Brunching in Los Angeles isn’t just a meal – it’s practically a sport. Metropolitan Shuttle has explored countless brunch spots across the city for you.
The city’s brunch scene spans every style and budget imaginable. Charlie Chaplin’s former office space now houses Republique, while Baltaire serves up lavish king crab deviled eggs. We found that there was something for everyone – Southern comfort food at The Serving Spoon and Japanese souffle pancakes at RyLos Angeles delight food enthusiasts daily.
Long lines snake outside the most popular brunch places, and the wait proves worthwhile consistently. The best brunch spots in Los Angeles satisfy every craving imaginable – classic breakfast burritos, dim sum, or shakshuka. Downtown icons like Poppy + Rose stand alongside hidden neighborhood gems, making this city’s brunch scene truly special.
Classic American Brunch Spots in Los Angeles
Los Angeles’ brunch scene buzzes with energy, and American classics rank among local favorites. These spots blend traditional tastes with creative new takes that draw crowds looking to kick off their day with a satisfying meal.
Griddle Cafe Overview and Specialties
The Griddle Cafe sits at 7916 Sunset Blvd in Hollywood and locals can’t get enough of it. You’ll find it open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 am to 3 pm, with free parking that makes your visit easy.
The place earned its fame through huge portions and a menu packed with tempting choices. Their pancakes stand out – they’re massive and packed with flavor. Regulars rave about the Black Magic pancakes that chocolate lovers dream about, plus the Golden Ticket loaded with butterscotch chips.
The menu goes beyond sweet treats. The Poached Y Papas Benedict and Chicago Charlie Scramble hit the spot for savory breakfast fans. They take care of everyone’s needs with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
The Red Velvet Pancake steals the show as a bright, decadent treat that customers love. Their Peanut Bubba Crunchy French Toast puts a spin on the classic by mixing crunchy peanuts with soft, fluffy bread.
Salt’s Cure Famous Oatmeal Griddle Cakes
Salt’s Cure made its mark with signature oatmeal griddle cakes. These pancakes got so popular that now you can buy the mix and make them at home.
The Oatmeal Griddle Cake Mix costs $12 and feeds four people. It comes with their special cinny sugar to blend into butter – just like at the restaurant. Ground oats mix with all-purpose flour and old-fashioned oats to create that special texture and taste.
Making these at home couldn’t be simpler – just add water and eggs. You end up with pancakes that balance heartiness and delicacy, with just enough sweetness to match the cinnamon butter perfectly.
Chef Chris Phelps takes pride in using California ingredients throughout Salt’s Cure’s menu. Each dish showcases what the state grows best.
The brunch menu shines beyond griddle cakes. Their breakfast sandwich gets messy but that’s part of the fun. Health-conscious diners love the grain bowl that starts their day right.
Republique’s French-American Fusion
Charlie Chaplin built Republique’s home in 1929, and now it blends French and American cooking in this historic space. High ceilings and rustic charm make you feel like you’re in Paris, but the vibe stays pure California.
Chef Margarita Manzke’s James Beard Award in 2023 for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker proved what locals already knew about Republique’s quality. The front houses a casual bakery, cafe and bar, while the back offers more formal dining.
Weekend brunch here shows off French-American fusion at its best. The kimchi fried rice packs bold flavors that made it famous. Light but satisfying ricotta toast comes topped with seasonal fruit and wildflower honey.
Craving classics with a twist? Try the short rib breakfast burrito or seasonal quiche. The French omelet stuffed with Gruyère cheese shows off perfect technique.
Pastry fans find their happy place here. Fresh treats fill the cases daily, like Crème brûlée Bomboloni bursting with vanilLa Angeles cream. The Savory Danish balances caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms and chive cream cheese.
Best Times to Visit and Wait Times
Getting the timing right at these popular spots takes some planning. A few smart moves can cut your wait and make brunch better.
The Griddle Cafe sweet spot falls between 8:45 and 9:15 am when seats come easy. Crowds start building around 10:30 am.
Salt’s Cure fills up fast on weekends, so early birds catch the best tables. They don’t post wait times, but this spot’s popularity means you might need some patience during peak hours.
