Get together with your friends and treat yourself to a fabulous brunch at one of these top brunch destinations in Orange County.
Edited by Whitney Lauren Han.
AVEO Table + Bar
Located in the AAA Five Diamond Monarch Beach Resort, AVEO Table + Bar moves away from its brunch buffet to a curated a la carte menu. Menu highlights include the mixed seafood tower, crispy duck confit hash, prime strip loin and poached organic eggs, nutella crunch French toast and rum flambéed caramelized bananas; and peekytoe crab cake eggs Benedict. To top off brunch, choose from a bottomless Absolut Elyx bloody mary bar or a menu of 30 different champagne options to suit your individual taste. Reservations are recommended. Sa-Su 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 949.234.3900. monarchbeachresort.com
Back Bay Bistro
With the dog-friendly, wrap-around patio and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over upper Newport Bay, this Newport Dunes waterfront restaurant offers two different brunches you can attend. For the Saturday brunch, guests can look forward to street tacos, a pancake station, light starters and chef’s weekly featured entree. The Sunday champagne brunch boasts an assortment of fresh seafood like chilled crab legs, a live omelet and carving station, chocolate fountains and more. Sa-Su 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sa: $28 adults, $13 children 10 and under; Su: $45 adult (included endless champagne and mimosas), $16 children 10 and under. 1131 Back Bay Dr., Newport Beach, 949.729.1144. newportdunes.com
Bayside
With a rotating modern art exhibit and a location overlooking the Newport harbor, Bayside’s setting is only surpassed by the menu created by Executive Chef Paul Gstrein. Their brunch features a three-course menu with dishes such as chopped heart of romaine salad, Bayside salmon Benedict, blackened swordfish, open-faced Bayside steak sandwich and chocolate soufflé cake. Su 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 900 Bayside Dr., Newport Beach, 949.721.1222. baysiderestaurant.com
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
Ease into your morning with a uniquely rustic brunch experience at Bosscat that will resonate with your home-style senses, all the way down to the Whiskey Room. Savory entrees include the donut burger, nutella s’mores pancakes, pork belly breakfast tacos, salmon veggie hash and avocado farm chop salad. Pair your meal with one (or more) of these libations: Breakfast in Bed Shot, Rosé Bellini, Shot and a Beer, The Michelada, Aperol Spritz, blood mary and mimosa. Sa-Su 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4647 MacArthur Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.333.0917. bosscatkitchen-newport.com
Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen
Kick-start your morning with Latin-inspired dishes at one of the two Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen locations. Standouts on the menu include the braised short rib chilaquiles and the carne asada con huevos, which can be enjoyed a la carte, or guests can take advantage of the two-course special for $24 that features chips and salsa, chile con queso, a choice of starter and signature entree. Guests have the option to enjoy bottomless real-fruit champagne mimosas for $10, made with freshly squeezed juices including mango, orange and hibiscus, with housemade syrup. Su 11 a.m-3 p.m. 110 W. Birch St., Brea, 714.255.1040; 13126 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 714.408.7819. chachaslatinkitchen.com
The Dock
Experience Sunday brunch on the bay in the waterfront alfresco patio dining area of The Dock with an infused continental menu. From the traditional eggs Benedict to crab enchiladas, The Dock will stimulate your taste buds with unique flavors as you take in the morning view of the ocean. Su 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 2816 LaFayette Ave., Newport Beach, 949.673.3625. dineatthedock.com
EATS Kitchen & Bar
Smack dab in the heart of Orange County, EATS Kitchen & Bar offers frosés—a slushy, pink beverage—in flavors such as Frosé Y’all with raspberries and orange liqueur; Strawberry with rhubarb; and Bittersweet with crème de pamplemousse ($8 per glass or $30 a pitcher). Additional beverages available include sparkling sangria, a build-your-own bloody mary and a flight of fruit mimosas. Indulge in entrees like the orange blossom French toast or chicken and waffle that is served with rosemary maple syrup and bacon butter. Hang out on patio to play games such as Giant Jenga and Connect 4. Sa-Su 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hotel Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Road, Irvine, 949.225.6780. eatskitchen.com
Fig & Olive
Savor a delicious weekend brunch surrounded by olive trees and gardens at Fig & Olive with a la carte dishes. Menu items include truffle mushroom fontina scrambled eggs, fig Gorgonzola tartlet, Riviera poached egg with cured salmon and French toast with fig cinnamon jam. Sa-Su 11 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Fashion Island, 151 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, 949.877.3005. figandolive.com
