15 Best Breakfast Places in Santa Barbara

15 Best Breakfast Places in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, often dubbed the American Riviera, is more than just a city boasting a breathtaking coastline and sublime weather. This Californian paradise also serves as a haven for foodies with a particular penchant for the most important meal of the day—breakfast.

From French-inspired bistros to health-conscious cafes and hearty American diners, the city’s breakfast spots offer a spectacular range of cuisines and ambiances. Here are our picks for the 15 best breakfast places in Santa Barbara.

Check out the 20 Best Brunch Spots in Santa Barbara.

1. Jeannine’s American Bakery & Restaurant

Image by Vickie McCarty from Pixabay

Jeannine’s American Bakery & Restaurant is a cherished institution in Santa Barbara, California. This family-owned and operated establishment has been serving up delectable fare to locals and tourists alike for over three decades.

When you step inside Jeannine’s, the cozy and quaint ambiance invites you in, while the cases filled with beautiful pastries, cakes, and cookies are an irresistible feast for the eyes.

The breakfast menu is as inviting as the atmosphere, with dishes that cater to a variety of tastes. Their famous Kahlua French Toast, topped with fresh fruit, is a crowd-pleaser, combining the sweet taste of Kahlua with the satisfyingly rich flavor of French toast. For those who prefer a savory start to their day, the smoked salmon scramble or the eggs benedict are must-try dishes.

The bakery serves an extensive assortment of fresh pastries and baked goods, which are perfect for an on-the-go breakfast or a leisurely brunch. The buttery croissants, rich scones, and fluffy muffins are beloved by regulars. Not to mention their renowned cakes and pies, ideal for special occasions or a decadent treat.

But the delights at Jeannine’s extend beyond food. Their drink menu includes a variety of locally-sourced coffees and teas, freshly squeezed juices, and even a few brunch cocktails for those special weekend outings.

Read more on; 10 Fascinating Facts about Coffee.

It’s not just the excellent food that has made Jeannine’s a Santa Barbara staple. The restaurant also offers outstanding service. The staff is known for their friendly and accommodating nature, ensuring all guests feel welcome and well-taken care of.

2. Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro

Image by Jan Vašek from Pixabay

Renaud’s Patisseries & Bistro delivers a hearty French breakfast in the city with three locations on State  Street (Gelson’s Market, Arlington Plaza & Loreto Plaza). It’s like having a delicious breakfast in Paris without having to book an air ticket to France! The establishment offers fresh, tasty French pastries, handcrafted daily in an elegant setting.

Their breakfast menu is extensive, but the signature croissants are a must-try.  At the top of the popular treats are the almond and chocolate croissants.  The menu offers more juicy breakfast pastries, including the pain aux raisin, quiche (veggie available too), the brioche French toast, and Renauld’s omelet.

If you’re in for some healthier bite, try the berry yogurt bowl featuring low-fat yogurt, homemade red fruit jam, berries, honey and Renauld’s signature granola. For drinks, there’s a variety to choose from, including mimosas, coffee, fresh squeezed orange juice, artisan teas, iced tea,  and fine wines. The breakfast menu is available until 11 am.  

3.  Backyard Bowls

Photo by Klara Fulinova on Unsplash

Located in beautiful Santa Barbara, California, Backyard Bowls is a haven for anyone seeking a fresh, health-conscious breakfast. Since opening its doors in 2008, this innovative eatery has rapidly become a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike.

Backyard Bowls specializes in acai bowls, an increasingly popular breakfast dish that originated in Brazil. These bowls feature a base of acai berries blended into a smoothie-like consistency, topped with an assortment of fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, and granola. Backyard Bowls’ rendition of this trendy dish stands out for the sheer freshness and quality of its ingredients.

