Best of 20 brunch in Carmel Valley
Brunch in Carmel Valley offers a delightful experience, blending tasty food, picturesque scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere. This central California gem is renowned for its vineyards and golf courses, but its brunch options are equally impressive. Indulge in a variety of delectable dishes, such as gourmet omelettes, fluffy pancakes, or fresh seafood, accompanied by refreshing mimosas or robust coffee. Brunch in Carmel Valley invites you to savor the perfect beginning to a memorable day.
- 1. Breakfast Republic
- 2. TOAST Cafe
- 3. Nick's Del Mar
- 4. Cafe Pascale in Carmel Valley
- 5. North Italia
- 6. Davanti Enoteca in Carmel Valley
- 7. AMAYA
- 8. The Clubhouse Grill at Fairmont Grand Del Mar
- 9. Bistro 39 Restaurant and Bar
- 10. Urban Plates
- 11. Parfait Paris
- 12. Mosaic Restaurant & Bar
- 13. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
- 14. Arterra
- 15. Parakeet Cafe
- 16. Einstein Bros. Bagels
- 17. Zizikis Street Food
- 18. Pinpoint Cafe in Carmel Valley
- 19. THE CLUBHOUSE GRILL
- 20. CENT'ANNI CAFÉ
1. Breakfast Republic
Local craft beers, build-your-own bloody mary bar

This restaurant is an excellent choice for breakfast or brunch, with delicious and hearty serving sizes that kept us coming back for more. We loved it so much that we visited three days in a row during our stay in the area. The smore's French toast was a standout dish, and the Oreo pancakes were also a big hit.
Our family agrees that this is our favorite breakfast spot, offering an array of savory and sweet options that never disappoint. Whether it's a weekday or weekend, we find ourselves craving the tasty dishes served here, including the smore's French toast and Oreo pancakes. The restaurant's consistent quality and generous portions have made it a go-to destination for us whenever we're in the mood for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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2. TOAST Cafe
Cozy patio seating, locally sourced ingredients, friendly service

The mimosa flight is a must-try option at this La Jolla establishment. One of the popular dishes is the French toast combo, which pleased my wife greatly. The French toast is made with rich challah bread, providing generous slices that are both filling and delicious. The dish is further enhanced with the addition of candied walnuts, providing a delightful crunch and sweetness to each bite. The fresh strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness and freshness, complementing the richness of the toast perfectly. The homemade mascarpone honey butter is the cherry on top, adding a creamy and slightly sweet flavor that ties everything together.
Overall, the French toast combo is a standout dish that is sure to satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth. The combination of textures and flavors is expertly balanced, making for a truly enjoyable dining experience. The mimosa flight is the perfect accompaniment, offering a variety of flavors to complement the dish. Whether you're looking for a sweet and indulgent breakfast or brunch option or a refreshing and flavorful drink, this La Jolla favorite has got you covered.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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3. Nick's Del Mar
Ocean views, locally sourced ingredients, and kid-friendly

Brunch at Nick's Del Mar is a highly recommended dining experience. The eggs benedict stands out with its perfect cooking, and the avocado toast is also a must-try. The atmosphere is welcoming and comfortable, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. The service is attentive and contributes to the overall positive experience.
If you're looking for a great brunch spot, Nick's Del Mar should be at the top of your list. The food is delicious, with the avocado toast and mimosas being particular highlights. The impeccable service and welcoming atmosphere will make you want to return. The perfectly cooked eggs benedict is another reason why this brunch is a must-try.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- High-End
- Waterfront
- Celebrations
4. Cafe Pascale in Carmel Valley

TOPICS
- Breakfast
- Italian Cuisine
5. North Italia
Stylish ambiance, friendly service, and handcrafted cocktails

The food at North Italia San Diego - One Paseo is delicious, with a focus on Italian dishes made from scratch using fresh and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant offers a variety of handmade pastas and pizzas, as well as signature dishes that showcase flavors from the garden, farm, and sea. The menu can be easily accessed by downloading it, which is a convenient feature for customers. The restaurant's drink menu features hand-crafted seasonal cocktails that pair well with the food, enhancing the modern Italian dining experience.
The service and atmosphere at North Italia San Diego - One Paseo are excellent, with everyone wearing masks and tables properly spaced out. Dining outside is available and feels safe and comfortable, as the entire area is kept clean and individual bathrooms are provided and cleaned regularly. The restaurant has a beautiful and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect neighborhood gem for any occasion, especially for those who enjoy dining outdoors.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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6. Davanti Enoteca in Carmel Valley
A charming Italian restaurant with a relaxed garden patio, perfect for brunch with friends.

The author and their husband visited the establishment for brunch on a Sunday in August 2020, taking advantage of the nice change of pace and the ability to get a table outside during COVID. The weather was particularly hot that day, but they were pleased to find a refreshing breeze outside the restaurant. The husband ordered eggs Benedict while the author opted for an omelet, and they found the food to meet their expectations. The staff were friendly and attentive, contributing to the overall positive experience.
Brunching on a Sunday morning in August 2020, the author and their husband found respite from the heat wave outside, thanks to the refreshing breeze at the restaurant. The husband enjoyed eggs Benedict while the author had an omelet, and they were both content with their meals. The staff members were pleasingly approachable and looked after them well, adding to the couple's enjoyment during their brunch outing.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
7. AMAYA
Located in the Fairmont Grand Del Mar resort, beautiful views and service

