Breakfast is, without a doubt, the most important meal of the day. It’s not just hype and it’s not just an old wive’s tale. Everyone has different breakfast tastes. Personally, I hated breakfast until about a year and a half ago. I used to just get lunch or dinner for breakfast. Then I was enlightened to some of the best breakfast in San Diego. Being a place of diversity and just all-around uniqueness, San Diego has quite a few restaurants dedicated to the art of breakfast and I am going to help you find the best spots to grab this special meal.
Please note that due to the current health requirements, some of the restaurants mentioned below have changed their menu, opening hours, or service options. Also, as most restaurants operate with reduced seating, I recommend making reservations in advance. We try to keep this list as updated as possible.
Best Breakfast in San Diego
Also read:
Best Brunch in La Jolla
Best Brunch in San Diego
Aesthetics and Flavor in San Diego
PB Shore Club
Address: 4343 Ocean Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: (858) 272-7873
Read About Them and Check-Out their Menu Here
$$ | Bar | Local Spot
PB Shore Club Breakfast Display
PB Shore Club is a bar but man do they serve up some amazing breakfast dishes. Not only do you have beautiful views throughout the entire restaurant, but you’ll also be provided with wonderful service. Their menu combines the taste of the sea with classics and a dash of Mexican flair.
The breakfast menu is especially boasted about but none more than their Chorizo Breakfast Plate. It’s basically a delicious personalized build-your-own breakfast taco plate. If chorizo isn’t your thing, no worries, they have plenty of other stellar breakfast plates to choose from. You’ll lose track of time when you sit down for a meal here.
Tags: great views, awesome cocktails, great service, vegetarian-friendly, family-friendly, fun with friends, instagrammable
Open For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cafe Topes
Address: 3091 Roosevelt St, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Phone: (760) 434-8673
Take a Look at Their Menu Here
$$ | Cafe | Local Favorite
Voted the best breakfast in Carlsbad, Cafe Topes brags of a wide variety of options to suit anyone’s cravings. They have over 5 options of Eggs Benedict and an absolute flurry of other aesthetically and taste bud pleasing. The cozy modern style gives people an alternative feeling while they dine.
The coffee is especially delicious according to countless guests. But the standout, for me, is that while they have a very clean and beautiful aesthetic, they have fun breakfast plates like Oreo pancakes and create-your-own omelet. It’s a very cute spot.
Tags: outside seating, great cocktails, delicious breakfast, vegetarian-friendly, scrumptious pastries, vegan-friendly, instagrammable
Open For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
Cafe Madeleine
Address: 2248 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
Phone: (619) 544-1735
Plan A Cafe Madeleine Party Here
$$ | French Cafe
Fresh Croissants and Coffee
Voted the number 1 French cafe and restaurant in San Diego, Cafe Madeleine is expected to serve the best tasting and looking food around. Man, do they deliver.
Their menu is inspired by classic French dishes while their decor is inspired by the streets of Paris with their art nouveau style. You’ll surely be transported to Paris while you sit there savoring the expertly made crepes and paninis.
Tags: vegetarian-friendly, coffee lovers, crepes, pescatarian-friendly, coffee dates, fun with friends, outdoor seating, instagrammable
Open For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning Glory
Address: 550 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 629-0302
Check Out Their Menu Here
$$ | Innovative Classics
Overlook the city as you munch on some breakfast classics at Morning Glory. Fair warning, there will most likely be a wait but it is worth it. Their menu consists of some classic breakfast items from around the world that are done in a really innovative way. It’s very lively so don’t go if you want a silent breakfast.
It’s friendly, innovative, and refreshing, I am looking forward to going. Because there’s a wait, I recommend putting your name down and exploring a few shops along India Street while you wait. There are some neat markets in the area.
Tags: classic breakfast, excellent food, great service, friendly environment, great cocktails
Open For: Breakfast, Lunch
Classically Good San Diego Breakfast
Provisional Kitchen
Address: 425 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 738-7300
Set Up Your Reservations Here
$$$$ | Cafe | Hotel Restaurant
Everyone needs a few spots where they feel like royalty as they dine. The Provisional Kitchen is one of those places. Located in the Pendry, the open kitchen gives a sense of refinement and confidence on the restaurant’s part.
You can watch the car speed by as you sip a specialty coffee or mimosa and are waited on by the attentive friendly employees. They offer a strictly vegan menu or you can pick off their regular menu. Each item is a classic part of breakfast but they do it in an elegant way. Feel posh and proud of it at the Provisional Kitchen.
Tags: elevated food, great service, beautiful venue, big events welcome, healthy options, vegetarian-friendly, fresh pastry, vegan-friendly
Open For: Breakfast, Brunch, Dinner
Cody’s La Jolla
Address: 1025 Prospect St #210, La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: (858) 459-0040
Check Out Their Menu Here
$$ | American Restaurant
This place gives great meaning to a classic American breakfast. The beautiful plates filled with a heaping serving of food will make your mouth water. It can get busy since it’s not a secret that this place is the bomb. But above all else, you must try the Chilaquiles. It’s the most popular item on their breakfast menu (which is available all day). The friendly staff, beautiful views, relaxing atmosphere, and comfort food will have you come back again for more.
