(updated February 2026)
If you are looking for the best Encinitas breakfast restaurants, you have come to the right place. The beachside city of Encinitas, California offers some of the top places for breakfast in North County, San Diego. From trendy cafes and classic diners to lively brunch spots, Encinitas breakfast restaurants have something delicious for everyone.
With over 20 years as a local, I have tasted the best breakfast restaurants in Encinitas. Whether you are resident or tourist, this blog shares the top 22 breakfast restaurants you don’t want to miss. Keep reading to learn where locals go for the best breakfast in Encinitas!
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Best Encinitas Breakfast Restaurants: Coastal Region
1. Leucadia Donut Shoppe
If you are looking for a retro donut shop, then go to Leucadia Donuts. This spot on the border of Encinitas is delightfully “old school”. Founded over 40 years ago, this family owned donut shop makes this list because it is a North County, San Diego institution.
As you enter this humble donut shop, the sticky sweet smell of donuts is sure to put a smile on your face. There’s something about picking your favorite sprinkle covered treat that elicits pure childhood nostalgia.
From apple fritters, sprinkles, chocolate bars, and more- Leucadia Donuts serves up all your favorites. Wash them down with a simple but hearty drip coffee, and you’ll be glad you stopped by.
Address of Leucadia Donuts:
- 1604 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Leucadia Donut Shoppe Hours of Operation
- CLOSED Monday
- Tuesday-Sunday 5:00 am- 1:00 pm
Seeking Stamps Tip: Make sure to check out the Instagram-worthy mural on the side of the building.
Learn the Top Things to Do in Encinitas, CA in This Article!
2. Atelier Manna
On the other side of the breakfast spectrum, is Manna Restaurant. This swanky spot calls itself a “modern day atelier”. It boasts an interior with a minimal Japanese aesthetic and offers an upscale menu unlike any in the Encinitas area. Without question, guests will appreciate the impeccable service at Manna.
Michelin-rated Chef Andrew Bachelier and Chef De Cuisine Marlaw Seraspi serve a delicious variety of breakfast and lunch options featuring seasonal and locally grown ingredients. The menu at Manna is ever changing to keep palates satiated with delightful culinary creations.
Some favorite menu items are the breakfast sandwich with egg, smoked ham, cheese and green garlic. For more unique flavors try the sweet and savory Spanish french toast or herbaceous Turkish eggs.
The restaurant is also available for private events accommodating up to 25 guests.
Address for Manna:
- 1076 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Manna Hours of Operation:
- CLOSED Monday & Tuesday
- Wednesday- Friday 10:00 am- 3:00 pm
- Saturday & Sunday 9:00 am- 2:00 pm
Seeking Stamps Tip: Make sure to save time and join the waitlist at Manna before you drive over.
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3. Le Papagayo
Another popular place for breakfast in Encinitas is Le Papagayo. Although it’s typically known for delicious Mediterranean and Latin fusion cuisine, their breakfast is superb. They have another location in Carlsbad Village too.
Check out their menu for breakfast favorites such as Grand Marnier pancakes and gooey skillet cinnamon roll pancakes. Their breakfast sandwich and burritos are delicious savory options. One of our favorites for breakfast is their Mexican influenced chorizo tacos!
Address for Le Papagayo Encinitas:
- 1002 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Le Papagayo Hours of Operation:
- Daily 7:30 am- 10:00 pm
Seeking Stamps Tip: Reserve a table for Le Papagayo Encinitas on Opentable.
Check Out My Other Blog Post for the Best Places to Eat Breakfast in Carlsbad and Fabulous Restaurants in Bressi Ranch Carlsbad!
4. Nectarine Grove
Next on the list of the best breakfast restaurants in Encinitas is Nectarine Grove. This adorable breakfast spot is 100% gluten free and serves breakfast items made with fresh, locally sourced organic ingredients. As you step inside the bright, bohemian space you will notice their large menu, pastries, and grab-and-go drinks. Nectarine Grove has outdoor seating so you can soak up the California sunshine while you eat.