Amaya offers a remarkable brunch experience, featuring a wide range of dishes and exceptional food quality. The attentive staff and pleasant ambiance, whether in the shaded terrace with fragrant blooms or the lively indoor dining room, add to the relaxation and enjoyment of the meal. Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.
During any meal at Amaya, breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you will appreciate the combination of the peaceful terrace area and the energetic indoor dining space. The well-attended atmosphere and quality of the food make it a must-visit dining destination. The brunch service is particularly notable and takes place during selected hours over the weekend.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Corporate Events
- High-End
8. The Clubhouse Grill at Fairmont Grand Del Mar
P picturesque location in a luxury resort, family-friendly atmosphere

Brunch at The Clubhouse Grill, where I dined during my stay at the Grand, was a highly enjoyable experience. The food served was delicious and hot, and the staff were friendly and helpful, contributing to a positive atmosphere.
The Clubhouse Grill offers stunning views of the golf course, which added to the ambiance and made for an enjoyable meal. The combination of tasty food and beautiful surroundings made for a memorable brunch experience.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Lunch
9. Bistro 39 Restaurant and Bar
Seafood-focused bistro with waterfront views

My husband and I enjoyed breakfast at the hotel's restaurant during our stay. We sampled their brunch options on two occasions and found them to be delightful. The service was commendable, with staff who were friendly and attentive to our needs.
Last weekend, we opted to have brunch at the same restaurant and had a fantastic experience. The staff's friendliness contributed to a welcoming atmosphere, and the food was of exceptional quality. From the service to the food, our brunch was thoroughly enjoyable.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
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10. Urban Plates
Fresh, sustainable ingredients, focus on healthy options

Urban Plates is a popular brunch destination known for its quick service and delicious food. During a recent visit, the chimichurri steak stood out as a highlight of the meal. The atmosphere at Urban Plates is enjoyable, making it a go-to spot for brunch.
The menu at Urban Plates features brunch bowls that are not to be missed. On a recent Sunday, brunch was delightful and the food was delicious. In particular, the chimichurri steak was a standout among the offerings. Urban Plates is a reliable choice for those looking for a great brunch spot.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
11. Parfait Paris
Offers variety of both sweet and savory brunch items

The brunch spot we visited last Sunday was a delightful experience. The notable menu items included a delicious almond croissant and quiche. The establishment is a must-try for brunch enthusiasts.
This brunch location offers excellent croissants and perfectly brewed coffee. The staff is friendly and contributes to a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. It is highly recommended to check out this establishment for your next brunch outing.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
12. Mosaic Restaurant & Bar

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
13. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
Seasonal menus with locally-sourced ingredients, cozy ambiance

Snooze is a great spot for brunch, known for its modern twist on classic breakfast dishes. The habanero pork belly Benny and the Thai bloody espresso martini were two standout choices that impressed the guests. The fusion of flavors and spices in these dishes created a unique and delightful dining experience.
During our visit to Snooze, we also enjoyed other delicious items from their brunch menu. The breakfast pot pie and the pineapple upside-down pancakes were two favorites that left a memorable impression. The combination of savory and sweet flavors in these dishes showcased Snooze's creativity and commitment to delivering a high-quality brunch experience. Overall, we highly recommend giving Snooze a try for a fantastic brunch experience.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
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14. Arterra
Contemporary Californian cuisine with Mediterranean influences

Arterra is a great spot for brunch, known for its stylish dining room and outdoor patio. The service here is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive experience. One of the standout menu items is the nutella pancakes, which are a must-try for anyone visiting Arterra for brunch.
In summary, Arterra offers a fantastic brunch experience with its stylish atmosphere and top-notch service. The nutella pancakes are a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and indulgent brunch dish. Whether you choose to dine indoors or outdoors, you're sure to enjoy the delicious food and welcoming atmosphere at Arterra.
TOPICS
- Suburban
- Mid-Range
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
15. Parakeet Cafe
Colorful and inviting atmosphere, Focus on healthy and organic ingredients, Vegan and gluten-free options available

This restaurant is a great spot for brunch, where you can find fresh and delicious food to enjoy. A highly recommended dish is the Parakeet Bowl, which comes with salmon.
During a recent brunch outing with friends, we had the pleasure of dining at this establishment and found the food to be fresh and delectable. The Parakeet Bowl with salmon was a standout dish that I would recommend trying.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
16. Einstein Bros. Bagels
Freshly baked bagels, Wide variety of toppings and spreads

The author recently had brunch at a wonderful location with friends. While the service was a bit slow, the delicious food made up for the wait. A specific recommendation is the lox bagel.
For a quick and casual weekend brunch, this place is ideal. The bagels are consistently fresh and there is a wide variety to choose from. The author highly recommends this spot for a relaxed and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Breakfast
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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17. Zizikis Street Food
Fusion of Greek and Californian cuisine, Unique street food experience

Zizikis Street Food, located in Carmel Valley's Sky Deck, is a well-known establishment offering a variety of delicious dishes with Mediterranean influences. Vegetarian options and Greek favorites like chicken pita and salmon pita are available, all made with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. The restaurant is popular for its perfectly cooked lamb shanks, hummus, and chicken pita, as well as tasty desserts such as butter cakes, baklava, and ice cream.
Ideal for guests in a hurry, Zizikis Street Food provides takeout service for their entire menu. Their lamb shanks, chicken pita, hummus, and other offerings are all highly praised for their excellent flavors and freshness. Guests can also enjoy delectable desserts like butter cakes, baklava, and ice cream to satisfy their sweet tooth. The restaurant's emphasis on using fresh ingredients in their Mediterranean-inspired cuisine has earned it a positive reputation among visitors to Carmel Valley's Sky Deck.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
18. Pinpoint Cafe in Carmel Valley

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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19. THE CLUBHOUSE GRILL

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Corporate Events
20. CENT'ANNI CAFÉ

TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours