The Absolute Best Brunch in Costa Mesa [Updated 2025]

You know that feeling when the weekend rolls around and your taste buds start doing a happy dance just thinking about brunch? That’s me every Saturday and Sunday! After exploring countless cafes and eateries, I’ve narrowed down my top nine spots that capture the essence of brunch in Costa Mesa.

With a decade of local culinary adventures under my belt, I’ve tasted everything from fluffy pancakes to inventive avocado toasts and artisanal coffee blends. You can trust my recommendations because I’ve savored every bite and soaked in every vibe. So, grab your fork and let’s dive into the delicious world of Costa Mesa brunch together!

Broken Yolk Cafe

Highlights
Amazing Bloody Mary
Excellent Eggs Benedict
Fast and attentive service
Delicious Monte Cristo
Sweet iced caramel latte

Walking into Broken Yolk Cafe, I was immediately enveloped in a vibrant ambiance that perfectly sets the stage for a delightful brunch. The first thing that caught my eye was their amazing Bloody Mary—this classic concoction was perfectly seasoned, serving as the ideal kickoff to my meal. I decided to indulge in their excellent Eggs Benedict, which boasted the perfect poached eggs perched atop a toasted English muffin, nestled beside succulent Canadian bacon, all draped in a luscious hollandaise sauce.

My companion couldn’t resist trying the delicious Monte Cristo, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! This sweet and savory dish was an absolute treat, with a delightful crunch and a sprinkle of powdered sugar that took it over the top.

What truly stood out was the fast and attentive service; our server was not only friendly but also made sure that our coffee cups never ran dry. And speaking of coffee, their sweet iced caramel latte was the cherry on top of our brunch experience—a refreshing sip that rounded out our meal perfectly.

If you’re searching for the ideal brunch spot in Costa Mesa, look no further than Broken Yolk Cafe.

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What’s Crackin Cafe

Highlights
Hidden Gem for Breakfast
Fresh, Tasty Dishes
Friendly, Attentive Service
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Local Favorite Multi-Use Spot

What’s Crackin Cafe is a delightful hidden gem tucked away in Costa Mesa that truly captures the essence of a perfect brunch spot. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with bright, welcoming decor and a warm smile from the friendly staff, setting the tone for a wonderful dining experience.

The menu is an explosion of creativity, offering fresh, tasty dishes that cater to any palate. I opted for their famous breakfast burrito, which was bursting with flavor and generously stuffed with ingredients that felt almost homemade. Each bite was a harmonious blend of spice and comfort, leaving me craving more.

Not only does What’s Crackin Cafe excel in its culinary offerings, but it also provides a lovely atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating options. I chose to sunbathe outside, sipping on a refreshing mimosa that complemented my meal beautifully.

If you're in the mood for a brunch that marries quality with an inviting ambiance, What’s Crackin Cafe is a must-visit. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this café is bound to crack your expectations wide open!

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HG Higher Grounds Coffee and Cafe

Highlights
Great coffee selection
In-house baked goods
Friendly service
Relaxed atmosphere
Full menu available

Nestled in the heart of Costa Mesa, HG Higher Grounds Coffee and Cafe quickly stole my brunch-loving heart. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted with the delightful aroma of freshly brewed coffee that set the perfect stage for a relaxing morning. Their great coffee selection is impressively diverse, catering to every caffeine craving imaginable—perfect for a leisurely brunch experience.

As I perused their menu, I couldn’t resist trying their in-house baked goods, and let me tell you, they are heavenly! The pastries were flakey and fresh, making every bite a little moment of bliss. The atmosphere was incredibly relaxed, inviting me to linger over my meal and sip my coffee mindfully.

What truly stood out was the friendly service; the staff here genuinely enjoys what they do, which makes all the difference. They were quick to answer my questions and recommend their favorites, adding to the personal touch of the experience. With a full menu available, from savory brunch classics to sweet treats, HG Higher Grounds offers a little something for everyone. If you're searching for a perfect brunch spot in Costa Mesa, this charming café is worth a visit!

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Postino East

Highlights
Great beer and wine selection
Busy but quick seating
Delicious food offerings
Service needs improvement
Ideal for family gatherings

Postino East has quickly become my favorite spot for brunching in Costa Mesa! The moment you step in, you're enveloped in a lively atmosphere filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses. With an impressive beer and wine selection, this place truly knows how to cater to both the casual sipper and the aficionado.

