Tony Bennett may have left his heart in San Francisco, but the city’s breakfast scene deserves its own soulful serenade. With fog-kissed mornings and steep hills that demand fuel, it’s no surprise many cafes here draw inspiration from California’s bounty. Picture artisanal pastries, farm-fresh eggs, and enough avocado toast to think this is the guacamole capital of the world (spoiler: it’s actually Mexico).
Caffe Central
$ | (415) 374-2000 | WEBSITE
This is the Union Square outpost of the Caffe Central empire, so get in line here when you want some reliably high-quality breakfast. Go with the egg dishes for a sunny-side-up plate, some avocado toast, and other Central specialties like breakfast sandwiches and sweet baked goods. The place is a total scene, and you might see someone like a local artist hanging out by the large windows that face the square while you’re going to town on a breakfast bowl and a latte.
Caffe Central is also known for the bright and citrusy orange juice, but there are plenty of coffees, teas, and fresh juices on the menu that go great with all the morning fare.
Cafe de Casa
$ | (415) 345-1055 | WEBSITE
Cafe de Casa is a bit more casual than your typical breakfast spot, but it’s still perfect for a leisurely morning meal. Picture a cozy Brazilian cafe with almond milk lattes and fresh fruit salads, alongside comforting breakfast fare that’s as inviting as the atmosphere. Start with the ham and cheese-stuffed brioche and a tasty coconut pastry, or try the acai bowl—though it’s more of a smoothie sorbet.
Then, move on to heartier options like the beef empanada, all while enjoying the spacious, tastefully decorated space with soothing music in the background. The staff is friendly and helpful, making it a great place for both a quick bite and a relaxed breakfast, though some might wish for a bit more consistency in the coffee preparation.
Wooly Pig
$ | (415) 592-8015 | WEBSITE
There are a lot of breakfast spots in San Francisco that try to stand out. Wooly Pig, a Taiwanese-American restaurant that serves flavorful dishes in large portions, does it most convincingly. It’s still going strong with excellent choices like the pork bahn mi sandwich and steak salad, sweet potato fries with aioli, and refreshing lychee iced tea. Curry Udon and Szechuan chicken are also yummy. Inside, the restaurant has a bright and clean feeling.
Be cautious when reviewing the bill, as additional fees may be included. However, service is not that good and staff may need to be called to clean the mess from the previous customer. Parking can be a challenge due to the new pedestrian parking law, so consider alternative options.
Eats
$$ | (415) 751-8000 | WEBSITE
Eats is a San Francisco breakfast mainstay, built on fluffy pancakes and sips of fresh lemonade. Try for a spot by the window in the contemporary dining room, or grab one of the counter seats to feel like a local—or at least like you’ve found your new morning ritual. Order the perfect biscuits with top-notch bacon, and always tack on some eggs, like the perfectly cooked fried egg sandwich or the avocado toast piled high with creamy slices.
They have a great coffee menu that’s (big surprise) filled with interesting single-origin options.
Glen Park Cafe
$ | (415) 294-1710 | WEBSITE
Run by a crew of friendly staff who seem to enjoy their work, Glen Park Cafe is the exception to San Francisco’s reputation for overpriced breakfast spots. Located in a classic neighborhood gem, the restaurant is a great option for weekend breakfast or late lunch (when the rest of the city is too crowded to accommodate you). The space has a welcoming atmosphere, consistently great food, and popular choices like the Classic Breakfast Sandwich with thick bacon.
Try the Pancake combo—especially with special raspberry pancakes topped with vanilla bean whip cream and fresh raspberries—or stick with the classics like their excellent omelette, burrito options, and Santa Barbara quesadilla. While parking can be a challenge, the experience and quality food make Glen Park Cafe worth a visit for both locals and visitors alike.
Java Beach At The Zoo
$ | (415) 731-2965 | WEBSITE
There are probably more zoo admission tickets with morning entry times on the tables at Java Beach At The Zoo than anywhere else near the San Francisco Zoo. This cozy cafe near the entrance is all warm wood, cheerful morning light, and mismatched chairs with the sort of cramped-but-inviting feel that makes everyone look like a regular. Come here for a quiet breakfast before hitting the zoo or beach and try the salmon lox bagel with cream cheese and capers.
Order the breakfast burrito with eggs and chorizo for the table, but save the Stacy Mexican Salad with fresh greens and avocado all for yourself.
Tycoon Kitchen
$ | (415) 429-6665 | WEBSITE
At Tycoon Kitchen, ordering and seating are extremely straightforward. How straightforward, you ask? Well, you can only order by using one of the two kiosks outside or by speaking directly with the staff. While this all might seem a little too efficient, the food is worth the simplicity. You can pick from one of the popular dishes on the menu, which might include the Tofu Pad See Ew or the Salmon Curry Bowl, but the beef Drunken Noodle is the way to go.
Expect a generous portion that, depending on the day, might include savory and amazing beef noodles that are cooked to perfection, some solid and flavorful chicken basil with crispy veggies roll, and a free Thai tea or spring roll that’s balanced perfectly with a bite of quick workday lunch.
Mission’s Kitchen
$ | (415) 648-1577 | WEBSITE
Mission’s Kitchen has been a fixture in the Mission District for years, with authentic Mexican and Central American breakfasts like chilaquiles and desayunos especiales drawing hungry locals every morning. The star is definitely the traditional breakfast menu, specifically the hearty portions, loaded with flavorful ingredients, fresh tortillas, and perfectly cooked eggs. If you’re heading there with that one friend who always complains about how much they dislike spicy food, relax.
Mission’s Kitchen does satisfying milder options, too, like simple scrambled eggs and buttery toast.
Roxanne Cafe
$$ | (415) 989-5555 | WEBSITE
Roxanne Cafe is nestled in a cozy San Francisco spot that offers a charming view of classic trolleys climbing the hill on Powell Street. Before exploring the bustling streets or catching a cable car, stop here for a breakfast that’s highlighted by generous portions like French toast with fresh strawberries, perfectly cooked eggs Benedict, and the hearty Roxanne Grande & Joey’s scramble.
Be sure to try the vegi Benedict or the blueberry cream cheese French toast—they’re absolutely delicious and served hot with friendly, attentive staff in a lively, intimate setting that draws both locals and tourists.
Pebbles Cafe
$ | (415) 333-2270 | WEBSITE
The first thing you’ll notice when you walk into Pebbles Cafe is the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked Pão de Queijo. The whole cozy, family-run aesthetic of the space is similar to the vibe of the cafe, except you probably won’t find any pretentiousness here. Grab a rustic wooden table and order a customizable Açai bowl with fresh fruit and granola alongside a cup of exceptional in-house roasted coffee.
The counter is also good if you just want to hang out, snack on some savory Brazilian baked goods, and warm up with one of their excellent hot sauces.
Boogaloos
$ | (415) 896-4611 | WEBSITE
Strolling through the vibrant streets of San Francisco, you might almost overlook Boogaloos, nestled in its cozy spot just off the main thoroughfare. Its unpretentious location lends the place a warm, welcoming charm. Begin with a plate of their famous scrambled eggs and soy chorizo, and explore the hearty breakfast menu, offering everything from classic brunch staples to inventive creations.
If you’re craving something truly satisfying after a morning of city exploration, the generous portions of fresh, flavorful dishes will hit the spot. Or sample one of their unique items, like the soyrizo scrambles, though some may find them lacking in depth. The friendly, attentive staff adds to the experience, making it a delightful stop for a memorable meal.
