Where to Brunch in Santa Monica: My top 5 (2023)

Santa Monica, for a lot of people, is an iconic area where you go to the Pier, take sunset photos, and do some shopping along the 3rd street promenade. Because it’s an area where tourists flock to, I don’t spend a ton of time in Santa Monica these days, however some of my favorite restaurants do reside in that neighborhood. So, for all you fellow foodies, let me break down my top 5 brunch restaurants of this year that’ll have you bookmarking for your next visit. 

Papille Gustative: 

	This is my favorite brunch spot in Santa Monica of all time and it’s well away from the busy foot traffic of tourists. The first time I came here, I was late in my third trimester and Connor was dancing around so much from all the wonderful menu items we were eating. This farm to table concept serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily based on organic, locally sourced produce which is exquisitely prepared. Did I mention that they have a nicely curated kids menu? With options like their Salmon, Avocado, Bread Mini Plate or Cheese Bread Pizza you could easily take your kids to enjoy the menu, I know mine would love it now that he’s not in utero. 

Here’s what to order:

• Duck Egg & Duck Prosciutto Benedict 

• Heirloom Tomato, Peach, & Burrata Salad

• Roasted Mushroom & Egg Toast

If you’re a coffee drinker, the Madagascar Vanilla Latte is wonderful

And if they have their Peruvian Chocolate Avocado Mousse, do not leave without ordering. 

Huckleberry Cafe:

Huckleberry Cafe on Wilshire Boulevard is a local favorite and is renowned for its rustic charm and baked goods. There is a line out the door every single morning and sometimes you’ll see the occasional celeb grabbing their morning pastry. If you love eggs like I do, their Fried Egg Sandwich with gruyere and herbed aioli is as amazing as it sounds and seriously to die for! 

Elephante: 

If you have visitors from out of town, you take them to Elephante. This trendy hot spot is always busy, and for good reason. Their rooftop truly has one of the best ocean views,  and you can always catch a postcard worthy sunset. When it comes to their brunch, their southern coastal Italian menu is just as memorable as their stunning decor and views. 

Here’s What to Order: 

• BANANA BREAD whipped butter, grey salt 

• PROSCIUTTO SCRAMBLE 

• GREEN EGGS

• RICOTTA HOTCAKES

Lunetta:

Unassuming from the street entrance, but Lunetta’s menu is kind of like eating at a neighborhood diner with just enough frill to make it oh so special. The ambiance both indoor and outdoor is quite charming and makes you want to come back, especially if you’re able to sit outside in their cute little patio. Dog friendly, kid friendly, and it’s always busy so do call for reservations. And lastly, the staff is warm and friendly which makes Lunetta one of those places that Angelenos come back to often. 

Here’s What to Order:

• Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with roasted blueberry butter

• POLENTA & EGG poached egg, creamy polenta, shiitake mushrooms

Breakfast by Salt’s Cure:

If you want no frills, just straight up amazing breakfast without an absurd price tag you come to Breakfast by Salt’s Cure. Open daily at 7am, this is a slightly bougier greasy spoon in the best way possible. You can order individual pancakes or mix and match flavors which is super fun. Every neighborhood needs a place like this one, because perfectly executed breakfast staples that are affordable are so hard to come by these days. 

Here’s What to Order: 

• Banana Nut Griddle Cakes

• Pink Lady Apple Pancakes

No matter which you choose, you are sure to find some amazing eats in Santa Monica!