Finding the best brunch San Diego has to offer means there’s a lot more to choose from than pancakes and mimosas. This guide rounds up more than 30 of my favorite places for a great weekend brunch across San Diego County.
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Best Brunch San Diego: La Jolla & Torrey Pines
Brockton Villa
- Neighborhood: La Jolla
- Days: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Why go? Brunch with one of the best ocean views in San Diego. The historic cottage sits directly across from La Jolla Cove, with Pacific views from Brockton Villa.
- What to order: Classic Coast Toast: Soufflé-style French toast with a hint of orange, house-made berry jam and powdered sugar; Carnitas Chilaquiles: Steamed-scrambled eggs, tortilla chips, roasted poblano and onion, Jack cheese, ancho-chile salsa, avocado, pico and sour cream.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $16-$29.
- Reservations: Available through OpenTable and recommended on busy weekends.
- Outdoor dining: Yes.
- Ocean view: Yes, with views overlooking La Jolla Cove.
- Dog-friendly: Yes.
- Address: 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla
Harry's Coffee Shop
- Neighborhood: La Jolla (another location in Del Mar)
- Days: Daily, 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
- Why go? A La Jolla institution since 1960, Harry’s Coffee Shop is an old-school diner known for generous portions, breakfast served all day and a menu packed with classic favorites. It’s the kind of casual, no-frills breakfast that has kept generations of locals coming back.
- What to order: B.W. Benny, a bacon-studded waffle topped with grilled ham, poached eggs, hollandaise and maple syrup; La Jolla Scramble; Breakfast Burrito; Oatmeal Pancakes or Bacon Pancakes. They have a full bar serving espresso martinis and spicy bloody mary’s.
- Price: Most breakfast entrées are $15-$23.
- Reservations: No reservations. Walk-ins only.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with a pet-friendly patio.
- Address: 7545 Girard Ave., La Jolla
Cody's La Jolla
- Neighborhood: La Jolla
- Days: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Why go? A casual brunch with ocean views from its rooftop patio, just steps from La Jolla Cove. Cody’s serves breakfast all day and is especially popular for generous portions and its dog-friendly outdoor dining.
- What to order: Awesome French Toast: Thick slices of bread and challah, griddled and served with candied walnuts, fresh strawberries and mascarpone honey butter; Chilaquiles: Tortilla chips sautéed in house-made Mexican tomato sauce, over-medium eggs and black beans, topped with queso fresco and crème fraîche; Crab Cake Benedict: Jumbo lump crab cakes, sliced avocado, poached eggs and hollandaise on a toasted English muffin.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $20-$30.
- Reservations: Not accepted. Cody’s uses a first-come, first-served waitlist.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, including a rooftop patio.
- Ocean view: Yes, with views toward La Jolla Cove and the Pacific.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, with outdoor patio seating and a dog menu.
- Address: 1025 Prospect St. #210, La Jolla
The Cottage La Jolla
- Neighborhood: La Jolla
- Days: Daily, 7:30 a.m.-2:40 p.m.
- Why go? A longtime La Jolla favorite known for generous portions of classic American breakfast and brunch with a Southern California twist. The large outdoor patio makes it a popular choice for a leisurely brunch.
- What to order: Stuffed French Toast: Brioche with strawberry compote and mascarpone; Morning Glory Sandwich: Fried egg, bacon, smoked Gouda, tomato, arugula, onion and lemon aioli on sourdough; Eggs La Jolla: Poached eggs, Canadian bacon, balsamic mushrooms, spinach, roasted tomato and hollandaise; Chilaquiles: Tortilla chips, house-made guajillo sauce, eggs, sour cream, pickled red onion, cilantro, cotija and black beans.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $19-$24.
- Reservations: Not available through OpenTable. Walk-ins are welcome.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with a large outdoor patio.
- Ocean view: No.
