Considering I lived in San Diego, I feel like it’s time I start to do some little mini guides to my hood. I have lived/frequented all parts of San Diego, so although not native to SD, I feel like qualify as an expert at this point… but I especially know my shit when it comes to brunch.
Brunch is my all time favorite past time… so I feel like it’s only right to start this new series with WHERE to brunch in San Diego… because WHO DOES NOT LOVE BRUNCH?!
Currently I am living closer to downtown San Diego, so that general area is where most of my favorite spots are (the best food is in this part of SD too)… but I did use to live in North County so I am sharing a few gems you should definitely try if that’s closer to where you are living/visiting.
WHERE TO BRUNCH IN SAN DIEGO
Madison on Park
I LOVE THIS PLACE! The space is amazing & the brunch cocktails are next level. They have a CBD cocktail that has hemp infused vodka, mezcal, matcha, pineapple, & coconut milk… & is topped with a huge cannabis leaf. Also, you must get their churro sticks & Gravalax toast points. Location: University Heights
Check out Madison on Park on Instagram
Spill the Beans
The best bagel in San Diego & I have tried A LOT OF BAGELS IN SD. I have an obsession with bagels, so trust me when I tell you- this is the spot. They have tons of different bagel sandwiches, SO many interesting cream cheese flavors, & the drinks are also amazing. My go to order is Lox, Stock, & Bagel sandwich but I replace the wasabi ginger cream cheese for caramelized shallot & chive & then I get the lavendar chai w/ macadamia nut milk. MY DREAM MEAL basically. Also, be sure to get a picture under their “pothead” neon sign- there is definitely a 4/20 vibe going down which I love. Location: Downtown
Check out Spill the Beans on Instagram
Kindred
HEAVY METAL MEETS VEGAN, need I say more? The decor is so chic, & even if you’re not vegan, you will still love it (I am not vegan!!). They also have dinner & a popping bar situation with great cocktails, but personally their brunch is the main reason I go! Location: South Park
Check out Kindred on Instagram
Nomad Donuts
This isn’t neccesarily a full blown breakfast spot, but it is home to my favorite donuts in San Diego… & I worked at a donut shop for a year when I was 16 so I feel like I am a fair judge. Their donuts are INTERESTING af- the menu changes daily, but just a few examples of their flavors: strawberry jam with almond malted milk glaze, mango habanero, horchata, guava with a cream cheese drizzle, thai tea (one of my faves) & SO MANY MORE. I am drooling. Location: North Park
Check out Nomad Donuts on Instagram
Great Maple
This is one of my personal favorites. It’s got a modern hipster diner vibe with great aesthetics & the food NEVER fails you. It’s just a classic spot that EVERYONE will like. I highly recommend the maple donuts, the squash blossom or brisket popovers, & a Bloody Mary (their bloodies are so good!). Location: La Jolla & Hillcrest
Check out Great Maple on Instagram
Little Lion
This one is actually probably my NUMBER 1 brunch spot. It is the cutest little cafe by the beach & the food is so good. I love the aesthetic of this place because it is not like trendy cute… it’s just chic af without even trying. ALSO- the food is so bomb & CLEAN. I always order the farmers market fruit bowl (with house made whipped cream & lemon curd), the house smoked salmon plate, & a charcoal lemonade. Plus, next door there is a vintage car shop which makes for a great photo. Location: Ocean Beach
Check out Little Lion on Instagram
Herb & Wood
This is a little on the fancier side when it comes to brunch, but it is SO worth it. It’s a Brian Malarkey restaurant, & if you don’t know Brian Malarkey, he is a famous chef & the best in San Diego. Herb & Wood brunch does not disappoint (I am sure the dinner doesn’t either, but I’ve only been for brunch). Also, the food is super insta-worthy & the table is cute so it’s the perfect place for a food flatlay if that’s your thing. The dutch baby soufflé pancake is life changing & the jamon iberico benedict was Zack’s favorite benedict ever. Location: Little Italy
Check out Herb & Wood on Instagram
Trilogy Cafe
This is a bit of a trek for me, but I will make the drive just to eat here. This spot is on the rooftop of a building in La Jolla & it is just such a mellow spot to brunch. If you’re lucky, there may even be an aerial yoga class going on while you eat. It is 100% organic & vegan which is always a bonus on the health tip, & the food is so so so good. I love the chilaquiles or the chia bowl & the “LOVE” smoothie (add strawberries!). Location: La Jolla
Check out Trilogy Cafe on Instagram
Claire’s on Cedros
If I am headed to north county this is my go-to brunch spot. It is so quaint & just a classic spot that has been around for ages. It is always packed, so be prepared to wait a bit, but there is a cafe next door so you can grab a coffee. I get the lemon ricotta Claire cakes every time, they are the best pancakes I have ever had. Also, bring the dogs! The back patio is dog friendly & they have homemade dog treats & then you can take them to dog beach after! Location: Del Mar/Solana Beach
Check out Claire’s on Cedris on Instagram
Naked Cafe
Another great brunch spot that I used to go to all the time when I lived in North County. It has a Mexican food twist to all the dishes, but super CLEAN & fresh. I get the yin & yang breakfast which is rosemary potatoes, jalapeños, onions, tomatoes, red bean, avocado, cheese, sour cream, salsa, & a tortilla (I add poached eggs on top) & their golden fairy dust latte which is chai tea, ginger, cinnamon, sub the soy milk for almond milk… to die for!!! Location: Solana Beach, Point Loma, Encinitas, Carlsbad
Check out The Naked Cafe on Instagram
Jeune et Jolie
I haven’t been here yet, but I am adding this to the list because I CAN’T WAIT TO GO. The decor is french inspired & my Instagram is literally begging me to get my ass over there. I don’t know anything about the food other then that it’s french inspired, but honestly I don’t even care cause it is just way too aesthetically pleasing. Location: Carlsbad
Check out Jeune et Jolie Instagram (& cry over the beauty)