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Best Instagram Worthy Brunch Restaurants in Santa Monica (90401)

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

Essential Picks

$$$$ Ocean Avenue
Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina's Mediterranean temple where beachfront elegance meets theatrical tableside presentations. The baklava French toast alone has generated thousands of Instagram posts, while the sun-drenched terrace offers unrivaled Pacific views.
Must-Try Dishes: Saganaki with Black Truffle Honey, Wagyu Beef Tartare, Baklava French Toast
What makes it special: Michelin-starred chef's Mediterranean vision with unmatched ocean views

Notable Picks

$$$ Third Street Promenade
French Riviera meets California cool on this stunning rooftop with panoramic ocean views and DJ-spun beats during weekend brunch. The rose gold sunset lighting and Instagram-perfect cocktail presentations make every table feel like a VIP cabana.
Must-Try Dishes: LouLou Pizza with Truffle, Beef Cheek Bourguignon, Burrata with Heirloom Tomatoes
What makes it special: Rooftop ocean views with French Riviera party atmosphere
$$ Wilshire Montana
Farmers market-inspired bakery where the pastry case sparkles like jewelry and weekend lines snake around the block. Their legendary maple bacon biscuit and green eggs with prosciutto have launched a thousand food blogs since opening in 2009.
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
$$$ Downtown Santa Monica
Korean-American fusion cafe where brioche French toast meets kimchi fried rice in a sleek black-and-white space. Their rainbow latte art and unexpected flavor combinations create some of the most shareable plates near the Promenade.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken Katsu Curry, Blueberry Ricotta French Toast, Branzino Ochazuke
What makes it special: Asian-fusion breakfast dishes you won't find elsewhere
$$ Third Street Promenade
Two-story New American showpiece where bottomless mimosas flow freely and the DJ starts spinning at noon. The mezzanine level offers prime people-watching over the Promenade while the menu delivers elevated comfort food with California flair.
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
Organic crepe haven where sweet meets savory in endlessly customizable combinations served in a sun-drenched corner cafe. The build-your-own crepe bar and rainbow fruit displays create a choose-your-own-adventure brunch experience.
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
$ Mid-City Santa Monica
Neighborhood institution since 1995 serving oversized portions of American comfort classics in a cheerful yellow-walled setting. Their three-egg omelets and fresh-baked pastries create an all-American brunch that feels like Sunday at grandma's.
Must-Try Dishes: Tri-Tip Breakfast Burrito, Blueberry Pancakes, California Scramble
What makes it special: Reliable neighborhood spot with generous portions.