If brunch is your favorite meal, Orange County doesn’t disappoint. From beachside cafes with the sound of waves crashing, to cozy pancake houses where the scent of coffee fills the air, you’ll find brunch here is almost a way of life. Locals have their hidden gems, and travelers never leave disappointed. I still remember a sun-soaked morning, sipping fresh-squeezed orange juice at a spot in Laguna Beach, with a view that made my scrambled eggs taste brighter. That’s the kind of experience you’ll stumble upon often in the OC.
This curated guide brings together the best brunch spots in Orange County—the places locals return to and visitors remember long after. Whether you crave a classic American breakfast, crave-worthy pastries, or a creative twist on your favorites, there’s a table waiting with your name on it. Ready to discover your new favorite brunch destination? Let’s dig in.
Where to find the best brunch in Orange County, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best brunch in Orange County, CA:
- Splashes Restaurant
- Sugar Shack Cafe
- Stacks Pancake House
- Porto’s Bakery and Cafe
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
- Rusty Pelican
- Nick’s Laguna Beach
- Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Wilma’s Patio Restaurant
1. Splashes Restaurant
Splashes Restaurant redefines brunch with a take on coastal cuisine that’s as uplifting as the ocean views beside your table. The modern setting, filled with sunlight and the sound of surf, sets a tranquil backdrop for an extraordinary meal.
Here, plates are more than just visually stunning—they capture the lively flavors of Laguna Beach. You’ll find thoughtful touches in every dish, like tangy citrus in the avocado toast and the just-caught freshness of the California omelet packed with local produce. My morning there started with chilled fresh juice and ended with a view I didn’t want to leave; the only thing better than the scenery was the food.
For brunch, try the crab and avocado eggs Benedict. The balance between rich crab, creamy avocado, and light, zesty hollandaise is perfect. Splashes turns a simple brunch into a coastal escape.
2. Sugar Shack Cafe
Sugar Shack Cafe is a Huntington Beach landmark, tucked right along Main Street. The place hums with morning energy and the laid-back spirit you’d expect by the ocean. I once snagged a patio seat after an early walk on the pier, and the friendly buzz was as comforting as the first hot sip of coffee.
Hearty portions and a menu packed with classics keep regulars coming back. You can count on simple food made well, from golden pancakes to loaded veggie omelets that always taste fresh. There’s also plenty for vegetarians and those needing gluten-free options.
The real draw? The Sunrise Special—fluffy eggs, breakfast potatoes, and warm sourdough. It’s Orange County tradition, done right. Sugar Shack makes brunch feel like coming home.
3. Stacks Pancake House
Stacks Pancake House knows how to turn an ordinary morning into something memorable. Their menu leans playful, pairing classic comfort food with a few unexpected twists. My last visit was a happy blur of laughter and warm maple syrup after a stroll down Pacific Coast Highway.
This spot shines thanks to its fluffy, inventive pancakes, from traditional buttermilk to tropical-inspired coconut and macadamia. There’s a line-up of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, making Stacks a great fit for everyone at your table.
Order the Macadamia Nut Banana Pancakes—they manage to be both airy and rich, topped with ripe banana and a light drizzle of syrup. It’s brunch, OC style: cheerful, filling, and impossible to forget.
4. Porto’s Bakery and Cafe
Porto’s Bakery and Cafe in Buena Park is where cravings meet their match. Bustling with locals and visitors, the line out front is almost a tradition—and it moves quickly, so you hardly notice. I remember my first time, drifting from case to case, dazzled by the sheer variety of fresh pastries and savory brunch treats.
The vibe is lively, with a menu that puts a Cuban twist on morning favorites. Vegetarian and gluten-free options ensure no one is left out of the fun. Espresso drinks add a kick to those late-morning orders.
Don’t leave without trying the guava and cheese pastry—tangy-sweet, flaky, and perfectly balanced. For a heartier brunch, the vegetarian omelet and a side of their famous fresh fruit are unbeatable. Porto’s delivers brunch with personality and flair.
5. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. in Anaheim sits just steps from the region’s biggest attractions and brings a touch of movie magic to brunch. Every visit feels like a celebration; the place hums with playful energy and friendly service you’ll remember. My last stop there, I found myself grinning at the movie-themed menus and lively decor.
The standout? Seafood, of course, served in generous portions and with plenty of fresh flavors. There’s something comforting about enjoying hot, seasoned potatoes and crisp vegetables while catching glimpses of Disneyland excitement across the street.
For brunch, go with the Shrimp Shack Omelet—a bright mix of sautéed shrimp and bell peppers, folded into a fluffy omelet. It’s classic Orange County with a coastal twist, keeping every bite interesting and satisfying.
