Last updated: 2025-03-26
From the Instagram-famous Morning Glory in Little Italy to the laid-back vibes of The Mission in North Park, San Diego’s brunch scene perfectly matches the city’s sun-soaked lifestyle. Local favorites like Breakfast Republic and Cafe 21 serve up creative twists on classic morning fare.
Pacific Beach brunchers flock to California English for coastal-inspired plates, while Sorrento Valley tech workers start their day at Gravity Heights’ spacious patio. Between the Congress Cafe’s Barrio Logan charm and Richard Walker’s famous Dutch babies, SD’s brunch options span every neighborhood.
Discover SoCal’s finest breakfast spots below!
Featured Brunch Spots in San Diego
- Morning Glory
- California English
- Gravity Heights Sorrento Valley
- Cafe 21
- Breakfast Republic
- Richard Walker's Pancake House
- insideOUT
- The Mission
- Keema Café
- The Congress Cafe
Casual Dining in San Diego
Breakfast Republic
What to Expect
Creative Brunch Twists
Description
Breakfast Republic offers a vibrant brunch experience with a diverse menu featuring vegan eggs Benedict, breakfast burritos, and unique dishes like shrimp and grits. The atmosphere is lively, with outdoor seating and a wide selection of specialty drinks. It is particularly noted for its creative twists on classic breakfast items, making it a standout for brunch enthusiasts.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Breakfast Republic
Cafe 21
What to Expect
Innovative Brunch Creations
Description
Cafe 21 offers a vibrant New American brunch experience with a diverse menu featuring unique dishes like eggs benedict with saffron cream sauce and stuffed French toast. The restaurant is known for its creative twists on classic brunch items and a welcoming atmosphere. It is particularly noted for its innovative dishes and attention to detail, making it a standout brunch destination.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Cafe 21
California English
What to Expect
British-New American fusion cuisine
Description
California English offers a unique blend of British and New American cuisine, featuring dishes like the Hot Scotch Egg and Triple Cooked Chips. The restaurant provides a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor seating and a veranda bar, making it ideal for brunch. Its menu combines California's fresh produce with global influences, offering a variety of options for a leisurely meal.
Where: San Diego | More Info: California English
Gravity Heights Sorrento Valley
What to Expect
Sustainable Brewpub with Patio Dining
Description
Gravity Heights Sorrento Valley offers a vibrant dining experience with a diverse menu featuring vegan and vegetarian options. Known for its weekend brunch, the restaurant serves dishes like lemon meringue pancakes and wild mushroom pizzas. The atmosphere is welcoming, with a spacious patio and dog-friendly policy, making it ideal for groups and families. The commitment to sustainability is evident through plastic-free packaging and reusable tableware.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Gravity Heights Sorrento Valley
insideOUT
What to Expect
Expansive outdoor patio dining
Description
insideOUT offers a unique dining experience with its California-Mediterranean brunch fare, featuring dishes like Lemon Avocado Toast and Steak & Eggs Sandwich. The restaurant boasts an expansive outdoor patio surrounded by the Eitol Towers, providing a serene atmosphere amidst urban surroundings. It is particularly noted for its creative approach to brunch, blending fresh local ingredients with Mediterranean inspiration.
Where: San Diego | More Info: insideOUT
Keema Café
What to Expect
Diverse Brunch Menu Options
Description
Keema Café offers a diverse brunch menu featuring items like egg breakfast sandwiches, pastrami sandwiches, and Mexican molletes. It combines a relaxed atmosphere with a variety of coffee, juices, and smoothies, making it a great spot for casual dining.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Keema Café
Morning Glory
What to Expect
Stylish Global Brunch Menu
Description
Morning Glory is a stylish brunch spot in Little Italy, San Diego, offering a globally inspired menu featuring soufflé pancakes, Georgian Khachapuri, and Breakfast Carbonara. The restaurant's vibrant decor, designed by Bastile Studio, includes pink hues and unique fixtures. It is particularly noted for its lively atmosphere and creative dishes, making it a standout for brunch enthusiasts.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Morning Glory
Richard Walker's Pancake House
What to Expect
Signature Baked Pancakes
Description
Richard Walker's Pancake House offers a diverse brunch menu featuring over 20 varieties of pancakes, including signature baked options like the Apple Pancake and German Pancake. The restaurant also serves crepes, omelets, and egg dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Known for its upscale modern décor and bustling atmosphere, it is a popular spot for families and those seeking a gourmet breakfast experience.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Richard Walker's Pancake House
The Congress Cafe
What to Expect
Retro-themed outdoor patio
Description
The Congress Cafe is a casual eatery in Old Town San Diego, specializing in breakfast and brunch. It offers an extensive coffee selection, including a signature Mexican Spiced Mocha, along with traditional Mexican breakfasts and SoCal favorites like burgers and salads. The cafe features a retro vibe with a cozy outdoor patio perfect for dining or working. It provides amenities such as free Wi-Fi, bike parking, and delivery options.
Where: San Diego | More Info: The Congress Cafe
The Mission
What to Expect
Chino-Latino Brunch Options
Description
The Mission in San Diego offers a vibrant brunch experience with a blend of classic American and modern Chino-Latino cuisine. Known for its artful presentation and use of fresh ingredients, this urban bistro provides a dynamic atmosphere with local artwork and large windows. Popular dishes include the Mission Rosemary and Papas Loco, while their fresh handmade breads add a unique touch to many meals. It is particularly noted for its creative brunch options and welcoming setting.
Where: San Diego | More Info: The Mission
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