Savory
Whether you’re into Benedicts, toasts, or healthful bowls, you’ll find satisfying options at eateries all along El Paseo. Try a new spin on the classic eggs Benedict at Kitchen 86 + Bar with their Boom Boom Beni, featuring sweet and spicy boom boom shrimp in place of the traditional Canadian bacon. Speaking of twists, take your pick between the Waffle and Chicken Benny or Mark’s Short Rib Eggs Benedict at Wilma & Frieda, a beloved brunch restaurant (named after the owners’ grandmothers) with a vibrant patio scene at The Gardens on El Paseo. For a quintessential California favorite, grab a table at The Fix, a café known for freshly baked pastries and breads. Treat yourself to their elevated avocado toast, topped with poached eggs, heirloom cherry tomatoes, sundried tomato pesto, and microgreens.
Searching for a hangover antidote? Head to The Daily Grill for the hearty Loco Moco, a grilled ground steak served atop a bed of crispy potatoes and topped with caramelized onions, bordelaise, crunchy onion straws, and a fried egg. Or if you’re in the mood for Mexican, El Paseo newbie Molé specializes in authentic and wholesome recipes like green mole chilaquiles.
Her: Grayse top and pants. Him: Saks Fifth Avenue long-sleeve shirt, undershirt, and shorts. Photographed with coffees from Hotel Paseo's Café Paseo; styled by Jardine Hammond; beauty by Jen Plus Colour.
Sweet
Sugar, spice, and everything nice are always on the menu on El Paseo, with plenty of options throughout the district offering a sweet note for brunch. Over at French concept Café des Beaux-Arts, a patio table is perfect for people watching under swaying palms while enjoying a plate of sugar-dusted crêpes. A lovely light option for brunch, the paper-thin pancakes are served with powdered sugar, lemon, maple syrup, and a side of fresh fruit. While we love the Benedicts, Wilma & Frieda also whips up a variety of French toast options that make it difficult to choose — the Blackberry Custard French Toast puts a bread-pudding-inspired spin on the decadent morning staple.
Two newcomers to El Paseo are also sure to please those looking for a syrupy start to their day. As Newport and Sedona’s Shorebird prepares to open its third location, make a note to try the Lemon Ricotta Souffle Hotcakes, topped with blueberries, whipped honey butter, and Vermont maple syrup. A few doors down, at newly opened Porta Via (a chic outpost with locations in Calabasas, Pacific Palisades, and Beverly Hills), weekend brunch hits the spot with a little kick: Their French toast is prepared with Grand Marnier and served with fresh strawberries and powdered sugar.
Grab-and-Go
Need to break your fast on the run? Not to worry — El Paseo has plenty of quick options to start the day. Italian-inspired café Il Sogno offers a variety of pastries baked fresh daily. Pair one with a European-style espresso for to elevate your morning without slowing down. Speaking of caffeine, Café Paseo at the boutique Hotel Paseo features a gourmet coffee bar and a variety of prepacked seasonal eats. Looking for something heartier? Head to the hotel restaurant, Larkspur Grill, for a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich to go. Though you may wish to idle on their scenic patio, JC’s Café is another pick that provides plenty of satisfying takeout options, including a variety of breakfast burritos commandable with one hand. The hefty Machaca Breakfast Burrito packs a punch with savory machaca (traditional Mexican seasoned beef), eggs, cheese, cilantro, onion, avocado, and salsa.