6. Rusty Pelican
Rusty Pelican offers waterfront dining with a touch of laid-back Newport Beach elegance. As sunlight pours through the windows, boats drift by on the harbor—a dreamy setting for a relaxing brunch. My first meal here was all about soaking in the calm, scenic views with every savory bite.
This spot stands out for its seafood-forward menu and thoughtful vegetarian options. Plates arrive fresh and artfully presented, letting local ingredients shine. You’ll sense the kitchen’s pride in every detail, from crisp greens to perfectly cooked grains.
If you’re here for brunch, start with the grilled salmon and vegetable scramble. The tender, flaky salmon pairs beautifully with garden-fresh veggies and fluffy eggs, reflecting that signature Rusty Pelican blend of classic and coastal flavors.
7. Nick’s Laguna Beach
Nick’s Laguna Beach radiates coastal charm from the heart of town, where indoor-outdoor seating blurs the line between bright mornings and art-filled ambiance. My visit felt like slipping into a favorite locals-only spot, greeted by friendly service and the sight of a bustling open kitchen.
Classic American comfort food gets a thoughtful, modern update here. There’s a sense that every plate was built for both flavor and conversation—a rare find. Vegetarians and gluten-free diners will be just as satisfied as those craving the classics.
Start brunch with the buttermilk pancakes—light, fluffy, and served with berries and warm syrup. For something savory, the veggie omelet shines with seasonal produce, highlighting Nick’s knack for elevating the familiar into something memorable.
8. Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern
Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern in Dana Point wraps up everything great about brunch: harbor views, fresh air, and food that’s both indulgent and skillfully crafted. I remember kicking back on their patio, people-watching with a cup of coffee and that feeling you only get on a lazy weekend morning.
The menu puts a California spin on classic American breakfast favorites while still offering plenty for plant-based and gluten-free diners. There’s a warmth to the service and the atmosphere, inviting you to linger long after your meal.
If you’re here for brunch, try the buttermilk pancakes with berries for a sweet start, or go savory with the avocado toast topped with roasted vegetables. Jimmy’s manages to make simple flavors feel rich, memorable, and right at home in Orange County.
9. The Cheesecake Factory
The Cheesecake Factory in Anaheim is a brunch lover’s wonderland, with a menu that stretches in every direction. The first time I came here, the menu alone took me longer to read than most novels. There’s something comforting about having every classic at your fingertips, prepared fresh and with generous portions.
This spot stands out for its range—vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options see just as much attention as the brunch staples. The lively atmosphere makes it an inviting spot whether you’re with family or friends.
For brunch, order the California omelet. It’s loaded with fresh avocado and veggies, all tucked into a fluffy omelet. Pair it with a slice of their original cheesecake for a sweet finish that feels every bit like an Orange County treat.
10. Wilma’s Patio Restaurant
Wilma’s Patio Restaurant is a Balboa Island staple, treating guests to home-style comfort food just steps from the water. The first time I ducked inside after a breezy ferry ride, I felt as though I’d stumbled into a friend’s bright, bustling kitchen—one that happens to serve the perfect cup of coffee.
This spot is all about relaxed dining and personalized service, with a menu full of crowd-pleasers for every taste. Vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free eaters are welcomed with great variety and flavor.
Start your brunch with the Baja omelet, a lively mix of avocado, veggies, and homemade salsa that embodies Wilma’s fresh California style. Or, if pancakes are calling, their blueberry pancakes are fluffy, sweet, and packed with ripe berries. Wilma’s is all charm, warmth, and the sense that every meal is a local tradition.
More Things to Try in Orange County, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular brunch spots in Orange County, CA?
Some of the most loved brunch destinations include Splashes Restaurant, Sugar Shack Cafe, Stacks Pancake House, Wilma’s Patio Restaurant, and Nick’s Laguna Beach. Each brings something unique, from ocean views to creative twists on breakfast classics.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan brunch options in Orange County?
Yes, most top brunch spots in Orange County offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Restaurants like Porto’s Bakery, Rusty Pelican, and True Food Kitchen cater well to different dietary needs.
Is it necessary to make a reservation for brunch in Orange County?
It depends on the restaurant and time. For popular coastal spots or weekend brunch, it’s smart to make a reservation to avoid long waits. Smaller cafes may serve on a first-come, first-served basis.
What dishes are a must-try for brunch in Orange County?
Favorites include the crab and avocado eggs Benedict at Splashes Restaurant, buttermilk pancakes at Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern, and the guava and cheese pastry at Porto’s Bakery. Each dish showcases local flair and fresh ingredients.
Do brunch places in Orange County offer kid-friendly options?
Absolutely. Most places have varied menus with kid-friendly options like pancakes, fruit, eggs, and fresh juices, making brunch an enjoyable outing for the whole family.