Our Story
Serving Chico since 1999, with a belief that breakfast should be better.
Sin of Cortez opened its doors in 1999 with a simple idea, there should be a really great place to have breakfast. That belief still drives everything we do today. Our laid-back vibe, commitment to fresh, delicious food, and focus on stellar coffee have made Sin of Cortez a longtime Chico favorite for breakfast and lunch. Guided by a “never settle for second best” philosophy, we blend creativity and care into every plate we serve.
Our menu centers around flavorful entrées made with fresh, quality ingredients and playful, thoughtful presentations. The original breakfast and lunch menus were created by chef Isabel Cruz, and that same from-scratch mindset carries through today. Everything at Sin of Cortez is made in-house. The salsa is fresh. The bread is baked fresh. The beans are cooked fresh. If we had the space, we’d probably raise our own beef.
At Sin of Cortez, we believe guests deserve better. As we like to say, “There are a ton of places that will serve you food from a can. You deserve better.”
Our breakfast menu features a variety of house favorites, including strawberry granola pancakes, blueberry cornmeal pancakes, and banana blackberry pancakes. Scrambled egg breakfasts are made to order with ingredients like spinach, artichoke, pesto, or black beans, your choice. Our sausage is sourced from the local university farm, keeping things close to home.
Coffee is taken just as seriously. Our house coffee is rated “Grand Cru,” placing it in the top 2% of coffee worldwide. We use single-origin beans for consistent flavor and texture, and decaf is brewed cup to cup, never by the pot.
Specialty coffees are made to order as well. Mochas are crafted using two gourmet chocolates, not syrups. Blended drinks are made with fresh espresso, never powdered mixes. We also offer Vietnamese coffee and Mexican hot chocolate.
Lunch options include chicken soft tacos, black bean nachos, blue cheese walnut salad, ahi wontons, lettuce wraps, and wok-fried rice bowls. Our sandwiches include veggie, pesto chicken, and carne asada.
Vegetarian, gluten-free, and paleo options are available.