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ZipPicks Awards
Best Brunch in Sawtelle Japantown
Master Critic Review
Lazy Daisy Cafe
7.7
A health-forward Westside brunch institution that has held its corner of Wilshire for over two decades, building a menu around organic ingredients and dedicated fitness plates that most breakfast spots skip entirely. The expansive lineup runs from classic Belgian waffles and eggs Benedict to chilaquiles and carbonara, giving it unusual range for a neighborhood cafe. Works best for regulars who value the organic-leaning kitchen and the easy free-lot parking over a polished dining room experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Belgian Waffle, Eggs Benedict, Chilaquiles
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Over 20 years on the Westside serving an expansive organic breakfast-and-lunch menu with dedicated fitness plates and health-conscious options rarely found at brunch spots
Who should go: Health-conscious brunch lovers and Westside neighborhood regulars
When to visit: Weekday mornings to avoid weekend brunch crowds
What to order: Start with the Crispy Belgian Waffle, split an omelet or Eggs Benedict, and grab a cappuccino — portions are generous so pace yourself
Insider tip: Ask for the buckwheat upgrade on waffles or pancakes — it's only a dollar more and regulars swear by it
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot behind the restaurant via the alley at Wilshire/Armacost, plus easy street parking on surrounding blocks—no valet
Dress code: Very casual—t-shirts, jeans, athleisure all fit right in with the students-and-professionals crowd
Noise level: Moderate inside, conversational-friendly; the covered patio picks up Wilshire Blvd traffic noise
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—grilled tofu plates, veggie-stuffed omelets, healthful salads, and spinach dishes
Vegan options: Accommodated with modifications—plant-based eggs with meatless sausage and avocado, spinach dish can be made fully vegan (+$6), plant-based milks available
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free toast available as a substitute (Red Rooster Bakery bread) for an upcharge
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for a casual daytime date — the bright, airy interior with abundant natural light and a clean, spacious layout creates a relaxed vibe that's easy for conversation. It's a breakfast-and-brunch-only spot (closes around 4 PM), so think weekend brunch date rather than evening romance. The outdoor patio adds charm. Best for early-stage, low-pressure dates where good food and easy conversation are the goal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? This is a casual counter-service brunch cafe, so there's no formal reservation system. Walk-ins are the norm. Weekday mornings are typically easy to grab a table. Weekend brunch can draw a crowd — expect a short wait during peak hours (around 10 AM–noon). The patio fills up fast on nice days, so arrive early if you want an outdoor seat.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual, laid-back atmosphere is naturally welcoming for families. The menu includes simple crowd-pleasers like French toast, waffles, and pancakes that kids tend to love, alongside healthier options like acai bowls and fresh juices. The noise level is relaxed enough that young kids won't feel out of place. A dedicated kids menu has not been confirmed online — call ahead to ask about specific children's options.
Is it good for groups? Manageable for small groups of 4–6, but not ideal for large parties. The cafe is a modestly sized brunch spot with mostly standard two- and four-top tables. There are no private dining rooms. For groups over 6, space may be tight — consider arriving right at opening on a weekday to snag adjacent tables. Not the best pick if you need to seat 8+.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — there's a patio with roughly 5–6 tables right outside the cafe. It's dog-friendly, making it a great pick if you're brunching with your pup. The patio is not fully covered, so it's best on mild, sunny LA days. Tables are first-come, first-served, and they fill up quickly on weekends. No confirmed heating for cooler mornings.
Best For
Better for: Laid-back weekend brunch with friends or family—kid-friendly, dog-friendly patio, casual New England cafe vibe at under $20/person
Skip if: You want dinner (closes at 4 PM), a quiet patio (Wilshire traffic), or anything upscale—this is bright daisies and primary colors, not linen tablecloths
Hours
Monday7:30am - 3pm
Tuesday7:30am - 3pm
Wednesday7:30am - 3pm
Thursday7:30am - 3pm
Friday7:30am - 3pm
Saturday7:30am - 3pm
Sunday7:30am - 3pm