The large menu features breakfast choices plus salads, pizzas, and paleo-friendly items. To be honest, if you don’t typically eat gluten-free, you will probably notice a slight difference in their tortillas and english muffins. Nonetheless, I recently had their breakfast tacos and they were delicious. My family loved the rich browned butter eggs Benedict and giant cinnamon rolls.
They also have a wide selection of espresso drinks and smoothies. If you like sweet drinks, try the pumpkin spice latte or chai latte.
Nectarine Grove Address:
- 948 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Hours of Operation for Nectarine Grove:
- Sunday- Thursday 8:00 am- 7:00 pm
- Friday & Saturday 8:00 am- 8:00 pm
Want to Know Where to Find Coffee in Encinitas? This Blog Shares 20 Best Coffee Shops!
5. Pannikin Coffee & Tea
The Pannikin Cafe is more of a coffee house than breakfast spot, but it’s so dang adorable I decided to include it on this list. Built in a restored Santa Fe Railroad Station from 1888, you can’t miss this bright yellow family-owned cafe.
Pannikin Encinitas is centrally located along Highway 101. Additionally, there are several Pannikin locations in San Diego, including the San Diego Airport and a new coffee shop in Oceanside.
Of course Pannikin serves all types of coffee and tea. They also serve up yummy breakfast options. Choose from pastries such as croissants, muffins, scones and cookies to breakfast items such as eggs, avocado toast, yogurt bowls and bagels.
Pannikin Coffee Shop Address:
- 510 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Hours of Operation for Pannikin Cafe:
- Open daily 6:00 am- 6:00 pm (food is served 7:00-1:30)
Read This Blog Post for the Best Carlsbad Coffee Shops and Best Oceanside Coffee!
6. The Roxy
If you want to be in the center of the action in downtown Encinitas, go to The Roxy for brunch. It’s located on a busy corner near the famous “Encinitas” sign. The Roxy is known as a great venue for live music at night. Yet, on Saturdays and Sundays you can grab a delicious brunch nestled along highway 101.
Start off your meal at the Roxy with a mimosa or their signature bloody Mary with beer sidecar. We love their breakfast sandwich, chilaquiles or egg scrambles. If you’re not craving breakfast, you can also find burgers and salads on the menu. The Roxy is one of our favorite Encinitas breakfast restaurants.
Address for The Roxy:
- 517 S Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, CA 92024
Hours of Operation for The Roxy:
- Brunch is served Saturday & Sunday 10:00 am-3:00 pm
7. Encinitas Cafe
If you want a casual, “homey”, breakfast spot, visit Encinitas Cafe. For over 85 years, this restaurant has changed names and owners, but it remains a fixture in the Encinitas community. Since 1989, this relaxed restaurant is the perfect place to visit after you roll out of bed on a lazy weekend.
Just as you would expect, the Encinitas Cafe serves all the classic breakfast items you know and love. You can count on unpretentious and delicious food every time you visit. Show up hangry and order the “Encinitas Special” which is a mountain of food (literally). They offer a hearty selection of eggs, oatmeal, scrambles, omelettes, acai bowls, breakfast burritos and homemade breakfast quiche.
Address for Encinitas Cafe:
- 517 S Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, CA 92024
Encinitas Cafe Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Friday 7:00 am-3:00 pm
- Saturday & Sunday 7:00 am-4:00 pm
8. The 101 Diner
As you continue south down Highway 101, you can’t miss the retro street front 101 Diner. This 50’s style diner is complete with movie memorabilia, cushy leather booths and a black and white checkered floor. You can even sit at the counter or out front on their small patio.
The 101 Diner has breakfast classics and unique specials. One of our favorites is their “Cardiff Crack” and eggs. FYI- if you’re not a local, “Cardiff Crack” is a famous peppery tri-tip made locally at Cardiff Seaside Market. From omelets, acai bowls, scrambles, pancakes, crepes and more- the 101 Diner has you covered for breakfast. Other favorites include the California Benedict with avocado or “HO-Made” Crab Cakes (we always laugh and wonder if that’s a menu typo).