- Address: 7702 Fay Ave., La Jolla
Farmer & The Seahorse
- Neighborhood: Torrey Pines
- Days: Monday-Friday, breakfast 8-10:30 a.m.; Saturday-Sunday, brunch 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Why go? A farm-to-table brunch in a leafy outdoor setting across from Torrey Pines Golf Course. Weekend brunch also features live music, making the garden patio a popular choice for a relaxed Sunday meal.
- What to order: Smoked Salmon Asparagus Benedict: Toasted English muffin, lemon garlic cream, smoked salmon, poached eggs, hollandaise and charred asparagus; Chicken Chilaquiles: Two eggs, lime crema, avocado, tortilla chips, cotija, red onion, cilantro and salsa roja; Strawberry Pistachio Pancake: Balsamic-macerated strawberries and pistachio Bavarian cream; Turkish Breakfast Platter: Poached eggs, dill yogurt, Arabic salad, hummus, beet muhammara, levain, naan, fruit, feta, walnuts and spices.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $18-$32.
- Reservations: Available through OpenTable and recommended for busy brunches.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with garden and patio seating.
- Ocean view: No
- Dog-friendly: Yes, dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio.
- Address: 10996 Torreyana Rd., Suite 240, San Diego
Shorehouse Kitchen
- Neighborhood: La Jolla Shores
- Days: Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Friday-Sunday, 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
- Why go? A casual La Jolla Shores favorite for all-day breakfast, generous portions and a relaxed patio just a short walk from the beach. It is particularly popular for pancakes, French toast and hearty egg dishes.
- What to order: Caramelized Tahitian Vanilla Bean French Toast: Served with optional grilled pineapple, fresh berries or bananas and Chantilly cream; Cornmeal Pancakes with Lemon & Blueberries; California Omelet: Asparagus, mushroom and basil topped with arugula and creamy goat cheese; Egg White Mediterranean: Artichoke hearts, olives, quinoa, tomatoes, spinach, basil, pine nuts and feta.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $15-$26.
- Reservations: No reservations, but you can join the waitlist online when there is an active wait.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with patio seating.
- Ocean view: No, but it is a short walk from La Jolla Shores Beach.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, including a dedicated dog menu.
- Address: 2236 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla
Best Brunch San Diego: Downtown & Little Italy
6th & G Breakfast Co.
- Neighborhood: East Village/Downtown
- Days: Daily, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Why go? A fun downtown brunch with a menu that mixes classic breakfast favorites with creative dishes and plenty of sweet options.
- What to order: Turkish Eggs: Three poached eggs with feta whipped yogurt, garlic-sautéed greens, crispy shallots, chili oil crisp, and grilled sourdough; Chipotle Chilaquiles: Corn tortilla chips tossed in creamy chipotle sauce with three eggs, crema, red onion, cilantro, radish and queso fresco; Birria Bennie: Two poached eggs, braised beef birria, onion and cilantro on an English muffin with house-made hollandaise; Steak & Eggs: 6-ounce ribeye, three eggs, cowboy butter, crispy shallots, house tots, and toast.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $15-$30.
- Reservations: Walk-ins are welcome; call ahead for larger groups.
- Outdoor dining: Yes.
- Address: 695 Sixth Ave., San Diego
Cafe 222
- Neighborhood:
- Downtown
Days: Daily, 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. - Why go? A longtime San Diego breakfast institution known for its waffles, stuffed French toast, and casual neighborhood-cafe atmosphere. The tiny restaurant has been serving breakfast downtown for more than 30 years.
- What to order: Peanut Butter & Banana Stuffed French Toast: French toast stuffed with peanut butter and banana; Blueberry Cornbread Waffle: Crunchy cornbread waffle with blueberries; Pumpkin Waffle: Moist waffle with pumpkin pie flavor; Golden Waffle: Thick, golden-brown malted waffle.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $12-$22.
- Reservations: Not accepted. Walk-ins only.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, including street-side patio and upper garden patio seating.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, with dogs welcome in the outdoor areas.