Beyond acai bowls, the menu also features grain bowls filled with wholesome ingredients like quinoa, oats, or brown rice, and a variety of freshly made smoothies. A standout choice is the Dragon Bowl, a vibrant blend of pitaya, banana, pineapple, and coconut water, topped with granola, banana, kiwi, and coconut shavings. The Power Bowl, packed with protein-rich Greek yogurt, almond butter, and hemp milk, is another favorite, offering an energizing start to the day.

Read more on; 15 Healthy Foods that are high in Potassium.

For those with dietary restrictions, Backyard Bowls is a dream come true. The menu is predominantly vegan and gluten-free, with plenty of options for customization. Despite the health focus, the flavor is never compromised, and every dish is as satisfying as it is nourishing.

The atmosphere at Backyard Bowls is as refreshing as its menu. The space is modern, bright, and minimalistic, reflecting the eatery’s clean and straightforward approach to food.

Beyond the food, Backyard Bowls also stands out for its commitment to sustainability. The restaurant prioritizes locally sourced ingredients, composts all food waste, and uses only compostable serving ware, making it a great choice for eco-conscious diners.

4. Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach

Image by Jacques2017 from Pixabay

Perched on the edge of the sparkling Pacific Ocean in Santa Barbara, the Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach offers an unmatched dining experience. It’s not just a restaurant, but a seaside spectacle that perfectly pairs gastronomy with breathtaking views.

Known for its delicious seafood, the Boathouse serves up classic breakfast fare with a twist. Their signature dish, the Crab Cake Benedict, is a must-try for all seafood lovers. Poached eggs sit atop homemade crab cakes, dressed with a luscious hollandaise sauce and served with a side of crispy hash browns.

For those who prefer sweet over savory, the Banana Kahlua French Toast is a decadent treat. Thick slices of bread are dipped in a creamy Kahlua batter, griddled to perfection, and served with maple syrup, fresh bananas, and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Of course, no breakfast at the Boathouse would be complete without a drink to match. The restaurant offers a range of refreshing morning beverages, from a classic mimosa to their specialty Bloody Marys garnished with jumbo shrimp.

Beyond the exquisite food, what truly sets the Boathouse apart is its stunning location. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the ocean, and the outdoor patio allows diners to enjoy their meal mere steps from the sandy beach. Whether you choose to dine indoors or outdoors, the sight and sound of the waves add an unbeatable tranquility to your breakfast.

Here’s more on; 15 Best Restaurants in Santa Barbara with a View.

The ambiance inside the restaurant is both relaxed and refined. Natural wood and nautical-themed decor create a cozy, beach-house feel that’s perfectly in tune with its oceanside location.

Service at the Boathouse is also notable. The attentive and friendly staff are committed to providing an enjoyable dining experience, offering recommendations, and meeting diners’ needs with a smile.

5. The Shop Kitchen

Image by Larry White from Pixabay

Situated in the heart of Santa Barbara, The Shop Kitchen has been a go-to destination for locals and tourists looking for a truly exceptional breakfast  experience. The combination of its inventive menu, lively ambiance, and hip location in the downtown Funk Zone district creates a unique, vibrant, and thoroughly Santa Barbara atmosphere.

In The Shop Kitchen, you’ll find a menu that isn’t afraid to mix things up. Their innovative takes on traditional breakfast items have won over patrons with bold flavor profiles and quality ingredients.

If  you’re a fan of classic breakfast fare, you won’t be disappointed. The Shop Kitchen  serves perennial favorites like eggs benedict, French toast, and granola with fresh fruit and yogurt, all prepared with an attention to detail that elevates them above the ordinary.

Creative options include the Tugboat, featuring eggs benedict with a biscuit, two poached eggs, avocado, smoked tomato hollandaise, a side of potatoes and your choice of protein.  Burgers , sandwiches, soup & salads, make brunch here a fantastic affair. For drinks, there’s tea, coffee, orange juice, lemonade, mimosas and cocktails. 

The casual and trendy decor of The Shop Kitchen contributes to the overall experience. Outdoor seating options provide a charming vista of the bustling city scene, making it the perfect spot to people-watch while enjoying your meal.

