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Breakfast is the most important meal of the day! There are so many great places in Monterey to start your day, and you’ll need to fuel up for sightseeing and exploring California’s Central Coast. Make sure your adventure-seeking day begins with the best breakfast in the Monterey CA area.
Old Monterey Cafe
This family-owned cafe has been a staple in Monterey for nearly 35 years, and it was voted one of the best breakfast spots in Monterey county, so it’s worth checking out! The cafe opens daily at 6:45 AM, so it is excellent for early risers.
The cafe offers a full breakfast menu, including cooked-to-order eggs, rolled omelets, and a variety of egg Benedict options. Order a “scrambler,” and you get a serving of scrambled eggs with various vegetable options cooked right in. The cafe serves up classic options like pancakes, french toast, and Belgian waffles. Be sure to sample one of their many Mexican inspired breakfast dishes, like Papas Abuelo and Huevos Rancheros. Also, sip on a mimosa, coffee, or espresso at the cafe’s outdoor seating.
Wave Street Cafe
Located in Cannery Row, the Wave Street Cafe on the lower level of Wave Street. It’s just a short hop off the Monterey Coastal Trail, which makes this cafe a favorite stop for bicyclists and runners looking to take a break. With views of Monterey Bay from its outdoor seating, it’s easy to see why! Since 2016, Wave Street Cafe has served up breakfast platters like smoked salmon and steak and eggs. Their pancake options, including Monkey Do Cakes (with caramelized banana and pecans) and Cinnamon Bun, will make you feel like you just had dessert for breakfast. They have a wide selection of drinks, including coffee, cappuccinos, americanos, hot chocolate, and chai. They also serve beer and wine! With live music on select mornings, Wave Street Cafe is a great place to stop for brunch any day of the week.
LouLou’s Griddle in the Middle
LouLou’s is located right on Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf and has an open concept kitchen so you can see the skilled chefs work their magic. LouLou’s was featured on “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” on the Food Network, and for a good reason. Many of the diner’s featured items combine seafood and breakfast dishes, like the crab cake and eggs platter and the Reef Rider Omelet. LouLou’s is also known for its massive pancakes, aptly named “Hubcap Cakes.” There is also a selection of decadent french toast options, including cinnamon, banana split, and sourdough.
Paris Bakery Cafe
Centrally located in downtown Monterey, the Paris Bakery is only a five-minute drive from famous locations like Cannery Row and the Monterey Aquarium. The cafe was started by French transplant Jackie Jegat, who moved from France to San Francisco in 1981. He moved with this family to the Monterey area and opened Paris Bakery Cafe in 1985, named Maison du Croissant. The entire family is involved with the family business creating authentic french pastries, loaves of bread, and other breakfast items. Select a variety of french pastries and danishes like pain au chocolat and traditional croissants. There are also savory options, including ham and cheese and spinach and broccoli stuffed croissants. There is a small selection of hot breakfast items like quiches and oatmeal. Enjoy authentic cafe au lait and espresso drinks to go along with your pastry.
Good days start at Ramada Monterey
Once you’ve fueled up with the best breakfast in the Monterey CA area, enjoy a day exploring California’s Central Coast or take a Cane and Spur Wine Tour!
