The Mimosas, Marys and Maple Syrup Are Calling Your Name!

We know there’s no shortage of hot-spot eateries in San Diego. But it’s time to take a look at ones that feature the two most important meals of the day: breakfast and brunch! Whether you’re into savory bacon and eggs or sweet Belgian waffles, there’s something for every breakfaster to enjoy—even those who claim they don’t eat breakfast (crazy, we know). It’s time to wake up and smell the pancakes! These amazing San Diego breakfast and brunch spots are calling your name. And if the food isn’t enough to grab your attention, there are always mimosas. So raise a glass to the best breakfast and brunch restaurants in San Diego for 2025.

 

ARLO at Town and Country Resort

You know you’re in for a treat when your brunch spot fills its soufflé pancakes with lemon curd and drowns its croffles in a Drunken Monkey Sauce. Never heard of a croffle before? Add it to the list of reasons ARLO should be at the top of your San Diego brunch bucket list.

Regular waffles weren’t good enough for this eclectic eatery; they had to infuse croissants into the mix, and now you’ll find them front and center on their Flat Top Famous menu. But don’t worry—ARLO never neglects its savory eaters, coming in hot with a stack of crave-able classics, including avocado toast, biscuits and gravy and the Arlo Benedict—plus elevated offerings like the Morning Wagyu Burger, charcuterie and melons and savory shrimp and grits. Add the fun beats of a live DJ and bottomless mimosas and you’ve got a brunch remixed every Saturday and Sunday.

Location: Mission Valley

 

Parakeet Café at The Forum Carlsbad

Parakeet Café is a wellness girl’s and brunch enthusiast’s dream come true. After their trending turmeric lattes and sprouted avo toast first took flight in 2017, this stylish cafe garnered a cult following across SoCal. The cafe’s 10th location landed at The Forum Carlsbad, and North County San Diegans are rejoicing over their new stylish neighborhood hotspot. With farm-to-table dining as the cornerstone, breakfasting at this organic oasis ensures you’ll get a healthy morning dose of nutrients in each forkful. Topping it off, their chilaquiles, charcoal waffles and artisan lattes are just as colorful as the flock that inspired its moniker.

When you’re not snapping pics of their food for the ‘Gram, you’ll definitely want to capture the perfectly pink interior. Tropical wallpaper, neon graphics and lush greenery coalesce in an idyllic space that guarantees some fun photo ops. And, of course, life is just too short not to indulge in a little post-brekkie retail therapy. The Forum Carlsbad is a buzzing lifestyle center with a montage of high-end boutiques and luxury labels, including Alo, Anthropologie, gorjana, Madewell, Outerknown, Sur la Table, Vuori and more. Shop around this season for some wardrobe staples, and be sure to check their calendar for fun upcoming events!

Location: Carlsbad

 

Coco Maya

Coco Maya brings Riviera Maya vibes to San Diego with pastel umbrellas, lush greenery, and a menu packed with Latin American-Caribbean flavors. The space is bright, breezy, and Instagram-ready—swings included.

For brunch, don’t miss the Dulce French Toast: graham cracker-crusted and sweet enough to rival any SoCal sunrise. Many dishes are flame-kissed in a coal-fired Josper oven, giving everything a subtle, smoky edge. Pair it with a rum-infused Mayan Coffee or a tropical cocktail, and you’ve got yourself a getaway—no passport required.

Location: Little Italy

 

Flamingo Deck

Looking for a place to flamingle with friends over omelets and coffee? Between their uber-trendy lounge patio, tropical ambiance and trendy breakfast plates, Flamingo Deck sets the bar high for a girls’ morning out. This bougie San Diego breakfast bar doesn’t play around with the most important meal of the day. Furthermore, their croque madame truffle spinach Benedict steals the show.

Location: Pacific Beach

 

Morning Glory

Looking for a picture-perfect San Diego breakfast? This hip, ‘80s-inspired diner is flamboyant, chic and unapologetic in its design. Featuring iridescent windows, glossy blush accents and a pink champagne vending machine, you’ll be hard-pressed to not whip out your phone for a pic. Indulge in everything from the Japanese soufflé pancakes and the breakfast carbonara (an ode to pasta lovers) to the Turkish eggs on toasted levain bread. Oh, and they have five different flavors of cocoa to match your morning latte.

