Brunch in Los Angeles could honestly qualify as a competitive sport. This is a city where creativity spills over from film sets and art studios onto morning menus. Whether you crave a quiet, sunlit patio or the energetic hum of a classic diner, LA’s brunch spots have you covered. One Sunday, I found myself weaving through pockets of Venice, wandering from bold juice counters to artful bakeries. Each café seemed to have its own twist—a turmeric latte here, a picture-perfect stack of pancakes there. That morning taught me you could eat your way through the city and still discover new flavors every weekend.
If you’re searching for the best brunch in Los Angeles, you’re in for a real treat. The range is dizzying: vegan havens, old-school delis, upscale patisseries, and inventive bistros all jostle for your late-morning affection. What follows isn’t just a list—it’s a guide built through many lazy brunches and plenty of research, meant to help you find your go-to spot in this sprawling, dazzling city.
Where to find the best brunch in Los Angeles, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best brunch in Los Angeles, CA:
- Denny’s
- Café Gratitude Venice
- Denny’s
- Raffaello Ristorante
- The Griddle Cafe
- Langer’s Delicatessen Restaurant
- Brent’s Deli Northridge
- Joan’s on Third
- Joselito’s Mexican Food
- The Butcher’s Daughter
1. Denny’s
Denny’s at 3060 San Fernando Rd is the classic choice for a no-fuss brunch in Los Angeles. There’s something about the hum of conversation and coffee that sets the mood here. Once, I found myself sharing booth space with a pair of screenwriters scribbling plot twists on napkins—it felt like quintessential LA.
What really sets Denny’s apart: familiarity meets reliability. The menu is packed with all-day breakfast options, so you can chase fluffy pancakes with a side of crispy hash browns well past noon. The Signature Breakfast Slams are a crave-worthy staple, offering generous plates that don’t disappoint.
If you like a hearty brunch, try a Sizzlin’ Skillet—think golden potatoes, perfectly cooked eggs, and fresh veggies. For vegetarians, there are customizable omelets with plenty of fillings. Denny’s proves that classic comfort and value never go out of style in LA’s brunch scene.
2. Café Gratitude Venice
Café Gratitude Venice brings a refreshing vibe to the LA brunch circuit, sitting just blocks from the Pacific. The air inside feels light, both from the sun streaming in and the cheerful menu names that double as affirmations. On my last visit, I split a smoothie bowl with a friend who swears their brunch actually put her in a better mood for days.
What really makes Café Gratitude stand out is its artful, plant-based cuisine. Chef Seizan Dreux Ellis doesn’t just create dishes—he puts nutrition and color on every plate. The “I Am Warm-Hearted” polenta bowl is a morning favorite, rich in flavor and texture, while the almond flour pancakes offer a light, satisfying spin on a brunch staple.
If you’re looking to start your weekend on a nourishing note, this spot’s vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options promise variety without compromising taste. An LA brunch at Café Gratitude Venice isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience.
3. Denny’s
Denny’s on Sherman Way is a North Hollywood staple, perfect for those cozy brunch cravings. I once landed here after a late-night movie, greeted by the familiar sizzle of skillets and the comforting clink of mugs. The space buzzes with casual energy, making it easy to settle in and unwind.
This Denny’s delivers on the timeless diner promise: generous portions and true reliability. Morning or afternoon, plates arrive loaded. The Signature Breakfast Slams—with fluffy pancakes, eggs, and golden hash browns—never miss the mark.
Vegetarian or not, the Sizzlin’ Breakfast Skillets shine with fresh veggies, potatoes, and melty cheese, all hot from the kitchen. If you want brunch with no surprises but plenty of flavor, this Denny’s nails it every time.
4. Raffaello Ristorante
Raffaello Ristorante adds an Italian twist to Los Angeles brunch, tucked away on 7th Street with a cozy, welcoming feel. There’s a kind of quiet joy in sipping a cappuccino while sunlight filters over crisp white tablecloths. My last brunch here was all about lingering conversations and plates that felt crafted with care.
What sets Raffaello apart is its blend of Italian tradition with fresh California produce. The menu features vegetarian and vegan choices, making it easy for all kinds of brunch-goers to find something satisfying. If you’re in the mood for something savory, their vegetarian frittata is light, herby, and just melts in your mouth.
Pair it with a basket of warm bread and a fresh arugula salad, and it’s pure comfort. For a brunch that feels special but unpretentious, Raffaello Ristorante is a winning pick in LA.
5. The Griddle Cafe
The Griddle Cafe on Sunset Blvd offers a legendary brunch experience, famous for its postcard-worthy pancakes and lively atmosphere. The first time I walked in, the scent of fresh coffee mixed with vanilla batter hit me right at the door. It’s the kind of place where brunch turns into a conversation-starter the moment those oversized plates arrive.
What truly sets The Griddle Cafe apart is their creativity and generous portions. Their pancake menu alone reads like a dessert list, but it’s the savory sides and playful combinations that keep people coming back. The “Banana Nana pancakes” are impossibly fluffy, layered with caramelized bananas, and simply melt in your mouth.