Address For The 101 Diner:
- 552 S Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, CA 92024
The 101 Diner Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Friday 6:00 am- 1:30 pm
- Saturday & Sunday 6:00 am-2:00 pm
Seeking Stamps Tip: Prices on their website do not reflect recent increases.
9. Honey’s Bistro and Bakery
One of my personal favorite breakfast places in Encinitas is Honey’s Bistro. This casual breakfast spot has been serving up mouth-watering food since the 90’s. Order at the counter, then sit outside on the large sunny patio or inside the modern space. This warm and inviting restaurant is the perfect place to brunch with friends.
Honey’s serves breakfast and lunch with plenty of sweet and savory options. Their extensive menu includes scramblers, omelets, loaded bagels, several types of eggs Benedict, breakfast burritos, waffles, pancakes, egg sandwiches and more. This is definitely one of the Encinitas breakfast restaurants you don’t want to miss.
Address for Honey’s Encinitas:
- 632 South Coast Highway 101 Encinitas, CA 92024
Honey’s Bistro Encinitas Hours of Operation:
- Daily 7:00 am-2:00 pm
Seeking Stamps Tip: Reservations are accepted for parties of 12 or more by calling (760) 942-5433.
10. Lotus Café & Juice Bar
At the Lotus Cafe and Juice Bar, they focus on food that is” fresh, natural, healthy, and affordable”. Their menu is predominantly vegetarian and includes vegan and gluten-free options. If you are looking for a zen breakfast restaurant in Encinitas, this is the place to try.
Here breakfast is served all day-hooray! Just order at the counter and seat yourself at this casual dining spot. Lotus Cafe serves entrees such as tofu scrambles, breakfast sandwiches, breakfast burritos, oatmeal, pancakes, french toast and more. They also offer an extensive selection at their juice bar. Make sure to try their cupcakes and muffins that are made fresh daily in-house.
Address for Lotus Cafe and Juice Bar:
- 765 South Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, CA 92024 (in the Lumberyard Shopping Center)
Hours of Operation of the Lotus Cafe Encinitas:
- Daily 9:00 am-9:00 pm
Seeking Stamps Tip: The Lotus Cafe is a dog-friendly restaurant. Pets are welcome on their outdoor patio.
11. Broad Street Dough Co
Also located in the Lumberyard Shopping Center is the creative Encinitas donut shop, Broad Street Dough Co. Here donuts are made to order, so they are warm and fresh. They have with vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free donuts as well.
The first time we visited this donut shop, my teenager’s eyes widened with anticipation! Fortunately, Broad Street donuts are just as delectable as they look! They offer 40 daily flavors plus festive seasonal and holiday donuts. Check out their Instagram to see what’s in store. Our favorites are the cinnamon-covered churro cronuts!
Address for Broad Street Dough Co:
- 967 S Coast Hwy 101 Ste 109B, Encinitas, CA 92024
Hours of Operation for Broad Street Dough Co:
- Monday-Thursday 8:00 am -4:30 pm
- Friday & Saturday 8:00 am-8:00 pm
Seeking Stamps Tip: This is the place to order donuts from if you have an event or party. They have so many fun donut themes such as Halloween, Superbowl, Easter, 4th of July, Pride and more!
Explore the Best Carlsbad Bakeries Here . . .
12. Potato Shack Cafe
Did someone say “all you can eat breakfast potatoes”? There’s a reason all the college students flock to Potato Shack, and it’s largely due to the unlimited potatoes and affordable prices at this beachy cafe. In fact, my husband and I have been eating at Potato Shack since our time at UC San Diego 25 years ago, and we still love it today.
At Potato Shack they have simple egg combinations with ham, bacon or sausage. They also serve breakfast sandwiches, eggs Benedict, breakfast burritos, huevos rancheros and massive “man hole” sized pancakes. You definitely won’t leave Potato Shack feeling hungry because their portions are huge.
Address for Potato Shack Encinitas:
- 120 West I Street, Encinitas, CA 92024
Hours of Operation for Potato Shack:
- Daily from 7:00 am- 2:00 pm
Seeking Stamps Tip: Potato Shack is dog-friendly!
