Where To Find the Best Breakfast in Orange County, CA in 2024
Looking for the best breakfast Orange County has to offer? Whether you're craving classic pancakes, inventive omelets or healthy acai bowls, you'll be able to find a diverse array of breakfast options to get your taste buds tingling. From charming beachside cafés to bustling city diners, there's something for everyone searching for the best breakfast in Orange County.
Picture yourself savoring a delicious breakfast burrito while soaking in ocean views, or enjoying a gourmet breakfast sandwich in a cozy neighborhood breakfast spot. With so many eateries claiming to serve the best breakfast in Orange County, get ready to be spoiled for choice. Let's peruse the options together and discover where you can indulge in a memorable morning meal in Orange County.
Jump to Section
25 Best Breakfast Places in Orange County, CA
1. Stacks Pancake House
Located in Mission Viejo, Stacks Pancake House is a go-to spot for the best breakfast Orange County-style. From the fluffiest pancakes to your more creative breakfast dishes, you won’t be disappointed.
The Vibe
The atmosphere here is casual and family-friendly, perfect for weekend brunch with loved ones.
What to Order
Don't miss their signature macadamia nut pancakes or the savory loco moco for a Hawaiian-inspired breakfast feast.
Stacks Pancake House | 27680 Marguerite Pkwy, Mission Viejo, CA 92692 | $$
2. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
With locations in Tustin and Costa Mesa, Snooze Eatery is a hip and lively breakfast spot known for its innovative menu and retro ambiance.
The Vibe
The wait might be long, but it's worth it for the flavorful dishes and upbeat atmosphere. What you can expect is truly some of the best breakfast Orange County has to offer.
What to Order
Dive into their delicious array of pancake flights, breakfast sandwiches and creative eggs Benedicts to start the day.
Snooze, an A.M. Eatery | Multiple Locations | $$
3. Plums Café & Catering
Nestled in Costa Mesa, Plums Café offers a cozy and welcoming setting for the best breakfast Orange County residents can rave about.
The Vibe
The charming patio seating area adds to the relaxed California vibe and New American menu style.
What to Order
Indulge in their famous lemon ricotta pancakes or try their farmer's market breakfast for a taste of the freshest local ingredients.
Plums Café & Catering | 369 E 17th St. #18, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 | $$
4. Bruxie
Bruxie is a must-visit for those craving unique waffle sandwiches in both sweet and savory varieties.
The Vibe
The outdoor seating and casual vibe make it a great spot for sunning yourself and enjoying the best breakfast Orange County offers, al fresco style.
What to Order
Their menu features sweet and savory combinations like fried chicken and waffles, Nutella and banana, and much more.
Bruxie | 292 N Glassell St., Orange, CA 92866 | $$
5. The Filling Station Café
Tucked away as Orange County’s best-kept secret, The Filling Station Café offers all the classic American breakfast favorites with a Californian twist.
The Vibe
The vintage gas station theme adds charm to this local gem that echoes a classic American diner aesthetic.
What to Order
Try their big daddy breakfast burrito or the decadent creme brulee French toast for the very best breakfast Orange County serves up.
The Filling Station Café | 201 N Glassell St., Orange, CA 92866 | $$
6. Bonjour Café & Bistro
Add a bit of French flair to your mornings. A definite challenger for the best breakfast in Orange County, Bonjour Café & Bistro will take your taste buds on a memorable trip.
The Vibe
Since opening in 1992, this casual eatery has brought bistro culture to California. The warm and welcoming setting and friendly service transport you across the pond with no travel necessary.
What to Order
For the flavors of France combined with the best breakfast Orange County has to offer, opt for scrambled eggs with fresh asparagus spears and authentic French brie.
Bonjour Café & Bistro | 24633 Del Prado Ave., Dana Point, CA 92629 | $$
7. Haute Cakes Caffe
Haute Cakes Caffe in Newport Beach is known for its delicious breakfast offerings and cozy beachy atmosphere.
The Vibe
With outdoor seating available, it's a great seaside spot to start your day with the best breakfast Orange County-style.
What to Order
Treat yourself to their famous red velvet pancakes or indulge in the delicious breakfast tacos.
Haute Cakes Caffe | 1807 Westcliff Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660 | $$
8. Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar
Located in Orange County, Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar elevates breakfast with its gourmet offerings and craft cocktails.
The Vibe
The modern and sophisticated ambiance sets the stage for a memorable morning meal.
What to Order
Try their pork belly chilaquiles or the chef's breakfast board for a delightful culinary adventure and the best breakfast Orange County’s culinary scene provides.
Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar | 190 S Glassell St., Orange, CA 92866 | $$$
9. Pandor Artisan Bakery & Café
Pandor Artisan Bakery & Café has multiple locations in Orange County, including Newport Beach and Anaheim.
The Vibe
This French-inspired bakery and café serves up exquisite pastries and breakfast fare for something a little different in OC.
What to Order
Don't miss their croque monsieur or the decadent pain perdu (French toast) for a taste of Paris’ best breakfast Orange County-style.
Pandor Artisan Bakery & Café | Multiple locations | $$
10. Mama's on 39
Mama's on 39 in Huntington Beach is a much-loved spot for hearty and indulgent breakfast dishes just like Mama used to make.
The Vibe
The lively atmosphere and generous portions make it a local recommendation for the best breakfast Orange County serves up.
What to Order
From their cinnamon roll pancakes to the chicken fried steak and eggs, there's something to satisfy every craving.
Mama's on 39 | 21022 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, CA 92648 | $$
11. Great Maple
Ready for the delectable breakfast in Orange County, Newport Beach? Great Maple offers a chic and sophisticated setting for the breakfast and brunch crowd.
The Vibe
The stylish décor and attentive service add to the overall experience, making this a contender for the best breakfast Orange County delivers.
What to Order
Try their maple bacon doughnuts or the crab cake Benedict for a luxurious start to your day.
Great Maple | 1133 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660 | $$
12. The Broken Yolk Café
If you’re looking for the best breakfast in Orange County at a slightly later stage in the day, The Broken Yolk Café has an extensive brunch offering.
The Vibe
It's a classic diner-style experience perfect for a hearty morning meal that will set you up for the day.
What to Order
Dive into their large portions of omelets, Benedicts and specialty breakfast plates. Rest assured, you won't leave hungry.
The Broken Yolk Café | Multiple Locations | $$
13. Harbor House Café
With two locations along the coast in Sunset Beach and Dana Point, Harbor House Café is a local institution known for the best breakfast in Orange County.
The Vibe
The casual and laid-back vibe captures the essence of beachside dining. Surrounded by movie memorabilia and antiques, this place is also a feast for the eyes.
What to Order
Indulge in their generous portions of pancakes, egg scrambles and seafood omelets. While taking in the ocean views, enjoy some of the best breakfast Orange County serves up.
Harbor House Café | Multiple Locations | $$
14. The Ramos House Café
Situated in San Juan Capistrano, The Ramos House Café offers a charming and rustic setting for some of the best breakfast Orange County has to offer.
The Vibe
The outdoor patio surrounded by gardens adds to the enchanting experience for a brunch catch-up with friends.
What to Order
Indulge in their Southern-inspired dishes like the bourbon pecan French toast or the chicken and waffles.
The Ramos House Café | 31752 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 | $$$
15. Toast Kitchen & Bakery
You haven't experienced an unforgettable breakfast in Orange County until you've been to Toast Kitchen & Bakery in Costa Mesa — a spot that's immensely popular for artisanal breakfast creations and freshly baked goods.
The Vibe
The welcoming atmosphere and friendly service make it a standout spot for the best breakfast Orange County-style.
What to Order
Try their avocado toast flight or the breakfast poutine for a modern twist on breakfast classics.
Toast Kitchen & Bakery | 1767 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, CA 92627 | $$
16. Shirley's Bagels
For a taste of New York-style breakfast in Orange County, visit Shirley's Bagels in Costa Mesa.
The Vibe
Their assortment of bagels, spreads and breakfast sandwiches will instantly transport you to the East Coast.
What to Order
Don't miss their lox and cream cheese bagel for a satisfying morning treat and some of the best breakfast Orange County offers up.
Shirley's Bagels | 270 E 17th St., Costa Mesa, CA 92627 | $
17. Café Mimosa
Nestled in San Clemente, Café Mimosa offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for the best breakfast Orange County locals adore.
The Vibe
The ocean breeze and laid-back vibe make it a perfect weekend destination to soak up some downtime, or to enjoy one of many morning date ideas in Orange County.
What to Order
Try their Belgian waffle flight or the crab cake Benedict for a delightful culinary experience — truly some of the best breakfast in Orange County.
Café Mimosa | 243 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, CA 92672 | $$
18. Citrus Café
Citrus Café, located at the corner of Redhill and Edinger, prides itself in using the freshest ingredients Orange Country can grow.
The Vibe
Enjoy the lively Mediterranean vibe of this popular neighborhood hangout. If you’re looking for the best breakfast Orange County has to offer, Citrus Café should be on your list.
