Good Morning, Sunshine: The Haute 5 Breakfast Spots in Orange County

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so why not make sure it’s haute? Don’t settle for scrambled eggs and a measly piece of greasy bacon. Go big or go home! From fabulous French toast to sautéed veggie scrambles, these haute 5 breakfast joints will put you in the perfect mood to bring home the bacon.

Plum’s Café
Expect a wait for the Coconut French Toast, you might have to elbow your way on to the patio during a packed weekend. From the Crab and Asparagus Omelet to Hazelnut Pancakes, the Northwest influence has me aching for Oregon. Not only does it taste delicious, but the presentation is beautiful–whether it’s topped with powdered sugar or the perfect cheese.

Plum’s Café is located at 369 E 17 St., Costa Mesa, CA., (949) 722-7526.

Old Vine Café
Voted Best Restaurant by OC Weekly, The Old Vine Café is a hidden gem amongst the offbeat strip of The Camp. Known for their savory breakfast, try the Chile Verde Quiche or the BBQ Omelet. If you go for sweet, try some of their homemade marmalade or nut butter on your toast. Slow morning? You’re in no rush. OVC offers breakfast until 3 p.m. every day of the week.

Old Vine Café is located at 2937 Bristol St., Ste. A102, Costa Mesa, CA., (714) 545-1411.

Break of Dawn
Owned by a Vietnamese family, this Asian-California fusion is Laguna Hill’s best kept breakfast secret. The owner, Chef Dee, was once an executive sous chef at the Ritz-Carlton and you can see his impeccable training in every dish from the perfect poached egg to the homemade pesto hollandaise. You can’t go wrong with the Crème Brulee French Toast or the Braised Duck Omelet.

Break of Dawn is located at 24351 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills, CA., (949) 587-9418.

The Beachcomber
Converted from a crystal cove cottage, this beachfront restaurant isn’t only breathtaking, but historic. Park at their lot alongside PCH and their van will pick you up and take you down the windy road to the secluded house on the beach. Feeling chilly? Don’t fret; you can cover yourself with one of their many blankets while you eat up your Beignets.

The Beachcomber is located at 15 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA., (949) 376-6900.

Panini Café
Known for their Mediterranean cuisine, Panini’s breakfast combines that smoky, savory taste of Europe with classic American staples. I’m addicted to the Bacon & Egg Wrap which includes bacon, potatoes, onions, mushrooms, avocado, and mozzarella on a whole wheat tortilla. Never forget a cup of their Italian espresso for a truly bene meal!


Panini Café is located at 2333 East Coast Hwy, Corona del Mar, CA., (949) 675-8101.