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Best Breakfast Restaurants in Santa Monica (90401)

6 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

$$ Wilshire Montana
Since 2009, this farmers market-inspired bakery has drawn devoted crowds for its maple bacon biscuits, fried egg sandwiches, and legendary pastry case. The counter-service spot channels rustic California comfort with seasonal ingredients from the Wednesday Santa Monica Farmers Market, creating dishes that feel both nostalgic and refined.
Must-Try Dishes: Everything Bagel with Chive Cream Cheese, Smoked Salmon Bagel, Maple Bacon Scone
What makes it special: Farm-to-table bagels with artisan cream cheeses
$ Ocean Park
Sweet Maple brings their famous San Francisco brunch magic to Santa Monica, with signature Millionaire's Bacon that's been caramelized with brown sugar and spices for hours. The Asian-fusion touches elevate American breakfast classics, from Korean galbi benedicts to Japanese omurice, all served in a bright, modern space just blocks from the beach.
Must-Try Dishes: Millionaire's Bacon, Blueberry Pancakes, Breakfast Burrito
What makes it special: Millionaire's Bacon put them on the global food map
$$ Downtown Santa Monica
This organic-focused crepe specialist has been charming locals since 2011 with both sweet and savory options made from scratch daily. The spacious new location features a breezy patio perfect for leisurely brunches, where unlimited weekday mimosas flow alongside hearty breakfast combos and their signature salmon cake scandia.
Must-Try Dishes: Nutella Strawberry Banana Crepe, Salmon Cake Scandia, Croissant French Toast
What makes it special: Extensive gluten-free crepe options made fresh daily

Worthy Picks

$$$ Downtown Santa Monica
Chef Angie Kim's modern all-day cafe blends Asian fusion with brunch classics in a sleek, minimalist space. The katsu curry rivals any Japanese restaurant while French toast gets elevated with blueberry ricotta, creating a menu that bridges continents with confident execution and specialty coffee drinks.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken Katsu Curry, Blueberry Ricotta French Toast, Branzino Ochazuke
What makes it special: Asian-fusion breakfast dishes you won't find elsewhere
$ Ocean Park
Operating since 1943, this historic diner got an Italian-influenced makeover from Capo restaurant's Bruce Marder. The bougainvillea-covered patio provides a romantic setting for orange pancakes and burrata caprese omelets, while maintaining its neighborhood coffee shop charm with Illy espresso and organic ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes: Orange Pancakes, Burrata Caprese Omelet, Breakfast Burrito
What makes it special: Historic 1943 diner with Italian-influenced breakfast menu
$$ Downtown Santa Monica
This eclectic neighborhood fixture since 2000 specializes in southwestern-influenced breakfast with over 20 chili varieties alongside pancakes and flaky French toast. The family-friendly space offers generous portions and creative combinations like chilaquiles and breakfast pizzas, making it a reliable choice for hearty morning meals.
Must-Try Dishes: Martin's Spicy Chilaquiles, Flaky French Toast, Desperado Omelet
What makes it special: Twenty-plus chili varieties and southwestern breakfast focus