant, where they have multiple table and benches set up with umbrellas.  

“The perfect Saturday morning for me includes breakfast at Redwood Cafe with a good group of friends,” said Swenson. “That place is a classic.”

However, let’s not forget about a college student’s most important priority when it comes to going out: the cost. Although Redwood Cafe is not the cheapest place to eat at, the small amount of extra money one spends is definitely worth the quality of the food. The prices range from $8 to $17 depending on the plate and what one orders. For a classic soup salad combo, the price is a lot lower than a plate of steak and potatoes. Yet, whatever one orders one can guarantee the price is going to be worth it.

“The wraps are my ultimate favorite,” said student Brianna Perkins. “They have so many different options you can choose from on what type you want and I swear every time it is bomb.” 

So when it comes to college students’ favorite place to eat out, Redwood Cafe is a definite favorite. The prices, options,  quality and taste of the food, have won over Sonoma State students’ votes as well as admiration.

Redwood Cafe is located at 8240 Old Redwood Hwy in Cotati, and is open seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.