A Guide to the Best Breakfast Restaurants in Los Angeles

In a city where the sun shines 300 days a year, mornings begin with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, crispy avocado toasts, and the sounds coming from café terraces. Here, breakfast isn’t just food; it’s a way of life.

With its rich ethnic diversity, Los Angeles offers breakfasts to suit every taste. You can start your day with flaky croissants, enjoy a rich quiche Lorraine, or try a classic breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best places to start your morning with a hearty breakfast.

Pann's Restaurant on La Tijera Boulevard is a legendary Los Angeles establishment with a mid-century "Googie" architecture and classic American cuisine. Serving breakfast since 1958, the restaurant is known for its Southern takes on traditional breakfast dishes, particularly their fried chicken and waffles. The diner retains its authentic charm with red leather booths, vinyl seating, and a neon sign. Notably, Pann's has been a filming location for numerous Hollywood movies and TV shows, including CSI and Mad Dog Time. Many staff members have worked here for decades, and some recipes have remained unchanged since the day the restaurant opened.

Highlights

    Chicken & Waffles – Classic Southern-style fried chicken paired with golden, crispy waffles and warm syrup.
    Buttermilk Pancakes – Light and fluffy pancakes served with butter and syrup, with options to add fruit or chocolate chips.
    Country Fried Steak & Eggs – Breaded and fried steak smothered in country gravy, served with eggs and hash browns.
    Denver Omelet – A classic combination of ham, bell peppers, onions, and cheese, served with toast and hash browns.
    Biscuit & Gravy – House-made buttermilk biscuits covered in rich sausage gravy.
    Pann’s Famous Patty Melt – Juicy beef patty with grilled onions and melted cheese on rye bread, served with fries or hash browns.

Recommendations

    If you’re visiting for the first time, try the Buttermilk Pancakes or the Patty Melt for a taste of Pann’s signature dishes.
    Service can get busy during peak hours, especially on weekends, so arriving early is a good idea.

La Monarca Bakery & Cafe on Western Avenue is an authentic Mexican bakery with a modern Los Angeles twist on breakfast. The café specializes in traditional Mexican pastries like conchas and pan dulce, made fresh daily using recipes from the Jalisco region. Signature hot breakfast options include chilaquiles with house-made salsa verde and huevos rancheros served on handmade corn tortillas. They use organic Mexican hot chocolate, crafted from cacao beans sourced directly from Oaxaca. Interestingly, the owners support a conservation program for monarch butterflies in Mexico, which inspired the bakery’s name.

Highlights

    Chilaquiles – A classic Mexican breakfast dish with fried tortilla chips topped with red or green salsa, scrambled eggs, sour cream, and cheese.
    Tamales – Soft, steamed masa wrapped in corn husks, filled with savory fillings like chicken or pork, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
    Conchas – Traditional Mexican sweet bread with a crunchy, sugary topping, often served with coffee.
    Molletes – Open-faced Mexican rolls topped with refried beans, melted cheese, and salsa, served with a side of pickled jalapeños.
    Café de Olla – A sweet, spiced Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo, ideal for pairing with any pastry.
    Breakfast Burritos – Soft flour tortillas filled with eggs, chorizo, beans, cheese, and salsa for a hearty, on-the-go breakfast option.

Recommendations

    The Chilaquiles are a great way to start your day with authentic flavors that pair well with the Café de Olla.
    If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try the Conchas with a side of coffee.
    La Monarca’s Breakfast Burritos are perfect for a quick meal if you’re in a rush but still want something flavorful and filling.
    The bakery section has a wide variety of freshly baked goods, so be sure to grab some sweet treats like Empanadas or Pan de Elote to go.
    The cafe is often busy during peak hours, so visiting early or during off-peak times is recommended for a more relaxed experience.

Pharos Burgers in Alhambra is a small family-owned eatery that reimagines classic breakfast through the lens of Greek-American cuisine. The restaurant is best known for its breakfast burgers featuring eggs and a signature tzatziki yogurt sauce. The menu offers a unique fusion of Mediterranean and American flavors, including a lamb and feta gyro omelet and Greek pancakes topped with honey and walnuts. The cozy setting and open kitchen allow guests to watch the owner personally prepare many of the dishes. The restaurant’s recipes have been passed down through three generations, and the name "Pharos" is inspired by the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Highlights

    Breakfast Burrito – Large flour tortilla filled with eggs, crispy bacon or sausage, hash browns, and cheese, served with salsa on the side.
    Pancake Combo – Fluffy pancakes served with eggs and a choice of bacon or sausage for a classic diner-style breakfast.
    French Toast Plate – Thick-cut French toast with butter and syrup, with eggs and a protein of choice.
    Steak & Eggs – Grilled steak paired with eggs, hash browns, and toast for a protein-packed breakfast.
    Chorizo & Eggs – Scrambled eggs with spicy chorizo, served with hash browns and toast or tortillas.
    Omelets – A variety of omelets, including ham and cheese, Denver, and veggie, served with toast and hash browns.

