Wherever you find yourself in California, the best way to start the day is with a hearty breakfast. Throughout California, you’ll find everything from traditional diners to creative ways to fuel your day. Check out some of the old-school diners and trendy hotspots to grab the most important meal of the day.
The Pantry is a Los Angeles legend located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. Be prepared to wait as the historic diner has a perpetual line around the block at almost any hour of the day. Supersized pancakes, French toast and other traditional American dishes all make an appearance on the menu.
Mrs. Olson’s Coffee Hut is located in Oxnard’s harbor, just across the way from its original location on the beach. Military personnel frequently drop in for a taste of the vast menu, which has large portions and everything from traditional breakfast dishes to creative versions of eggs and things. Take a stroll around the harbor and be prepared to take home leftovers as the plates are more than generous.
Anzu is a Japanese-influenced restaurant in one of San Francisco’s trendier hotels. The breakfast is unique because it includes a smattering of Japanese tastes along with its buffet options.
Harry’s Coffee Shop is an unexpected hidden gem in La Jolla, which is filled with beachside pomp and circumstance. Harry’s offers a causal and laidback vibe with old school décor and a menu that incorporates South of the Border items as well as classic American dishes.
If you head to Armon’s, be prepared to wait as locals tend to flock to the spot day or night. Breakfasts are enriched with a jar of homemade salsa on every table and service is fast and fierce. There are also a few Thai dishes and other unexpected items on the menu should you want to skip the eggs and pancakes.
The Mission in San Diego has been named as one of the top 25 breakfast spots in the country, thanks to creative updates and healthier takes on breakfast classics. Soy sausages, tofu scrambles and fruit topped pancakes can be enjoyed at any of The Mission’s San Diego locations.
With four locations in the San Diego area, you can find a taste of decadence at any Breakfast Republic. Gourmet updates and tasty twists can be found in dishes like Oreo pancakes or a shrimp and ricotta frittata. The drink menu is just as extensive and includes a selection of breakfast cocktails, lavish lattes and beers.
Sqirl is the trendiest breakfast spot around and may be solely responsible for things on toast, like the now classic avocado or thickly sliced homemade bread topped with ricotta and jam. As a breakfast joint or bakery, Sqirl is definitely a destination type of place.
The historic Buena Vista is the hallowed birthplace of Irish Coffee, but you can also find food to go with your morning indulgence. Located in Fisherman’s Wharf, The Buena Vista is a tourist destination for a reason: really good food and really great additions to coffee.