Service at The Shop Kitchen is friendly and efficient, with staff always ready to recommend their favorites or explain the unique elements of their dishes. The coffee, locally roasted and freshly brewed, is also worth noting, offering a robust and flavorful addition to any breakfast choice.

6. D’Angelo’s Bakery

Photo by Pierre Bamin on Unsplash

D’Angelo’s Bakery is a warm and inviting bakery that has been delighting customers with its fresh, homemade bread and pastries for years.

At D’Angelo’s, bread isn’t just a side dish—it’s the star of the show. The bakery prides itself on its traditional, European-style bread, baked fresh every day. The selection includes a variety of loaves, from crusty baguettes and hearty whole grain to soft and flavorful focaccia.

The sourdough, in particular, is a customer favorite, boasting a perfect crust and tangy, chewy interior that’s the result of years of careful cultivation of the bakery’s sourdough starter.

In addition to bread, D’Angelo’s offers a range of delicious pastries. The croissants, whether plain, almond-filled, or chocolate, are buttery and flaky, rivaling those you’d find in a Parisian bakery. Other offerings include scones, muffins, and danishes, all equally tempting and baked fresh each morning.

D’Angelo also serves up a delightful breakfast menu. Sandwiches, made with freshly baked bread, eggs, cheese, and a choice of bacon or ham, are popular choices. Their avocado toast, made on a slice of rustic bread and topped with perfectly ripe avocado, is a simple yet satisfying option.

To accompany your breakfast, D’Angelo’s also offers a selection of beverages, including locally roasted coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a variety of teas.

7. Lilac Patisserie

Photo by Nik on Unsplash

Tucked away in Santa Barbara, Lilac Patisserie is a delightful haven for those who have a sweet tooth or are searching for delicious gluten-free options. Opened in 2014 by the husband-and-wife team of pastry chefs Gillian Muralles and Alam Muralles, Lilac Patisserie has quickly become a local favorite, earning praise for its exquisite pastries and its commitment to gluten-free baking.

Upon entering Lilac Patisserie, you are greeted with the sight of a glass display case brimming with an assortment of beautifully crafted cakes, cookies, and pastries. Elegant decor, with chandeliers and light, airy colors, contributes to the charming and relaxing atmosphere.

Lilac Patisserie stands out for its dedication to gluten-free baking. Every item is created in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen, ensuring that those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity can safely enjoy their offerings. However, even those without dietary restrictions will appreciate the flavorful and beautifully crafted treats.

The breakfast menu at Lilac Patisserie is as delightful as its baked goods. The avocado toast served on their house-made bread, is a standout choice, while the berry bliss pancakes, served with maple syrup and dusted with powdered sugar, offer a sweet start to the day. They also offer a variety of egg dishes and breakfast sandwiches, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Check out 15 Places for Delicious Burgers in Santa Barbara.

But it’s the baked goods that truly shine at Lilac Patisserie. Their signature cakes, from the classic carrot cake to the rich and decadent chocolate cake, are not to be missed. The pastries, which include muffins, scones, and tarts, are equally enticing. And let’s not forget their cookies—soft, chewy, and packed with flavor, they’re the perfect accompaniment to a cup of their excellent coffee.

Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free breakfast option, a sweet treat to start your day, or a special cake for a celebration, Lilac Patisserie is an exceptional choice. Its dedication to quality, flavor, and gluten-free baking ensures a delightful dining experience for everyone.

8. Chad’s Cafe

Photo by Jayden Sim on Unsplash

Chad’s Cafe  holds the unique distinction of being the original diner in Santa Barbara, and it has been serving up hearty, homestyle breakfasts ever since its establishment.  Located just steps away from the beach, this iconic spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its friendly service, nostalgic atmosphere, and, of course, its mouthwatering breakfast options.

