
Best Breakfast Places in Monterey
As a breakfast enthusiast, I have spent countless mornings exploring the breakfast scene in Monterey. From cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, Monterey offers a diverse range of breakfast options that cater to every taste and preference.
After much exploration and tasting, I have curated a list of my top picks for the best breakfast places in Monterey. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these spots are a must-try for anyone looking to kickstart their day with a delicious and satisfying meal.
Key Takeaways:
- Monterey offers a diverse range of breakfast options that cater to every taste and preference
- My top picks for the best breakfast places in Monterey include cozy cafes, upscale restaurants, hidden gems, and family-friendly spots
- Each category offers a unique and appealing experience, making it easy to find the perfect breakfast spot for any occasion
Scenic Delights: Breakfast Cafes with a View
If you’re looking to indulge in a delicious breakfast while soaking in the gorgeous scenery of Monterey, these cafes are a must-visit. Offering more than just great food, these breakfast spots come with stunning views that will make your morning even brighter.
| Café Name | View | Must-Try Dish |
|---|---|---|
| The Breakfast Club | Overlooking the Pacific Ocean | Buttermilk pancakes |
| Wave Street Cafe | Monterey Bay and Harbor | Smoked salmon eggs benedict |
| Jack’s Restaurant and Lounge | Golf course and mountains | Breakfast burrito |
At The Breakfast Club, you can enjoy fluffy buttermilk pancakes while gazing out over the Pacific Ocean. Wave Street Cafe offers a picturesque view of Monterey Bay and Harbor paired with their famous smoked salmon eggs benedict. And Jack’s Restaurant and Lounge offers a stunning view of a golf course and mountains while you savor their hearty breakfast burrito.
These breakfast cafes not only offer a beautiful view but also a delicious meal, making it the perfect way to start your day in Monterey.
Local Favorites: Hidden Gems in Monterey
When it comes to breakfast in Monterey, there are a few spots that locals swear by. These hidden gems may not be as well-known as some of the more popular breakfast places, but they offer unique dishes and flavors that are worth checking out.
One such spot is The Breakfast Club, located in Seaside. This cozy diner serves up hearty portions of classic breakfast dishes with a twist, such as their famous sweet potato pancakes. Another local favorite is Bon Ton L’Roy’s Lighthouse Smokehouse, which serves up mouth-watering smoked salmon and egg dishes.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, head over to Em Le’s in Pacific Grove, which offers a wide variety of crepes and waffles. For a taste of a truly unique dish, try the Hawaiian-style loco moco at Red’s Donuts in Monterey.
For those who prefer a healthier breakfast option, Pacific Bowls & Rolls in Monterey offers refreshing acai bowls and smoothies. And if you’re looking for a breakfast spot that also doubles as a great bakery, Roux in Carmel-by-the-Sea is the place to go.
These hidden gem breakfast places in Monterey offer a taste of local flavor and are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Outdoor Eateries: Breakfast with a Breeze
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind dining experience, look no further than the outdoor eateries in Monterey. These breakfast spots offer a charming and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy your meal, with the added benefit of fresh air and beautiful surroundings.
| Restaurant | Location | Ambiance | Menu Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Breakfast Club | 25 Old Fisherman’s Wharf #5 | Coastal views, outdoor seating overlooking the harbor | Crab benedict, breakfast burritos |
| Crema | 481 Lighthouse Ave | Outdoor patio surrounded by lush greenery | Homemade granola, avocado toast |
| Morning Fills | 622 Lighthouse Ave | Casual garden setting with picnic tables and umbrellas | French toast, huevos rancheros |
At The Breakfast Club, you can savor your breakfast while taking in the coastal views and watching the boats come and go in the harbor. Try their delicious crab benedict or hearty breakfast burrito.
Crema’s outdoor patio is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a peaceful oasis. Start your day off right with their homemade granola or classic avocado toast.
Morning Fills offers a casual garden setting with picnic tables and umbrellas, providing the perfect spot for a laid-back breakfast. Be sure to try their irresistible French toast or spicy huevos rancheros.
These outdoor eateries in Monterey offer a unique and memorable breakfast experience that you won’t want to miss. Enjoy your meal in the fresh air and take in the beauty of Monterey’s surroundings.