Tags: great beer selection, great service, wonderful view, vegetarian-friendly, comfort food
Open For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Brian’s 24
Address: 828 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 702-8410
Browse Their Menu Here
$$ | 24 Hour | Bar & Grill
If you’d like a lively and friendly atmosphere as your breakfast side then you should visit Brian’s 24. Their big restaurant and even bigger portions will have you bringing that delicious food home or sharing it family style.
This spot was started by a father-son foodie duo then passed onto another couple of foodies a little while later. New owners didn’t mean a drastic change for this Downtown spot. The food is still as great as always and the service is still awesome.
Tags: excellent service, vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, innovative menu, great venue
Open For: Everything
Harry’s Coffee Shop
Address: 7545 Girard Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: (858) 454-7381
Take A Glance At Their Menu Here
$$ | Coffee Shop | Hole in the Wall
Breakfast Spread 
Hot Chocolate
Coffee is a very important element in starting the day so what’s better than featuring a neat coffee shop/diner? Featuring the oldest and neatest coffee shop/diner in La Jolla.
La Jolla is known to be a little posh but Harry’s Coffee Shop keeps it humble and delicious with a simple menu that’s executed beautifully. They’ve been around since the 1960s and boy have they maintained a comfortable atmosphere with knowledgeable employees and reliably delicious food.
Tags: family-owned, comfy atmosphere, comfort food, vegetarian-friendly, great service
Open For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
Hob Nob Hill
Address: 2271 1st Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 239-8176
For More Information Check Their Site Here
$$ | Breakfast Place | Historic Spot
I’m an absolute sucker for a place that serves breakfast all-day because breakfast food is always superb. Hob Nob Hill is more than just that. Guests rave about their food and the kind staff members.
There’s not usually a wait to get a table. Once you’re seating there’s an air of comfort and class from the food to the decor. It’s a lovely spot to grab a quiet breakfast before wandering around the city. Since 1944, Hob Nob has been serving classic American breakfast and comfort food. I don’t think they have any reason to stop.
Tags: great service, comfort food, family-friendly, delicious cocktails, vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options
Open For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Unique San Diego Breakfast
Cafe 222
Address: 222 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 236-9902
Browse Their Site Here
$$ | Breakfast Restaurant
Cafe 222 started in 1992 when the owner took her earnings from a screenplay to make her dreams come true. She turned the building into a cozy classic dinner that serves some pretty amazing food.
The cafe has been named the best breakfast in San Diego among other things. Even Booby Flay raves about the food they serve. But nothing is more popular than their fluffy, moist pumpkin waffles that are said to taste like pumpkin pie. It’s not just a fall thing either, you can get them year-round!
Tags: excellent service, delicious food, good atmosphere, vegetarian-friendly,
Open For: Breakfast, Brunch
Cafe 21
Address: 802 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 795-0721
Make Your Reservations Here
$$ | Rustic California
Committed to changing the way people think about food, Cafe 21 has created an interesting breakfast menu featuring something that everyone can eat. The fresh ingredients and innovative dish ideas keep them interesting.
The favorite on the menu is the braised short rib cast iron omelet, it’s flavorful and well cooked. People rave about it in articles, reviews, and posts. Definitely worth a try along with many of their other internationally inspired dishes.
Tags: fresh ingredients, vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options, innovative menu, instagrammable
Open For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fig Tree Cafe
Address: 5119 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: (858) 274-2233
Check Their Menu Here
$$ | California Restaurant
Breakfast Sushi 
Turkey Club Sandwich
This beautiful spot is located in a Pacific Beach cottage surrounded by a garden and a dog-friendly patio. Fig Tree Cafe is dedicated to providing an inventive meal in a genuine comfortable fashion. It takes on a rustic look while their food continues to evolve.
Their menu is so extensive that it includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Feel free to bring your dogs too cause they get their very own menu! You and your furry friend can experience the fresh ingredients. The most interesting amongst them is breakfast sushi. Just like it sounds, they’ve created beautifully crafted sushi out of breakfast items. It’s intriguing enough to try.
Tags: outside seating, good atmosphere, excellent service, innovative menu, vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, dog-friendly
Open For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
The Cottage
Address: 7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: (858) 454-8409
Make Sure They’ve Got Your Craving Here
$$ | California Breakfast
Eggs Benedict 
Hash Dish
They didn’t start as a super hyped up place but The Cottage has gained quite a following over years for a few reasons. First and foremost, they have an amazing breakfast menu. The most popular being their Mexicali Benedict which takes the local flavors and puts them in by far one of the best breakfast items around. Their other items are also delicious and made with fresh ingredients.
The ambiance and atmosphere are cute and calming adding to the overall greatness that is The Cottage. Lastly, the employees are so friendly and knowledgeable. They’ll answer every question you have even if there are 100 questions to ask. It’s in La Jolla as well so feel free to walk around before and/or after your meal.