- Address: 222 Island Ave., San Diego
Cocina 35
- Neighborhood: Downtown
- Days: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Why go? Mexican breakfast is the focus here, with chilaquiles at the center of the menu. You can build your own plate with different salsas, eggs, and proteins or choose one of the restaurant’s signature combinations.
- What to order: La Bomba: Chilaquiles with creamy habanero salsa, cochinita pibil and pickled onions; El Patrón: Chilaquiles, beans, eggs and Cajeta toast; Del Mercado: Salsa verde chilaquiles topped with carnitas; Cajeta Toast: Mexican-style French toast topped with Cajeta, two eggs and crispy bacon.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $15-$25.
- Reservations: Available online and open 30 days in advance. The bar is also open for walk-ins, and smaller tables may be available without reservations.
- Outdoor dining: Yes.
- Address: 1435 Sixth Ave., San Diego
Gaslamp Breakfast Company
- Neighborhood: Gaslamp Quarter
- Days: Daily, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Why go? A lively Gaslamp brunch with a menu that goes well beyond traditional pancakes and eggs. The restaurant is particularly known for creative French toast, waffles, and pancakes, along with savory dishes such as chilaquiles and shrimp enmoladas.
What to order: Breakfast Company Flight: Choose three pancakes, waffles, or French toast; Churro French Toast: Buttermilk ice cream, cinnamon sugar, and Cajeta; Mashed Potato Waffle: Cheese sauce, spicy sausage, green onions, and two eggs; Shrimp Enmoladas: Black mole, Monterey Jack, crema, cilantro, queso fresco, pickled red onions and two eggs. - Price: Most brunch entrées are about $10-$20.
- Reservations: Walk-ins are welcome; reservations are not generally required.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with patio seating.
- Address: 551 J St., San Diego
Morning Glory
- Neighborhood: Little Italy
- Days: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Why go? One of San Diego’s most recognizable brunch restaurants, pairing creative breakfast dishes with a colorful, over-the-top dining room. It is especially known for its soufflé pancakes, but the savory menu is just as interesting.
- What to order: Soufflé Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes served with butter and maple syrup, with berries and whipped cream available; Morning Glory Fried Rice: Sunny-side-up eggs, pork belly, cheese, peas, spinach, and scallions; Breakfast Carbonara: Bucatini, crispy pork belly, soft-poached egg, and Calabrian chile oil; Khachapuri: Mozzarella, feta, garlic, olive oil, baked egg, and butter.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $13-$30.
- Reservations: Primarily walk-ins. A limited number of reservations are offered for the final weekend brunch seating, 2:45-3:15 p.m.
- Outdoor dining: Yes.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, including outdoor seating.
- Address: 550 W. Date St., Suite C, San Diego
Provisional Kitchen
- Neighborhood: Gaslamp Quarter
- Days: Daily, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Why go? Brunch at the Pendry San Diego combines an airy dining room and outdoor patio with a more upscale breakfast menu. It is a good choice when you want brunch in the Gaslamp with cocktails, specialty coffee, and a more polished setting.
- What to order: Chilaquiles: Salsa roja, pickled red onion, green onion, lime crema, cotija cheese and two poached eggs; Breakfast Pizza: Bacon, mascarpone, Parmesan Reggiano, spinach and two over-easy eggs; Eggs Benedict: Two soft-poached eggs, grilled smoked ham, English muffin and hollandaise; Breakfast Burrito: Chorizo, potato, over-medium eggs, cheddar and red salsa.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $16-$26; the weekend five-course Brunch Tasting Menu is $65.
- Reservations: Available through OpenTable and recommended for weekend brunch.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with an al fresco patio.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, including outdoor dining.
- Address: 425 Fifth Ave., San Diego
Best Brunch San Diego: North Park & Central San Diego
Cocina de Barrio
- Neighborhood: Hillcrest
- Days: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Monday closed.
- Why go? A Mexican brunch with Oaxacan influences, bold sauces, and a menu that goes well beyond the usual breakfast dishes.