13. Goodonya Organic Eatery
If you want food that is 100% non-GMO and 100% organic, check out Goodonya Eatery. Their claim to fame is they have “one of the largest organic menus on the planet”. With a mission to “create a feel GOOD experience”, they certainly do just that!
Goodonya Organic Restaurant serves several types of breakfast burrito, avocado toast, pancakes, scrambles, a breakfast sandwich and veggie bowls. They also serve coffee, tea, and lunch. Don’t forget to stop by their market and grab some organic wine to take home with you too.
Address for Goodonya Organic Eatery Encinitas:
- 1051 S Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, California 92024
Goodonya Eatery Hours of Operation:
- Daily from 7:00am-4:00 pm (breakfast is served all day)
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14. Union Kitchen & Tap
When you finally make it to the weekend, stop by Union Kitchen and Tap for their brunch. Union is a lively beach bar and American restaurant with an industrial aesthetic. Although it’s a great place to grab a drink and watch the game, we often dine here with our family for brunch.
Union has all your breakfast favorites, but with an elevated and sophisticated spin. Try the spicy shakshuka, short rib breakfast burrito, or crab cake Benedict. You can also find fluffy pancakes, steak & eggs or chicken & waffles. If you bring a furry friend with you, they even have a dog menu!
Address for Union Kitchen & Tap:
- 1108 S Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, CA 92024
Union Encinitas Hours of Operation:
- Saturday & Sunday 9:00 am-2:00 pm (for brunch)
Seeking Stamps Tip: Click here to make a reservation at Union. This large restaurant is perfect for large parties.
15. Swami’s Cafe Encinitas
Swami’s Encinitas is a casual dining restaurant that calls itself “friendly, fresh, and family-centric”. It’s obviously popular because there are 10 locations around San Diego and two locations in Encinitas.
The Swami’s Cafe Carlsbad menu offers a variety of omelets including a traditional Denver omelet or veggie rama omelet. You can also find scrambles, pancakes, breakfast burritos, waffles and more.
Address for Swami’s Cafe:
- 1163 S. Coast Highway 101 Encinitas, CA 92024 (Swami’s Coastal 101 Encinitas location)
- 1506 Encinitas Blvd Encinitas, CA 92024 (Swami’s Encinitas Inland location)
Hours of Operation for Swami’s:
- Daily 7:00 am-3:00 pm (both locations)
- Saturday & Sunday 7:00 am-4:00 pm (101 Coastal location only)
Best Encinitas Breakfast Restaurants: Inland
16. Naked Cafe Encinitas
The Naked Cafe is the best place for a healthy breakfast in Encinitas. You can find egg white scrambles, protein packed breakfast burritos, vegan entrees, and more at the Naked Cafe. They also have mimosas, draft beer, fresh squeezed juices, specialty coffee and tea beverages.
Address for the Naked Cafe in Encinitas:
- 288 N El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024 (in Camino Village Plaza near Home Goods)
Hours of Operation for the Naked Cafe:
- Daily 7:30 am- 2:30 pm
Seeking Stamps Tip: The Naked Cafe has several nice locations around the greater San Diego area, so make sure to visit them all!
17. The Craftsman New American Tavern (Permanently Closed)
For some unknown reason, The Craftsman Tavern is a hidden gem for brunch in Encinitas. Often, lines are out the door at adjacent restaurants and the Craftsman has tables available. I promise the food quality and friendly staff are spectacular.
The Craftsman brunch menu offers a traditional American breakfast, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, omelets, breakfast burritos, pub sandwiches and more. Our favorite breakfast entrees are the ABC omelet, eggs Benedict or spicy chilaquiles. One of the best reasons to visit The Craftsman is their bottomless mimosas and bloody Mary’s.
Address for the Craftsman:
- 267 N El Camino Real Encinitas, CA 92024
Hours of Operation for the Craftsman Tavern:
- Saturday & Sunday 10:00 am-2:00 pm ( for brunch)
18. Breakfast Republic
Another one of the best Encinitas breakfast restaurants is Breakfast Republic. It has an enormous menu, so you are sure to find your favorites.
