Best Casual Brunch Spots in San Diego

Brunch is a big deal in our house. There is just something about getting together with friends for this leisurely morning meal that seems to put us all in a good mood. Especially if brunch comes with some champagne or a good Bloody Mary, right?

There are a lot of really great casual places to brunch in San Diego but here is a sampling of our tried-and-true favorites.

San Diego’s Best Casual Brunch 

Best in La Jolla: The Coffee Cup

Locals head to this La Jolla spot for the great food and casual vibe. While this gem is often overshadowed by some of La Jolla’s other popular choices, I think the food here is some of the best in town. And there’s an option on the menu for even the pickiest eaters in your group including vegans, vegetarians, and kids who want plain pancakes! Favorite dishes include the Breakfast Tacos and the Avocado Scramble.

Runner Up: Whisknladle

Best Chain Restaurant Brunch: Breakfast Republic

Some days you just need to go big. Like French Toast Sampler (or Oreo Cookie Pancake) and a Jurassic Bloody Mary kind of big. Seriously, with generous portions, a full bar, seven locations, and breakfast all-day (7 a.m. to 3 p.m.) hours, what is not to love about this place?!

Runner Up: The Great Maple

Best Casual Brunch with a View: Caroline’s Seaside Cafe

This casual dining spot is perched right above the sand on La Jolla Shores beach. It specializes in local, organic, farm-to-table bites and does serve alcohol. We like the French Toast (gluten-free available) and the veggie scramble. But of course, it’s really not about the food when you come here. It’s all about those views!

Just a note: parking can be challenging and there is often a wait if you come at peak hours. (Photo credits: @melinda_leung)

Runner Up: Kona’s Cafe

Best Cheap Eats: Atypical Waffle (FKA: Wow Wow Waffles)

While you used to have to grab these addictive sweet and savory waffles at the farmer’s market, you can now get your fix at their waffle-only North Park location from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday (or order through Postmates or Grubhub). Try these slow-rise, liege waffles the traditional way ($3.75 a waffle) or go with a California street-food version like the number seven (my favorite) topped with brown sugar bacon, avocado and goat cheese ($7.95 a waffle)!

Runners Up: Pipes Cafe

Did your favorite spot not make the list?  Make sure to let me know in the comments!