Recommendations

    The Breakfast Burrito is a customer favorite, packed with hearty ingredients and great for a quick grab-and-go meal.
    If you prefer a classic American breakfast, the Pancake Combo or French Toast Plate are solid choices, offering generous portions.
    The Steak & Eggs is ideal for those looking for a more filling, protein-heavy breakfast.
    If you enjoy a bit of spice, the Chorizo & Eggs is a great option, pairing well with a side of salsa.
    Pharos Burgers is a casual, no-frills spot, so expect quick service and large portions at reasonable prices.
    The drive-thru is convenient for those looking to pick up breakfast on the go.

Home Restaurant on Hillhurst Avenue brings the concept of "home cooking" to the heart of LA. The restaurant is known for its generous comfort-food breakfasts, featuring signature dishes like oversized blueberry pancakes and the "Home Breakfast," which includes three types of meat. Designed to evoke the warmth of a cozy living room, the space features a stone fireplace, plush seating, and a spacious patio surrounded by lush greenery. They have a seasonal menu, which changes based on the availability of locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant embraces a zero-waste approach by composting food scraps for its small garden, where fresh herbs and vegetables are grown for the kitchen.

Highlights

    Home Breakfast Burrito – Scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon or sausage, hash browns, and avocado wrapped in a flour tortilla, served with salsa.
    Banana Nut Pancakes – Fluffy pancakes with sliced bananas and walnuts, topped with powdered sugar and maple syrup.
    Chilaquiles – Tortilla chips simmered in red or green salsa, topped with queso fresco, crema, and two eggs any style.
    Eggs Benedict – Poached eggs on an English muffin with Canadian bacon and hollandaise sauce, served with home fries.
    Veggie Scramble – Eggs scrambled with spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, and feta cheese, served with toast and house potatoes.
    French Toast Combo – Thick-cut brioche French toast dusted with powdered sugar, served with eggs and a choice of bacon or sausage.

Recommendations

    Chilaquiles are a must-try if you enjoy a more traditional Mexican breakfast with a flavorful kick.
    The Banana Nut Pancakes are a great option for those with a sweet tooth, pairing well with a side of bacon for balance.
    If you’re looking for a lighter, yet filling meal, go for the Veggie Scramble.
    The outdoor patio offers a relaxed setting, especially for weekend brunch.
    Expect a wait during peak hours, as Home Restaurant is a popular neighborhood spot in Los Feliz.

The Griddle Cafe on Sunset Boulevard is a legendary Hollywood spot famous for its epic breakfasts and long weekend lines. The restaurant has gained fame for its giant pancakes, as big as a wheel, served with a variety of creative toppings—from Oreo cookies to red velvet. A standout feature of the menu is the sweet French toast, made from thick brioche slices soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla mixture. The cafe is known for its rock-and-roll vibe, complete with loud music and an energetic staff. Fun fact: the portions are so massive that most guests leave with takeout boxes, and locals know that a single pancake is usually enough for two or three people.

Highlights

    Red Velvet Pancakes – Oversized, fluffy red velvet pancakes topped with cream cheese icing and powdered sugar.
    Mom’s French Toast – Thick-cut sourdough slices dipped in vanilla cinnamon batter, served with maple syrup.
    Banananana Pancakes – Buttermilk pancakes filled with caramelized bananas and topped with powdered sugar.
    Poached Y Papas – Two poached eggs over seasoned potatoes, drizzled with hollandaise sauce.
    The Golden Ticket – Pancakes infused with butterscotch, caramel, and walnuts, dusted with powdered sugar.
    The Griddle Omelet – A generously sized omelet with a choice of fillings, served with toast and home fries.

