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Home » San Diego Eat & Drink » Perfect for this Weekend: Best Brunch in San Diego

Perfect for this Weekend: Best Brunch in San Diego

March 1, 2022 By: Hedge Metreyeon This article may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through our links.

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Check this out if you're looking for brunch in San Diego or you're trying to find a new brunch spot. I'll tell you all about the best spots. #brunch #sandiego #socal #southerncalifornia #sandiegocalifornia #sandiegobrunch #sundaybrunch #northamerica #california

Brunch is more than a time to gossip about what Karen was wearing the other day. Personally, I feel pampered when I sit down for some brunch. Brunch in San Diego is a popular weekend activity and there are many great brunch spots in each neighborhood.

Depending on the neighborhood, you’ll find different things but let me breakdown San Diego’s best brunch places in each. And if you are in La Jolla, check out our Best Brunch in La Jolla post.

IMPORTANT: Due to current health regulations, some of the places below might only offer take-out, have very limited seating or other restrictions. Please check with the individual restaurant directly to find out about the details. We try to keep this list as updated as possible.

Brunch San Diego: By Neighborhoods

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Brunch in Downtown San Diego

Champagne Brunch Cruise

$$$ | Cruise

This is one of my favorite ways to Brunch in San Diego. You step on board, enjoy a sip of bubbly champagne, and instantly feel like you are on vacation. Watch the Skyline of San Diego pass by as you indulge in the delicious treats at the buffet.

From poached eggs to steak, Shrimp Cocktail, French toast to flakey fresh croissants, the buffet offers something for everyone. Champagne, Mimosas, and sparkling Cider are, of course, bottomless.

The cruise is 2 hours long and includes a private table, unlimited food and drinks, and a narrated tour of San Diego’s sights.

What a perfect way to spend a Sunday morning, don’t you think?

Book your Brunch Cruise Tickets here>>

Luca, at The Guild Hotel

500 West Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
Make Your Reservations Here
$$$ | Hotel Restaurant

Salmon tops crunchy toast, served with fancy coffee...cappuccino with design in the foam. Eating raw and and natural in an outdoor cafe enhances your lifestyle choice for healthy living
Salmon toast and coffee

The creative-contemporary design of Luca delights the eyes as it puts you in awe. Your palate is captivated by the friendly flavor of the Mediterranean food with the finesse of California’s local seasonal ingredients. It’s a prime spot to relax for brunch and chat with your friends. Here you will feel like a posh member of high society in the most fun way.

Tags: vegetarian-friendly, innovative menu, pescatarian-friendly, breakfast date, luxury, fine dining

Open For: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Richard Walker’s Pancake House San Diego

520 Front St (at Market St), San Diego, CA 92101
Order Your Breakfast or Brunch Online Here
$$ | Casual Eatery

A big lump of a pancake filled with apples and sugar laid on a plate near coffee and whole apples
Two rolled crepes laying side by side with a raspberry topping in front of another dish and a cup of coffee
Photos Provided by Richard Walkers Pancake House

This fine establishment is so upfront about their intentions that you just can’t help but find it wholesome. The Walker family has been synonymous with family dining since 1948 and they have yet to disappoint their guests.

People shower praise over their delicious menu that’s available from early morning to late afternoon. Even their vegan food is being praised. You may experience a line but it is worth it! You’ll definitely get a big scrumptious portion no matter what you order.

Tags: comfort food, vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, excellent service

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch

Queenstown Public House

1557 Columbia St (at W Cedar St), San Diego, CA
Make Your Reservation Now
$$ | New Zealand Restaurant

An eggs benedict on a sweet roll with pork and greens
The Oink
Photo Provided by Queenstown

I walk past this restaurant every week on my way to the office and the vibe is just so cozy and cute. Their brunch is served every Saturday & Sunday and let me tell you, the menu is so mouthwatering.

