Best Boozy San Diego Brunches

Six places for sun, omelettes, and plenty of mimosas.

In San Diego, brunch is like a religion. People luxuriate in that sweet spot between breakfast and lunch with some of the best cocktail-and-food combos. This coastal paradise is packed with delectable options, but we did the hard research for you, and we found the best, boozy brunch restaurants scattered all over the city. So, let’s get started with the six most unmissable brunches in San Diego!

Do you like having a DJ with your brunch? What about a rooftop table? How about a photo booth? Because Firehouse has all three, and Frosé too. It’s safe to say this heavy hitter is a boozy brunch location for the books. Especially if you like hearty meal options such as Bacon Fat Mac & Cheese or their take on a CrunchWrap Supreme, you can trust you won’t leave this place without a belly full of alcohol and food.

Locals Tip: Firehouse doubles as a fun rooftop nightclub on the weekends, the scene is unmatched!

Smoked fish dishes, caviar, daytime cocktails served from custom bar carts, and an Instagram-able design differentiates Morning Glory from the numerous new breakfast restaurants around SD. Be ready to wait for an extended period of time for a table at this chic brunch location, though. They don’t accept any reservations. But locals say that waiting in line at Morning Glory is part of the experience, a social hangout before the main event, if you will. 

Locals Tip: on Sunday’s Little Italy hosts a farmers market— head to Morning Glory early and hit the farmers market on the way out.

Fig Tree Cafe boasts a mean bloody mary that’s to die for. If you’re feeling sleepy, Fig Tree’s bloody mary has just the remedy for you! It is a zesty, tangy, and acidic bloody that will eradicate any tired senses you may have. And if sitting outside in a leafy garden would complete your dream boozy brunch, then Fig Tree will be a special treat. They also have a wildly extensive food menu. You can choose between a crab and lobster benedict, fig jam & ricotta-stuffed french toast, or even a vegan cauliflower and chorizo dish. So in other words, Fig Tree Cafe is the full package.

Locals Tip: The soyrizo is killer, give it a try (even if you aren't vegetarian).

Year after year, Kettner Exchange is among the top 25 best restaurants selected by Editors Choice. With an extensive wine list, an open-air patio and a stunning view, this is a weekend jackpot. Although listed as a progressive cuisine establishment, Kettner Exchange presents a relatively low-key atmosphere that is calming. And it’s no secret that Kettner Exchange has one of the most exciting weekend brunch menus--with drunken noodles, bigeye tuna tacos, Chinese sausage hash, French omelets, and even chicken and biscuits!

Locals Tip: If you are looking for a restaurant that slays at all times of the day, this is it! Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all spectacular. Also, over the weekends Kettner Exchange gets pretty rowdy as well! Try having dinner here with some late night dancing after as well.

San Diego locals love Crushed. This hot spot is conveniently located on Pacific Beach’s most colorful street, Garnet. So, this is a great spot to hit on Sunday before going to the beach. Come early, though, as this place does get quite the line. If mimosas are your weakness, this boozy brunch spot is a must-visit. They have the most creative mimosa flights with flavors such as passion fruit, rosemary grapefruit, rose water, and lavender. Crushed’s food is also great! They pack in delicious vegetarian options like Nutella banana pancakes, soyrizo fries, three salad options, and even pizza.

Locals Tip: if you want something a little harder, try their margarita flight. PS: they will even let you leave with a jug of their margaritas.

Take the bridge over to the island of Coronado and try out one of The Henry’s many inspired cocktails. With a drink menu showcasing a watermelon daiquiri, butterfly plum seasonal spritz, and their take on an old fashioned, it’s hard not to order every drink in one sitting! But don’t worry, there are filling options like croissant bread pudding and braised short rib; proving there are countless ways to even out the buzz at The Henry. On one of San Diego’s many sunny days, this proves to be a great spot to soak up some of the hot California sun on their patio. But if you prefer to stay on the air conditioning, the interior of The Henry is clean, crisp, and so inviting.

Locals Tip: The shopping district is nearby and boasts some of the best shopping in San Diego. So if you go early, after a few cocktails you can spoil yourself a bit more.

So there you have it, our favorite places to booze up our brunches!

Where will you visit first? Choose wisely ;)