Location: Little Italy

 

Lilian’s at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

Wagyu steak and eggs, buttermilk pancakes with vanilla chantilly and the chef’s seasonal quiche—need we say more? Tucked in one of San Diego County’s most storied inns, breakfast is served with a view at this posh eatery. Quality always comes first at Lillian’s, where they use nothing but the finest local organic ingredients for their innovative breakfast bites.

Location: Rancho Santa Fe

 

Malibu Farm

A waterfront gem, Malibu Farm in San Diego combines coastal-chic dining with farm-fresh fare. What began as a farmer’s market sensation in the streets of Santa Monica is now a flourishing organic oasis in Seaport Village. Everything from the salmon scramble to the fried egg sandwich is made with good-for-you ingredients. You will leave feeling as good as their Swedish pancakes taste!

Location: Seaport Village

 

Cody’s La Jolla

Cute n’ coastal, breakfast at Cody’s La Jolla needs no introduction, as the dishes speak for themselves with monikers like “Awesome French Toast” (which it is). Beyond their breakfast bubbles and chicken biscuit sandy, the breezy balcony overlooking La Jolla’s coastline is reason enough for this oceanside breakfast nook to take the crown for one of the best breakfast restaurants in San Diego.

Location: La Jolla

 

Palmy’s Cafe

Every bit the local surfer’s secret, you can most likely count the number of steps from the water’s edge to the warm, breezy patio at Palmy’s Cafe. Breakfast burritos, prosciutto toast and breakfast sandos will be there to greet you on your way from the shores, along with a soulful selection of signature smoothies and all the espresso staples. 

Location: Pacific Beach

 

California English

Fancy a spot of tea with your scone? California English will surely satisfy your breakfast cravings while leaving you hungry for a taste of the English countryside. This adorable brekkie spot is full of British charm, yet knows how to speak to SoCal locals with trendy dishes like “Hot” Scotch Eggs, The Full American and Scones and Gravy. 

Location: Sorrento Mesa

 

Cafe Topes

We can’t get enough of the vibes at this hyper-local Carlsbad cafe. Vintage fringed umbrellas, reclaimed textiles and abundant greenery will have you wondering if you’re dining inside or out. Their menu might be a mile long, but there really is no debate over what to order at Cafe Topes: Mom’s Famous Cinny Roll is the only way to go!

Location: Carlsbad

 

The Mission

This place is on a mission, all right—a mission to serve you the best breakfast of your life! With an extravagant collection of edible art pieces, try and hold back from diving head first into The Mission’s baked banana caramel French toast, lemon curd pancakes and chicken apple sausage frittatas, all served straight from the griddle.

Locations: Mission Beach, North Park, East Village

 

Molly’s Mission Beach

More than your communal coffee shop but with the same soothing ambiance, Molly’s is a haven for sunshine and mimosas. Their menu sings with a sweet symphony of flavors, from OG acai bowls to egg white frittatas. Looking for a coffee to pair with that pastry? Both are made fresh in-house, and we guarantee the cookie butter latte will be your new fav! Be sure to snag a seat on the rooftop patio and snap a photo under the “Here for the Mimosas” neon sign.

Location: Mission Beach 

 

Farmer’s Table

Let’s get straight to what Farmer’s Table is all about, shall we? There’s a reason their ten-pound Bloody Marys were voted as the best in America. Topped with a whole roasted chicken, they are certainly a sight for weary eyes. World-famous cocktails aside, their brioche French toast, Oreo waffles and chilaquiles are more than capable of standing out on their own.

Locations: La Mesa, Little Italy, Chula Vista

 

The Vibe

Breakfast is served with a side of good vibes at this modish breakfast lounge in Normal Heights. With artsy decor and a whimsical color palette, The Vibe on Adams Ave. will satisfy both your morning hunger pangs and your aesthetic Insta feed. Of course, let’s not forget about their Bliss Out Bowls and 24 Carat Classics. Their bacon baby Benedict and Plantiful bowl are calling your name!

Location: Normal Heights

 

Madi

Life’s too short for brunch to be anything but tasty and cute, ya’ know? Madi in Normal Heights brings this vision to life with an all-day brunch, capitalizing on vintage vibes and a nature-rich dining terrace. The flamboyant food fits right in, with their Cool Cat Cakes, Ham Benny and Waffle Churro Sticks instantly elevating the game for all the brunch girlies out there!

