In Merced, two small restaurants prove that size doesn’t limit flavor. Toni’s Courtyard Café serves award-winning breakfast with their famous five-cheese grilled sandwich, while Little Oven Pizza crafts authentic New York-style slices that keep locals coming back. These small spots deliver big taste without the fancy frills.
Toni’s Courtyard Café
A small family-owned restaurant in Merced, California, Toni’s Courtyard Café serves exceptional breakfast and lunch dishes that draw locals and travelers alike. The restaurant’s reputation for fresh ingredients and generous portions has made it a favorite dining spot, earning multiple awards as the best breakfast and lunch destination in Merced County.
Food Highlights
- Breakfast Classics: Fresh eggs benedict, giant fluffy pancakes, country benedict
- Specialty Sandwiches: Five-star grilled cheese with five different cheeses
- House Specialties: Maui French toast, chicken fried steak with gravy
- Comfort Foods: Homemade cream of green chili soup, breakfast burritos
Atmosphere
The café features a charming indoor dining space and a delightful outdoor patio equipped with heaters for cool days. A decorative waterfall adds to the peaceful outdoor dining experience. The restaurant plays classic music, creating a welcoming environment that complements the friendly service provided by the staff.
Bottom Line
Toni’s Courtyard Café delivers consistently excellent food and warm service in a comfortable setting. The restaurant’s popularity with locals, quick service, and varied menu make it an ideal choice for breakfast or lunch in Merced.
Location: 516 W 18th St Merced, CA 95340
Little Oven Pizza
The Little Pizza delivers authentic New York-style pizza with a focus on fresh ingredients and expert preparation. This small pizzeria has built a strong local following through its commitment to quality and creative daily specials.
The restaurant’s simple approach to pizza-making results in consistently excellent thin-crust pies that keep customers coming back.
Food Highlights
- Classic Slice: Thin, crispy crust with perfect cheese blend
- Daily Specials: Unique combinations like peppa fig and wild bill
- Custom Toppings: Fresh mushrooms, bacon, pepperoni options
- House Specialties: White sauce pizza with arugula and bacon
- Beverages: Craft beer selection and fountain drinks
Atmosphere
The space features a cozy interior with limited seating – six bar stools, three tables inside, and two outdoor tables. Despite its small size, the restaurant maintains an efficient operation with quick service and a steady flow of customers.
The busy environment and constant pizza-making activity create an authentic pizzeria experience.
Bottom Line
Little Oven Pizza excels at producing exceptional thin-crust pizza at reasonable prices ($3.75 for classic slices, $4.25 for specialty slices). The restaurant’s dedication to quality ingredients and consistent execution makes it a must-visit destination for pizza enthusiasts.
Location: 433 W Main St Merced, CA 95340