What to Order
Indulge in their hearty breakfast burrito jam-packed with scrambled eggs, ham, onions, cilantro, black beans and cheddar, topped with a mole sauce.
Citrus Café | 1481 Edinger Ave., Tustin, CA 92780 | $$
19. Ham 'n Scram
Family-owned eatery Ham 'n Scram is a ham lover's dream, known for its simple sandwiches and some of the best breakfast in Orange Country.
The Vibe
Supercharge your breakfast on the go at this no-frills take-out spot with a deliciously simple menu.
What to Order
If you're a meat lover, their double meat bowl is a must-try, or choose their Ham ‘n Scram muffin for a lighter option.
Ham 'n Scram | 5871 Westminster Blvd., Westminster, CA 92683 | $
20. Rialto Café
Rialto Café in Fullerton offers a laid-back setting with a diverse food menu for some of the best breakfast in Orange County.
The Vibe
The outdoor patio is an ideal setting to enjoy some of the best breakfast Orange County serves up, all in the stunning California sunshine.
What to Order
Indulge in their Nutella-stuffed French toast or the breakfast pizza for a unique morning treat.
Rialto Café | 108 W Wilshire Ave., Fullerton, CA 92832 | $$
21. Pancakes R Us
Pancakes R Us in Costa Mesa is a cozy diner-style spot known for its generous portions and classic breakfast fare.
The Vibe
The no-frills atmosphere adds to the charm of this pancake house, offering the best breakfast Orange County locals visit again and again for.
What to Order
Dive into their stack of pancakes or try their country fried steak and eggs for a hearty meal.
Pancakes R Us | 329 E 17th St., Costa Mesa, CA 92627 | $$
22. Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
Looking for the best breakfast Orange County has to offer? Bosscat Kitchen & Libations is the answer. This comforting eatery serves up a Southern-style breakfast experience you'll want to enjoy over and over again.
The Vibe
The warm décor and lively ambiance make it perfect for a weekend feast with family or friends.
What to Order
Try their ultimate cinnamon roll or the smokehouse benedict with pulled pork hash for a hearty start to your day.
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations | 118 West Chapman Ave., Orange, CA 92866 | $$$
23. Early Bird
With a focus on real food and quality produce, the Californian eatery Early Bird offers some of the best breakfast Orange County locals can’t get enough of.
The Vibe
Despite being a popular spot, especially on the weekend, the service is efficient and the ambiance is vibrant.
What to Order
Choose their pork belly Benedict for a hefty take on the classic breakfast dish and what promises to be some of the best breakfast Orange County is known for.
Early Bird | 1000 E Bastanchury Road, Fullerton, CA 92835 | $$
24. The Corner
Situated in Huntington Beach, The Corner is a cozy neighborhood café perfect for breakfast lovers.
The Vibe
The laid-back vibe and friendly service make it a hidden gem, tipped for the best breakfast Orange County serves up.
What to Order
Indulge in their Nutella-stuffed French toast or the corner breakfast sandwich for a hearty start to your day.
The Corner | 8961 Adams Ave., Huntington Beach, CA 92646 | $$
25. Poppy & Seed
Poppy & Seed is a must-try for comfort dishes that soothe the soul. If rich buttery flavors are your thing, this is a surefire hit for the best breakfast in Orange County.
The Vibe
The welcoming atmosphere and friendly service in this greenhouse-styled spot make it a contender for the best breakfast Orange County offers.
What to Order
Go sweet with a brown butter waffle and enjoy the maple and honeyed flavors in this morning treat.
Poppy & Seed | 350 S Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92805 | $$
Learn To Cook Orange County Foods
Taking cooking classes in Orange County is a fantastic way to explore the culinary magic that Southern California is known for. Imagine learning how to create mouthwatering fish tacos that capture the essence of beachside dining, or mastering the art of using fresh, local produce to whip up vibrant salads bursting with Californian flavors. These classes will teach you how to create the best breakfasts Orange County has to offer. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned foodie, these classes promise a fun and flavorful journey into the heart of Orange County's food culture.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
The county's food scene is rich and plentiful, especially when it comes to the best breakfast in Orange County. Chefs and amateur food fans alike are drawn to the region's bounty of citrus fruits, avocados, strawberries and more, which serve as the foundation for delicious, yet healthy cuisine. Whether exploring coastal eateries specializing in seafood, or inland bistros offering farm-to-table fare, Orange County's commitment to quality ingredients and inventive cooking ensures a delightful culinary experience for both its locals and visitors. Start your day off right with a visit to one of these fantastic spots and treat yourself to the best breakfast Orange County has to offer.
For even more ways to explore Orange County and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT?
Join the conversation.