There are a lot of options that will fit whatever brunch feel you’re going for. Their New Zealand cuisine brings an interesting flair to the table and will most definitely shake-up your San Diego Sunday brunch experience.

Tags: great atmosphere, excellent service, dog-friendly, outdoor seating, vegetarian-friendly, vegan alternatives, fresh, comfort food

Open For: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Meze

345 Sixth Avenue, East Village, San Diego, California, 92101
Plan A Special Night Here
$$$ | Greek Fusion

Eggs benedict with spanakopita on top under the poached eggs
In a clear goblet, a bloody mary is garnished with bacon and celery
Photos Provided by Meze

Open until the wee hours, Meze happily provides amazing Greek flavors to some classic breakfast and brunch plates. Brunch is served Saturday & Sunday until 2 PM. The menu is very straightforward and easy to comprehend. There’s complicated on it but the flavors are spectacular.

While simple, Meze does not disappoint when bringing the Greek flavors. The restaurant is run by two brothers who wanted to create the perfect spot to hang out while eating food from home with a California twist. Go give it a shot.

Tags: international food, vegetarian-friendly, comfort food, night out, fun with friends

Open For: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Late Night

Morning Glory

Address: 550 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 629-0302
Check Out Their Menu Here
$$ | Innovative Classics | Hole in the Wall

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

GARAGE Kitchen & Bar

655 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Start Making Brunch Plans Here
$$ | Eclectic Restaurant

Five shot glasses filled with liquor and different cereals arranged in a pentagon
Plates filled with breakfast and lunch items clustered on a table with cocktails adorned with garnishes
Photos Provided by GARAGE

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again! I absolutely love the local and sustainable products used in restaurants. GARAGE provides that kind of product. They only serve grass-fed Angus, Niman Ranch meat, free-range chicken, and locally sourced produce.

Their brunch menu is served between 9 AM and 3 PM. As an added bonus, they serve bottomless mimosas Monday through Thursday during their brunch hours. You have so many cool innovative brunch options, including cereal shots! It’s an overall interesting experience you should try out.

Tags: innovative menu, vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options, excellent cocktails

Open for: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Brunch by the Beach

Little Lion Cafe

1424 Sunset Cliffs Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107
Check Out Their Here
$ | Belgian Restaurant

Homemade Chocolate Waffles topped with fresh berries and banana

This quaint casual dining spot is perfect for a brunch with friends or a special someone. The Belgian influence makes for a lovely change of pace as well as some delicious food. Their brunch menu isn’t complicated at all. You’ll find something to satisfy whatever brunch craving you might have from healthy to class brunch items.

What intrigues the most are the baked eggs they have served in a cast iron pan with baguettes. But, delicious food is just something to expect from a family-owned and operated restaurant that helped shape the San Diego food culture.

Tags: excellent service, vegetarian-friendly, vegan alternatives, gluten-free options, healthy options

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Waterbar

4325 Ocean Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Set Up Your Reservation Here
$$$ | Seafood | Hangout Spot | Weekend Brunch

A gorgeous view of the beach out the window of a modern bar
Salmon with radishes and other seafood in a yellow sauce paired with a white wine
Photos Provided by Waterbar

Waterbar’s roots are all about the free-spirited nature, fresh cuisine, and friendly culture that is very unique the SoCal region. The chefs have a thoughtful eye on their ingredients, only using fresh locally sourced products to feed their fresh visitors.

Brunch is served Saturday & Sunday from 9 AM to 2 PM. On their brunch menu is a plethora of seafood creations as well as those classic brunch favorites with their own interesting twist. If you’re the type that likes to watch the waves while you munch on a fresh meal, then I suggest you check this place out.