- What to order: Chilaquiles Verdes or Rojos: Tortilla chips with house-made salsa, eggs, and traditional toppings; Sopes Benny: Fried corn cakes, beans, lamb birria, poached eggs, chipotle hollandaise, queso fresco, and home potatoes; Chorizo Hash: Pork chorizo, potatoes, green onion, tomatoes, cotija cheese, fried eggs, and pickled red onion; Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes: One of the restaurant’s popular sweet brunch choices.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $13-$27.
- Reservations: No reservations during brunch. Brunch is walk-in and first-come, first-served.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with patio seating.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, on the patio.
Address: 3707 Fifth Ave., San Diego
Dunedin New Zealand Eats
- Neighborhood: North Park
- Days: Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for weekend brunch; Monday-Friday brunch items are also available during daytime service.
- Why go? A New Zealand-inspired brunch that brings something different to the North Park breakfast scene. Along with classic brunch dishes, Dunedin adds New Zealand touches such as savory pies, lamb, and its signature Dutch baked pancake.
- What to order: Dutch Cake & Berries: A Dutch-style baked pancake served with berries; Steak & Eggs: Steak served with eggs and breakfast potatoes; Shrimp & Grits: Shrimp and creamy grits with eggs; Steak & Tamale Benedict: A New Zealand-influenced take on Eggs Benedict.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $16-$24.
- Reservations: Available through OpenTable and walk-ins are welcome.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Address: 3501 30th St., San Diego
Great Maple
- Neighborhood: Hillcrest
- Days: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
- Why go? Brunch with oversized portions and some seriously indulgent signature dishes. The French Toast Logs and maple bacon doughnuts are two of the reasons Great Maple has become one of San Diego’s most recognizable brunch destinations.
- What to order: French Toast Logs: Thick French toast served as shareable logs with maple syrup; Maple Bacon Doughnuts: Fresh-made doughnuts topped with maple and bacon; Cerrillos Chilaquiles: Chorizo, salsa verde, queso fresco, eggs, avocado and cilantro sour cream; House Smoked Brisket Hash: Smoked brisket with potatoes and eggs.
Price: Most brunch entrées are about $18-$30. - Reservations: Available through OpenTable and recommended for busy weekend brunches.
- Outdoor dining: Yes.
- Address: 1451 Washington St., San Diego
Hash House A Go Go
- Neighborhood: Hillcrest
- Days: Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Why go? Come hungry. Hash House A Go Go is known for its enormous portions, creative twists on traditional breakfast dishes and the kind of plates that are often big enough to share.
What to order: Andy’s Sage Fried Chicken: The restaurant’s signature sage-seasoned fried chicken; Chorizo Hash: A hearty hash with chorizo, potatoes and eggs; HH Big O’ Pancakes: Oversized pancakes that are a Hash House signature; Johnny’s Famous B.L.T. Mary: A Bloody Mary topped with bacon, lettuce, tomato and toast. - Price: Most brunch entrées are about $17-$25.
- Reservations: Available online and recommended for busy weekends.
- Outdoor dining: Yes.
- Address: 3628 Fifth Ave., San Diego
Madi
- Neighborhood: Normal Heights
- Days: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Friday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Why go? A lively, colorful brunch with creative takes on breakfast classics and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Madi serves brunch seven days a week and has become a popular Adams Avenue destination for both sweet and savory dishes.
- What to order: Mediterranean Breakfast: Poached eggs, house hummus, grilled pita, avocado, pickled cabbage and cucumber salad; Madi Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes topped with whipped cream and seasonal toppings; Breakfast Sandwich: Eggs, bacon and greens served with crispy potatoes; Greek Fries: Crispy fries topped with cucumber, tomato, pickled onions, feta and herbs.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $15-$25.
- Reservations: Reservations are not required. A small number are accepted on weekends, with most seating reserved for walk-ins. Weekend groups are currently limited to eight people.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with patio seating.