Republique draws long lines, so plan ahead. Weekend waits can stretch out, but showing up around 2 pm usually means a more relaxed meal.
Quick guide to Los Angeles brunch timing:
- Early Bird (8:00 – 9:30 am): Short waits, fresh pastries
- Peak Hours (10:30 am – 12:30 pm): Long waits, busy vibe
- Late Brunch (1:30 – 2:00 pm): Shorter lines, relaxed atmosphere
Weekday visits mean shorter waits than weekends.
These spots feel more relaxed during off-peak hours. You’ll likely wait less and get more attention from your server.
The secret to great Los Angeles brunch lies in staying flexible. Whether you crave The Griddle Cafe’s giant pancakes, Salt’s Cure’s famous griddle cakes, or Republique’s French treats, smart timing makes all the difference.
International Brunch Fusion Destinations
Los Angeles’ brunch scene has evolved beyond classic American fare. You’ll find an amazing mix of international fusion spots that blend different culinary traditions. These restaurants create innovative dishes that showcase the city’s diverse food culture.
Japanese-inspired Brunch at RYLA
RYLos Angeles brings a fresh take on brunch from its spot in Hermosa Beach. The coastal California restaurant naturally combines Japanese flavors with creative cooking techniques under Chefs Ray Hayashi and Cynthia Hetlinger.
Brunch lovers can stop by on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The menu excites with dishes that highlight the chefs’ creativity and their respect for Japanese cuisine.
The Japanese souffle pancake stands out as a fluffy treat topped with blueberry compote. Savory food fans will love RYLos Angeles’ pork belly eggs Benedict – a unique spin on the brunch classic. An egg-topped fried rice makes a hearty option for hungry diners.
RYLos Angeles’ drink menu matches its food’s creativity. The restaurant stocks an impressive range of Asian spirits, sake, and liquors that pair perfectly with the meals.
RYLos Angeles’ prices reflect its quality ingredients and expert cooking:
- Japanese Pancake: $14.00
- Pork Belly Eggs Benedict: $18.00
- Crispy Taiwanese Egg Crepe: $19.00
- White Sesame Caesar Salad: $17.00
Sweet-toothed diners should try the matcha tiramisu to end their meal.
Mexican Brunch at Nueva
Los Angeles offers excellent Mexican brunch spots that show the city’s love for this cuisine, though details about Nueva are limited in our facts.
Maizano, tucked inside Costa Mesa’s Mercado Gonzalez food hall, deserves special mention. Chef Alan Sanz takes inspiration from Mexico City’s farmers markets to create authentic yet innovative brunch dishes. The restaurant serves Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Popular items include:
- Grilled octopus tostada with salsa macha and encacahuatado mole
- Blue corn pancakes topped with house-made granola, seasonal fruit, requesón, and honey
- Huevos rancheros with steak, panela, and salsa roja
A Huevo Café offers a more casual Mexican brunch experience. The menu features chilaquiles, burritos, and mimosas – perfect for a fun weekend brunch.
Tia Brigida has become Boyle Heights’ newest brunch hotspot. This family-owned restaurant serves Mexican brunch classics like:
- Menudo
- Chipotle chilaquiles (vegetarian-friendly)
- Birria de Chivo
Quality shines through in Tia Brigida’s house-made items. The charred salsa comes with thick tortilla strips, and the yellow corn tortillas are made by hand. Warm service and a welcoming atmosphere add to the dining experience.
Mediterranean Flavors at Superba
Superba Food + Bread adds Mediterranean flair to Los Angeles’ brunch scene. The restaurant aims to enrich its community while serving delicious food.
The bread program has earned many loyal fans, especially for its sourdough.
Mediterranean influences show up throughout Superba’s brunch menu:
- Kale, avocado, and egg toast: A healthy but filling choice
- French toast: Perfect for morning sweet cravings
- Keto plate: Great for specific dietary needs
The bread assortment with four spreads makes an excellent sharing option. Diners can try various flavors and textures that showcase Superba’s bread-making skills.
The restaurant’s setting adds to its charm. Trees shade the outdoor seating area, creating a cozy, luxurious feel. Inside feels both comfortable and upscale, with a private room for bigger groups.
Superba takes its drinks seriously too. A great selection of beer and wine lets guests enjoy a relaxed weekend brunch.
Though exact prices aren’t listed in our facts, Superba’s quality and popularity suggest mid-range to upscale pricing.
Los Angeles’ international brunch fusion scene mirrors its diverse food culture. RYLos Angeles serves Japanese-inspired dishes, spots like Maizano and Tia Brigida offer Mexican flavors, and Superba brings Mediterranean influences. These restaurants create innovative dishes in spaces perfect for lazy weekend brunches. Whether you want a souffle pancake, chilaquiles, or fresh-baked bread, Los Angeles’ fusion brunch spots have something for everyone.
Bottomless Brunch Hotspots
Los Angeles brunch spots come alive on weekend mornings with bottomless mimosas and countless brunch choices. These spots do more than pour unlimited drinks – they create the perfect vibe to spend hours brunching with friends.
Bacari W. 3rd Offerings
Chef Lior Hillel’s Venetian-inspired Bacari W. 3rd brings Mediterranean flavors to life. A charming hidden patio away from West 3rd Street’s buzz sets the stage for a cozy brunch experience.
The menu shines with its selection of small plates. Some must-try dishes include:
- Lamb Hummus ($14.50)
- Sea Bass ($16.50)
- Ricotta & Beet Gnocchi ($14.50)
- Stuffed Mushrooms ($14.50)
The restaurant makes special occasions even better with complimentary champagne.
Pricing and Time Limits
Bacari keeps its bottomless drink packages clear and simple. The standard package runs $30 per person with a 90-minute window. Guests can enjoy:
- Mimosas
- Strawberry bellinis
- House red and white wines
- Sparkling wine
- Sparkling sangria
- House beer
Guests looking to upgrade can get two-part well liquor cocktails for $37 per person. Signature cocktails cost an extra $5 each.
Food and Drink Package Details
Brunch hours run:
- Saturday: 10:30 am – 2:30 pm
- Sunday: 10:30 am – 2:30 pm
The restaurant follows clear rules for bottomless drinks. All but one guest in each group must join the drink package – they can be the designated driver. The clock starts ticking when the first drinks hit the table.
Bacari’s drink menu lets guests mix and match their perfect mimosa. Fresh fruit juices paired with sparkling wine create a DIY experience.
Beverage director Erin Earl takes cocktails beyond typical brunch offerings. The Sinners Nectar stands out by mixing bourbon, blood orange, pomegranate, molasses, and lime.
Quality stays high through these rules:
- Time starts when first round arrives
- Entire party participation required
- Management reserves right to end service
- Responsible drinking enforced
Guests who prefer single drinks can order by the glass. Wine lovers should check out their wine nights where select bottles cost $28.
The staff’s attention to detail shows in both food and service. They go above and beyond for special occasions. This dedication, paired with extensive drink options and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, makes Bacari W. 3rd a standout bottomless brunch spot in Los Angeles.
Luxury Brunch Experiences
Los Angeles’ premium brunch spots blend sophisticated dining with morning luxury. These restaurants go beyond basic breakfast – they create lasting memories through amazing service and beautiful settings.
Baltaire’s Premium Offerings
Brentwood’s favorite steakhouse takes brunch to new heights with its prix fixe menu. The bright dining room connects to a beautiful outdoor terrace through stunning glass doors that stretch from floor to ceiling.
Your table starts with an impressive spread featuring:
- Mediterranean mezze with hummus and baba ghanoush
- Whipped feta with pistachio dukkah
- Gravlax with warm blinis
- Zucchini bread with whipped honey butter
- Seasonal citrus salad
The caviar service steals the show at Baltaire. Their private batch caviar comes from sustainable California farms in three varieties:
- Classic Malossol ($65/$115)
- Reserve Malossol ($115/$145)
- Golden Ossetra ($145)
The main courses showcase the kitchen’s expertise. The filet benedict melts in your mouth, and the lobster omelet topped with caviar represents pure luxury. Seafood lovers will appreciate the king crab deviled eggs and fresh selections from the raw bar.
A roaming bloody mary cart brings the party to you with house-made mix and Beluga Transatlantic Racing Russian vodka. You can also sip on refreshing paloma slushies or choose from various champagne options.