Tags: cozy, innovative menu, great atmosphere, excellent service, friendly environment, pescatarian-friendly, vegetarian-friendly
Open For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
Breakfast Company
Address: 551 J St, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 937-3074
Check Out Their Story Here
$$ | California Restaurant
Fried Rice Eggs Benedict
I had the pleasure of going to the Breakfast Company a few months ago. It looks like a very humble little breakfast spot but you’ll find that it’s much more. The employees that I interacted with were very kind with not just me but with the other guests. They could answer every question genuinely. The menu was filled with some innovative takes on classics. Their Eggs Benedict had fried rice as a base accompanied by intriguing flavors.
My visit was really delightful. The food was delicious, the coffee was served in a large cup, the employees were friendly, and everything was so clean.
Disclaimer: I visited this spot and was provided complimentary food.
Tags: innovative menus, great cocktails, big cups of coffee, great service, vegan options, vegetarian options.
Open For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
Tartine
Address: 1106 1st St, Coronado, CA 92118
Phone: (619) 435-4323
Browse The Menu Here
$$ | European Restaurant
Inspired by the cafés in the streets of Europe, Tartine combines that inspiration with a bit of SoCal flair. Their sweet and savory menu makes mouths water. But the convenient location (5-minute walk from the ferry landing), makes visiting all the more worth it.
The environment is warm and inviting, welcoming guests in with an atmospherical smile. You can taste the local ingredients they use and there’s just an overall sigh of relaxation that escapes you as you dine here. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Tags: outdoor seating, instagrammable, sweet & savory, healthy options, great location, awesome service, vegetarian-friendly, bistro food
Open For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Healthy Breakfast Spots
Zinqué
Address: 2101 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 915-6172
Make Your Reservations Today
$$ | French-Inspired | Hidden Gem
Breakfast dishes 
View from Inside Zinqué
The French-inspired Zinqué serves La Colombe coffee and housemade pastries along with their very simple breakfast. While the menu is straight forward, it’s packed with flavor and all the good stuff your body needs. Guests have a plethora of cocktails, wine, and beer to enjoy in this low-key and high-design atmosphere.
If you feel like treating yourself to something more decadent then, by all means, enjoy a beautiful pastry made in-house along with your egg white breakfast dish. This spot is great for an after-workout meal to recharge those worn muscles.
Tags: fun with friends, date night, breakfast date, healthy-options, vegetarian-friendly, fresh ingredients, excellent liquor selection
Open For: Breakfast, Brunch, Dinner
Ranch 45
Address: 512 Via De La Valle Ste 102, Solana Beach, CA 92075
Phone: (858) 461-0092
View Their Menu Here
$$ | Butcher Shop | Breakfast Spot
Dutch Steak & Eggs 
Açai Bowl
Ranch 45 is a farm-to-table restaurant & butcher shop that uses the community’s resources to create mouthwatering food. They pull inspiration from their roots of fishermen and ranchers. Some believe that places like this can’t have a great breakfast but they would be wrong.
While small and to the point, the breakfast menu holds options for everyone in a dietary manner. Many are a fan of their vegan avocado toast. But the really health conscious consider the Breakfast Power Bowl before or after a workout. It’s got seasonal veggies, well-cooked quinoa, egg whites, and enough spinach to make you as powerful as Popeye. It’s most definitely worth a visit.
Tags: cruelty-free meat, farm-to-table, vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options, vegan-friendly, healthy options
Open For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
The Mission
Address: 3795 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: (858) 488-9060
Check Out Their Menu Here
$ | Mexican Breakfast
Zen Breakfast Plate 
French Toast
The Mission dedicates its service to making healthy food simple and tasty. They break those nasty stereotypes saying healthy food is gross and expensive. The restaurant has no frills, no tricks, and no distracting decor.
Food is their big focus and they make that known. They’ve been so successful that they’ve received local and national recognition. The most popular among their healthy breakfast plates is the Zen Breakfast. It’s complete with scrambled egg whites, braised tofu, brown rice, grilled zucchini and squash with tomato and onion. Each dish is guilt-free but belly-filling.
Tags: gluten-free options, vegetarian-friendly, fresh ingredients, excellent service, housemade baked goods, healthy options
Open For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
Breakfast is NOT brunch but it is just as great. It can be interpreted in so many ways from sweet to spicy. The art of breakfast is best summarized by this list of the best breakfast spots in San Diego. Hopefully, I’ve helped you make an early morning decision before that brain of yours starts properly turning its wheels.
DISCLAIMER: ALL PHOTOS WERE PROVIDED BY THE ACCORDING RESTAURANTS, ALL CREDIT GOES TO THE PHOTOGRAPHERS.
Best Breakfast in San Diego was written and edited by Hedge Metreyeon. For more San Diego Explorer posts, check out our homepage. For more of their articles visit here. Follow them on social media here.
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Last Updated on February 23, 2021 by Maria Haase
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