Recommendations

    If you love bananas, the Banananana Pancakes are a must-try, featuring caramelized fruit inside the batter.
    Poached Y Papas is a great option if you're looking for a savory, non-traditional take on eggs Benedict.
    Portions here are massive, so consider sharing if you’re not ready for a feast.
    Arrive early or expect a wait—this spot is incredibly popular, especially on weekends.
    If you're a coffee lover, try their signature French Press Coffee, which pairs well with any breakfast dish.

Eggslut on Broadway is an innovative breakfast concept located inside the historic Grand Central Market in downtown Los Angeles. The restaurant has gained a cult following for its minimalist menu, entirely focused on egg-based dishes with a creative twist. Its signature dish, the Slut, features a sous-vide egg over a layer of silky potato purée, served in a glass jar. The space stands out with its modern industrial design, open kitchen, and high-top seating along the counter. A key feature is the use of farm-fresh eggs sourced from local suppliers and house-made sauces. Despite its provocative name, the restaurant’s philosophy reflects the chef’s belief that eggs are the most versatile and universally loved ingredient in cooking.

Highlights

    The Fairfax – Soft scrambled eggs with chives, cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and sriracha mayo on a warm brioche bun.
    Bacon, Egg & Cheese – Applewood-smoked bacon, over-medium egg, cheddar cheese, and chipotle ketchup on a brioche bun.
    Sausage, Egg & Cheese – House-made turkey sausage, over-medium egg, cheddar cheese, and honey mustard aioli on brioche.
    Slut – Cage-free egg cooked sous vide over smooth potato purée, served in a jar with baguette slices.
    Gaucho – Seared wagyu tri-tip, over-medium egg, chimichurri, red onions, and arugula on brioche.
    Egg Salad Sandwich – Classic egg salad with chives, honey mustard aioli, and arugula on brioche.

Recommendations

    The Fairfax is one of the most popular choices, especially with extra bacon or avocado.
    The Gaucho is a great pick for those looking for a heartier, protein-packed sandwich.
    Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends—Eggslut is a high-demand breakfast spot.
    The sandwiches are served on brioche buns, making them soft and slightly sweet—if you prefer less sweetness, consider ordering an open-faced option.

Blu Jam Cafe on Melrose Avenue was founded by chef Kamil Majeni, blending California cuisine with international influences. The restaurant is best known for its Crunchy French Toast—a unique take on the classic dish, coated in crispy cornflakes and served with house-made strawberry syrup. The breakfast menu features creative dishes with exotic names, such as Heaven on Earth, an organic egg scramble with fresh vegetables on brioche. The cafe uses only organic, locally sourced ingredients, and has a dedicated vegetarian and vegan menu. The eclectic interior, combined with live music in the evenings, reflects the bohemian vibe of the Melrose district.

Highlights

    Crunchy French Toast – Brioche dipped in vanilla batter, rolled in crispy cornflakes, topped with powdered sugar, and served with vanilla bean sauce.
    Brunch Carbonara – Spaghetti sautéed with smoked bacon, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan, topped with two poached eggs.
    Chilaquiles – Crispy corn tortillas in roasted tomato sauce with eggs, queso fresco, black beans, and avocado.
    Benedict – House-made hollandaise over poached eggs, smoked salmon or ham, on an English muffin.
    Breakfast Quesadilla – Scrambled eggs, cheddar, avocado, black beans, pico de gallo, and chipotle sour cream in a grilled flour tortilla.
    Vegan Burrito – Tofu scramble with spinach, mushrooms, black beans, and avocado in a whole wheat tortilla.

Recommendations

    The Chilaquiles offer a flavorful Mexican-inspired breakfast with a good balance of spice and texture.
    Expect long wait times on weekends; arriving early is recommended.
    The café offers several vegetarian and vegan options, making it a good choice for diverse dietary preferences.
    Portions are generous, so consider sharing if you’re not too hungry.

The Original Pantry Cafe on Figueroa Street is a legendary part of Los Angeles history, operating continuously since 1924 with the slogan "Never closed, never had a lock on the door." The restaurant specializes in old-school American breakfasts, best known for its massive plate-sized pancakes and signature crispy hash browns, cooked on the same cast-iron griddle for decades. A unique aspect of the cafe is its strict cash-only policy and lack of computerized systems—servers still take orders on paper notepads. The cafe is owned by former Los Angeles mayor Richard Riordan, and its long list of regulars has included Hollywood icons from Marilyn Monroe to today’s biggest stars.

