Last updated: 2025-04-07
San Clemente’s brunch scene blends coastal charm with culinary excellence. From The Cellar’s intimate downtown setting to J’Adore Cafe’s French-inspired fare, this Spanish Village by the Sea serves up morning delights that match its laid-back surf town atmosphere.
Local favorites like Chaupain Bakery and Moulin bring authentic European flair to T-Street and North Beach areas, while nearby spots like Shorebird and Jolie add upscale options for Orange County brunch enthusiasts.
Discover South OC’s finest brunch spots below!
Featured Brunch Spots in San Clemente
- Shorebird (Newport Beach)
- Jolie (Huntington Beach)
- Zinqué (Newport Beach)
- Wind & Sea Restaurant (Dana Point)
- Rancho Capistrano Winery
- Brussels Bistro
- Moulin
- The Cellar
- Chaupain Bakery
- J'Adore Cafe
Brussels Bistro
What to Expect
Authentic Belgian culinary experience by classically trained European chef
Description
Brussels Bistro brings authentic Belgian cuisine to Southern California, specializing in traditional European comfort food. Chef Thomas Crijns crafts an immersive dining experience with signature dishes like Belgian mussels, crispy pommes frites, and classic Belgian waffles. The restaurant offers a cozy, elegant atmosphere that transports guests directly to Belgium, featuring warm European hospitality and meticulously prepared continental cuisine.
Where: San Clemente | More Info: Brussels Bistro
Chaupain Bakery
What to Expect
Authentic French bakery with multiple Orange County locations
Description
French-inspired artisan bakery bringing authentic European pastry craftsmanship to Orange County. Specializing in handcrafted croissants, delicate French pastries, and fresh-baked breads across four locations. Their San Clemente spot offers a charming European-style bakery experience with meticulously prepared morning classics like buttery pain au chocolat and perfectly laminated croissants.
Where: San Clemente | More Info: Chaupain Bakery
J'Adore Cafe
What to Expect
Unverified local cafe
Description
unknown item
Where: San Clemente | More Info: J'Adore Cafe
Jolie (Huntington Beach)
What to Expect
Rooftop brunch with panoramic coastal views
Description
Rooftop brunch destination in Huntington Beach featuring California-inspired cuisine with inventive twists. Standout dishes include Hot Honey Chicken & Pancakes with cinnamon swirl pancakes and Shrimp & Grits with cheddar grits and etoufee sauce. The menu blends classic breakfast favorites with creative interpretations, offering everything from Eggs Benedict to Chilaquiles, complemented by a vibrant rooftop atmosphere.
Where: Huntington Beach | More Info: Jolie
Moulin
What to Expect
Authentic French bakery with traditional artisan baking techniques
Description
Authentic French bakery and café bringing Parisian culinary traditions to San Clemente. Specializing in handmade pastries, fresh-baked breads, and classic French breakfast offerings. Their artisan approach means early morning preparations to deliver exquisite croissants, pain au chocolat, and savory quiches that transport diners straight to a Parisian street corner. A true taste of France with meticulous attention to traditional baking methods.
Where: San Clemente | More Info: Moulin
Rancho Capistrano Winery
What to Expect
Orange County's largest winery with multiple scenic locations
Description
Southern California's award-winning winery offering California wine cuisine across three locations in San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, and Ladera Ranch. Features a stunning 3000 sq ft patio, pet-friendly outdoor spaces, and multiple Best of San Juan Awards. Specializes in crafting memorable wine experiences with expertly curated tastings and a robust wine club membership.
Where: San Clemente | More Info: Rancho Capistrano Winery
Shorebird (Newport Beach)
What to Expect
Wood-fire grill and rotisserie coastal brunch concept
Description
Shorebird offers a sophisticated coastal brunch experience in Newport Beach, featuring chef-crafted dishes that blend classic Americana with seafood influences. Weekend brunch highlights include wood-fired specialties like Duroc Heritage Pork Chop and Faroe Island's Salmon Mignon. Their menu showcases innovative shareable plates such as crispy Avocado Fries with green goddess dressing, promising a dynamic culinary journey through fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Where: Newport Beach | More Info: Shorebird
The Cellar
What to Expect
Artisanal cheese-focused weekend brunch with wine bar ambiance
Description
The Cellar offers a sophisticated San Clemente brunch experience featuring artisanal cheese selections and a unique wine bar atmosphere. Weekend brunch spans Saturday and Sunday from 10-3PM, with an all-day brunch/lunch menu Tuesday through Friday. Specializing in domestic farmhouse and international cheese varieties, this venue combines gourmet dining with a curated wine and music experience.
Where: San Clemente | More Info: The Cellar
Wind & Sea Restaurant (Dana Point)
What to Expect
180-degree Dana Point Harbor waterfront dining experience
Description
Wind & Sea Restaurant offers Pacific Rim fusion cuisine with spectacular Dana Point Harbor views. Specializing in fresh seafood, the restaurant features up to 10 daily catch selections, including their signature macadamia nut-crusted mahi mahi. Guests can enjoy waterfront dining with panoramic harbor perspectives, an expansive outdoor patio, and a renowned cocktail menu highlighted by their famous Mai Tai.
Where: Dana Point | More Info: Wind & Sea Restaurant
Zinqué (Newport Beach)
What to Expect
Paris-inspired zinc bar concept with all-day dining experience
Description
Zinqué offers a French-inspired all-day dining experience in Newport Beach, specializing in small plates, craft cocktails, and a curated wine selection. Their signature Le Bowl highlights the lunch menu, while the space transforms from a European-style café in the morning to a vibrant evening dining destination with live music and community events.
Where: Newport Beach | More Info: Zinqué
Your Ultimate Guide
Dive deeper with our comprehensive guide, packed with tips, insights, and everything you need to know.