Only at brunch: extravagant buffets and innovative a la carte menus
Brunch in San Diego isn’t just for holidays and special occasions. This popular meal can be enjoyed on any weekend, and even some weekdays, in hotels and trendy restaurants across the county. It’s family-friendly, ranges from casual to upscale, and might just cure your hangover blues. Wasabi Bloody Mary? Bring it on, but save room--San Diego chefs have turned brunch into quite a culinary event that isn't just about eggs and bacon.
Brunch in San Diego exists in the all-you-can-eat buffet style, such as the seven stations at the Crown Room where you may also partake in bottomless mimosas. Or, perhaps... Read more »
Local Expert Tip: ""Asian Cowboy" is a perfect way to describe the truly wild menu at Burlap that is full of east-meets-west options. If you can't make it for brunch, go for lunch or dinner. Just beware that the evenings turn into a singles scene."
Crown Room at Hotel del Coronado
- Cuisine: Continental
- Neighborhood: Coronado
Local Expert Tip: "Kids 5 and under eat brunch here for free. Don't forget to dress smartly. Walk off your brunch by spending some time exploring this historic hotel, whose red roof has become a symbol of San Diego. "
- Cuisine: American
- Average Main Course Price: $30
- Neighborhood: Gaslamp Quarter
Local Expert Tip: "The Dr. Seuss-inspired Green Eggs and Ham is a must-order along with the Bacon and Egg Bloody Mary. It is actually possible to eat a healthy brunch here too without feeling too deprived, though you may gaze longingly at your neighboring table's order."
Local Expert Tip: "Be sure to order the prime rib, dress smartly and make sure you're not driving as mimosas and sparkling wine are included with the price of brunch. Though it's not listed on the brunch menu, keep an eye out for the caviar."
- Cuisine: American, California, European, Mediterranean
- Average Main Course Price: $30
- Neighborhood: La Jolla
Local Expert Tip: "Make a reservation as soon as you identify when you want to go. They have an expanded brunch menu on holidays that may include a few extras. For example, there's an egg hunt and bunny at the popular Easter brunch. Valet parking is available, which is extremely convenient on summer weekends."
- Cuisine: American, New American
- Average Main Course Price: $30
- Neighborhood: Hillcrest / Balboa Park
Local Expert Tip: "Scrap the diet and order the tots. Any tots will do as they are all fantastic. This is one of the only places in town that offers a proper brunch menu during the week."
- Cuisine: American
- Average Main Course Price: $30
Local Expert Tip: "Cheesy biscuits. Need I say more? You can order a delicious salad or healthier option, if you absolutely have to."
Local Expert Tip: "Plan to make this your only meal of the day or consider sharing. The portions are seriously enormous and you'll find yourself staring at other people's food, marveling at what you didn't order."
The Shores Restaurant - La Jolla Shores Hotel
- Cuisine: American, California
- Average Main Course Price: $30
- Neighborhood: La Jolla
Local Expert Tip: "Walk off your brunch along the La Jolla Shores boardwalk or better yet, bring your beach gear in the car. This is one of the most family-friendly beaches in San Diego. "
- Cuisine: American
- Average Main Course Price: $25
- Neighborhood: Point Loma
Local Expert Tip: "Kids 5 and under eat free at Sunday brunch. Expanded brunch menus are offered on holidays. Not only is the food good, but Humphreys receives consistent praise for excellent service."









