If breakfast is the most important meal of the day, brunch is certainly the most fun. San Diego is packed with delectable brunch eateries, ranging from no-frills diners and cozy cafés to trendy pop-ups and beachfront buffets. Every weekend, San Diegans pack these hotspots for breakfast classics, decadent dishes, and Instagram-worthy eats.
Bagel or benedict, coffee or mimosa (or both, we’re not judging)—when it comes to brunch, you have options. The hardest part is deciding where to go. That’s where we come in.
Cocina 35
The Atmosphere:
Cocina 35 specializes in chilaquiles, the most traditional Mexican breakfast. Known for having the best chilaquiles in San Diego, amazing service, made-from-scratch salsas, aguas frescas and cafe de olla, it has also become the go-to spot for celebrating special occasions.
What to Order from Cocina 35
El Sinaloese—an amazing sampler with your choice of chilaquiles, eggs, beans, and the delicious cajeta toast
Chilaquiles La Bomba—Famous, creamy habanero salsa topped with cochinita pibil and pickled onions
Quesadillas de Chilorio—four crispy mini corn quesadillas filled with chilorio, served with frijoles puercos and a salsa trio
Don’t Miss!
- Mexican specialty coffee including Mazapan latte, Mexican mocha, or De la olla latte
- Fun brunch beverages including mimosa flights (Liberty Station and Coronado)
- Stunning views of San Diego (Coronado)
The Owners: Cesar & Paulina Chaidez
The Chaidez siblings specialize in serving the best Mexican breakfast in San Diego, bringing their family recipes from Sinaloa, Mexico.
Cocina 35 Locations
Cortez Hill: 1435 Sixth Avenue | 619-431-5611
Otay Mesa: 9335 Airway Road #112 | 619-591-9973
Barrio Logan (To-go Only): 2649 Boston Avenue | 619-228-9999
Liberty Station: 2750 Dewey Road #104 | 619-794-2041
Coronado: 1201 First Street | 619-996-3035
Marisi
The Atmosphere
Marisi brings the heart of Italy to La Jolla, now with a brunch worth savoring. Enjoy a vibrant patio setting with Italian classics like carbonara, plus French toast and eggs in purgatory. Sip spritzes and fine wines as you ease into the weekend. Join us Saturdays & Sundays!
What to Order at Marisi
Cinnamon Roll—cinnamon, pistachio with whipped mascarpone
Eggs In Purgatory—pomodoro, Parmigiano-Reggiano, basil, served on sourdough toast
Italian Dip—braised short rib, parmesan cream, pickled fresno, and basil slaw
French Toast—vanilla whipped cream and Vermont maple syrup
Don’t Miss!
- Brunch Delights
- Handmade Pastas
- Wood-Fired Specialties
- Signature Cocktails & Wine
- Award-Winning Ambiance
- Exclusive Culinary Events
In The Kitchen: Chef Cameron Ingle
Chef Cameron Ingle has 21+ years of experience, from mom-and-pop Italian to two Michelin-star restaurants. In 2023, he brought his culinary talent and sustainable farming expertise to San Diego as Marisi’s Executive Chef.
1044 Wall Street, La Jolla, California 92037 | 858-401-6787 | marisilajolla.com
Rosemarie’s Buns & Brews
The Atmosphere
Rosemarie’s is a fast-casual elevated slider concept in Ocean Beach and Mission Beach, San Diego, evolving from a successful food truck. Famous for award-winning Wagyu burgers, Nashville hot chicken, creative flavors, and craft brews, it provides a fun, family-friendly atmosphere where locals and visitors savor bold, chef-driven bites by the beach.
What to Order at Rosemarie’s
The Rosie—one or two 1/4 lb wagyu patties, onion confit, American cheese, Kewpie mayo, and house special sauce on a Turano brioche bun
The Little Sal—1/4 lb Wagyu slider, onion confit, maple bacon whiskey sauce, Jack Cheese, baby arugula, and Kewpie mayo on a Turano brioche bun
Nashville Hot Chicken—marinated and deep-fried chicken thigh, house-made duck fat Nashville hot sauce, and Kewpie mayo on a Turano brioche bun
Cajun Softshell Crab—marinated and deep-fried Cajun-style soft-shell crab, lemon aioli, and fresh Old Bay slaw on Turano brioche bun
Don’t Miss!
- Guava or mango Mimosa towers
- Buckets of Easy Rider lager
- House-made micheladas
- Happy hour Monday–Friday 2 p.m.–5 p.m.
Cellar Hand
The Atmosphere
Cellar Hand in Hillcrest celebrates sustainability, craftsmanship, and community with hyper-local fare. Enjoy farm-to-table dining, California wines, and weekend brunch in a vibrant space where seasonal ingredients shine and every dish is made with care.
What to Order from Cellar Hand
Bluefin Schnitzel—with lemon-caper brown butter, sungold, cucumber, and Asian pear
Dark Chocolate Babka—with vanilla labneh and burnt pita sugar
D’Acquisto Farms Shakshuka—with eggs, peppers, tomato, pimentón, feta, and Zhoug
Don’t Miss!