Location: Normal Heights 

 

The Cottage

The Cottage keeps things quaint and cozy for breakfasters leisurely easing their way into the day. Reminiscent of sweet, slow summer mornings, their beachy patio is the only place to sip your Cottage Mocha. You’ll never run out of options at this San Diego breakfast spot, with everything from griddled French toast and pancakes to crafty classics like scrambles and Benedicts.

Locations: La Jolla, Del Mar

 

Richard Walker’s Pancake House

Since 1948, the Walker family name has polished its supreme reputation for delicious pancakes and tasty breakfast staples. Richard Walker’s Pancake House has several locations across sunny San Diego and serves up some of the freshest coffee in Southern California. But aside from their rich, full-bodied brew, this eatery features an extensive menu of decadent breakfast items that are sure to please your palate. From oven-baked omelettes and gourmet griddle cakes to Belgian waffles and crafty crêpes, Richard Walker’s Pancake House is an established breakfast spot for San Diego locals and visitors alike.

Locations: Carlsbad, Del Mar, La Jolla, Downtown San Diego

 

Communal Coffee 

A local haven for prospering creatives and coffee connoisseurs, few things speak to the soul like breakfast at Communal Coffee. Cozy bites are on repeat at this coffee house, with specialized small plates, like granola bowls, bagel sandos and avo toast. Our advice? Order the latte flight and leave with some fresh stems from the flower bar for a sweet self-care treat.

Locations: North Park, South Park, Oceanside

 

Stratford Court Cafe

This cottage-style breakfast abode will have you reminiscing about a coastal New England vacay. Stratford Court Cafe’s white-washed patio and twinkling lights offer a side of summer vibes to pair with your Stratford Scramble. They’ve got all the organic goodies, from bagel boards to smoothie bowls. Oh, and their Milky Way espresso will surely stir up some sweet childhood memories. 

Location: Del Mar

 

Cocina De Barrio

Okay, so you may not be brunching in Oaxaca, but you’ll forget all about that when you sit down at this stylish cantina. Feast on the flavors of Mexico at Cocina De Barrio—think enmoladas, churros French toast and arroz con leche pancakes. Their morning-time cocktails always come in hot, led by the Fuego de Pasion.

Locations: Hillcrest, Point Loma, Encinitas

 

Atelier Manna

Ah, Manna—the blessing you didn’t know you needed in your a.m. routine! Blessings come in the form of inventive breakfast bites, wellness tonics, and all your favorite coffee drinks. This modern Encinitas café treats breakfast like art, blending exotic flavors with thoughtful, nourishing ingredients. Try the Manna porridge, Turkish eggs, or the Torrija Spanish French toast for a next-level brunch experience.

Location: Encinitas

 

Rustic Root

Welcome to New York! Oops, we mean the Gaslamp. Yet with its high-rise rooftop, stylish surroundings and urban ambiance, Rustic Root gives the impression of an NYC cafe. Vibes are high at this whimsical, two-story outpost, planting deep roots in the downtown community with a montage of comfort food classics, like banana pancake parfaits, chicken and waffles and chocolate pancakes.

Location: Gaslamp, Solana Beach

 

Cocina 35

There’s really only one San Diego brunch option in Liberty Station—and that’s Cocina 35! Known for serving the best chilaquiles in town, don’t blame us when you leave absolutely addicted. This breakfast cantina prides itself on old-school Mexican fare. They bring a bit of Oaxaca to sunny San Diego—with a sense of style, we might add!

Location: Liberty Station

 

bica

Artsy, innovative and oh-so delicious—bica is your Normal Heights go-to brunch spot! This “little cafe” is the entire breakfast package, with a seasonal, Portuguese-inspired menu that changes daily. Sign us up! Not to mention the backyard patio is always vibing with locals who are eagerly awaiting their morning coffee fix!

Location: Normal Heights

 

Parkhouse Eatery

What’s that smell, you ask? If you’re anywhere along Park Blvd, chances are breakfast is cookin’ at Parkhouse Eatery. From grilled breakfast pizzas and challah bread French toast to eggscettera and more, (don’t) try and stop yourself from ordering seconds. As a side note, Parkhouse Eatery loves to get fancy when it comes to coffee—or should we say Irish Coffee? 

