1. The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove
I have to start off with this one because it holds a special place in my heart. I proposed to my wife here just over four years ago.  With that being said, The Beachcomber not only has an amazing view as it is situated right on the beach, but their coconut macadamia nut pancakes are to die for. Parking is on the east side of PCH and there is a shuttle available to take you over to the restaurant or you can enjoy a nice little walk through a tunnel to the other side of the highway.

2. Plums Cafe
If you are an eggs benedict lover, look no further than right here. Plums is on 17th street in Newport Heights. I have never been disappointed by any breakfast item on their menu. To be honest the only negative thing about this place is that we are not the only people that love it and the line can sometimes show that.  Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

3. Panini Cafe in Corona del Mar
One of eight locations in the orange county area. There Italian Mediterranean influence offers many breakfast favorites in a unique way. Everything is fresh and well prepared. Their omelet selections and cappuccinos are my favorite here. Next time you are cruising PCH, stop in to satisfy your hunger!

4. Alta Coffee
A small local favorite for good coffee, local art, and live music in the evenings. Their outdoor patio is a cozy little setting to enjoy an Americano and Salmon (Lox) Bagel. My wife loves their chai lattes and smoothies. Located on Balboa Peninsula, Alta is a nearby favorite for residents of Lido Isle, Balboa Peninsula Point, Balboa Coves, Vista Del Lido and the 601 Lido Park building.

5. Haute Cakes Cafe
Love the friendly atmosphere with the healthy breakfast options. If the weather is nice, it’s another great place to sit outside while you eat. They have tons of different “scrambles” as well as homemade granola and blueberry cornmeal haute cakes. Haute Cakes is another great option in Newport Heights. Enjoy breakfast and go for a walk along Kings Road or take the back bay trails past Castaways and Dover Shores.

6. Rose Bakery Cafe
Even with a bit of that ‘busy coffee shop’ feel, they still manage to have great service and provide a well presented breakfast in a timely manner. The portions are usually large enough to share or take some home for lunch.

7. Bluewater Grill
We have been here many times for lunch and dinner but only recently realized that they had breakfast as well. They are set on the lido peninsula with an adorable outside terrace on the water. If you have a boat, they offer dock parking. Being that they are a seafood restaurant, they have some custom options like crab-cake benedict. For lunch, we love their blackened fish tacos and clam chowder.

8. Pacific Whey at the Crystal Court Promenade
I love the location and beautiful drive down PCH to get here. This fresh cafe style bistro offers a huge selection of breakfast options. Your visit is not complete without taking home one of they pastries that are baked on site and from scratch. This is located in the plaza in front of the gated community of Crystal Cove in Newport Coast. Stop by on your drive to Laguna Beach!

9. Rooster Cafe
The best breakfast burrito around. I’m sure surfers wished it was closer to the beach. It’s technically in Costa Mesa. I discovered it because my wife was getting her hair done next door at Blanc Noir and brought one home. It was love at first bite. They manage to make them huge and tasty without feeling super fatty or greasy. The homemade salsa has an amazing amount of flavor and freshness.

10. Dough Boy’s Donuts & Bakery
Last but not least, I don’t even know if you could call this “breakfast” but I had to add them to the list. These are the best donuts around. The maple and chocolate covered old fashioned donuts are the best! They also have breakfast sandwiches available that are pretty good as well, I just prefer the donut if I’m making the trip there. Try a cream-puff. The staff is always friendly and fun.  By far my favorite donut shop in all of Newport Beach!