Habana
After Chef Alex Moreno reintroduced brunch in April 2017, Habana’s Cuban fare has brought a “flavorful breakfast” to the next level. Unique spices and sauces grace every plate and complement traditional Cuban proteins such as roasted pork, fresh marscios and more. Of course, you can’t skip the meduros or their selection of fresh baked goods and pastries. Costa Mesa: Su 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Irvine: Su 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $45 adults, $19 kids under 10. The Lab, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714.556.0176; Irvine Spectrum Center, 708 Spectrum Center Dr., Irvine, 949.419.0100. restauranthabana.com
House of Blues Anaheim
Looking for good music and even better company? The World Famous Gospel Brunch is a favorite among Orange County residents. During the Gospel Brunch show, treat yourself to an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring breakfast favorites plus tender carving stations, southern specialties and mouth-watering desserts. 400 Disney Way Suite 337, Anaheim, 714.778.2583. houseofblues.com
Las Brisas
With its location right next to the ocean and a row of rose bushes along the walls outside, you can enjoy Las Brisas revived Saturday breakfast buffet or sophisticated Sunday brunch. Las Brisas serves complimentary champagne from their own private stock and authentic Mexican pastries freshly baked in their ovens. Their brunch entrees include filet and eggs, Panettone French toast, crab stuffed trout, lamb chops and more. The meal will end on a sweet note with their chef’s daily dessert specialty. Sa 8-11 a.m., Su 8 a.m.-3 p.m. 361 Cliff Dr., Laguna Beach, 949.497.5434. lasbrisaslagunabeach.com
Mozambique
Sip on a mimosa or Mozambique’s signature blood mary. Try their Breakfast Tower that features crab meat, egg-battered tomato, spinach and melted Swiss cheese topped with cilantro lime aioli, served on toasted ciabatta bread with fruit and homestyle potatoes. Sa-Su 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1740 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.7777. mozambiqueoc.com
Old Vine Café
Chef Mark McDonald’s brunch menu is broken into three sections: Sweet (French toast and crepes), Savory (omelets and quiche), and Comfort (biscuits and gravy, rabbit mole). Chef Mark recommends pairing a mimosa, prepared with freshly-squeezed orange juice, with one of the stars on the savory portion of the menu: the Lengua Omelet with slow-cooked beef tongue, queso fresco, pickled Serrano peppers and spicy tomatillo salsa. Daily 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The Camp, 2937 Bristol St., Suite A-102, Costa Mesa, 714.545.1411. oldvinecafe.com
Pacific Hideaway
Take in the vibrant and laid-back atmosphere while enjoying popular brunch dishes such as the SoCal Breakfast Burrito made with scrambled eggs, bacon, chorizo, red pepper, onion, potatoes and hot sauce. If you’re looking for something sweet, try the bread pudding toast served with macerated berries and bananas. You can also enjoy classics such as the Hideaway Burger and their famous tacos. Sip on a.m. vices such as Cougar Juice made with vodka, chardonnay, blood orange syrup, elderflower, lemon and Prosecco. Daily 7 a.m.-2 p.m. 500 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.965.4448. pacifichideawayhb.com
Pelican Hill Grill & Bar
With an unbeatable ocean view, Pelican Grill is the neighborhood spot where land meets sea and lively meets laid back. Brunch favorites include cinnamon lemon brioche French toast with flame-roasted apples topped with bourbon syrup and the hearty three egg Denver omelet filled with roasted peppers, mushrooms, ham, cheddar, spinach, onion and tomato served with breakfast potatoes. Su 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 22800 S. Pelican Hill Road, Newport Coast, 844.443.0022. pelicangrillnb.com
Plums Café and Catering
In a comfortable, modern setting minutes from the Pacific Ocean in the vibrant Eastside Costa Mesa community, Plums features the best of an authentic Pacific Northwest-inspired and Oregon-influenced experience with a unique menu, wine list and artisan cocktails. It’s a simple and classic dining experience inspired by the distinct flavors of Portland and Seattle. M-Su 8 a.m.-3 p.m. 369 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, 949.722.7586. plumscafe.com
Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen
Listen to live jazz music while enjoying authentic Louisiana cuisine for brunch at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen. Entrees include Gumbo Ya-Ya, Fruity Pebbles French toast, fried green tomato breakfast ciabatta, crawfish cakes and eggs, cajun omelet and more. Su 10-3 p.m., live music 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Downtown Disney® District, 1590 S. Disneyland Dr., Anaheim, 714.776.5200. rbjazzkitchen.com
Red O at Fashion Island
