Overview

Chicha y Cafe, located conveniently on S Novato Blvd in Novato, CA, offers a vibrant taste of Colombian and Peruvian cuisine that stands out in the local dining scene. This restaurant is a gem for anyone seeking authentic Latin American flavors crafted with care and tradition. Its strength lies in a menu that balances iconic Peruvian dishes like lomo saltado—a savory stir-fry of tender beef, tomatoes, and ají peppers in a soy-infused sauce—with Colombian classics such as arepas and bandeja paisa.

The dining experience here is warm and welcoming, reflecting the family-owned spirit many patrons appreciate. While the seating area is limited, Chicha y Cafe’s focus on takeout makes enjoying their generous portions easy and convenient. Whether you’re craving the refreshing chicha morada—a naturally sweet, spiced purple corn drink—or the fresh, hearty main dishes, each plate feels thoughtfully prepared to satisfy a broad audience, including vegetarians. Customers consistently praise the restaurant’s adaptability, with delicious vegetarian options that do not compromise on flavor or authenticity.

The atmosphere, though modest, adds to the charm of supporting a local mom-and-pop establishment, creating a sense of community as much as a satisfying meal. Chicha y Cafe is ideal for those seeking a genuine Latin American culinary experience delivered with friendliness and freshness. From the passion fruit desserts to the homemade empanadas and arepas, every bite invites you back for more.

If you appreciate traditional Latin flavors combined with attentive service and substantial portions, Chicha y Cafe is a destination worth discovering. It’s especially appealing for takeout, making it a perfect choice for a flavorful meal enjoyed in the comfort of home.


Amenities & Services

Offerings
Comfort food
Quick bite
Atmosphere
Casual

What Customers Say

Elena Wright
Dec 11,2025
5/5
This place is so good!!! They were accommodating to my vegetarian requests and it was delicious! I had rice, beans, avocado, plantain and some vegetable rolls. Also the passion fruit dessert is an instant addiction.
Explorando Around
Dec 11,2025
4/5
A Delicious Gem for Takeout Chicha y Cafe is a fantastic find, serving authentic and flavorful Colombian and Peruvian food. The portions are generous, and every dish I've tried has been delicious. Just a heads-up: Seating is limited. The best way to enjoy their amazing food is to order takeout, which is quick and easy. I highly recommend it for a wonderful meal at home.
TerriLynn Morgan
Dec 11,2025
5/5
Thank you! And, thank you so much for accommodating our vegetarian request. The arepa with plantain, corn, and cheese was excellent, and perfectly cooked! It’s nice to support a mom & pop place with such kind and welcoming people too. Best to you!
angie perez
Dec 11,2025
5/5
Great new place with Colombian food all is fresh and homemade with Latin flavors glad to finally have a close Colombian restaurant close by
Jessica Sanchez
Dec 11,2025
5/5
Came here for some takeout with my mom. We got the lomo saltado and the bandeja paisa. While we’ve had several Peruvian dishes before, we were excited to see some Columbian menu items that we’ve never tried before. We also got the chicha morada and a Columbiana soda and a maracuya (passion fruit) dessert that was so delicious!! Definitely want to come back and try more of their food options such as the empanadas and arepas. Food portion was plenty, and we really enjoyed the food!
Azucena
Dec 11,2025
5/5
I’ve been wanting to try Peruvian food for a while now, and I happened to go to the post office right before Chicha y Cafe opened. I was warmly welcomed by the man working behind the counter when I walked in. After talking over the menu with him, I decided to order a bowl with green rice, red beans, and Peruvian chicken stew. It’s absolutely delicious. The chicken is so tender and flavorful, as well as the green rice. I also got the medium spicy mayo salsa that packs a bit of heat, but is so good. I can’t wait to return again and try some of their other menu items. If you haven’t given them a try yet I highly recommend them.
Claudia Carter
Dec 11,2025
5/5
If you want legit South American food and you want to feel like your grandma is cooking, you come here. I just wished I lived closer so I could come more often. I highly recommend this restaurant. And they will make you feel like home here.
Diana Olivares
Dec 11,2025
5/5
I loved this place! Yes, it’s small—but let’s not forget it’s a mom-and-pop restaurant that’s just getting started, and that adds to its charm. I was on my way to the USPS when I saw the sign for Colombian and Peruvian food, and as a Colombian myself, I had to stop and check it out. The service was 10/10. A group of three women kindly welcomed me and, in Spanish, took the time to explain the different dishes on the menu. Their warmth made the experience even better. I ordered shredded beef with red kidney beans and white rice, plus a Colombiana soda. Everything was flavorful and comforting. I took one order to go and shared it with my partner—who's also Colombian—and he absolutely loved it too. They also offer fresh Colombian bread and cold agua de panela, which brought back childhood memories. Definitely give them a try and support this little gem! There is also plenty of parking!

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday 11:30 AM - 07:00 PM
Tuesday 11:30 AM - 07:00 PM
Wednesday 11:30 AM - 07:00 PM
Thursday 11:30 AM - 07:00 PM
Friday 11:30 AM - 07:00 PM
Saturday 11:30 AM - 07:00 PM
Sunday 11:30 AM - 07:00 PM
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