By Maren Miller By Maren Miller | March 10, 2023 | Food & Drink, Feature, Guides,
Here's our list of the best brunch places in San Diego for your Sunday Funday.
1. Trust
Trust—the anchor tenant in architect and developer Jonathan Segal’s Mr. Robinson building in Hillcrest—has become a brunch stalwart, bringing its brand of urban-rustic charm to the neighborhood. Already a great happy hour and dinner place, Trust shines on Saturdays and Sundays during its brunch, when diners descend on the stylish restaurant (its aesthetic, with industrial ceilings, mid-mod accents and quartz communal bar, matches the menu’s theme) for a locally sourced American menu. Look for classics like smoked salmon toast with all the accouterments, but also for some over-the-top dishes like the ultimate sticky bun and hamachi tartare. Order everything the “Trust way,” with house-cured braised bacon and a sunny-side egg. 3752 Park Blvd., San Diego, 619.795.6901
A Michelin-recognized brunch eatery, Morning Glory knows a thing or two about breakfast delights. Dishes galore include the ultra-indulgent Morning Glory fried rice, Breakfast Carbonara, lobster omelette, and...wait for it... caviar tasting. And did we mention there's even a dedicated pancake menu boasting out-of-the-box takes on the classic dish: baked blueberry skillet pancake, the very frenchie French toast, souffle pancakes, vegan pancakes, and the list goes on. Pair either (or both!) with a selection from the impressive lineup of coffees, teas or cocktails, and you’re in for a real treat. 550 W. Date St., Little Italy, 619.629.0302
Located at the beloved Hotel del Coronado, Serẽa’s oceanfront location is a perfect spot for beachside brunch celebrations. Prepared by executive chef JoJo Ruiz, the standout sea-to-table experience boasts enticing fare, including old menu favorites like the shakshuka, steak & eggs and cinnamon & sugar cruffin, as well as new creations like the spinach & cheese spanakotiropita, crab cakes & caviar benedict, croque madame, shrimp & smoked polenta and seasonal fruit salad. 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6611
4. Waverly
Head to this Cardiff-by-the-Sea newcomer, where corporate executive chef Brian Redzikowski is serving brunch specials ranging from bananas foster crepes, Funfetti pancakes and creme brulee French toast to a fried egg brioche sandwich, farm egg Benedict and breakfast rice bowl. 2005 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.230.1682
5. Communal
Enjoy a day of food and shopping at this cozy café and shop. Guests can enjoy a seasonal menu, full drink and coffee selections, and curated goods. With its emphasis on connecting with the community, its no wonder Communal is a local favorite! 2335 University Ave., 619.363.7737
6. Madi
Treat yourself to a delicious meal at a restaurant that understands brunch should be offered every day. Visitors can’t get enough of the blackberry and goat cheese pancakes or the mimosa pitchers! 3737 Adams Ave., 619.915.5522
Enjoy a wonderful day at this restaurant that proudly serves its two favorite food groups—Champagne and brunch. Offering all-day Champagne breakfasts as well as a savory and sweet-filled menu, this charming bistro is sure to become your new favorite brunch spot. 3831 Park Blvd., 619.269.6281
Named for San Diego founding father William Kettner, this award-winning restaurant offers a must-have Sunday brunch. Whether you want the classic eggs benedict or to branch out with the Sonoma lamb dan dan noodles, put this intimate eatery at the top of your to-try list! 2001 Kettner Blvd., 619.255.2001
9. Wolfie's Carousel Bar
Visit this local restaurant icon for a delicious and whimsical weekend brunch. Famous for the revolving carousel bar, this beloved San Diego landmark also offers everything from beignets to bubbles. 2401 Kettner Blvd, 619.255.7533
10. Coco Maya
Enjoy a unique take on brunch at Coco Maya! Offering a daily brunch menu inspired by Caribbean and Latin American cuisine, guests will want to be sure to try the bokit, a type of stuffed, fry bread from the French Islands of Guadalupe. 1660 India St., 619. 848.7414
11. Garibaldi
Enjoy brunch with a view at this rooftop bar overlooking the ocean. Menu highlights include the lamb smash burger and the pistachio morning bun. 901 Bayfront Ct Suite 1, 619.436.1081
Photography by: Photos: by James Tran; by Zack Benson