The breakfast menu at Chad’s  is extensive, boasting a wide variety of classic American diner dishes. From stacks of fluffy pancakes to perfectly cooked eggs and crispy bacon, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

It also offers a variety of breakfast burritos and sandwiches, and for those who prefer a lighter breakfast, there’s a selection of omelets and healthier choices like oatmeal and fresh fruit.

Stepping into Chad’s like taking a step back in time. The diner retains much of its original charm, with a casual and comfortable decor that includes vintage photographs and memorabilia from its decades-long history. The diner’s beachside location also provides a pleasant view to enjoy while you dine.

So whether you’re an early bird looking for a tasty start to your day, or a late riser in need of a delicious brunch, Chad’s  continues to deliver comforting and satisfying meals in a warm and welcoming setting. With its generous portions, friendly atmosphere, and commitment to quality, it’s easy to see why it  has remained a beloved breakfast spot for over six decades.

9. Dune Coffee Roasters

In the beautiful coastal city of Santa Barbara, Dune Coffee Roasters has carved a niche for itself as one of the best places to enjoy an exceptional cup of coffee and a delightful breakfast. Established in 2011 by locals Julia Mayer and Todd Stewart, it  has become synonymous with high-quality coffee and baked goods, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.

Stepping into the shop, you’re immediately drawn in by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The modern yet welcoming ambiance, with its warm lighting, rustic wooden furniture, and art-adorned walls, is both inviting and cozy, making it a perfect spot to start your day or catch up with friends.

When it comes to coffee, the establishment takes it very seriously. Every cup is brewed to order from beans roasted by Dune Coffee Roasters, their roasting operation. Whether you prefer a robust pour-over, a silky latte, or a classic espresso, each coffee is crafted with care and precision. Non-coffee drinkers can also enjoy their selection of artisan teas.

The breakfast menu is  as impressive as the  coffee. With a variety of pastries baked fresh daily, you’ll be spoiled for choice. The buttery croissants and pain au chocolat are truly delightful, while the hearty muffins and scones offer a perfect pairing for your coffee. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, the place offers a range of breakfast sandwiches and toasts, all served on fresh, locally sourced bread.

Dune Coffee Roasters  stands out not just for the quality of its food and drinks, but also for its commitment to sustainability. They use only organic, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible, and the to-go cups and utensils are all compostable.

The staff are always ready to recommend a coffee or dish and explain the unique characteristics of different coffee beans and brew methods.

10. Cajé

Image by Spencer Brooks from Pixabay

Cajé is a café located in the vibrant city of Santa Barbara that has quickly gained a reputation for its excellent coffee, delicious food, and relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. With its beachy, laid-back vibe and exceptional offerings, it’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch.

What sets Cajé apart is its commitment to quality, evident in everything from its coffee to its food menu. The coffee is expertly crafted, and made from single-origin beans roasted in-house. Whether you’re an espresso aficionado, a cold brew enthusiast, or a lover of classic lattes, Cajé’s menu has you covered. 

Cajé also excels in its breakfast offerings. The menu is a well-curated selection of toasts, bowls, and breakfast sandwiches, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. A popular favorite is the Avocado Toast, which is elevated by the addition of sprouts, radishes, and sesame seeds on top of creamy, ripe avocado. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, the Acai Bowl, loaded with fresh fruits, granola, and honey, is a delightful choice.

The café’s ambiance is as appealing as its food and drinks. The airy, light-filled space features a modern, minimalist design with a nod to Santa Barbara’s beach culture. The indoor seating is cozy and welcoming, while the outdoor patio offers a pleasant spot to enjoy your meal in the sunny Santa Barbara weather.

Cajé also offers friendly, attentive service. The baristas are well-versed in the intricacies of their craft and are more than happy to make recommendations or explain the different coffee offerings.

11. Mesa Verde Restaurant

Photo by Jonathan Ybema on Unsplash

Located in the Mesa neighborhood of Santa Barbara, Mesa Verde Restaurant is a plant-based culinary destination that is delighting patrons with its innovative menu and commitment to sustainability. Since its opening, it has established itself as one of the city’s best spots for a healthy, satisfying, and flavorful breakfast.

