For three decades, The Red Caboose Café has been more than a place to eat in Clovis — it's been a place to gather.
On August 14, 1994, Richard and Teresa Claborn opened a small storefront at Bullard and Minnewawa with just 45 seats — and a belief that a café could be more than a place to eat. It could be a place to belong.
In those early days, Teresa learned the ropes as a server while Richard kept a construction job in San Francisco through the week, pouring everything he had into the café on weekends. Their kids, Jimmy and Pam, grew up between the tables, pitching in wherever they were needed.
Opened at Bullard & Minnewawa with 45 seats and a simple mission — good food and a warm welcome for everyone who walked in.
As word spread, the café expanded into the space next door, growing to seat 120 guests around the table.
The café moved to its current home in a still-growing corner of Clovis. The regulars followed right along — proof that people come for far more than the food.
Richard and Teresa still lead the way, with their daughter Pam running the day-to-day. Many of the staff have been here for years — and they feel like family, too.
Look up while you eat and you'll catch it — a miniature train circling the dining room on its own railway overhead. It's been delighting kids and grown-ups alike for years, and it's exactly the kind of detail that makes The Red Caboose, well, The Red Caboose.
Between the hand-painted railroad mural, the vintage depot photographs lining the walls, and the friendly chef standing watch by the door, every corner leans into the railroad theme that gave the café its name.
Three decades on, the Claborn family is still here every day.
A working model train overhead — pure Red Caboose charm.
Where neighbors, families, and old friends gather over a meal.
Many of our team have worked here for years — and it shows.
Built on decades of dedication, blending warmth, passion, and community into every meal.— The Red Caboose Café
Pull up a chair — breakfast is served all day, and there's always room at the table.