The Peach Cafe: Purveyor of Homestyle Cuisine

Owned by longtime chef Chris Grattan and Jennifer Grattan, The Peach Cafe in Monrovia has become a favorite local purveyor of homestyle breakfast, lunch and hospitality. – Courtesy photo / The Peach Cafe

By Emily G. Peters

Myrtle Avenue in Monrovia is known for its bustling atmosphere, particularly on Friday nights—but homey gems live on the offshoots. That’s where The Peach Cafe comes in.

Run by Chef Chris Grattan and Jennifer Grattan, The Peach Cafe opens its doors on Colorado Boulevard at 7:30 a.m. for early breakfasters and gourmet coffee grabs, shuttering at 3 p.m. after the lunch rush. The spot has been around the neighborhood since 2005 but entered a new era four years ago when acquired by the Grattans.

“What makes the Peach Cafe unique to the area is the variety,” said the chef. “From our full espresso bar, custom-made coffee, mimosa flights and micheladas to pancakes, waffles, half-pound Angus burgers and our flavorful weekend specials, we provide our customers with tons of options.”

Originally learning to cook from his mom and grandmother, Grattan graduated from culinary school in 2002 and went on to work across the food industry before launching his own upscale catering company for Hollywood elites. During that time, Jennifer gave birth to two daughters—and Grattan decided the time had come to work closer to home. That family commitment reflects in The Peach Cafe’s homestyle menu and atmosphere.

“I have guests tell me they drive from Redondo Beach every weekend to enjoy the specials,” said Grattan. “Having so many guests say how much of a family feel Jennifer and the staff provide and hearing how far people come from to eat at The Peach is humbling. It makes us realize what a special place this is.”

The Peach Cafe prides itself on its wide menu and ability to customize dishes to accommodate gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan tastes. – Courtesy photo / The Peach Cafe

Indeed, the cafe attracts customers of all ages, each with their own culinary preferences. The Grattans and their staff make a point to tailor dishes to those guests to ensure the best experience at The Peach.

“The biggest food trend I like to see is people being much more conscious of what’s on their plate,” said the chef. “We customize meals for those looking for gluten-free items, vegetarian and even vegan options.”

The Peach Cafe also focuses on incorporating organic ingredients and avoiding anything processed or pre-packaged.

“We craft everything from scratch. We don’t have walk-in fridges or freezers and we get our fresh deliveries up to five days a week,” said Grattan. “The number one goal is to provide our guests with the freshest and best-tasting food we can.”

With a menu revamp in the works, Grattan says that the gang at The Peach Cafe is always on the lookout for what’s new—be it another location, or dishes; either a super-healthy dish or indulgent. And while the homestyle menu may change, homestyle hospitality won’t.

“We treat every table like it’s our last, with no difference between VIPs, friends, family, a regular customer or a first-timer. Every plate that goes out requires maximum effort and precision,” said Grattan. “The best advice I give to my staff is if someone doesn’t have a smile, give them yours. Happiness is infectious.”

The Peach Cafe is located at 141 E. Colorado Blvd. in Monrovia. For information or reservations, contact the restaurant at thepeachcafe.com | (626) 599-9092 | info@thepeachcafe.com and check them out on Facebook @ThePeachCafeandCoffeeBarMonrovia and Instagram @ThePeachCafe.

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