At Breakfast Republic you can find innovative breakfast entrees such as breakfast jambalaya, shrimp and grits, breakfast bacon mac & cheese, and oreo cookie pancakes. In addition to their creative options, you can also find breakfast classics such as omelets, french toast, scrambles and vegan options.
Breakfast Republic Address:
- 251 N El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024
Hours of Operation for Breakfast Republic:
- Daily 7:00 am- 3:00 pm
Seeking Stamps Tip: You can find 19 Breakfast Republic restaurants in Southern California including several in the greater San Diego area such as Hillcrest, La Jolla, & Carmel Valley.
19. The Cottage
For a cozy breakfast restaurant with a bright and inviting aesthetic, visit The Cottage. This breakfast restaurant in inland Encinitas, is the perfect place to escape for a relaxing breakfast. They serve Southern California cuisine and traditional American favorites.
The Cottage serves delectable favorites such as lemon ricotta pancakes, Baja chicken hash, or morning glory breakfast sandwich with a fried egg and smoked gouda cheese. We tried the Mexicali Benedict with chorizo, millionaire bacon skewers, and Monterrey scramble on our last visit and they were lip-smacking good!
Address for The Cottage Encinitas:
- 127 N El Camino Real #H Encinitas, CA 92024
Hours of Operation for The Cottage:
- Monday-Thursday 7:30 am- 2:30 pm
- Friday, Saturday & Sunday 7:30 am-3:00 pm
20. Crack Shack
Next, go to the Crack Shack which is known for its crispy fried chicken. This isn’t really a breakfast restaurant. However, they have two sandwiches we love for breakfast, so I included it on my list.
First, try the BEA sandwich. It has a sunny side egg, avocado, bacon and cheese on brioche bread. Or, try the Señor Croque with fried Jidori chicken, egg, bacon, cheddar and maple-miso butter on brioche. These two sandwiches are outstanding. If you decide to go ahead and order fried chicken for breakfast, I’m not gonna judge!
Address for the Crack Shack Encinitas:
- 407 Encinitas Boulevard Encinitas, CA 92024
Hours of Operation for Crack Shack:
- Monday-Wednesday & Sunday 10:30 am-9:00 pm
- Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10:30 am-9:00 pm
21. Original Pancake House
If you are craving pancakes, then you obviously need to visit the Original Pancake House in Encinitas. They have a TON of pancake varieties, from classic, gluten-free pancakes, and specialty pancakes. The Pancake House also serves waffles, french toast, crepes, omelets and egg specials. We love their good ol’ chocolate chip pancakes and their decadent French crepes with fresh strawberries and powdered sugar.
Address for the Original Pancake House:
- 160 S Rancho Santa Fe Road, Encinitas, CA 92024
The Original Pancake House Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Friday 7:00 am-1:00 pm
- Saturday & Sunday 7:00 am- 2:00 pm
22. Champagne French Bakery
Last, but not least, check out Champagne French Bakery for breakfast served all day. Champagne Bakery has a smaller menu, but this Encinitas breakfast restaurant has delicious food and affordable prices. Try the Le Metro breakfast sandwich with egg, tomato, avocado and herbed cream cheese. Another favorite breakfast dish is their breakfast panini with egg, bacon, cheese and spinach.
Address For Champagne French Bakery:
- 162 S Rancho Santa Fe Road Ste E-10, Encinitas, CA 92024
Champagne French Bakery Hours of Operation:
- Daily 6:30 am- 5:00 pm
Recently Closed Encinitas Breakfast Restaurants
Sadly, Encinitas has lost some favorite breakfast restaurants. They include:
- EVE Encinitas
- A Little Moore Cafe
- Mozy Cafe
- St. Tropez Bistro & Beyond
Best Encinitas Breakfast Restaurants: Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a delicious start to your day, the coastal city of Encinitas has some fabulous breakfast restaurants. From relaxed cafes to modern restaurants these are 22 breakfast spots in Encinitas that are sure to delight your taste buds. When you are looking for the “best breakfast near me”, these Encinitas breakfast restaurants are the best places to eat in North County, San Diego!
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