10 Amazing Laguna Beach Brunch Restaurants
Quick geography lesson before we begin. Laguna Beach is a magical little beach town sandwiched between bustling L.A. and sleepy San Diego, in the heart of Orange County California. Besides it’s beautiful beaches, the locals (a.k.a. Lagunatics) love its passion for the arts, the great sense of community, and it’s a foodies haven to boot. Narrowing down to just 10 Laguna Beach restaurants is nearly impossible for me, so I created a sub-category to help my food obsession become more focused. Today I am focusing on Laguna Beach brunch restaurants …since brunching (is this a verb?) is definitely one of my favorite past-times!
To make brunching a winning combination for me? I look for quality, variety, and ambiance.
La Sirena Grill – ($)
I am technically cheating by putting La Sirena on the list, since they do not serve brunch, but their veggie breakfast burrito is too good not to mention. Along with their coffee and a side of salsa. Hint: Take it to-go and head straight to a bench at the beach. Perfection!
Madison Square & Garden Café – ($$)
This old, historical, house turned dog-friendly café has been a staple in Laguna for nearly 30 years. The eclectic vibe along with their frittata and house rosemary fries are my go-to choice almost every time!
Heidelberg Café & Bistro – ($$)
Again, another veteran staple in town. I go here when I am ready for a yummy carb filled bagel and egg scramble, and don’t forget the head-sized latte while you’re ordering. You’ll be sure to leave belly full and alert!
Coyote Grill – ($$)
The Coyote houses the best Bloody Mary in town, and apparently recognized as so by the O.C. Register too. So, there is that! The Bloody and an order of the Chicken Machaca is the way to go.
Zinc Café & Market – ($$)
If life were a Nancy Meyers film, then Zinc café would definitely be the leading backdrop in this film. It’s open, airy space, and fresh and colorful plates leave you guiltless for ordering the quiche plate and latte.
Taverna – ($$)
I love this new little hidden gem, open patio area, and $3 mimosas. Great addition to the Laguna downtown area.
Nick’s Laguna Beach – ($$)
One word. Consistent. Consistently good! Nick’s is always busy, so you be sure to go early or make a reservation, so you don’t miss out on their impeccable service and yummy food.
Reunion Kitchen + Drink – ($$)
Reunion is not just a favorite of mine because of its proximity to my house (it definitely helps), but it’s a place where everyone knows your name! The food, friendly atmosphere, and service won me over pretty much immediately.
Harvest at The Ranch – ($$)
With this newly renovated space, you truly feel like you’re in a hidden oasis. Nestled between the Laguna hills and the first hole of the golf courses (Ben Brown’s) 9-hole course. Mimosa in hand and omelet on your fork, you can’t help but feel you’re on vacation from your daily grind.
Driftwood Kitchen – ($$)
And now my favorite of the Laguna Beach brunch restaurants. It hits pretty much all of my brunching requirements; Quality, variety, and ambiance. You can’t beat the Ocean front view, great food, great service, and awesome drinks. You’ll leave here feeling like you definitely got the full Laguna experience.
Bon appetite!