Mesa Verde stands out for its entirely plant-based menu, which highlights the versatility and deliciousness of vegetables, grains, and legumes. The restaurant embraces a Middle Eastern and Mediterranean-inspired culinary style, resulting in dishes that are not only nutritious but also packed full of flavor.

For breakfast, Mesa Verde offers a variety of unique, satisfying options. From healthy bowls, to mushroom tacos, fried mushroom sandwich, grilled cheese and salads, the menu is packed with creative, tasty treats. 

See the Top 10 Taco Spots in Santa Barbara.

The restaurant also excels in its drink offerings, with a variety of juices, smoothies, and house-made herbal teas available. Particularly noteworthy is the Golden Milk, a warming blend of turmeric, ginger, and almond milk.

Mesa Verde’s interior is as thoughtful as its menu. The space is light and airy, with lots of natural wood and greenery, creating a relaxed, welcoming environment. The restaurant also features a lovely patio, which is perfect for enjoying your meal on a sunny Santa Barbara morning.

The staff at Mesa Verde are knowledgeable and friendly, providing excellent service and helpful recommendations. They’re always ready to explain the ingredients and preparation of each dish, which is particularly helpful for those less familiar with plant-based cuisine.

Mesa Verde Restaurant is a breakfast spot that truly celebrates the flavors, colors, and textures of plant-based cuisine.

12. Scarlett Begonia

Pancakes, sourced from Pixabay

Located in the heart of Santa Barbara, Scarlett Begonia stands out as an exceptional destination for breakfast, showcasing an innovative menu, a dedication to quality, and a charmingly elegant setting. Since its opening, Scarlett Begonia has become known for its consistently excellent food and its commitment to organic and locally sourced ingredients.

The menu at Scarlett Begonia is a blend of classic comfort dishes and creative culinary expressions. Breakfast options range from staples like eggs benedict and fluffy pancakes to more unique offerings like a Mushroom Toast, topped with goat cheese and truffle oil, or a spiced Moroccan Scramble.

The restaurant’s pastries, baked in-house daily, are also worth trying, particularly the sticky buns and scones.  For those with a sweet tooth, the “Lemon Ricotta Pancakes,” served with berries and pure maple syrup, are an absolute delight.

Scarlett Begonia takes pride in using organic and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. This commitment to quality shines through in the freshness and flavor of their dishes. In addition, they cater to a variety of dietary needs, offering gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.

Inside, Scarlett Begonia offers a charming ambiance, with rustic-chic decor, warm lighting, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. On sunny days, guests can also dine in the beautiful outdoor courtyard, adorned with lush greenery and sparkling lights.

Service at Scarlett Begonia is as thoughtful as its menu. The staff are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about their offerings, making for a smooth and enjoyable dining experience.

In a city with an impressive array of breakfast spots, Scarlett Begonia distinguishes itself with its unique and delicious menu, commitment to quality ingredients, and welcoming ambiance.

13. Bree’osh Bakery Cafe

Image by herry wibisono from Pixabay

In the charming community of Montecito, just a few minutes drive from downtown Santa Barbara, you’ll find Bree’osh Bakery Cafe, a delightful slice of France tucked away in sunny California. Bree’osh, owned and operated by a French couple, Nelly and Pierre, has been enchanting patrons with its authentic French pastries, bread, and breakfasts since it first opened its doors in 2015.

As the name suggests, Bree’osh’s signature item is brioche, a sweet, buttery French bread. The bakery’s brioche is a work of art, made with locally sourced organic flour, free-range eggs, and European-style butter. It takes over 30 hours to make, resulting in a deliciously light, fluffy bread that forms the basis of many of their breakfast offerings.

The breakfast menu at Bree’osh includes a variety of sweet and savory options, all featuring their homemade brioche. Something outstanding is the Bree’osh Toast, a French toast made with brioche and served with fresh fruit and maple syrup.