Cara Cara Rooftop Views
The Proper Hotel’s crown jewel, Cara Cara, gives guests stunning 360-degree views of downtown Los Angeles. Angeleno Magazine named it “Best Hotel Rooftop 2022” for good reason – the food matches the incredible scenery.
Chef Suzanne Goin’s seasonal menu celebrates California’s best ingredients. Brunch favorites include:
- Mini lobster rolls
- Fresh seasonal salads
- Chipotle cauliflower tacos
The spacious outdoor dining area features a raised section surrounded by green landscaping. You’ll find cozy spots and seats near the fire pit. Thursday evenings come alive with DJs from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm – perfect for starting your weekend early.
Award-winning sommelier Caroline Styne’s drink menu complements Goin’s fresh flavors perfectly. The carefully selected cocktails, wines, and beers pair beautifully with each dish.
Special Occasion Recommendations
These luxury venues know how to make celebrations special. Baltaire’s private dining spaces fit groups of different sizes. The Sequoia Room hosts up to 48 guests, and the Westside Terrace welcomes 45 people.
Larger events can use Baltaire’s full space, including:
- Main dining room
- Terrace
- Sequoia Room
- Cocktail bar and lounge
Cara Cara provides a unique backdrop for special events. Clear views and outdoor dining create memorable celebrations. The space works well for both small gatherings and big parties.
Baltaire makes arrival easy with valet parking at $13 for lunch and $14 for dinner. This service lets guests focus on enjoying their meal.
Book ahead at both spots, especially for weekend brunch. This helps the staff give you their full attention throughout your visit.
Hidden Gem Brunch Locations
Los Angeles’ best brunch spots aren’t always the ones you see on Instagram. The city has amazing hidden spots that locals love, where you can enjoy great food without fighting weekend crowds.
Court Cafe Specialties
Jermelle Henderson and Calvin Johnson opened Court Cafe in 2019 [link_1], where they put their own spin on breakfast classics. The kitchen shows its creative side with red velvet hotcakes and lobster waffles.
The menu has these must-try items:
- Taco omelet with house-made chicken sausage ($22)
- Peach cobbler oatmeal topped with signature butter ($8)
- Poached shrimp avocado toast ($20)
Seafood lovers will enjoy the lobster chilaquiles plate at market price. The chicken and waffles combo gives you three whole wings and a Belgian waffle for $25.
Vicky’s All Day Menu Highlights
Vicky’s All Day welcomes guests from 9 AM to 3 PM with California-inspired Mediterranean comfort food. You can order breakfast items all day long – perfect when you want eggs at 2 PM.
Their best dishes are:
- Shakshouka with two eggs, spiced tomato sauce, feta, and labneh
- Chicken chilaquiles verde with tomatillo salsa and butter beans
- Brioche French toast with banana foster or NutelLos Angeles Oreo toppings
The space blends the charm of French cafes with classic American diners. A large bar sits at the center, making it great for wine tasting or eating lunch solo.
Local Favorites Under $30
Los Angeles’ brunch scene has plenty of affordable spots. Vicky’s All Day keeps most dishes under $30:
- Breakfast sandwich with applewood bacon ($19.95)
- Mediterranean salad ($17.95)
- Blackened salmon tacos ($17.95)
Court Cafe’s prices stay reasonable:
- Regular oatmeal ($6)
- Breakfast tacos with papas ($23)
- Sweet potato waffle ($15)
Best Times to Avoid Crowds
The right timing makes a big difference in your brunch experience. Court Cafe stays quieter on weekdays compared to busy weekends.
Vicky’s All Day’s crowd size changes throughout the day. Early birds who come right at 9 AM usually find a more peaceful setting. The staff gets everything ready just as they open their doors.
Here’s how to get the best seats:
- Arrive within 30 minutes of opening
- Choose weekday visits over weekends
- Try late morning hours after the breakfast rush
Both places serve great food no matter when you visit. Vicky’s All Day’s 4.73 rating from 178 reviews shows they keep their standards high all day.
These hidden spots prove you don’t need to visit trendy places for amazing brunch. Smart timing and menu choices let you enjoy fantastic food without the long waits you find at more popular spots.
