Yuma staple Brownie’s Cafe celebrates 45th anniversary
Yuma, Arizona is home to a beloved establishment that is marking an impressive milestone: the 45th anniversary of Brownie’s Cafe. Owned by the Brooks family, this cafe has become one of the few remaining mom-and-pop shops in the area, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Since its transition to the Brooks family in 1979, the loyalty of their customer base has been instrumental in keeping the food joint thriving. “Every guy at this counter knows their first name. They know my name,” shared Jonathan Brooks, the manager at Brownie’s Cafe. “Our cook will see a customer in the parking lot and already have their food ready by the time they sit down.” This kind of attentive customer service is what draws patrons like Antonio Gonzalez back time and again.
“Everybody puts their time into getting to know you as a customer, which really makes you feel at home,” Gonzalez commented, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere that Brownie’s offers.
While Brownie’s has its roots dating back to the mid-1940s, it has been under the Brooks family’s stewardship since 1979. Jonathan reflected on his family’s legacy: “My grandpa and grandma, Bobby and Roberta Brooks, kept it for 40 years. They passed away about three years ago.” Now, Jonathan and his father carry on the proud tradition.
The menu at Brownie’s Cafe features American comfort food, with breakfast being their specialty. Popular dishes include hearty favorites like biscuits and gravy and steak and eggs, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The delicious offerings are a key reason why loyal customers keep returning.
Head cook David Sanchez has been with Brownie’s for almost 30 years, and he recalls starting at the cafe as a dishwasher at the age of 17. “I started working here when I was 17 as a dishwasher,” Sanchez mentioned. “I was a better cook than a washer, and before I knew it, I was making food on the grill.”
Sanchez expresses gratitude for his time at Brownie’s, stating, “I really enjoy it. I am grateful for this job. I don’t see them as coworkers; I see them as my family. That’s the reason why it keeps me moving forward, getting up every day in the morning.”
As they celebrate their success and longevity in the community, the Brooks family is especially thankful to their customers. “Some years were very tough,” Jonathan acknowledged. “We didn’t think we were gonna make it, but we have loyal customers that keep coming.” Looking ahead, he expressed determination: “As long as I am alive and we can keep it going, we’ll keep it going.”
