San Diego knows how to please foodies, especially those who are looking to treat their moms for Mother’s Day next month. Here are the top restaurants throughout the city known for their brunch menus.
MORNING GLORY (TOP PICK BY LOCALS)
Notoriously one of the best brunch spots in all of San Diego is Morning Glory located in Little Italy. With retro decor, they offer a cool and unique atmosphere. The fried rice and bloody marys are some of their top-rated menu items. They don’t take reservations so be prepared to wait, but locals promise their famous souffle pancakes are worth the wait.
Located 14 stories above downtown San Diego within the Courtyard Gaslamp is The Nolan Rooftop. You’ll get a top-rated brunch with unbeatable views of the city below. They have a small menu, including vegan options but the best dish is their French Toast. It’s only open for brunch on Sundays so reservations are encouraged.
This top-rated La Jolla restaurant overlooks the ocean and features acai bowls, smoked salmon on a bagel, and amazing pancakes. This casual dining spot gets busy on the weekends so go early.
With multiple locations throughout San Diego, including University Heights, is Cafe 21, a trendy new brunch spot. This farm-to-table restaurant offers gluten-free and vegan options as well as their famous tiramisu pancakes and lavender mimosas.
This new and noteworthy restaurant is located in Hillcrest and serves modern Mexican cuisine. They’re known for their popsicle margarita, chilaquiles, and loaded french toast. If you can’t make it to brunch, they also offer great happy hour specials throughout the week.
Hidden at the end of the Pacific Beach Pier is Konos. Known for its causal beach atmosphere, large portion sizes, and a secret patio with a view, it's a local favorite. If you find the patio, grab a drink from their coffee cart and sit back to enjoy the scenery.
Offering an epic Sunday Brunch buffet with San Deigo skyline views, this is a top pick. It’s a Polynesian-themed buffet with a full seafood bar, baked goods, build-your-own omelets, and carved ham. Make reservations ahead of time as this spot is known for filling up far in advance.
The Waverly is a newer spot located in Cardiff that’s part of the nationally acclaimed restaurant group SDCM. They serve a health-conscious menu that includes acai & grain bowls and smoothies as well as sweet breakfast classics like funfetti pancakes and crème brûlée toast. The decor is also arguably the prettiest on this entire list.
This just might have the most spectacular view from any rooftop venue in San Diego. Located in Bankers Hill, they have a sunken bar and a large outdoor lounge. The chef blends American, French, and Alsatian influences into his dishes. They also have a pastry chef that creates crave-worthy pastries, bread, and donuts. Along with delicious food options, try one of their craft cocktails. Although walk-ins are welcome, reservations are encouraged.