- Address: 3737 Adams Ave., San Diego
Mister A's
- Neighborhood: Bankers Hill
- Days: Saturday, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday brunch includes live jazz.
- Why go? Brunch with sweeping views of downtown San Diego from the 12th floor. Mister A’s combines a more polished setting with an ambitious brunch menu, and Saturday brunch adds live jazz.
- What to order: Local Farm Eggs French Dip Benedict: Prime ribeye, fines herbes hollandaise, crispy onion and arugula on an artisan roll; Butter Poached Lobster Benedict: Croissant, spinach, trout roe and Old Bay hollandaise; Crème Brûlée French Toast: House brioche, mascarpone mousse, farmers market berries and granola; Cajun-Style Shrimp and Heirloom Grits: Crispy prosciutto, chili thread and white cheddar.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $23-$40, with Prime Steak & Local Eggs at $47.50.
- Reservations: Available through OpenTable and strongly recommended, particularly for Saturday jazz brunch.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, including an outdoor terrace.
- Downtown views: Yes, with sweeping city views from the 12th floor.
- Address: 2550 Fifth Ave., 12th Floor, San Diego
Parkhouse Eatery
- Neighborhood: University Heights
- Days: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Friday, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
- Why go? A neighborhood brunch tucked inside a converted house with three distinct dining areas and a landscaped garden patio.
- What to order: Lemon Ricotta Pancakes: Topped with house-made blueberry sauce and whipped butter; Blue Cornmeal Flapjacks: Served with whipped butter and syrup; Carnitas Stuffed Roasted Polenta Cake: Carnitas, smoked mozzarella, tomato, ranchero salsa and two eggs; Pan-Fried Linguini and Egg: Fresh basil, Roma tomatoes and feta served with grilled focaccia.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $15-$18.
- Reservations: Available online and recommended for weekend brunch.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with a landscaped garden patio.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, including the outdoor patio.
- Address: 4574 Park Blvd., San Diego
Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
- Neighborhood: Hillcrest
- Days: Monday-Friday, 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 6:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
- Why go? A lively brunch chain known for creative takes on breakfast classics, especially pancakes, French toast and Benedicts. The Hillcrest location also offers a broad menu of sweet and savory choices, plus brunch cocktails and specialty coffee.
- What to order: Pancake Flight: Choose three different pancake flavors; OMG! French Toast: Snooze’s signature French toast; Chilaquiles Benedict: A Mexican-inspired take on eggs Benedict; Habanero Pork Belly Breakfast Fried Rice: Jasmine-garlic rice, vegetables, pineapple, braised habanero pork belly, two crispy eggs and sriracha maple aioli.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $14-$20.
- Reservations: Walk-ins and the restaurant’s online waitlist are available.
- Outdoor dining: Yes.
- Address: 3940 Fifth Ave., San Diego
The Mission
- Neighborhood: North Park (also locations in East Village and Mission Beach)
- Days: Daily, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Why go? A longtime San Diego breakfast and brunch favorite known for its Chino-Latino approach to classic morning dishes.
- What to order: Mission Rosemary: Eggs, rosemary bread, and the restaurant’s signature breakfast potatoes; Mission Chilaquiles: Tortilla chips, eggs and house-made salsa with traditional toppings; Rancheros Verde: Eggs over medium, black beans, cheese, tomatoes, scallions, flour tortillas and roasted chile verde sauce; Lemon Curd Pancakes: Buttermilk pancakes topped with lemon curd, whipped cream and fresh lemon zest; Baked Banana Caramel French Toast (fresh bananas, caramel sauce, maple syrup, house-made whipped cream, and candied pecans).
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $19-$23.
- Reservations: They accept advance reservations for groups of 6 or more. Guests can email themissionsd@gmail.com with their preferred location, date and time, and number of guests.
- Outdoor dining: Yes at East Village and North Park; Mission Beach does not have outdoor seating.
- Dog friendly: All three locations are pet-friendly, with a special dog menu
- Address: 2801 University Ave., San Diego
The Rose Wine Bar
- Neighborhood: South Park
- Days: Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for brunch.
