LA Brunching

Brunch in Los Angeles is a four-season event.  Our very own brunch gurus the LA Brunchers, have narrowed down the Top Ten Brunch Spots in Los Angeles for out-of-towners.

DOWNTOWN

Bottega Louie

Bottega Louie’s light, expansive space–in the midst of the high-rises of downtown Los Angeles—is almost ethereal.  High ceilings and clean-minimalist elements define the space while freshly-baked pastries – including Bottega’s famous macaroons – lend to a heavenly smell.   Cakes and cookies on colorful display cheerily greet you as you enter.  Sip on a French 75 while enjoying lobster hash or some Bottega favorites including the Portobello fries and mushroom pizza.  After finishing up brunch, take in the sights and sounds of Downtown Los Angeles.

Type:  Brunch Institution

Eat & Drink:  Grab a macaroon for the road!

Ambiance:  Classic and refined.

Tip:  Opt for the sparkling water; it’s complimentary.

Hours:  9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Location:  700 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90017 (213) 802-1470

MALIBU

Geoffrey’s

A postcard-worthy view and classic old-world charm make brunch at this Malibu institution feel like a truly champagne-worthy event.   Geoffrey’s patio is perched high on a cliff above crashing waves.  Panoramic views of the coast are framed by a lush and green garden brimming with bright flowers.  You’ll be sure to crave seafood while dining in the ocean air; so try the Sautéed Main Mussles, Ahi Tuna Tartar, or the Crab Cake Benedict.  Located on the famous Pacific Coast Highway, wine tasting and the Getty Villa are only a hop, skip and a mimosa away.

Type: Brunch with a View

Eat & Drink:  Try the Elderflower Champagne Cocktail with Elderflower Essence, Cava Sparkling Wine, and a Twist of Lemon.

Ambiance:  Fancy.

Tip:  PCH can sometimes have traffic so leave yourself some time.  Don’t worry – you’ll have beautiful views of the ocean the entire time.

Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Location:  27400 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265 (310) 457-1519

WEST HOLLYWOOD

Eveleigh

Oozing with country charm, light pours into the open dining quarters illuminating scores of happy brunchers.  Plants and wooden tables complete the secret garden theme also reflected in the chef’s farm to table brunch menu (which changes seasonally).

Type:  Local Hero

Eat & Drink:  Bubble and Squeak & Iced Sherry Tea.

Ambiance: Trendy Cottage.

Tip:  Explore (even the bathrooms are cool here).

Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Location:  8752 W. Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles, 90069 (424) 239-1630

BEVERLY HILLS

Culina at the Four Seasons Beverly Hills

Decedent and sophisticated, Culina is all that you would expect of a Beverly Hills brunch. From made-to-order Belgian waffles, house-made quesadillas, and hand-rolled sushi, to doughnuts freshly made in an old-fashioned machine, Culina’s brunch is a feast for your eyes (and your appetite).  Outdoor seating is a must and the Four Seasons does not disappoint.  Culina’s patio is bright, airy, and surrounded by greenery.  After a mimosa, or two, it will be clear why everyone wants to live—and brunch—in Beverly Hills.

Type:  Resort Buffet

Eat & Drink: It’s a buffet, so try a bite of everything!

Ambiance:  Fancy.

Tip:  With validation, the valet is $8.

Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Location:  300 S. Doheny Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90048 (310) 860-4000

WESTSIDE

GJELINA

This delicious and highly adored restaurant is located – perfectly – in the middle of Venice’s famous Abbot Kinney.  Foodies flock to this establishment disguised in oversized hats, scruff and nonchalance.  The communal tables beckon conversation, tempting you to linger a little while longer while savoring each mouth-watering dish.  Popular and in demand, you’ll need to make reservations or get here early.  Save us a seat!

Type:  Critic Favorite/Local Institution.

Eat & Drink:  Duck Confit Potato Hash & Bill’s Bellini.

Ambiance:  Trendy/Cool/Casual Mixed with a Tinge of Local Pretense.

Tip: Share your dishes so you can try a bit of everything.

Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Location:  1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd. Venice, CA 90291 (310) 450-1429

TAVERN

Tavern is one of the most beautifully decorated restaurants in Los Angeles, and its lovely atrium offers the perfect retreat for those chilly 65-degree-California days.  As the sun streams in the lofty glass rooftop, you’ll dine on classic California cuisine.  Local favorites range from brisket hash to an outstanding smoked fish platter with house-baked rye and goat cheese.  After taking in brunch, work off those calories with a stroll and some light window shopping in the surrounding city of Brentwood.

Type:  Local Gem/Critic Favorite

Ambiance: Trendy and Relaxed.

Eat & Drink:  Bellini, Light on the Peach.

Tip:  Try parking in the adjacent lot for $2 for 1.5 hours.

Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Location:  11648 San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049 (310) 806-6464

W. 3^rd STREET

A.O.C.

Warm and rustic, A.O.C.’s French-inspired courtyard patio creates an idyllic setting for brunch.  A.O.C.’s celebrity chef Suzanne Goin’s cuisine uses fresh ingredients harvested from the local farmer’s market and cooked to perfection.  After finishing your Bellini, skip down the road to Robertson for shopping and a cocktail at the famous Ivy.

Type:  Critic-Favorite

Eat & Drink:  A.O.C’s Fresh Brioche with Melted Gruyère, Frisée, Prosciutto & Sunny Side Up Egg.

Ambiance:  Rustic and Trendy.

Tip:  Try and find the elusive street parking before opting for the valet.

Hours:  11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Location:  8700 W. 3d St., Los Angeles CA 90048 (310) 859-9859

MANHATTAN BEACH (SOUTH BAY)

M.B. Post

You can keep your flip-flops on at this brunch hotspot just a few steps from the beach.  You’ll find this farm-to-table/industrial gastropub bustling with locals and tourists alike. Fresh piping hot food comes in sturdy skillets.  The long shared tables create a warm community feel.

Type: Local Staple/Up & Coming Institution

Eat & Drink: Bacon Cheddar Biscuits with Whipped Maple Butter & Last Rites.

Ambiance: Rustic Trendy with Laid-Back Patrons.

Tip: You’ll have to sit indoors as there is no patio (but head to the beach afterward)

Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Location:  1142 Manhattan Ave. Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 (310) 545-5405