As I scanned the menu, I couldn’t resist trying their delectable offerings. Each dish bursts with flavor, making it impossible to pick a favorite! From the savory-sharing boards to the sweet breakfast items, there’s something for everyone.

Despite the restaurant's bustling vibe, I was delighted to find that the seating turned over quickly—meaning I didn’t have to wait long before I was savoring my feast. However, I must mention that the service could use a bit of finesse. Though the staff was friendly, the attentiveness occasionally wavered, but that didn’t diminish my overall experience.

Whether it's a family gathering or just a catch-up with friends, Postino East is the kind of place where memories are made over great food and even greater company. I’ve been back more than once, and I have a feeling I’ll keep coming back for more!

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ZONA Cantina + Cocina

Highlights
Interesting menu options
Delicious street tacos
Fantastic happy hour
Great for large groups
Tasty margarita specials

ZONA Cantina + Cocina in Costa Mesa is a delightful gem that elevates the concept of brunch to new heights. As I stepped inside, I was instantly greeted by a vibrant atmosphere that perfectly complemented their interesting menu options. What truly caught my attention were the delicious street tacos. I savored the al pastor, which was perfectly seasoned and bursting with flavor; it was a bite-sized fiesta that made my taste buds dance!

The brunch also featured some enticing margarita specials that were too good to resist. There's something undeniably joyful about sipping a refreshing margarita while enjoying the sun—an experience that ZONA has perfected. They also offer a fantastic happy hour that beckons diners to linger a little longer, making it an ideal spot for both casual brunch-goers and larger groups.

Whether you're in the mood for a fiesta or simply craving a laid-back weekend brunch, ZONA’s inviting ambiance is perfect for all occasions. In a city brimming with brunch options, ZONA Cantina + Cocina definitely stands out as a must-visit destination for a brunch that’s fun, flavorful, and filled with good times.

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Chilaquiles Modern Kitchen

Tucked away in Costa Mesa, Chilaquiles Modern Kitchen is a delightful gem that redefines brunch. Their namesake dish, chilaquiles verdes, is a vibrant medley of crispy tortillas, perfectly balanced salsa, and topped with a sunny-side-up egg that practically sings. The cozy ambiance offers a welcoming vibe, making it the ideal spot for a leisurely morning. I couldn’t resist trying their vanilla bean French toast, which was decadently fluffy and drizzled with luscious maple syrup. If you're searching for a brunch destination that marries traditional flavors with modern flair, look no further—Chilaquiles Modern Kitchen is a must-visit in Costa Mesa!

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Cafe Azul

At Cafe Azul, every bite feels like a mini fiesta! Their Huevos Rancheros burst with fresh flavors, while the Churro French Toast cleverly marries sweetness with cinnamon goodness. Sipping on their handcrafted Mango Mimosa adds a tropical twist to the meal, making brunch feel like a vacation. The vibrant decor and friendly staff create an inviting atmosphere that's perfect for lazy Sundays. I left with a happy heart and a satisfied palate, eager to return. For anyone seeking a delightful brunch that merges traditional and creative dishes, Cafe Azul is a must-visit in Costa Mesa!

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Little Jupiter Cafe

Nestled in the heart of Costa Mesa, Little Jupiter Cafe is a delightful gem that redefines brunch. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by a cozy atmosphere that practically invited me to linger. Their fluffy pancakes were a sweet revelation, draped in fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream. Equally enchanting was the avocado toast, perfectly seasoned and topped with a sprinkle of feta. The coffee? Bold and aromatic—an ideal companion to any dish. If you're looking for a brunch spot that balances flavor with a welcoming vibe, Little Jupiter Cafe is a must-visit!

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La Tiendita Colombian Restaurant

Stepping into La Tiendita Colombian Restaurant felt like a mini-vacation to Colombia! Their brunch menu is a delightful homage to traditional Colombian fare. I savored arepas stuffed with gooey cheese and avocado, while my taste buds danced with the vibrant flavors of bandeja paisa. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfectly matching the friendly service. Don't forget to indulge in their fresh aguapanela—a refreshing twist on your typical brunch drink. If you’re after a unique brunch experience that combines flavor and comfort, La Tiendita is a must-visit spot in Costa Mesa! 🌟

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