- Why go? A weekend brunch that combines creative food with a natural wine program in the heart of South Park. The sunny patio is particularly appealing for a leisurely brunch, with dishes that lean more savory than traditional breakfast fare.
- What to order: Carnitas Hash: A hearty hash with carnitas, potatoes and seasonal vegetables; Sourdough Donut: Fresh-baked from neighboring Secret Sister Bakery; Seasonal brunch dishes and pastries that change with the menu.
- Price: Most brunch dishes are about $15-$25.
- Reservations: Available online and recommended on busy weekends.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with a patio.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, on the outdoor patio.
- Address: 2219 30th St., San Diego
Trust
- Neighborhood: Hillcrest
- Days: Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Why go? A chef-driven brunch that brings Trust’s wood-fired cooking and bold flavors to the weekend menu. A good choice when you want familiar brunch dishes with more interesting ingredients and preparations.
- What to order: Ultimate Sticky Bun: Trust’s limited-per-day signature; Chilaquiles Rojos: Two eggs, crema, cotija, pinto beans, guacamole, pickled onions and cilantro; Pancakes & Fried Chicken: Garlic, chilies, honey-butter and syrup; Smoked Pork Shoulder Hash: Sunny-side egg, Fresno chiles, black bean and radish salsa, ‘nduja mayo and cilantro.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $18-$24.
- Reservations: Available through OpenTable and recommended for weekend brunch.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with patio seating.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, on the patio.
- Address: 3752 Park Blvd., San Diego
Best Brunch San Diego: Beach & Waterfront
Kono's Cafe
- Neighborhood: Pacific Beach
- Days: Daily, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Why go? A San Diego beach-breakfast classic at the base of Crystal Pier, known for big portions, breakfast burritos, and a casual surf-town atmosphere. There is also outdoor seating where you can catch views of the Pacific.
- What to order: Egg Burrito: One of Kono’s signature breakfast orders; Big Breakfast #2: A hearty combination of eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes and toast; Pancakes with Bacon & Scrambled Eggs; Kono Potatoes: The restaurant’s popular breakfast potatoes.
- Price: Most breakfast entrées are about $10-$20.
- Reservations: Not accepted. Order at the counter and find a seat.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, including an oceanfront outdoor seating area.
- Ocean view: Yes, with outdoor seating overlooking the Pacific and Crystal Pier.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, in outdoor seating areas.
- Address: 704 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach
Little Lion Cafe
- Neighborhood: Ocean Beach
- Days: Monday, Wednesday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, extended evening hours. Tuesday closed.
- Why go? A small, charming cafe near Sunset Cliffs serving Belgian-inspired brunch with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Its fermented Belgian waffle is a signature, while the cozy patio makes it a particularly nice choice before or after a walk along the cliffs.
- What to order: Belgian Waffle: Light and crisp with an overnight-fermented batter; Eggs Benedict: A rotating selection of Benedict preparations; Sun-Dried Tomato Frittata: Goat cheese, pesto, caramelized onions and arugula; Seasonal brunch bowls and salads.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $16-$25.
- Reservations: Reservations are available, particularly for dinner, but the small dining room often operates on a walk-in basis for brunch.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with patio seating.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, on the outdoor patio.
- Address: 1424 Sunset Cliffs Blvd., San Diego
OB Surf LOdge
- Neighborhood: Ocean Beach
- Days: Monday-Wednesday, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; Thursday-Sunday, 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
- Why go? A laid-back Ocean Beach brunch with a big patio, ocean views and a menu built around hearty breakfast favorites. The surf-inspired setting, dog-friendly atmosphere and extensive brunch menu make it an easy choice for a casual beach morning.