Comparison Table
| Category | Notable Establishments | Price Range | Signature Dishes | Best Visit Times | Special Features |
| Classic American | The Griddle Cafe, Salt’s Cure, Republique | $12-25 | Black Magic pancakes, Oatmeal griddle cakes, Kimchi fried rice | 8:00-9:30 AM minimizes wait time | The Griddle Cafe offers free parking; Republique resides in historic Chaplin building |
| International Fusion | RYLA, Maizano, Superba | $14-19 | Japanese souffle pancakes, Grilled octopus tostada, Mediterranean bread assortment | RYLos Angeles serves 10:00 AM-2:00 PM | RYLos Angeles features Japanese spirits selection; Superba bakes fresh bread daily |
| Bottomless Brunch | Bacari W. 3rd | $30-37 packages | Lamb Hummus, Sea Bass, Ricotta & Beet Gnocchi | Sat-Sun 10:30 AM-2:30 PM | Drinks limited to 90 minutes; Secluded patio available |
| Luxury | Baltaire, Cara Cara | $65-145 (caviar service) | King crab deviled eggs, Mini lobster rolls, Filet benedict | N/A | Bloody mary cart roams premises; Cara Cara presents 360° downtown views |
| Hidden Gems | Court Cafe, Vicky’s All Day | $6-25 | Red velvet hotcakes, Shakshouka, Lobster chilaquiles | 9 AM ensures smaller crowds | Vicky’s blends Mediterranean-American cuisine; Court Cafe reimagines breakfast classics |
Los Angeles Food Tour Private Charter
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Conclusion
Los Angeles serves up brunch options that cater to every palate and wallet. My visits to countless local eateries have taught me how timing changes your entire brunch experience. You’ll find shorter queues at hotspots like The Griddle Cafe and Republique if you arrive early. Late risers might enjoy the laid-back vibe at Court Cafe and Vicky’s All Day instead.
Signature dishes make American venues stand out here. Salt’s Cure’s famous oatmeal griddle cakes have earned their reputation. Republique’s pastry selection draws crowds daily. The scene also features international fusion spots like RYLos Angeles that blend Japanese techniques with California ingredients to create something unique.
Bacari W. 3rd attracts mimosa lovers with its simple pricing and 90-minute bottomless packages. Special celebrations call for upscale venues like Baltaire or Cara Cara where premium ingredients and city views create lasting memories.
The city’s brunch scene goes well beyond typical breakfast fare. You’ll find everything from $6 comfort food to $145 caviar service that reflects Los Angeles’ diverse population and creative food culture. The perfect brunch experience comes down to smart timing, choosing the right spot, and sharing good food with great company.
FAQs
Q1. What are some popular classic American brunch spots in Los Angeles?
Some popular classic American brunch spots in Los Angeles include The Griddle Cafe, known for its enormous pancakes, Salt’s Cure, famous for its oatmeal griddle cakes, and Republique, offering French-American fusion dishes in a historic building.
Q2. Are there any international fusion brunch options in Los Angeles?
Yes, Los Angeles offers several international fusion brunch options. RYLos Angeles in Hermosa Beach serves Japanese-inspired dishes like souffle pancakes, while Superba Food + Bread offers Mediterranean-influenced items such as kale and avocado toast.
Q3. Where can I find a good bottomless brunch in Los Angeles?
Bacari W. 3rd is a popular spot for bottomless brunch in LA. They offer a 90-minute bottomless drink package for $30 per person, which includes mimosas, bellinis, wines, and more. You can upgrade to include cocktails for an additional cost.
Q4. What are some luxury brunch experiences available in Los Angeles?
For a luxury brunch experience, consider Baltaire in Brentwood, which offers a prix fixe menu featuring items like king crab deviled eggs and caviar service. Another option is Cara Cara, located on the rooftop of the Proper Hotel, providing stunning 360-degree views of downtown Los Angeles along with gourmet brunch offerings.
Q5. Are there any hidden gem brunch locations in Los Angeles?
Yes, Los Angeles has several hidden gem brunch spots. Court Cafe, opened in 2019, offers creative twists on classic breakfast dishes like red velvet hotcakes and lobster waffles. Another option is Vicky’s All Day, serving California-inspired Mediterranean comfort food in a cozy setting reminiscent of French cafes and classic American diners.
