If you’re cruising down Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas, California, and your stomach starts growling, pull over at A Little Moore Café. This diner has been a local favorite for decades, serving up classic breakfast and lunch fare with a side of history. Recently revived by two lifelong Leucadians, Andy Vasquez and Deon Dickey, the café is back in action and ready to serve its community with the same old-school charm it’s always been known for.
The New Old Spot
A Little Moore Café now calls 698 N Coast Highway 101 home—right next to Leucadia Barbershop. The new location is part of the Shatto Building, a modern space that manages to channel the retro diner vibes locals love. Vasquez and Dickey worked tirelessly to keep the spirit of the original café alive. They even salvaged vintage elements like booths, barstools, and iconic counter seating. It’s like stepping into a time machine—except this one serves coffee.
The hours are perfect for early risers and brunch enthusiasts alike:
- Monday through Thursday: 8 AM – 2 PM
- Friday through Sunday: 7 AM – 3 PM
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely breakfast, this café has you covered.
A Menu That Feels Like Home
Let’s talk food. A Little Moore Café sticks to what it does best: hearty, comforting diner classics. The menu is a love letter to breakfast lovers everywhere. Think fluffy pancakes, golden French toast, and omelets stuffed with all the good stuff. And if you’re in the mood for something savory? Try Han’s teriyaki and eggs—a nod to the original owners’ legacy.
Lunch options include burgers, sandwiches, and homemade chili that’s perfect for those rare chilly Encinitas days (yes, they happen). The portions are generous without being overwhelming, and everything tastes like it was made just for you—because it was.
The People Behind the Pancakes
What makes A Little Moore Café truly special isn’t just the food—it’s the people. Vasquez and Dickey grew up in Leucadia and have deep roots in the community. They took over the café as a business venture and a way to preserve a piece of their childhood. “Everything’s changing so much around here,” says Dickey. “We wanted to save something that’s been part of our community for over 50 years.”
The original owners, Chang and Mison Han, still visit regularly, sipping coffee and chatting with customers like old friends. This sense of continuity makes A Little Moore Café more than just a place to eat—it’s a community hub.
More Than Just Food
Vasquez and Dickey aren’t just café owners—they’re multitasking pros. Dickey juggles his role as a seasonal wildland firefighter with running the café, while Vasquez splits his time between real estate and cutting hair at Leucadia Barbershop next door. Despite their busy schedules, they’re hands-on owners who see themselves as part of the team.“I still consider myself staff,” says Dickey. “
Everyone I’ve hired is someone I’ve worked with before. We’re all one team.” This collaborative spirit extends to their hiring practices: most of their employees are locals who share their love for Leucadia.
Why You Should Go
Encinitas is changing fast, but A Little Moore Café is holding onto what makes this beachside town special: community, history, and really good food. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, stopping by feels like catching up with an old friend—if that friend happened to make killer pancakes.
So next time you find yourself on Coast Highway 101 with an empty stomach and some time to kill, swing by A Little Moore Café. It’s not just a meal; it’s a slice of Encinitas history served on a plate.
Sources: thecoastnews.com, A Little Moore Cafe Instagram Page
Header Image Source: thecoastnews.com