Highlights

    Ham & Eggs – Thick-cut ham steak served with two eggs, hash browns, and toast.
    New York Steak & Eggs – Classic steak and eggs breakfast with a generous portion of hash browns.
    French Toast – Thick slices of golden-brown French toast with butter and syrup.
    Buttermilk Pancakes – Fluffy, house-made pancakes served with butter and syrup.
    Chili Cheese Omelet – A three-egg omelet stuffed with house-made chili and melted cheese.
    Sourdough Grilled Cheese & Eggs – A hearty grilled cheese sandwich with eggs on freshly baked sourdough.

Recommendations

    Ham & Eggs is one of the most popular dishes, served in a classic diner style with large portions.
    The New York Steak & Eggs is a solid choice for a filling breakfast, especially for meat lovers.
    The café is cash-only, so bring cash or use the ATM on-site.
    Open 24/7 with no locks on the doors, it’s one of the few places where you can get a full breakfast at any hour.
    Expect a wait, especially during peak hours, as the diner is a well-known LA institution.

Nick's Cafe on Spring Street is a historic diner that has been serving locals since 1948 in Los Angeles' industrial district. The restaurant specializes in classic American breakfasts with a particular focus on its homemade ham. Their signature dish, "Ham n' Eggs," features thick slices of ham that are marinated and baked on-site. The diner retains its original U-shaped counter and vintage decor from the 1940s, offering an authentic old-school Los Angeles vibe. A notable feature of the cafe is its collection of police memorabilia, a tribute to the police officers who have long been regular customers.

Highlights

    Huevos Rancheros – Crispy corn tortillas topped with two eggs, house-made ranchero sauce, and a side of beans and rice.
    Chilaquiles – Tortilla chips smothered in green or red salsa, served with eggs and your choice of protein.
    Breakfast Burrito – Flour tortilla stuffed with scrambled eggs, potatoes, cheese, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or chorizo.
    Pancakes – Fluffy, golden pancakes served with butter and maple syrup, with optional toppings like fresh berries or chocolate chips.
    Breakfast Skillet – A hearty skillet filled with scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, vegetables, and your choice of protein, all topped with cheese.
    Omelets – Classic omelets filled with a variety of fresh ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, cheese, and meats.

Recommendations

    Chilaquiles is a great dish if you’re in the mood for something spicy and comforting with a Mexican twist.
    Breakfast Burrito is perfect if you want a filling meal that combines all the breakfast essentials in one dish.
    The Breakfast Skillet is ideal if you're looking for a meal that will keep you full and energized for hours.
    Nick’s is a popular spot, so expect a wait during busy times, but the service is fast once you're seated.

République on La Brea Avenue is an elegant French-Californian restaurant located in a historic building designed by Charlie Chaplin in 1928. The restaurant offers a refined take on breakfast, led by chefs Walter and Margarita Manzke. Signature breakfast dishes include shakshuka made with local farm eggs and kimchi steak frites with poached egg. A highlight of the establishment is its bakery, featuring French croissants, canelés, and unique seasonal pastries. The restaurant has a vast central hall with stone arches, mosaic flooring, and original stained glass windows. Notably, the venue operates as a casual café-bakery in the mornings and transforms into one of the most prestigious dining spots in Los Angeles by evening.

Highlights

    Croissants – Flaky, buttery, and freshly baked, these croissants are a perfect blend of crispiness and softness.
    Quiche Lorraine – A classic quiche with a rich filling of eggs, cheese, bacon, and a buttery crust.
    Avocado Toast – Toasted sourdough topped with creamy avocado, a sprinkle of chili flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil.
    Breakfast Sandwich – Soft, toasted brioche filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, cheese, and a tangy aioli.
    Pastry Assortment – An array of freshly baked pastries, including tarts, Danish, and fruit-filled treats.
    Omelet – A fluffy, light omelet filled with your choice of vegetables, meats, and cheese, served with a side of mixed greens.

Recommendations

    Avocado Toast is an excellent choice if you're after something healthy and light yet filling. It’s simple, but the quality ingredients make it stand out.
    If you’re in the mood for a bit of variety, opt for the Pastry Assortment, which lets you sample different flavors and textures, perfect for sharing.
    République is a busy spot, so consider arriving early to avoid the rush, especially on weekends. The bakery section is perfect for grabbing something to go if you're in a hurry.

Photo Credit: instagram.com/republiquerestaurantla/