Tags: excellent view, friendly service, great cocktails, pescatarian-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, vegan-friendly, gluten-free options

Open for: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Late Night

Crushed

967 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
Take a Look At Their Story Here
$$ | Brunch Favorite | Global Food

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes / PB BBQ Sliders / Stinky Goat Flatbread / Mimosa Flight
Flights of different cocktails on wood boards
Photos Provided by Crushed

Crushed has developed quite a global following on social media with their gorgeously presented brunch and lunch items. They pride themselves on having good quality food provided in an environment where their guests can relax and enjoy wine, beer on draft, and unique mimosas.

People absolutely rave about how great the food is and their stellar service. The employees are so friendly which just tops off the whole experience.

Tags: cozy, comfort food, vegetarian-friendly, vegan-friendly, gluten-free options, innovative menu, daily brunch

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Coronado Brunch

Little Frenchies

1166 Orange Ave., Coronado, CA 92118
Make Your Reservations Here
$$ | French Restaurant

French woman drinking coffee in outdoor cafe in Paris, France and using her mobile phone for texting, browsing or photo. Closeup of hands holding gadget

French cuisine has been the root of many other styles and has inspired many recipes and techniques. This delectable spot creates some delicious menu items with French and Californian twists. This is a restaurant to go to when you want a good French-style omelet or just dine in a cafe setting and sip on some local wine.

Tags: outdoor seating, vegetarian-friendly, pescatarian-friendly, fresh, fine casual dining

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Peohe’s

1201 1st St, Coronado, CA 92118
Reserve Your Spot Here
$$$ | Island-Inspired Restaurant | Sunday Brunch

Eggs Benedict - Poached eggs with Hollandaise Sauce, fresh arugula and Smoked Salmon on English Muffin. Perfect Breakfast or lunch.

This unique ocean view restaurant is such a treat that it was featured on Rachel Ray’s Tasty Travels show with some of their most popular dishes. Now you can get their dinner any day but their brunch is only on Sundays from 10 AM to 3 PM.

Their brunch menu is short but it covers everyone’s taste and cravings in an elegant fashion. It’s definitely a spot where you can have a classic Sunday brunch.

Tags: pescatarian-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, vegan-friendly, fine dining, great view, good cocktails

Open for: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Brunch in San Diego: Hillcrest

Snooze

3940 5th Ave (between Washington & University Ave), San Diego, CA
Review Their Menu Here
$$ | Breakfast Restaurant

Eggs benedict with an interesting twist with a side of hasbrowns next to a Snooze menu
Avocado toast with two sunny side up eggs and tomato
Photos Provided by Snooze

Snooze is a neat restaurant in the bustle of Hillcrest, my personal favorite neighborhood in San Diego. They want nothing more than to provide a welcoming atmosphere and innovative tasty dishes. Each recipe and ingredient goes through a few serious questions before it’s considered Snooze-Approved.

Everything is cruelty-free, crave-able, respectful toward humans & animals, and everything comes from companies that they can believe in. It’s a pleasant and respectable restaurant that serves innovative food for every diet and craving.

Tags: great cocktails, excellent service, vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, innovative menu

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch

Breakfast Bitch

3825 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Look Over Their Menu Here
$$ | Breakfast Restaurant | New Favorite

Croissant sandwich with salmon, arugala, and a sunny side up egg

This interesting brunch spot has collected a following all over social media. They are not only serving up delicious twists on early meal classics but they are spreading love and support throughout their community.

Hillcrest is already a very loving supportive neighborhood but Breakfast Bitch really shows they care through the food they serve, the service they give, and the influence they have. They even have merch so you can feel like a breakfast bitch whenever you want.

Tags: vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, great service, innovative menu, excellent drinks

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch

Great Maple

1451 Washington St, San Diego, CA 92103
Reserve Your Spot Here
$$ | American Restaurant | Neighborhood Gem

Shakshuka, Fried Eggs in Tomato Sauce on the Table. Street Restaurant

With a swanky 1950’s vibe, Great Maple continuously serves up elevated American dishes, mouthwatering pies, and rad cocktails. They’ve made it a mission to take American classic comfort foods and turn them into something elevated and modern without losing the comfort.

