11 quintessential brunch spots in LA

At the beginning of the day in Los Angeles, life feels so full of possibility – the streets are a bit quieter, dogs joyfully gallop around the beach and the sun is always shining. 

Any perfect morning in LA also comes with brunch, which can mean many different things in a city this sprawling and diverse. Maybe it’s eating soul food in the middle of the post-church rush or lounging on a sunny patio surrounded by palm trees. It can also be dancing your heart out to Broadway remixes with drag queens or spotting your favorite celebrity sipping a matcha (they really are just like us!). 

From my time growing up in LA, I’ve curated recommendations to use as a lens to explore some of the most interesting corners and communities of the city. What better way to discover the different sides of LA than through food?

Read along for 11 quintessential brunches in Los Angeles. 

1. Lemon Grove, Hollywood

Best for views of Hollywood 

Lemon Grove is typically a part of the Aster’s members-only club for industry folk, but they open their stunning rooftop for mortals like us for brunch and dinner. Soak in panoramic views of the Hollywood hills, Capitol Records and other famous landmarks. The kimchi scramble and warm apple coffee cake is divine. 

Planning tip: This area has some of the most expensive parking in Los Angeles, and the Aster is no exception. It’s worth doing some research, getting there early or parking a long walk away to find a decent price. 

2. Provecho Calimex, Culver 

Best breakfast burrito 

Provecho Calimex is a family-owned business that started in a garage, moved to the streets and popped up at farmers markets. To please the masses, they opened their own restaurant two years ago. The chef combines traditional Oaxacan recipes with a California twist, hence the name. 

Everything on the menu is great, but they are known for their breakfast burritos. I know what you’re thinking, saying that this is the best breakfast burrito in a city that’s famous for them is a bold claim, but I dare you to try it out for yourself. Alongside your choice of protein, the warm tortillas are filled with eggs, cheese, potatoes, bell peppers, poblanos and grilled onions. 

3. Élephante, Santa Monica 

Best for beach views 

Maybe it’s the way the sun peeks through the open patio or the views of the Pacific Ocean, but there is something so glamorous about Élephante in Santa Monica. This restaurant was inspired by travels to southern Italy, which you will feel in the seasonal menus, thoughtfully designed spaces and elaborate wine list. Do not skip the whipped eggplant or the ricotta pancakes. 

Planning tip: Make sure to reserve your table in the Sunset Room if you want ocean views. 

4. Roscoe’s House of Chicken & Waffles, multiple locations 

Best for soul food 

Roscoe’s House of Chicken & Waffles started as a soul food restaurant chain, but it blew up as stars like Stevie Wonder, Natalie Cole, Snoop Dogg and even former president Obama spread the word. Perhaps at one point in time the idea of a chicken and waffle combination seemed odd, but, for my entire life growing up in Los Angeles, it has always been simply synonymous with Roscoe’s. 

Planning tip: Roscoe’s does not take reservations. If you’re going on a Sunday, get there early to avoid the post-church rush. 

5. Bacari, Silver Lake 

Best for share plates 

Bacari started as a weekly dinner party hosted in a USC student apartment (fight on), but it has since expanded and taken over the LA brunch scene. While each location has its own charm – West Adams was the original while Playa del Rey is right on the beach – Bacari Silverlake feels like an escape from the city with big, lofty trees and buzzy outdoor patios. 

The dishes here are meant to be shared, which allows you to get a taste of everything. The lamb hummus and french toast are fan favorites, and the bottomless drink deals are lethal. 

Detour: Silver Lake is pretty out of the way from the westside, but it’s worth it if you make a day out of it. Check out the farmers market on Saturday mornings, go thrift shopping or just wander around Sunset Boulevard.

6. ALMA Backyard Farms, Compton 

Best for community 

ALMA Backyard Farms isn’t your traditional restaurant but rather a bold reimagining of urban farms. What was once a weedy lot has transformed into a neighborhood staple that provides affordable fresh produce, supports formerly incarcerated folk and feeds the most vulnerable members of the community. 

Visit on the first or third Sunday of the month for a brunch that features ALMA-grown ingredients and freshly made salsas. Not only is this one of the most affordable options on the list, but proceeds also go to educational programs for elementary school students.

7. FIG, Santa Monica 

Best for farm-fresh food

The fresh Southern California produce makes FIG’s menu truly shine. The menu is seasonal, with ingredients locally sourced from the famous Santa Monica farmers market or other providers in the area. Even simple dishes like avocado toast are elevated by this dedication to farm-fresh ingredients (and amazing bread). 

Also consider splitting one of the sweet treats on the menu, like the bananas foster pancakes or red velvet waffle. 

Planning tip: Stay a while with a Resort Pass to the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows. Take a dip in the heated pool or lay in a lounge chair under the palm trees. 

8. Gjusta, Venice Beach

Best for outdoor dining 

On a sunny day (so basically any day in LA), Gjusta Bakery’s patio is a lovely place to sit beneath the large Brazilian Pepper tree, sip on a coffee and eat some yummy fresh baked goods. Gjusta is a true Venice-born brand with an eclectic menu that focuses on seasonal ingredients. Be sure to get some pastries or buy a loaf of bread for the road. 

Detour: Gjusta is less than a ten-minute walk from the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk. 

9. Two Hommes, Inglewood

Best for fusion food 

LA is famous for its fusion restaurants and dishes, many of which represent the diversity and history of the city. This is reflected in spots like Two Hommés, where the menu blends traditional West African flavors with fresh California ingredients. At Sunday brunch, you can indulge on shrimp and grits with jollof cream sauce, passion fruit ceviche or lamb dibi eggrolls. 

Detour: Two Hommés is an easy 8-minute drive from SoFi Stadium, making it a perfect stop before a concert or a sporting event like the World Cup. 

10. The Polo Lounge at the Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills 

Best for luxury experience

The Beverly Hills Hotel is a place to see and be seen, especially during Sunday brunch at the Polo Lounge. This has long been the favorite of Hollywood stars and deal-makers, and if those perfectly pink walls could talk they would share stories about Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor and other legends. As a jazz trio serenades the open courtyard, a three-course brunch is served. Enjoy American cuisine surrounded by swaying palm trees. 

11. Hamburger Mary’s, West Hollywood 

Best for live performances 

Originally opening in San Francisco in 1972, the Hamburger Mary’s franchise has been named the longest-running drag-themed restaurant in the world by Guinness World Records. The Los Angeles location is right in the heart of West Hollywood (or “WeHo” to locals), the queer capital of the city. In this area, you’ll find advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and some of the most vibrant and intense nightlife.  

Hamburger Mary’s weekend Drag Brunch shows are full of joy, music and laughter. Come ready to sip bottomless mimosas and sing along.

Planning tip: Be sure to bring cash (ideally small bills) to tip the performers.