Best Breakfast in Orange County
As specialty coffee roasters serving Orange County's restaurant scene, we've sampled breakfast at dozens of establishments—many of whom serve our beans. Here are the spots doing breakfast right, from a roaster's perspective on coffee quality, food execution, and overall experience.
Note: Several restaurants below are wholesale partners, to maintain transparency, but recommendations are based on genuine food quality and coffee program excellence.
Ahba
Ahba in Laguna Beach (and soon Costa Mesa!) offers a delightful coastal dining experience with fresh and flavorful options. This charming eatery serves innovative toast combinations, Shakshuka, and an Egg Sammie that result in a delicious start to the day. In addition to their breakfast offering, they serve fresh City Block Blend by Common Room Roasters and a variety of beautifully crafted cocktails.
Haute Cakes
Stationed in the heart of Newport Beach, Haute Cakes is a chic cafe that embodies contemporary elegance. The minimalist decor and laid-back ambiance create a serene backdrop for gourmet breakfast dishes. Savor their Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Hautecakes or Nutella-stuffed French toast, all of which are delicious. Complement your meal with a fresh cup of City Block Blend or Darkside Blend for an amazing breakfast experience.
Milligram Coffee and Kitchen
Tucked away in Costa Mesa's vibrant neighborhood, Milligram Coffee and Kitchen offers a modern twist on classic breakfast favorites. The sleek design, combined with Common Room Roasters Brunswick Blend and a variety of Single Origins which sets the stage for a memorable breakfast experience. Their Avocado Toast, Breakfast Ciabatta, and Mushroom Toast are all a sensation. Pair it with a meticulously crafted cocktail or fresh brewed coffee for a perfect start to your day.
What Makes Great Breakfast Coffee (From a Roaster's View)
After visiting 50+ Orange County breakfast spots and supplying beans to many of them, we've learned what separates exceptional breakfast coffee from mediocre:
Freshness Standards
The best breakfast restaurants serve coffee roasted within 2-3 weeks, not months-old commodity beans. We roast in small batches twice weekly specifically so our wholesale partners can guarantee freshness. Off-the-shelf coffee from national distributors sits in warehouses for 6-12 months before reaching your table.
Brew Method Matters
Restaurants using batch brewers with precise temperature control (195-205°F) and proper extraction times produce consistently better coffee than those using outdated equipment. We train our wholesale partners on dialing in brew ratios and maintenance schedules.
Bean Selection for Food Pairing
Breakfast menus need versatile coffee profiles. Our [INSERT: specific blend name] was developed specifically for breakfast service—chocolatey, low-acid, pairs with both sweet and savory dishes without overpowering. Single-origin Ethiopians work for lighter fare; darker roasts complement heavy brunch plates.
If you're a restaurant owner or cafe operator looking to upgrade your breakfast coffee program, explore our wholesale partnership options. We supply beans, training, and ongoing support to Orange County establishments.
Santa Ana Brunch Club
For those seeking a vibrant and lively brunch atmosphere, Santa Ana Brunch Club is the place to be. This trendy spot boasts eclectic decor and a dynamic vibe that's perfect for socializing. Their diverse menu features everything from Chilaquiles to an Avocado Benedict, each dish bursting with flavor and creativity. Enjoy a fresh cup of City Block Blend or Darkside Blend alongside a mimosa flight or a signature cocktail with your meal to elevate your brunch game.
Poached Kitchen
Poached Kitchen in Irvine (and now Anaheim!) offers a fresh and contemporary dining experience that focuses on fresh ingredients and innovative flavors. The bright and airy space, adorned with modern decor, invites guests to relax and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Poached Kitchen offers a range of Benedicts, Scrambles, and Breakfast Classics that all taste as good as they look. Pair it with a fresh glass of orange juice or a cup of City Block Blend or Darkside Blend by Common Room Roasters.
Outpost Kitchen
Embodying the laid-back Aussie lifestyle, Outpost Kitchen in Costa Mesa offers a relaxed and stylish dining environment. The outdoor seating area and contemporary decor create a casual yet chic atmosphere that's perfect for enjoying a leisurely breakfast. Their creative menu features dishes like the Bam Bam Burrito, Steak & Eggs Skillet, and the Aussie Scramble each crafted with a modern twist. Elevate your meal with a Coconut Coffee Martini, Limoncello Spritz, or a coffee using Common Room Roasters City Block Blend.
Nick's Restaurant
Overlooking the picturesque Laguna Beach coastline, Nick's Restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a modern twist on classic breakfast dishes. The elegant decor, combined with attentive service, creates a luxurious atmosphere that's perfect for a special occasion breakfast. From fluffy pancakes to gourmet breakfast burritos, Nick's menu offers a refined take on comfort food. Pair your meal with a fresh cup of City Block Blend, Darkside Blend, or a brunch cocktail for a lovely start to your day.
All beans ship fresh within 48 hours of roasting. Shop our complete coffee selection or visit our Newport Beach and Long Beach locations.
Orange County's breakfast scene is a testament to its culinary diversity and innovation. Whether you're a local looking for a trendy brunch spot or a visitor eager to explore the modern culinary landscape, these restaurants have something to satisfy every palate. So, the next time you're in search of a memorable breakfast experience, be sure to check out these modern and exciting eateries in Orange County.