If you’re in the mood for something savory, the Bree’osh Sandwich, with scrambled eggs, ham, and gruyere cheese, is a delightful choice. And of course, no visit to Bree’osh would be complete without trying one of their pastries, such as the croissant or pain au chocolat, both of which are flaky, buttery perfection.

In addition to the food, Bree’osh serves excellent coffee, made from beans roasted locally. They also offer freshly squeezed juices and a variety of teas.

Service at Bree’osh is friendly and welcoming, reflecting the owners’ commitment to making their patrons feel at home. Pierre and Nelly are often on-hand to greet guests, and the entire team is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations.

14. Dawn Patrol

Photo by David Trinks on Unsplash

In the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, you’ll find Dawn Patrol, a local breakfast and brunch eatery that has quickly made a name for itself with its delightful menu and friendly atmosphere. Known for its fresh, high-quality ingredients and laid-back surf vibe, Dawn Patrol is a local favorite that encapsulates the spirit of Santa Barbara.

Dawn Patrol’s menu showcases a variety of breakfast classics with a creative twist. The eatery is particularly renowned for its range of signature breakfast hashes, which feature an enticing combination of eggs, potatoes, and a variety of other ingredients. One popular choice is the “Surf Rider Hash,” which comes with sautéed shrimp, avocado, and a tangy salsa fresca.

For those with a sweet tooth, Dawn Patrol’s pancakes are a must-try. The Banana Nut Pancakes, served with honey butter and pure maple syrup, are a favorite among regulars. In addition, the eatery’s breakfast burritos and omelets are well-loved for their generous fillings and vibrant flavors.

Read more on; 20 Best Restaurants to try in Santa Barbara.

Dawn Patrol’s commitment to quality shines through in its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This dedication to freshness is also evident in their drink offerings, which include freshly squeezed juices and smoothies.

The atmosphere at Dawn Patrol is casual and inviting, reflecting the surf culture of Santa Barbara. Surfboards adorn the walls and the friendly staff add to the laid-back ambiance. The eatery also features outdoor seating, providing a sunny spot to enjoy your breakfast on warm Santa Barbara mornings.

15. Jack’s Bistro & Famous Bagels

Photo by April Dunn on Unsplash

Jack’s Bistro & Famous Bagels has been a staple in Santa Barbara’s breakfast scene for over 20 years, proving that a dedication to fresh ingredients and classic recipes never goes out of style. With a menu featuring an array of breakfast dishes, it’s a delightful stop for any meal, but it truly shines in the early morning hours.

The star of the show at Jack’s Bistro is, of course, the bagels. These iconic treats are made in-house daily, resulting in a product that’s perfectly crisp on the outside, and tender and chewy on the inside. With over 20 varieties to choose from, including classic plain, savory everything, and even gourmet flavors like sun-dried tomato and jalapeño cheddar, there’s a bagel for every palate.

But the bagels aren’t the only thing to love at Jack’s Bistro. The breakfast menu also includes an array of hearty and delicious dishes. Their variety of egg breakfasts served with home fries and a bagel, are consistently satisfying. Standouts include the Santa Barbara Scramble, with avocado, tomato, mushrooms, and jack cheese, and the lox plate, which features smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and a bagel of your choice.

For those with a sweet tooth, Jack’s Bistro also serves up excellent French toast, pancakes, and pastries, making it a one-stop breakfast destination. And don’t miss out on their breakfast sandwiches, which, of course, are served on their famous bagels.

Service at Jack’s Bistro is friendly and efficient, contributing to the comfortable and welcoming atmosphere that regulars have come to love. With its spacious dining area and patio seating, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or grab a quick bite to go.

With a city as vibrant as Santa Barbara, breakfast isn’t merely a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you crave sweet pastries, savory dishes, or health-packed bowls, these 15 breakfast spots will start your day off in the most delicious way.