The land of sunrise surfing and early-morning hikes doesn’t mess around when it comes to breakfast. From healthy treats to heartier options, the a.m. eating scene in California has never been better.
Pineapple Upside Down Pancake
Breakfast Republic, San Diego
With multiple locations across San Diego, this spot puts a creative twist on classic breakfast. Get your pineapple three ways: baked in the batter, fresh-cut on top, and macerated into the butter (yup!).
SoCa Benedict
Watertable, Huntington Beach
The SoCa, found inside the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach, delivers all the hits: bacon-maple waffle, poached eggs, chicken-fried chicken, country slaw, and spicy hollandaise.
The Bacon Flight
Cheeky’s, Palm Springs
Instead of serving meat straight up, this Palm Springs breakfast and brunch spot infuses whimsy into its four-slice flight, enhancing applewood-smoked bacon with seasonal flavors like sumac.
Famed Ricotta Toast
Sqirl, Los Angeles
This renowned bastion of new California cuisine started as a jam shop in Los Feliz. The brioche toast, topped with ricotta and seasonal jam, remains its pièce de résistance.
The Yoda
Juice Ranch, Santa Barbara
Start your morning in Santa Barbara with a green, good-for-you libation. Fresh produce is cold-pressed into juice and served in a glass bottle.
The Rebel Within
Craftsman and Wolves, San Francisco
Slicing open San Francisco’s Instagram-famous pastry is only part of the fun. After the yolk oozes out like golden magic, it soaks the cheesy, sausage-onion cake with eggy delight.
The Homestead Bowl
Sally Loo’s Wholesome Café, San Luis Obispo
With produce delivered from San Luis Obispo area farmers daily, Sally Loo’s showcases fresh ingredients in this visually arresting bowl. Rainbow quinoa serves as the base, followed by veggies, pesto, and two perfect eggs.
Pure Power Bowl
Pure Juice & Smoothie Lounge, Concord
Açaí bowls are practically a California breakfast staple; in the East Bay town of Concord, try this loaded bowl of mixed berries, pineapple, and granola.