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Best Brunch Restaurants in Santa Monica (90401)

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

Notable Picks

$ Ocean Park
Home of the world-famous Millionaire's Bacon, this Asian-fusion brunch spot elevates American classics with innovative twists. The thick-cut bacon caramelized with brown sugar and spicy peppers has set the bar for bacon worldwide, while bottomless mimosas flow freely on weekends.
Must-Try Dishes: Millionaire's Bacon, Blueberry Pancakes, Breakfast Burrito
What makes it special: Millionaire's Bacon put them on the global food map
$$ Wilshire Montana
This farmers market-inspired bakery opened in 2009 serves some of LA's best pastries including legendary cinnamon rolls and kouign amann. The counter-service spot offers California comfort food with organic ingredients, drawing loyal crowds for both sweet and savory brunch options.
Must-Try Dishes: Everything Bagel with Chive Cream Cheese, Smoked Salmon Bagel, Maple Bacon Scone
What makes it special: Farm-to-table bagels with artisan cream cheeses
$$ Downtown Santa Monica
Since 2011, this organic-focused cafe has been famous for its sweet and savory crepes made with locally-sourced ingredients. The zucchini hash brown fritters and extensive crepe menu draw health-conscious diners to two charming outdoor patios perfect for leisurely weekend brunches.
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
$$ Third Street Promenade
Established in 2016, this two-story New American restaurant offers bottomless brunch with live DJ sets on weekends. The 10,000-square-foot space features vintage-chic decor, a massive dining room with bi-fold doors opening to the Promenade, and transforms into a nightclub atmosphere after dark.
Must-Try Dishes: Korean BBQ Tacos, Truffle Mac & Cheese, Tuna Poke Stack
What makes it special: Two-story space with balcony dining overlooking the Promenade

Worthy Picks

$$ Downtown Santa Monica
Housed in the historic 1929 Clock Tower building, this farm-to-table spot features craft cocktails and comfort food with ingredients from nearby farmers markets. Known for LA's best happy hour and weekend brunch, the darkly lit space offers a lively bar scene steps from the beach.
Must-Try Dishes: Bacon Mac & Cheese, Pan-Seared Sea Bass, Walnut Bolognaise
What makes it special: Best happy hour in LA according to multiple publications
$ Mid-City Santa Monica
This California-inspired neighborhood cafe relocated from Montana Avenue to serve fresh, eclectic fare daily from 7:30am. Known for generous portions and reliable quality, it's a dependable spot for classic American breakfast and brunch without the trendy frills.
Must-Try Dishes: Tri-Tip Breakfast Burrito, Blueberry Pancakes, California Scramble
What makes it special: Reliable neighborhood spot with generous portions.