Best Brunch Spots in San Diego

By Bryan Kittman | November 8, 2019

Open patios, flowing mimosas, and delicious food. Simply put, brunch is the best. If you’re a fellow brunch warrior like me, you have to check out these incredible spots around San Diego. 

International Smoke – Del Mar 

This high-profile eatery features a killer brunch every weekend from 10 am to 2:30 pm. They are known for serving up some pretty spectacular BBQ, along with a solid selection of the usual egg-based dishes for any adequate brunch. Of course, drink deals are also on point, with everything from punch bowls to $25 bottomless rose. 

Cafe 21 – Gaslamp

When the lines to get in are always out the door, you know this a solid brunch spot. Cafe 21 is a top destination for all your brunching needs, offering trendy drinks like a colorful sangria or mimosa flights. Their menu features a nice balance of sweet and savory, including cast-iron skillet omelets, banana pancakes, and exquisite crepes. 

Candor – La Jolla 

Weekend brunch is from 9 am to 3 pm at this trendy La Jolla bistro. Expect seasonally fresh ingredients in dishes that showcase the coastal flavors of San Diego. The Scottish Smoked Salmon & Egg Scramble is perfectly light and delicious, while their Olive Oil Smashed Avocado Toast is a great brunch snack. 

North Park Breakfast Company – North Park 

An offshoot of the San Diego staple, Breakfast Republic, you don’t have to look hard at the menu to know they do brunch the right way. Where they really shine is the specialty menu, with dishes like a Chilaquiles Suizos or a Fried Rice Benedict putting a unique flair on standard brunch fare. You can also grab a glass of their Nitro Cold Brew on tap for a nice morning jolt.

Morning Glory – Little Italy 

Perhaps the most dynamic brunch spot in San Diego, Morning Glory is a refreshing change of perspective on what constitutes a brunch menu. Take your pick from options like German Pancakes, Omelet Sando, or Shakshuka, a traditional Middle Eastern dish with baked eggs and toast. 

Farmer’s Table – La Mesa, Little Italy, Bay Park

As you’d expect, farm-fresh ingredients supply the foundation of each dish here. You can find a variety of dependable brunch options, but you might want to go with the Strawberry Banana Nutella Waffle or the savory Smoked Salmon Frittata. 

Fort Oak – Mission Hills 

Get ready for some seriously Instagram worthy dishes at For Oak for your next brunch outing. Their menu includes a variety of shareable options like Chicken fried quail with French Toast or a juicy 8oz Australian Wagyu with eggs and toast. Order up one of their craft cocktails, and you’re in for a good time. 

JRDN – Pacific Beach 

Pacific Beach is the quintessential location for all your brunch needs, and JRDN is a great spot to check out. Mimosas are a must for any brunch outing, and at JRDN, you can create your very own. Pair it with the Short Rib Hash, served with pepper jack fondue and crispy onions. 

STK San Diego – East Village 

Known for being an upscale steakhouse, STK also has a pretty awesome brunch deal featuring bottomless mimosas and sangria at just $20 for two hours with a purchase of an entree. Not too shabby. The Donut Platters are a sweet delight, while the Crab Cake Benedict is a heartier fare. 

KINDRED – South Park 

One of the coolest looking restaurants in San Diego has a spectacular brunch menu. Start your meal off with the Buttermilk Biscuits served with Rosemary Rice Nectar Butter. Then, move on to the French Toast, topped with banana nutmeg custard and blackberries. 

Great Maple – Hillcrest 

Where modern brunch fare meets healthy. Great Maple is the place to go if you want to enjoy a nice brunch without breaking the calorie bank. They serve a variety of vegan and gluten-free options, in addition to yummy salads and quirky dishes. And yes, Maple is one of the driving ingredients of every menu item.

Snooze – Del Mar, Hillcrest, La Jolla

Eclectic 60s vibes meets modern brunch at Snooze. Their menu features seasonal-inspired grub, with sweet options like their OMG French Toast, or more savory like the Smashed Avocado Benny. 

Parkhouse Eatery – University Heights

Featuring a charming, rustic vibe, Parkhouse Eatery is a local favorite for brunch. Grab a table on the expansive patio, and make your way through their vibrant menu. Unique options include the Churro Pancake or the Grilled Breakfast Pizza, baked with three eggs and apple-smoked bacon. 

Café Gratitude – Little Italy 

Serving up 100% organic, plant-based dishes, Café Gratitude is a bright and inviting spot to visit. They have a nice selection of pressed juices, smoothies, and kombucha, and foods include hearty and healthy options. 

Herb & Wood – Little Italy 

Forget all of the tried-out brunch dishes when you visit Herb & Wood. Gourmet meets brunch fare with their Dungeness Crab Frittata, a delicious egg concoction with a citrus creme fraiche. Of course, their cocktails are sublime as well, so be sure to indulge.