Vegetarians will find plenty of choices, from loaded omelets to crunchy granola parfaits. If you want brunch that feels both bold and unmistakably LA, The Griddle Cafe is the spot to land.
6. Langer’s Delicatessen Restaurant
Langer’s Delicatessen Restaurant is a Los Angeles institution with serious history—open since 1947 and cherished for its classic deli atmosphere. I once found myself squeezed into a booth here, marveling at how quickly brunch crowds can turn strangers into friends over shared baskets of fresh rye bread.
Langer’s stands out for its time-honored recipes and old-school hospitality. The menu covers all the beloved deli staples, but the legendary hot pastrami on rye truly steals the scene. Tender slices, just the right amount of spice and smoke, and bread that holds up to every bite—it’s brunch in comfort food form.
If you’re seeking lighter choices, the latkes and blintzes offer great vegetarian options. For a true LA brunch, Langer’s delivers heart, history, and flavor in every plate.
7. Brent’s Deli Northridge
Brent’s Deli Northridge is a cornerstone of the LA brunch scene, delivering a mix of nostalgia and unbeatable deli flavors. My first brunch here included the kind of warm, bustling atmosphere that makes you linger a little longer over your meal. It’s a spot where regulars nod at each other and the serving sizes in no way disappoint.
Brent’s shines thanks to recipes passed down through generations and a devotion to quality. If you’re hungry, the mile-high Reuben (with turkey) is an event all on its own, stacked with tangy sauerkraut and melty Swiss on classic rye. Their potato latkes are crisp and golden, equally perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Vegetarians will find filling omelets and plentiful salad options, while brunch traditionalists can rely on perfect bagels and fresh fruit. For a brunch that’s both comforting and exciting, Brent’s Deli delivers every time.
8. Joan’s on Third
Joan’s on Third is where LA’s brunch crowd meets farmhouse charm, right in the middle of the city’s energetic buzz. My last visit felt like being inside a magazine spread—flower buckets, smiling staff, and that soft thrum of genuine excitement over pastries and coffee.
What sets Joan’s apart is their deli counter, bursting with fresh grab-and-go salads, sandwiches, and signature baked goods. The herbed egg salad sandwich is a light, creamy classic, while their avocado toast crowns thick sourdough with generous toppings.
Vegetarians find numerous options among the vibrant salads and market sides. For brunch that looks as good as it tastes—and never feels rushed—Joan’s on Third is a local favorite for good reason.
9. Joselito’s Mexican Food
Joselito’s Mexican Food in Tujunga brings a vibrant slice of Cali-Mex brunch to Los Angeles. The patio, inspired by Baja California, radiates laid-back comfort—perfect for leisurely weekend mornings. The first time I sat outside, the mix of laughter, sunlight, and sizzling skillets set the stage for an unforgettable meal.
Family recipes and heartfelt service are at the center of Joselito’s appeal. Each brunch dish draws on decades of tradition, featuring fresh produce and lively flavors. The veggie breakfast burrito pairs fluffy eggs with house salsa and savory potatoes, making it both filling and flavorful.
For another must-try, the chilaquiles with red or green sauce are a knockout, perfectly balancing crispy and saucy. If you’re searching for a brunch that delivers warmth and originality, Joselito’s Mexican Food is a delicious detour from the usual.
10. The Butcher’s Daughter
The Butcher’s Daughter on Abbot Kinney is a masterclass in making vegetables the star of brunch. The sunny, plant-filled space feels like a slice of wellness heaven, with the kind of effortless style only Venice can pull off. My most memorable visit started with a cold-pressed juice and ended with me rethinking everything I thought I knew about grain bowls.
This 100% vegetarian restaurant balances wholesome ingredients with bold flavors. The avocado toast with turmeric tahini is both creamy and bright, and their coconut yogurt parfait somehow manages to taste even better than it looks.
Vegan and gluten-free options are abundant, so everyone can find something to love. If you want a brunch that’s imaginative, refreshing, and distinctly LA, The Butcher’s Daughter fits the bill perfectly.
More Things to Try in Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best neighborhoods for brunch in Los Angeles?
West Hollywood, Venice, Downtown LA, Silver Lake, and Santa Monica stand out for their eclectic mix of cafes, delis, and outdoor patios. Each area offers a distinct vibe and plenty of options.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan brunch options in Los Angeles?
Absolutely. Los Angeles is famous for plant-based brunches. Try Café Gratitude Venice, The Butcher’s Daughter, or even classic diners like Denny’s, which offer customizable vegetarian plates.
Do I need a reservation for brunch in Los Angeles?
It depends on the spot. Popular places, especially on weekends, fill up quickly. For big groups or hotspots, booking ahead saves you the wait.
What are some unique brunch dishes in Los Angeles?
Think spicy chilaquiles, inventive grain bowls, egg sandwiches with a California twist, and pancakes stacked sky-high. LA brunch menus often feature fresh produce, bold flavors, and a twist on classic favorites.
Where can I find outdoor brunch seating in Los Angeles?
Many LA brunch favorites offer outdoor spaces, from the breezy patios at Café Gratitude to people-watching spots on Abbott Kinney. Venice, Santa Monica, and Studio City lead for al fresco brunching.