- What to order: Brie Stuffed French Toast: Brioche, Brie, blueberry jam, seasonal fruit, almonds and powdered sugar; Chicken & Waffles: Belgian waffles with spiced maple fried chicken; Pesto Baked Eggs: Eggs, spinach, tomatoes, basil pesto, Parmesan and sourdough; Crab & Bacon Benny: Crab cakes, bacon, ancho hollandaise, sourdough and breakfast potatoes.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are about $14-$25.
- Reservations: Available through OpenTable and by phone; reservations are recommended for busy weekend brunches.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with a large patio.
- Ocean view: Yes, with views toward the beach and ocean.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, including a dog menu.
- Address: 5083 Santa Monica Ave., Suite 1F, San Diego
Rumorosa
- Neighborhood: Harbor Island
- Days: Weekend brunch Saturday-Sunday, 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; breakfast is served daily, 6:30-11 a.m.
- Why go? A waterfront brunch at the Sheraton San Diego Resort with Cali-Baja flavors, marina views and a weekend brunch buffet. The setting makes it a good choice when the view and a leisurely resort-style brunch are part of the plan.
- What to order: Weekend Brunch Buffet: A broad selection with made-to-order options including an omelet station; Seasonal Cali-Baja dishes; Fresh seafood and Mexican-inspired breakfast selections; Rotating pastries and desserts.
- Price: Weekend brunch is served as a buffet; pricing varies, so check the current reservation page before visiting.
- Reservations: Available through OpenTable and recommended for weekend brunch.
- Outdoor dining: Yes.
Waterfront view: Yes, with views of the marina and San Diego Bay. - Parking: Two hours of complimentary parking with a dining reservation.
- Address: 1380 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego
Tom Ham's Lighthouse
- Neighborhood: Harbor Island
- Days: Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-2:40 p.m. for brunch; last seating is at 1:45 p.m. or when the restaurant is full.
- Why go? Sunday brunch comes with panoramic views of San Diego Bay from this longtime Harbor Island landmark. Tom Ham’s focuses on fresh seafood and California-inspired dishes, making this one of the city’s more scenic waterfront brunch choices.
- What to order: Their seafood brunch includes a raw bar (Maine lobster claws, oysters on the half shell, salads, breakfast items (omelet station, French toast), lunch dishes (beer braised short rib hash, seared yellowtail) and dessert.
- Price: Adults $78; children 5-11 $30; under 5 free.
- Reservations: Available online and strongly recommended for Sunday brunch.
- Outdoor dining: Yes.
- Waterfront view: Yes, with panoramic views of San Diego Bay.
- Free parking: Yes, with self-parking directly in front of the restaurant.
- Address: 2150 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego
Best Brunch San Diego: Coronado
Little Frenchie
- Neighborhood: Coronado
- Days: Daily, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Why go? This Parisian-style French bistro brings French pastries, Provençal-inspired dishes and plenty of cheese to Coronado brunch. It is also known for its tableside hot chocolate and croissant experience, plus rotating cronuts and cruffins.
- What to order: Croissant Benedict with Parisian ham and hollandaise; Le Burger with Wagyu beef and raclette; rotating cronut or cruffin; hot chocolate and croissant.
- Price: Most brunch entrées are $20-$30.
- Reservations: Reservations are recommended. Walk-ins are welcome when space is available.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, patio seating.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, outdoor dining.
- Address: 1166 Orange Ave., Coronado
Best Brunch San Diego: North County
Atelier Manna
- Neighborhood: Leucadia/Encinitas
- Days: Wednesday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Why go? This intimate chef-driven restaurant turns brunch into a more creative dining experience, with seasonal ingredients, globally inspired flavors and an impressive selection of zero-proof vitality tonics. The menu changes frequently, so there is usually something new to try.
- What to order: Çılbır Turkish Eggs with herbed yogurt and chili garlic butter; Torrija Spanish-style French Toast; Breakfast Sandwich; Pistachio Bread Pudding.
- Price: Most brunch dishes are $13-$32, with the Steak & Tortilla at $42.
- Reservations: Reservations are available online and recommended.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, with a patio/courtyard-focused setting.
