About
When you're craving Northern Californian cuisine, make a reservation at Trillium Cafe & Inn. This spot weaves together the area's rich history, laid-back style, and local flavors all under one welcoming roof.
The iconic eatery occupies one of Mendocino's most storied historic buildings, known as the Bank House. It was built in 1908 by Perley Maxwell as a private residence on the corner of Albion and Kasten Streets. Over time, the house evolved into a mixed-use property that hosted a variety of small businesses, lodging, and restaurants.
The building's most dramatic chapter came in 1994, when an arsonist set fire to much of the original structure. Owner Allan Cone chose to rebuild rather than abandon it, and it was carefully reconstructed in 1995 to reflect the 1908 Victorian-era design.
The next significant change came in 2014, when Sandra McElroy and her husband, Saul McElroy, transformed it into a family-run business focused on seasonal, locally sourced food and warm, casual hospitality.
Sandra, a native of Mendocino, applied her previous experience at Little River Inn, Albion River Inn, and Cafe Beaujolais to Trillium. With her husband, they crafted a menu focused on fresh seafood, house-made pastries, and vegetable-forward California cuisine.
Trillium Cafe & Inn's downtown location puts it close to many of Mendocino Coast's top attractions. Just steps away is the Ford House Visitor Center & Museum, while the Mendocino Art Center and Mendocino Headlands State Park are only a few blocks away. Such convenience makes planning your to-do list easy!
With its storied past, fresh approach to cuisine, and quaint atmosphere, Trillium Cafe & Inn promises to be a highlight of your Golden State getaway.
Vibe
As you'd expect, the revitalized Victorian architecture is captivating! Tall windows and crisp lines help the building fit right in with Mendocino's historic look.
The Victorian theme flows indoors, where restored hardwood floors, cream-colored walls, and natural wood trim hint at the building's history. A brick fireplace with a wood mantel adds a homey feel, while local art connects diners with Northern California's artistic scene.
Small, spaced-out tables invite conversation and offer just enough privacy. When the weather is suitable, the garden is a favorite spot with its covered patio and porch offering glimpses of the Pacific Ocean.
Whether you're seeking a romantic night or a group table, these thoughtful touches make Trillium Cafe & Inn ideal for your Northern California trip.
Trillium Cafe & Inn: Menu & Drinks
The seasonal menu means the cuisine is always fresh and the flavors relevant.
Let's begin with the appetizers. Standouts include the Roasted Butternut Squash Ravioli in sage brown butter, dried cranberries, and pecans, and the Sautéed Wild Scallops or Fried Brussel Sprouts in parmesan and a balsamic reduction.
When a salad is all you're craving, rest assured that the options are fresh and showcase Mendocino Coast's bounty. A prime example is the Roasted Beet & Watercress Salad with Feta cheese, arugula, pecans, quinoa, and an apple-basil vinaigrette.
Moving to the main courses, the Miso-Marinated Local Black Cod is an exceptional choice. The fresh fish comes in a kombu broth with bok choy and shiitake mushrooms. Add the sticky rice and any of the à la carte sides, and you have a hearty meal.
An entree that is customizable for seafood lovers, vegans, and vegetarians is the Vegetable Gnocchi. This creative dish features potato gnocchi, Romanesco and Parmesan cheese, delicata squash, kale, pumpkin seeds, herb pumpkin seed pesto, and dried cranberries. Vegans can have this tweaked for their diet, while seafood and land lovers can upgrade the dish with grilled chicken or prawns.
The drinks also highlight the area's richness. The wine list features respected California wines, with Anderson Valley's vineyards strongly represented. You'll also find craft cocktails and an impressive selection of non-alcoholic beverages.
For anyone exploring the Mendocino Coast, Trillium Cafe & Inn combines the tastes and experiences that make a Golden State trip stand out.
Local Tips
- Reservations are strongly encouraged, especially for the outdoor patio.
- Order a Picnic Box for a picnic or to enjoy in your Casago rental!
- Save room for dessert and the after-dinner drinks.
- Book a room in the Inn for an immersive experience.