Location: University Heights

 

The Henry

The Coronado Bridge isn’t just a gateway to one of San Diego’s best beaches—it’s also the access point to your new fav brunch spot. Allow us to introduce you to The Henry, a neighborhood staple that boasts Gatsby-era elegance. With breakfast bites like the Irish oats, Flower Child scramble and avo toast with bacon, our Coronado weekends are reserved exclusively for The Henry>>.

Location: Coronado

 

The Waverly

The Waverly’s aesthetic alone should be enough to get you out of bed and in line for breakfast! Organic modern textiles and pastel color tones create a dream-like setting where your phone will definitely eat first. When placing your order, don’t skip on the Funfetti pancakes, Turkish poached eggs or Cardiff Fog with Gin No. 3, earl grey, rosemary, honey, rosewater and steamed almond milk.

Location: Cardiff by The Sea

 

Wonderland Ocean Pub

This place has got us in Wonderland, all right! How could their Haupia pancakes and Woco Moco not? Paying homage to the glory of Ocean Beach’s OG community, Wonderland Ocean Pub invites diners to toast to the sunshine and waves with their famous SkrewBrew—an elevated take on your morning coffee with peanut butter whiskey, Counterflow cold brew and whipped cream shaken over ice!

Location: Ocean Beach 

 

Claire’s on Cedros

Farmer’s market fanatics will feel right at home at Claire’s on Cedros. Their kitchen is always locked and loaded with fresh-squeezed orange juice, locally sourced eggs and house-baked pastries. Of course, their specialty waffles and hash brown potato cakes were never meant for a solo brunch out. So bring your pups along, because Fido’s Finest and the California K-9 create a rebarkable duo to share alongside your four-legged friend!

Location: Solana Beach 

 

Piper at The Seabird Resort

Must-Order: Everything but the Bagel Flatbread

Piper, located at the beautiful Seabird Resort in Oceanside, relies on culinary talent to create farm-fresh plates. Executive Chef Kurtis Habecker curates both the breakfast and weekend brunch menus to reflect the freshest ingredients of the season. He sources from the farmers market and nearby purveyors in North San Diego! To begin, order the Layover cocktail with Tito’s vodka, espresso and coffee liqueur. Then, dig into the brioche French toast or stone fruit crisp oatmeal with brown sugar and streusel.

Location: Oceanside

 

Farmer & The Seahorse 

Can we start with a shout out to the toasted coconut cream French toast? It’s our jam for sure, topped off with coconut and rum anglaise, milk crumble, whipped cream and toasted coconut! Farm-fresh fare served with a side of sea breeze is what Farmer & The Seahorse is all about. This San Diego breakfast and brunch restaurant’s double smash burger and lobster Benny are exquisite. However, we just can’t get enough of the pastry baskets!

Location: Torrey Pines

 

Maggie’s Cafe 

Eggcellent omelets, breakfast skillets and Belgian waffles—all we can say is we’re suckers for the classics, and so is the crew at Maggie’s Cafe>. Both locations are family-owned, and locals love the no-frills vibe. Maggie’s is perfect for knocking back a few Bloodys and catching a sports game on one of the many TVs. Cure your cravings with something savory like the Tex-Mex Omelette or Brunch Potato Skins. Or, sweeten your day with the Stuffed French Toast with cheese, bananas and strawberries.

Location: Barrio Logan, Serra Mesa

 

Saint James French Diner 

French baguette, anyone? Or perhaps some French toast served alongside a French rolled omelet? You get the picture—Saint James French Diner looks and tastes like an authentic French bakery. Between the nostalgic old-school accents and whimsical color palette, it’s really a toss-up between a set for a Wes Anderson movie or a cozy cafe in the heart of France. 

Location: Gaslamp

 

Ponto Lago at Park Hyatt Aviara 

Located at the elegant Park Hyatt Aviara, Ponto Lago is the upscale brunch restaurant in San Diego you’ve been searching for. With an emphasis on Baja-inspired cuisine, their rotating menu capitalizes on classic a.m. favorites. Huevos rancheros, smoked salmon avocado toast and concha French toast are all part of this decadent spread. However, if you’re one for spicy and savory, you won’t want to leave without trying the Kurobuta Pork Chili Verde Benedict with poblano peppers, tomatillo and Morita Ash hollandaise.

Location: Carlsbad

 

20|Twenty at The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa

20|Twenty brings modern SoCal flavors with a global edge to the Carlsbad brunch scene. The vibe is relaxed but elevated—perfect for everything from a low-key catch-up to a mimosa-fueled celebration. The menu leans seasonal and locally sourced, with bold, unexpected twists that make each dish feel fresh.