Inspired by traditional Mexican marketplaces, Red O’s patio is transformed into a series of stations for brunch serving huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, paella, seasonal salads, fresh fruit and pan dulce. Everything is made-to-order, including a dessert station with liquid nitrogen ice cream. Popular brunch favorites include lobster Benedict, huevos rancheros and chorizo skillet. Bottomless house margaritas, bloody marys, Tequila Sunrises, sangria and mimosas are $20. Sa-Su 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Fashion Island, 143 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, 949.718.0300. redorestaurant.com
The Rooftop Lounge
Known as Laguna Beach’s most popular and lively rooftop restaurant, The Rooftop Lounge offers a delicious brunch and bubbly mimosas that guests can enjoy while taking in the breathtaking 180-degree panorama of the vast Pacific Ocean. Brunch highlights include lobster avocado toast, chorizo breakfast burrito, banana-pecan baked French toast, hibachi salmon, blackened sea bass and more. Sa-Su 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. La Casa del Camino Hotel, 1289 S. Coast Hwy., 4th Floor, Laguna Beach, 949.497.2446. rooftoplagunabeach.com
Salt Creek Grille
Make your way down Pacific Coast Highway to Salt Creek Grille for a savory brunch along with unlimited champagne until 2 p.m. Start your brunch with warm beignets made with crispy apple pastry fritters, bourbon caramel and powdered sugar. Afterwards, indulge in the breakfast pizza, huevos rancheros or Monte Cristo sandwich. Libations that pair well with brunch entrees include the SCG Signature Mary, French 75, Stumptini and Tequila Sunrise. Sa 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Su 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799. saltcreekgrille.com
Selanne Steak Tavern
Get a taste of Chef Joshua Severson’s savory and sweet brunch menus that feature hearty dishes and lighter fare. Selanne’s Benedict delights while chicken and waffles gets sophisticated with mascarpone. Dedicated to its proprietors are Kevin’s bananas foster French toast and Teemu’s brunch burger. The hash browns au gratin is a brunch favorite, as well as the housemade bourbon caramel pecan sticky bun. Signature quaffs include Casa Amigos Blanco Tequila and The Breakfast of Champions Bloody Mary. The mimosa flight is highlighted by freshly squeezed juices—peach, cherry, blood orange and mango. Su 11 a.m.-2 p.m 1464 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.9881. selannesteaktavern.com
Tanner’s Huntington Beach
Located in the Paséa Hotel & Spa right across from the beach, Tanner’s offers brunch every weekend with a great view. Look forward to trying their popular brunch dishes such as lemon ricotta pancakes with Meyer lemon, ricotta cheese, powdered sugar and maple syrup; eggs Benedict with English muffins, poached farm eggs, Canadian bacon, housemade hollandaise and hash browns; and acai bowl with blended acai sorbet, cranberry juice, coconut, housemade granola, cocoa nibs and grilled strawberries. Sa-Su 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Paséa Hotel & Spa, 21080 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, 714.698.6130. tannershb.com
True Food Kitchen
Inspired by the philosophy that food should make you feel better and not worse, True Food Kitchen features a brunch crafted from seasonally abundant ingredients at the peak of their freshness. Guests can enjoy dishes such as smashed avocado toast, asparagus toast, Sunrise Bowl, quinoa blueberry pancakes, and egg and chicken sausage sandwich. For those forgoing the mimosas, order one of the juices or smoothies like Kale Aid or the banana and date smoothie. Sa-Su 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Fashion Island, 451 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, 949.644.2400. truefoodkitchen.com
Waterline
Indulge in seasonal and fresh water-to-table experience led by Executive Chef Rachel Haggstrom. Guests can enjoy intimate meals in the main dining room with scenic harbor views or al fresco on the patio. The Newport Beach restaurant offers contemporary and casual dining brunch options such as the halibut BLT; steak and egg; tomato and ham casserole; and fitness frittata. Su 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $53 adults, $26.50 children 12 and under. Balboa Bay Resort, 1221 Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.630.4390. balboabayresort.com
Woody’s Wharf
A great location for Newport fun with a view of the boats. Enjoy brunch items such as spicy Puerto Nuevo lobster omelet; smoked salmon Benedict; short rib and egg burrito; chicken and waffles; and more. Portions are generous which makes sharing with friends and family that much more enjoyable. Sa-Su 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 2318 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, 949.675.0474. woodyswharf.com
EATS Kitchen and Bar photo courtesy of Marguarite Clark PR. The Rooftop Lounge Brunch photo courtesy of Ajenda PR.
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