A Gourmet Morning: Upscale Breakfast Restaurants
If you’re in the mood for a more refined breakfast experience, Monterey has a variety of upscale restaurants that will satisfy your cravings. These establishments offer a gourmet twist on classic breakfast dishes, with beautiful presentations and sophisticated flavor profiles.
| Restaurant | Location | Signature Dish |
|---|---|---|
| The Whaling Station Steakhouse | Cannery Row | Crab Cake Benedict |
| Rio Grill | Carmel-by-the-Sea | Wild Mushroom Omelette |
| Aubergine | Carmel-by-the-Sea | Caviar and Eggs |
At The Whaling Station Steakhouse, located in the heart of Cannery Row, the Crab Cake Benedict is a standout dish that combines two classic breakfast items- crab cakes and eggs benedict. Rio Grill, located in nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea, features a Wild Mushroom Omelette that highlights the flavors of locally sourced mushrooms. For a truly unparalleled gourmet experience, Aubergine in Carmel-by-the-Sea serves Caviar and Eggs, a dish that combines the salty richness of caviar with perfectly cooked scrambled eggs.
Each of these upscale breakfast restaurants in Monterey offers a unique dining experience that is sure to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal, these restaurants are not to be missed.
Family-Friendly Breakfast Spots
If you’re looking for a delicious and hassle-free breakfast experience in Monterey with the whole family, there are some excellent options to choose from. Here are my top picks for family-friendly breakfast spots in Monterey:
| Breakfast Spot | Menu Highlights | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| The Breakfast Club | Eggs Benedict, French Toast, Pancakes | Relaxed, casual, and welcoming to families with children of all ages |
| Toasties Cafe | Eggs, Breakfast Burritos, Waffles, and Specialty Coffee | Cozy and comfortable with a small-town feel, great for families with younger children |
| First Awakenings | Omelets, Scrambles, Breakfast Sandwiches, and Freshly Baked Muffins | Casual and lively restaurant with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere that caters to everyone’s needs |
Each of these breakfast spots offers a range of menu options that cater to different tastes and dietary needs, and provide a welcoming and kid-friendly atmosphere. From pancakes to eggs Benedict, omelets to breakfast burritos, you’re sure to find something that everyone in your family will love. So, gather the family and check out one of Monterey’s amazing family-friendly breakfast spots for a delicious and stress-free start to your day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Monterey offers a fantastic breakfast scene with a wide variety of options to choose from. From panoramic ocean views to cozy hidden gems, Monterey has it all.
To recap, my top picks for the best breakfast places in Monterey include some stunning scenic cafes, some lesser-known local favorites, some inviting outdoor eateries, some upscale gourmet restaurants and some family-friendly breakfast spots.
I hope this article has given you some inspiration for where to have breakfast in Monterey. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone in Monterey’s breakfast scene. So, go ahead and explore to discover your own favorite spot!
FAQ
Q: Can you recommend a family-friendly breakfast spot in Monterey?
A: Yes, in Section 6, I have highlighted some family-friendly breakfast spots in Monterey. Check it out for a delicious and hassle-free breakfast experience with your family.
Q: Are there any breakfast places in Monterey with outdoor seating?
A: Absolutely! In Section 4, I have listed breakfast places in Monterey that offer outdoor seating options. Enjoy your breakfast in the fresh air while savoring delicious food.
Q: Where can I find upscale breakfast restaurants in Monterey?
A: Look no further! Section 5 features upscale breakfast restaurants in Monterey that offer a gourmet morning experience. Indulge in unique flavors and elevated presentation.
Q: Are there any hidden gems for breakfast in Monterey?
A: Yes, Section 3 focuses on local favorites and hidden gems in Monterey’s breakfast scene. Venture off the beaten path and discover unique dishes and flavors at these spots.
Q: Can you recommend breakfast cafes in Monterey with scenic views?
A: Absolutely! Section 2 highlights breakfast cafes in Monterey that offer scenic delights. Enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the beauty of Monterey’s surroundings.
Q: Which breakfast places in Monterey are the best overall?
A: Throughout the article, I have highlighted a variety of breakfast places in Monterey that cater to different preferences. Check out the different sections and find your own personal favorites!