Kick things off with the piña colada granola, a tropical blend of macadamia, cashew, coconut, Greek yogurt and berries. Sweet tooth? The Apple Pie French Toast is stacked with cinnamon bread, warm filling, honey butter, caramel and maple syrup. It’s basically dessert disguised as breakfast. On the savory side, the portobello Benedict offers a fresh, veggie-forward take, while the crispy chicken and waffles bring the heat with harissa honey and pickled mustard.

Location: Carlsbad

 

Honeybees

With its honeycomb ceilings, floral details and golden-hour lighting, Honeybees in Pacific Beach feels like walking into a brunch dream. The all-day menu is equal parts playful and elevated, from the Honey Dream Waffles to the indulgent banana bread French toast. But don’t sleep on the Honey Buffalo Chicken Sandwich—the perfect combo of sweet, spicy and savory. And for a sip that matches the aesthetic, order the lavender matcha, served with creamy oat milk and a hint of floral flair. Whether you’re popping in for brunch, dinner or dessert (hi, soft serve and cinnamon rolls), this charming cafe brings the buzz.

Location: Pacific Beach

 

Potato Shack Cafe

There’s nothing fancy about Potato Shack Cafe, and that’s exactly why this no-frills spot is so loved. A local gem since 1983, this laid-back Encinitas favorite serves up massive portions and major nostalgia. The Manhole Cover-Sized Pancakes are the stuff of legend (yes, that’s what they’re called). The all-you-can-eat breakfast potatoes are a perfect match for any egg dish on the menu. Grab a spot on the sunny sidewalk patio, order a fresh-squeezed juice and enjoy a no-frills brunch that hits all the right notes.

Location: Encinitas

 

Hash House A Go Go

At this Hillcrest institution, bigger really is better. Hash House A Go Go has been slinging its signature “twisted farm food” for over two decades—Midwest comfort food reimagined with serious West Coast swag. The brunch plates are legendary: Andy’s World Famous Sage Fried Chicken is a towering, golden-fried masterpiece, while the Famous Stuffed Burger features juicy patties packed with all kinds of crave-worthy fillings. Feeling bold? Wash it all down with the fiery Drunk Clam, a vodka-clamato concoction with Worcestershire, mustard and chili pepper that kicks brunch up a notch. Bring your appetite—and maybe a friend to split it with.

Location: Hillcrest

 

Toasted Gastrobrunch

Bottomless mimosas daily and a menu full of over-the-top brunch creations? Say hello to your new favorite weekend (or weekday) ritual. Toasted Gastrobrunch has wowed San Diego and beyond, landing the top spot on Yelp’s best brunch spots list. Kick things off with the Smoked Brisket Hash—rosemary potatoes, chipotle crema and tender brisket in every bite. Or try the viral Elvis French Toast, piled high with bananas, peanut butter, bacon and a sweet honey drizzle. Craving something cozy? Try the Eggs in Purgatory, served in a sourdough bread bowl with rich tomato shakshuka sauce and a runny egg.

Locations: Del Mar, La Mesa, Oceanside and Imperial Beach

 

Shorehouse Kitchen

Just steps from La Jolla Shores, Shorehouse Kitchen is a breezy neighborhood cafe that captures the essence of coastal living. Locals flock here for the sunny patio, excellent service and a menu that celebrates fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Start with the mango pancakes, topped with mango-guava compote and housemade granola, or indulge in the crispy parmesan risotto and honey cured bacon, served with baby arugula and tarragon bearnaise. Even pups get spoiled here—don’t skip the <span style=”font-weight: 400;”>doggie menu if your furry friend is tagging along.

Locations: Carlsbad and La Jolla

 

GOODONYA Organic Eatery

If you’re craving clean comfort food, GOODONYA in Encinitas has you covered. This organic eatery is committed to real, whole ingredients—99% organic and 100% non-GMO—and it shows in every bite. Their Golden Pancakes, infused with cinnamon and turmeric, are served with a dollop of grass-fed butter and a side of ginger turmeric maple syrup (yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds). Meanwhile, the Baja scramble, made with pastured eggs, grass-fed jack cheese, black beans, avocado and housemade salsa, is another favorite. Pro tip: Don’t leave without an iced vanilla mint latte from their in-house coffee bar.

Location: Encinitas