- Address: 1076 N. Coast Hwy 101, Suite 101, Encinitas
Nómada
- Neighborhood: La Costa/Carlsbad
- Days: Saturday-Sunday for brunch, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Why go? Nómada brings a Mexican brunch with a Sinaloan influence to Carlsbad, with dishes built around bold flavors, seafood, handmade tortillas and wood-fired cooking. The weekend brunch menu mixes familiar breakfast favorites with Mexican flavors.
- What to order: Breakfast Bowl; Breakfast Burro; Huevos Ahogadas with pasture-raised eggs, tomato salsa, queso fresco and rice; Cajeta Pancakes with seasonal berries and shaved Mexican chocolate.
- Price: Most brunch dishes are $16-$23.
- Reservations: Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch. Walk-ins are welcome.
- Outdoor dining: Yes, including an outdoor patio.
- Address: 6996 El Camino Real, Carlsbad
Wildland
- Neighborhood: Carlsbad Village
- Days: Daily, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. for breakfast
- Why go? From the team behind Jeune et Jolie and Campfire, Wildland is an all-day restaurant and bakery with a California-meets-Mediterranean approach.
- What to order: French Toast with whipped mascarpone, cardamom, blueberry and pistachio; Smoked Salmon Tartine; Breakfast Sandwich with fennel sausage and charred egg; Steak & Eggs.
- Price: Breakfast dishes are $9-$25.
Reservations: Breakfast is counter service and walk-in friendly. - Outdoor dining: Yes, with a large patio.
- Dog-friendly: Yes, outdoor patio.
Address: 2598 State St., Carlsbad
Best San Diego Brunch in South Bay & East County
Sunday Breakfast Society
- Neighborhood: San Miguel Ranch/Chula Vista
- Days: Daily, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Why go? This colorful Chula Vista brunch restaurant puts a Mexican spin on breakfast with birria, chilaquiles, breakfast tacos and plenty of fun sweet options. The pink-and-gold dining room also makes it a popular choice for birthdays, girls’ brunches and photo-worthy mornings.
- What to order: Birriaquiles with crispy chips, birria and salsa; Breakfast Tacos with birria and Monterey Jack; French Toast with berries; Sunday Cereal, made with mini pancakes.
- Price: Most brunch dishes are $15-$19.
- Reservations: Recommended during busy brunch periods.
- Outdoor dining: Yes.
- Address: 2322 Proctor Valley Road, Suite 130, Chula Vista
FAQ's
What are the best brunch restaurants in San Diego?
San Diego has brunch restaurants across the county, from popular favorites like Morning Glory, Great Maple, The Mission and Cocina 35 to waterfront options such as Tom Ham’s Lighthouse and Rumorosa. The best choice depends on the neighborhood, menu and type of brunch you’re looking for.
Where can I find the best brunch in San Diego with ocean or waterfront views?
For brunch with ocean or waterfront views, options include Brockton Villa, Caroline’s Seaside Cafe, Cody’s La Jolla, Kono’s Cafe, OB Surf Lodge, Rumorosa and Tom Ham’s Lighthouse. These restaurants offer different experiences, from casual beach breakfasts to more polished waterfront brunches.
What are the best brunch restaurants in North County San Diego?
Some notable North County brunch options include Atelier Manna in Encinitas, Nómada in Carlsbad and Wildland in Carlsbad. Each offers a different style, from chef-driven seasonal dishes to Mexican-inspired brunch and California-Mediterranean cooking.
Do San Diego brunch restaurants take reservations?
Reservation policies vary by restaurant. Many popular San Diego brunch restaurants accept reservations, while others are primarily walk-in or use an online waitlist. It is a good idea to check the restaurant’s current policy before heading out, particularly on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
What day is best for brunch in San Diego?
Saturday and Sunday are the most common days for traditional brunch service in San Diego, although some restaurants serve brunch or breakfast every day. Weekend brunch hours vary considerably, so check the individual restaurant listing for current days and times before visiting.
