Black Bear Diner Chico

1990 E 20th St, Chico, CA 95928, United States
+1 530-965-5857
$$$ American restaurant
(632 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you're on the hunt for a quintessential American dining experience in Chico, look no further than the Black Bear Diner. Nestled at 1990 E 20th St, this charming eatery perfectly captures the warmth and nostalgia of classic diner fare, plentiful servings, and a friendly atmosphere that invites you to linger a little longer over your meal.

As you step inside, you’re greeted by a cozy yet lively ambiance adorned with rustic decor that hints at the diner’s deep-rooted traditions. The chatter of happy diners and the ringing of a little bell by the front door—signifying exceptional service—create a cheerful backdrop that instantly makes you feel at home.

Black Bear Diner is celebrated for its American cuisine served with a hearty twist. After 4 PM, indulge in their Diner Classics like the mouthwatering Homemade Chicken Pot Pie, brimming with tender grilled chicken and vibrant vegetables smothered in a rich chicken gravy, all ensconced in a flaky pastry crust for just $20.08. This dish encapsulates comfort food at its finest, promising to envelop you in warmth with every bite. On weekends, make sure to challenge your taste buds with their scrumptious breakfast offerings, such as the Fresh Baked Bear Claw filled with almond goodness, or their crispy StripCut Hash Browns, both of which are sure to make your morning unforgettable.

For those who love a sidekick to their meal, the Black Bear Diner has you covered. Dive into the delectable Onion Rings, served with a zesty Bacon Ranch dressing, or savor a generous portion of Sweet Potato Fries for a delightful crunch. Don't forget to try their hearty Caesar Salad, tossed just right with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan for a refreshing bite alongside your main course.

With reviews painting a picture of consistent quality, customers like Ryan Prescott rave about the noticeable improvements in food and service under the new ownership, which ensures every visit is met with a smile and a prompt meal. Meanwhile, Julio Jejeje praises the attentive staff—specifically his server Linda—whose service went above and beyond, making every dining experience truly enjoyable. Meanwhile, for those eager for a satisfying breakfast, Deandre Handy declares it his favorite Sunday ritual, affirming the diner’s large portions and well-seasoned dishes are simply irresistible.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, Black Bear Diner Chico is more than just a meal; it’s a gathering spot where stories are shared, and memories are made. So, whether it’s a hearty breakfast or a comforting dinner you seek, this diner serves dishes that promise to satisfy both your appetite and your heart. Make your way here to experience the joy that comes from great food and delightful company!

For reservations or inquiries, give them a call at +1 530-965-5857. Your next delicious meal awaits!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Has no-contact delivery
Offers delivery
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Quick bite
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has counter service
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Quiet
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Openings Hours
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Monday

6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Tuesday

6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Wednesday

6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Thursday

6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Friday

6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Saturday

6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Sunday

6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

632 Reviews
Ryan Prescott

05 Sep 2025

They have seriously stepped it up since the new ownership took over. The quality of the food and service has improved in a big way and you can actually feel the difference. One of the fun touches is the little bell by the front door. You ring it when you get great service and it’s constantly going off. It’s turned into a bit of a game for the staff and management, and you can see in their faces that they’re enjoying it. It keeps the energy high and the service even better. The check-ins during the meal are appreciated. They stop by just enough to make sure everything is good without hovering. The manager even came over to make sure we got the to-go container we asked for and the refills we needed. That kind of goes a long way. I’ve already been back with both family and friends since the ownership changed and every visit has been great. Compared to how it used to be, this change was the right move. They nailed it.

Julio Jejeje

31 Aug 2025

Excellent service and great food! Our server, Linda, was outstanding—attentive, friendly, and consistently making sure we had everything we needed. She went above and beyond what you typically expect from a server. The food was also delicious, making the entire experience truly enjoyable. I highly recommend this place and will definitely be returning!

Michael Rooney

21 Jul 2025

I was hungry and hadn't been to the Black Bear in Chico. It was a good decision. I got the BLT and it was delicious.

Javier Villanueva

08 Jul 2025

The food is great here, my only problem was the server not being very attentive with my table, I drank my soda fairly quickly and was never offered a refill my wife got a coffee same thing no refill, she brought out the food and that was the last we saw of here till it was time to pay.

J Esparza

21 Jun 2025

Great breakfast. Plenty of parking, seemed to be located close to a lot of other business. Good was excellent and the service was prompt and friendly. The chicken sausage was really good.

Deandre Handy

18 Jun 2025

Me and my fiance come here almost every Sunday for breakfast. It’s our favorite breakfast place in Chico. The servings are always very large and the food is always seasoned really well. Very consistent. The service is always great too and everyone that works there is so friendly. Angie is always sweet and attentive. I always look forward to Sundays to have a great breakfast

Mary P

15 Jun 2025

Visited April 15th..see receipt. This location is in Chico and has indoor and outside seating. Stopped in for a late breakfast after shopping at the mall. I had the lighter breakfast with pancakes and 2 thick cut bacon slices and a scrambled egg. I really liked the bacon as it was crispy as ordered! Everything was good. My friend got Joes hobo omelete with a ton of crispy hash browns. It also came with a biscuit and for 99 cents more you get the gravy on top. Portion was huge and everything was really good! Plenty of leftovers! They serve beer and wine as well as mimosas. It's cutely decorated with bears. Waitresses were friendly and order came out quickly ( thanks Monique)! I would definitely come back when in Chico!

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