To create these crave-worthy dishes, they use fresh, sustainable, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. While serving up knock-out dishes is important, they value making guests smile with unexpected plating, amazing flavors, and many personal touches. It’s a spot to eat what you crave while feeling the love put into it.

Tags: farm-to-table, outdoor seating, BYO wine, accessible, vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options, healthy options, comfort food

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Refill

3752 Park Blvd #104, San Diego, CA 92103
Browse the Menu Here
$ | Cafe | Hidden Gem

A barista artfully makes a design in a latte using milk
Latte Art

This chic cafe has a primary focus on serving great quality coffee and as an avid coffee drinker, this pleases me. While their primary objective is to create coffee masterpieces, they also have a large variety of menu items perfect for anyone. Ingredients are fresh, coffee is roasted and brewed to perfection, and the atmosphere remains relaxed.

The prices are also incredibly reasonable for such good quality products which is another big plus! It’s ideal for a solo brunch or a brunch date if you’re trying to keep things low-key.

Tags: coffee, outdoor/patio seating, good employees, good value, great location, vegetarian-friendly, vegan-friendly, gluten-free options, healthy options, dog-friendly

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

North Park Spots

Madison on Park

4622 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92116
Plan Your Next Weekend Brunch Here
$$ | Meditteranean | Weekend Brunch

Overhead shot of a bloody mary drink with olives, celery, squash, and radishes
Precisely cut salmon with a lemon on top next to bread, radishes, cucumbers, and sauce
Photos Provide by Madison on Park

Chef Tony Gutierrez has busted his butt doing the thing that he loves and it has led him to Madison on Park, a Meditteranean restaurant that serves up interesting yet delicious plates of food for the masses to enjoy. On the brunch menu, you’ll find twisted classics and new innovations.

They all sound so delicious that you may not even know what to order! No worries, the knowledgeable servers are there to help. Hang out at this sleek modern spot the next time you have a chance. But make a reservation first.

Tags: great cocktails, gluten-free options, outdoor seating, BYO wine, vegetarian-friendly, awesome service

Open for: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Mystic Mocha

2105 Mission Avenue, University Heights, San Diego, California, 92116
Look at the Menu Here
$$ | Coffee Shop | Mexican Food

A cup of green tea matcha latte and cup of latte art coffee for background

The name kind of sets up your expectations of the shop vibes. It’s a cozy funky coffeehouse that serves up groovy coffee drinks and excellent Mexican breakfast food. Among the menu of Mexican breakfast delights, there are a few unconventional items that are sure to intrigue you.

If you’re not one for long brunch or breakfast lines then I suggest trying Mystic Mocha out. And there’s no need to leave your pooches at home because there are seats and menus with their names on it.

Tags: coffee, vegetarian-friendly, dog-friendly, outdoor seating, cozy, comfort food

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch

Atypical Waffle Company

3519 30th Street, North Park, San Diego, California, 92104
Browse the Menu Here
$ | Brunch Restaurant | Sweet & Savory | Hidden Gem

A waffle with whipped cream, strawberries, and blueberries on top with bacon on the side
Waffle with guacamole, bacon, and cheese on top
Photos Provided by Atypical Waffle Company

As the name states, this spot ONLY serves waffles. These waffles can have any type of toppings on it but their specialty is proudly Belgian waffles. Despite being a waffle only establishment, they are incredibly flexible if you have dietary restrictions of any kind.

They have a very casual atmosphere, like a backyard, and the servers are incredibly friendly & helpful. It is quite literally in a backyard (back alley) of North Park. Not a whole lot of people can find it but once you do, it is so worth it.

Tags: dog-friendly, vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options, outdoor seating, great value, excellent service

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch

Brunch Places In La Mesa

Terra American Bistro

7091 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115
Make Your Reservation Now
$$ | Farm-To-Table

quick luncheon, home culinary, roasted eggs with bacon. Homemade breakfast

This is one of my favorite types of restaurants. Their focus is to not only provide delicious food but for that food to be fresh, sustainable, and locally sourced. Anything that they can make in-house, they do. Even seasonal fruit-infused liquor.

