Relishing a brunch in San Francisco is always a delightful experience. The city boasts an array of phenomenal locations, ranging from outlets serving a traditional omelette to establishments specializing in soul food.
My personal recommendations encompass both regular locales and distinct spots for an opulent Sunday brunch, Mother’s Day, or other noteworthy occasions.
Eight Am
This unequivocally stands as my top choice for enjoying breakfast in the entire City.
The culinary offerings are remarkable, and the establishment is family-run, with everyone showcasing exceptional friendliness. The warmth and cordiality make you feel like part of their extended family, grateful for your presence.
The establishment is relatively compact, with an indoor seating capacity for around 10 to 12 tables, along with about 6 outdoor tables. Hence, consider allowing yourself ample time, as there may occasionally be queues. However, believe me, the wait is entirely worth it.
- Star Dishes: Frittatas, Waffles, and arguably the finest Avocado Toast in the Bay!
- Location: 1323 Columbus Ave in Fisherman’s Wharf
Mama’s on Washington Square
Many individuals assert that Mama’s offers the premier breakfast in the city. This claim may hold true, but you’ll have to exhibit patience.
This cozy eatery has limited seating and is almost always bustling with patrons. Occasionally, the waiting time can extend between one to two hours.
The food is undoubtedly delectable, but I would advise a visit only if you have plenty of time to spare. The restaurant is open for brunch every day, except for Mondays.
- Star Dishes: Omelets, Eggs Benedict
- Location: 1701 Stockton Street in North Beach
Buena Vista Cafe
Buena Vista Cafe is an internationally renowned eatery in Fisherman’s Wharf. The cafe holds the distinction of being the first in the US to replicate the iconic Irish Coffee. To my taste, they indeed prepare one of the city’s finest renditions. Additionally, they also serve an assortment of delicious breakfast items.
I would suggest trying a dish featuring crab, owing to its freshness from the nearby Pacific Ocean (just beyond the SF Bay). If you are visiting solely for the Irish Coffee, the bar seating is the ideal spot.
- Star Dishes: Irish Coffee, Breakfast
- Location: 2765 Hyde Street (Corner of Hyde and Beach Streets)
Mo’s Grill
Mo’s Grill, tucked away in North Beach, is undoubtedly one of my cherished locales for a delightful brunch experience in San Francisco. Though small in size, the charm and warmth of this establishment is immense. They are committed to serving an uncomplicated yet delicious brunch menu every day, with classics like omelettes, eggs, and pancakes featuring prominently. A great perk is their daily breakfast service, extending until 3 pm.
- Signature Dishes: Pancakes, Omelettes, Burgers
- Location: Nestled at 1322 Grant Avenue in North Beach
Sweet Maple
Living up to its name, Sweet Maple serves as an ideal community hub, offering a diverse and inventive selection of breakfast delicacies. Each dish carries a signature twist, with the sweetness and creativity melding flawlessly with classic breakfast recipes. Notably, many of the dishes carry an exciting Asian or Latin undertone, curating an utterly unique gastronomic experience.
The house specialty, known as the Millionaire’s Bacon, is a must-try. This robust and flavorful dish comprises thick, juicy bacon glazed with brown sugar and fiery hot peppers. The fusion of sweet and spicy is simply divine.
Their French toast variations, whether cornflake-encrusted, deep-fried, or draped in Gran Marnier batter, are incredibly innovative and add a playful touch to the menu.
- Signature Dishes: Millionaire’s Bacon, French Toast Variations
- Location: Resides at 2101 Sutter Street in Lower Pacific Heights
Brenda’s French Soul Food
The mere thought of Brenda’s French Soul Food is enough to set my taste buds tingling in anticipation. Brenda’s has carved a unique culinary niche by effortlessly marrying French cuisine with Soul Food, earning it top-notch ratings and adoration.
A must-try at Brenda’s is their beignets, a rendition of New Orleans-style donuts that are simply irresistible. The egg scrambles and omelettes are equally tantalizing, guaranteeing an unforgettable brunch experience.
To top it all, breakfast service extends until 3 pm, allowing you to enjoy their delectable breakfast menu at your leisure.
- Signature Dishes: Beignets, Shrimp & Grits
- Location: Strategically positioned at 652 Polk Street between Turk and Eddy Streets
Hollywood Cafe
The Hollywood CafĂ© serves as a quintessential brunch hub, famous for its classic dishes that are simply irresistible. The ambiance is relaxed, characterized by an amiable wait staff, establishing it as an unparalleled destination in the Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood.
A glance at the menu unveils some playful names like the James Dean or the Audrey Hepburn breakfast, which certainly add to its charm.
Additionally, do not miss the Hollywood’s Hash Browns. Although slightly pricier than their regular hash browns, their unique flavor makes them well worth the extra cost.
Specialties: Hollywood’s Hash Browns, Eggs Benedict Location: 530 North Point Street, Fisherman’s Wharf
Exceptional Weekend Brunch Destinations
This compilation enumerates select venues that offer extraordinary brunch service on weekends. Ideal for festive Sunday brunches or special occasions like Mother’s Day or Easter, they all provide reservation services and a refined dining experience.
- Top of the Mark: Nestled in the Mark Hopkins Hotel, the Top of the Mark restaurant serves a lavish Sunday Brunch Buffet. Their Champagne Brunch includes an array of both breakfast and lunch items, ranging from eggs benedict to prime rib and seared sea bass. Offering a more sophisticated ambiance and stunning city views, brunch is served from 10 am to 1 pm at $79 per adult. Reservations are strongly suggested. Location: 1 Nob Hill.
- Palace Hotel: A timeless venue for Sunday brunch in San Francisco is the esteemed Palace Hotel. Served in the exquisite garden court dining room, the brunch presents a range of culinary delights from sushi to fresh pastries. Brunch hours are from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm every Sunday. Reservations can be made at 415.546.5089. Location: 2 New Montgomery, near Union Square.
- EPIC Steak: A delightful destination for brunch on both Saturdays and Sundays. This elegant waterfront restaurant offers a traditional brunch menu from 11 am to 2:30 pm. Location: 369 Embarcadero.
Weekend Champagne Brunch Cruise: A Unique Experience
One entertaining and unusual way to relish brunch in San Francisco is via a Bay Cruise. This exclusive two-hour weekend venture offers Champagne, a brunch buffet, and incredible sights.
Embarking from Pier 3 with a glass of Champagne, you will navigate the SF waterfront. While you savor fresh pastries, scrambled eggs, and other delightful bites, the cruise takes you under the Golden Gate Bridge, near Alcatraz Island, and by the quaint seaside town of Sausalito.
A fantastic method to soak in the sights while relishing a scrumptious breakfast, this brunch experience is one you’ll fondly recall!
Hello there! I’m Dennis, and I am delighted to welcome you to San Francisco Discovery Guide. As a lifelong resident of this magnificent city, I am thrilled to share my love and knowledge of San Francisco with fellow adventurers like yourself.
Growing up amidst the breathtaking landscapes, eclectic neighborhoods, and vibrant culture of San Francisco, I developed a deep appreciation for the city’s unique charm. Over the years, I’ve explored its nooks and crannies, uncovered hidden gems, and created countless unforgettable memories.