- Perfect pairing to your Sunday Hillcrest Farmers Market visit
- Beautiful patio with outdoor firepits
Ciccia Osteria
The Atmosphere
Located in Barrio Logan, Ciccia Osteria is serving up authentic Italian dishes with an emphasis on their cozy, welcoming atmosphere. From hand-crafted pasta to perfect-ending desserts, the menu features time-honored recipes derived from the Italian kitchens of owner Chef Mario Casineri family.
What to Order from Ciccia Osteria
Bottoni—prosciutto and potato filling, parmesan, sauce, green peas, and prosciutto topping
Milanese—breaded, thinly pounded 12 oz. bone-in veal chop, arugula, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing
Don’t Miss!
- Chef Mario’s featured specials
- Coffee Bar—including signature drinks and classic espresso options
- Large patio, perfect for al fresco dining
La Jolla Shores Hotel & Restaurant
The Atmosphere
Step into the laid-back elegance of La Jolla Shores, where the ocean breeze and stunning panoramic views set the stage for a truly unforgettable dining experience. At our beachfront restaurant, indulge in the best of California coastal cuisine with a bold Baja twist. Savor the freshest local ingredients, expertly crafted into vibrant, flavorful dishes that capture the spirit of the Baja Peninsula.
What to Order from La Jolla Shore Restaurant
Chilaquiles Verde—pork chorizo, tomatillo salsa, avocado, cilantro crema, pickled onions, farm fresh eggs, and cotija cheese
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes—blueberry preserves and beekeeper’s blend honey
Don’t Miss!
- Handcrafted cocktails
- Panoramic ocean views
- Beachfront dining
Rumorosa at Sheraton San Diego Resort
The Atmosphere
Step into Rumorosa at Sheraton San Diego Resort, where San Diego’s vibrant culinary scene meets the authentic flavors of Baja. Overlooking the bay, our brunch blends vibrant traditional Latin American flavors with California’s locally sourced ingredients, creating a delightful culinary escape.
What to Order from Rumorosa
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes—served with cream cheese icing, cinnamon sugar, and toffee sauce
Steak and Eggs Benedicto—carne asada, chimichurri hollandaise, cotija, poached eggs, english muffin, and papas mexicanas
Don’t Miss!
- Breathtaking views of the downtown skyline and marina
- Diverse dining experiences and live local musicians
- Events as bold as Baja
Union Kitchen & Tap (Encinitas & Gaslamp)
The Atmosphere
Brunch at Union Kitchen & Tap is where coastal charm meets vibrant flavors. Enjoy classic American dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients, paired with craft cocktails and bottomless mimosas. Join us in Encinitas or Gaslamp for a laid-back yet lively brunch experience!
What to Order from Union Kitchen & Tap
Skillet Cornbread Benedict—grilled andouille, poached eggs, roasted okra, mustard-bacon hollandaise on freshly baked cornbread
Green Omelette—broccolini, spinach, scallions, asparagus, avocado, goat cheese, basil pesto, cilantro, and crispy breakfast potatoes
Don’t Miss!
- Bottomless mimosas and craft cocktails
- Fresh, locally-sourced brunch classics
- Lively atmosphere with coastal vibes
Wormwood
The Atmosphere
Experience a Parisian-inspired brunch at Wormwood, featuring exquisite French cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and live jazz every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Join us for an unforgettable Bohemian culinary journey!
What to Order from Wormwood
Assiette De Saumon—smoked salmon, poached egg, caper crème fraîche, salmon roe, crispy capers and Persian cucumbers
Pain Perdu Aux Fruits Rouges—Cinnamon-spiced brioche with fresh berries, whipped crème fraîche, and maple syrup
Don’t Miss!
- Live jazz music
- Newly curated menu
- Mimosas, new brunch cocktails, and bubbles
Madi
The Atmosphere
In Normal Heights, Madi offers a vibrant and playful brunch seven days a week, featuring an all-day breakfast and lunch menu, mimosas, mocktails and a grab-n-go coffee counter operated by Heartwork Coffee.
What to Order from Madi
Waffle Churro Sticks—served with jalapeño-blackberry sauce, maple cream cheese, and strawberries
Blackberry + Goat Cheese Pancakes—served with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and whipped butter
Don’t Miss!
- Build your own bowl—gluten-free, paleo, vegetarian, or vegan
- Madi’s signature 60-year-old family pancakes recipe
- Vibrant decor, patio dining, and a lively brunch vibe
Garage Kitchen + Bar
The Atmosphere
Located in the heart of the Gaslamp, Garage serves brunch classics, $20 bottomless mimosas, boozy cereal shots, and giant Bloody Mary’s. Join us Tuesday–Sunday for a fun, flavorful brunch!
What to Order from Garage Kitchen + Bar
Bob’s Burger—Our signature juicy craft burger, available for brunch and dinner
Classic Benny—poached eggs, Canadian bacon, roasted tomatoes, and rich hollandaise on a toasted English muffin
Don’t Miss!
- $6 Crazy Bob’s Burger with fries, 11am–12pm & 3–4pm
- $20 Bottomless Mimosas 11am–3pm. Tue–Sun
- Happy Hour—51% Off Drinks & $3 Off Appetizers 3–6pm. Tue–Sun