I really admire their focus and the fact that they can still dish out delicious eats. Come down to Earth and humble yourself by eating some of these delicious breakfast and brunch classics with a very fresh take.

Tags: early risers, farm-to-table, cozy, great drink options, pescatarian-friendly, good service, gluten-free options, vegan-friendly

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

The Lunchbox Cafe & Deli

8751 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942
Order Your Food Early Here
$ | Cafe | Hole in the Wall | Hidden Gem

A croissant sandwich loaded with meat, cheese, and veggies
Turkey Croissant Sandwich
Photo Provided by Lunchbox Cafe & Deli

Lunchbox is a down-to-earth humble little shop that prides itself on providing excellent service and food. If it doesn’t then they have no problem fixing the issue.

The owner is passionate about their restaurant and their bakery as well (also in the area). They’ve even been awarded the best breakfast in La Mesa which is awesome. If you’re in the area, I suggest stopping by. If you intend to go then you should head over early since parking in this area is very hectic.

Tags: great service, cozy, vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, responsive owners, early rising eaters

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch

Sheldon’s Service Station

8401 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942
Browse Their Site Here
$$ | Cafe

A quail egg and a radish on top of buttered toast with a few bites taken out of it

Dedicated to the first service gas station in La Mesa, Sheldon’s services up a straightforward yet innovative menu filled with fresh ingredients and interesting flavors. Not only do they provide a family-friendly environment for all to enjoy, but they also have live music, special events, and even unique dinners. Sheldon’s is all about love for their community and giving back to all the people that enjoy their food and coffee. Stop by for a wholesome visit, it’s very worth it.

Tags: innovative, dog-friendly, fun with friends, strong coffee, vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options, healthy options, daily specials

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch

Brunch is a very hyped up meal. Many think that you need to spend a lot to have a nice brunch but that isn’t the case. There are plenty of places for brunch in San Diego where you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to feel like the royalty you know you are.

Best Brunch in San Diego Neighborhoods 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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Best Brunch San Diego Neighborhoods – Pin For Later

Check this out if you're looking for brunch in San Diego or you're trying to find a new brunch spot. I'll tell you all about the best spots. #brunch #sandiego #socal #southerncalifornia #sandiegocalifornia #sandiegobrunch #sundaybrunch #northamerica #california
Check this out if you're looking for brunch in San Diego or you're trying to find a new brunch spot. I'll tell you all about the best spots. #brunch #sandiego #socal #southerncalifornia #sandiegocalifornia #sandiegobrunch #sundaybrunch #northamerica #california
Check this out if you're looking for brunch in San Diego or you're trying to find a new brunch spot. I'll tell you all about the best spots. #brunch #sandiego #socal #southerncalifornia #sandiegocalifornia #sandiegobrunch #sundaybrunch #northamerica #california

Last Updated on March 1, 2022 by sandiegoexplorer

Filed Under: San Diego Eat & Drink Tagged With: San Diego for Couples, San Diego Restaurants, San Diego With Friends

About Hedge Metreyeon

Hedge is a San Diego local and loves to share their top recommendations for the best restaurants and places to go, fun stuff to do in San Diego all year round, and the best secret spots this city has to offer.

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We are Greg and Maria (and Robby the dog), San Diego locals and explorers. San Diego Explorer is our local San Diego Blog, where we share our favorite hangout spots, restaurants and things to do in San Diego. We hope this site becomes a valuable resource for locals and visitors alike.

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Please note that due to current health restrictions, some of the mentioned attractions, restaurants, and hotels are temporarily closed or have changed their hours and operations.

Please check on the website of each place for the most up-to-date information. Please check with local authorities for the latest updates on local travel advisories and restrictions.

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