Best Family Friendly Favorites Breakfast Restaurants in Santa Monica
6 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Back on the Beach Cafe
A Santa Monica landmark where you can eat seafood tacos at tables set directly in the sand.
Notable Picks
8.4
This longtime beachfront cafe attached to the Annenberg Beach House serves a trio of seafood tacos—fish, shrimp, and salmon—steps from the sand. The tacos pair crisp slaw and pico with ocean views that make a casual plate feel like a mini vacation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, Salmon Tacos
What Makes it Special: A Santa Monica landmark where you can eat seafood tacos at tables set directly in the sand.
8.3
European deli and market serving innovative breakfast since 2000, known for house-smoked salmon and savory pancakes. This family-owned spot doubles as a Scandinavian, Dutch, and German import market with extensive cheese and charcuterie selections, creating a unique neighborhood cafe that serves breakfast and sandwiches alongside hard-to-find European specialty foods.
Must-Try Dishes:
Savory Salmon Pancake, House-Smoked Salmon, Green Eggs n' Ham
What Makes it Special: House-smoked salmon and European market with 24+ years of neighborhood service
#3
Blue Daisy
8.1
Cheerful all-day cafe specializing in sweet and savory organic crepes alongside healthy American breakfast favorites. The spacious dining room with outdoor patio welcomes families with extensive gluten-free options and bottomless weekday mimosas for parents.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nutella Strawberry Banana Crepe, Salmon Cake Scandia, Croissant French Toast
What Makes it Special: Extensive gluten-free crepe options made fresh daily
Worthy Picks
7.9
This farmers' market-inspired bakery serves everything bagels with seasonal toppings and house-made cream cheeses alongside their famous pastries. The bustling counter-service spot channels rustic California charm with organic ingredients sourced from Santa Monica Farmers' Market.
Must-Try Dishes:
Everything Bagel with Chive Cream Cheese, Smoked Salmon Bagel, Maple Bacon Scone
What Makes it Special: Farm-to-table bagels with artisan cream cheeses
7.8
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Authentic 1950s diner serving classic American breakfast in turquoise-blue retro setting since 1958. Red leather booths, counter seating with griddle views, and old-school hospitality define this local institution where housemade biscuits and gravy, giant cinnamon rolls, and hearty breakfast combos come at remarkably affordable prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Biscuits and Gravy, Hobo Breakfast, Fresh-Baked Cinnamon Rolls
What Makes it Special: Genuine 1950s diner with 66 years of local history
#6
Jinky's Cafe
7.6
This eclectic neighborhood fixture since 2000 specializes in southwestern-influenced breakfast with over 20 chili varieties alongside pancakes and flaky French toast. The family-friendly space offers generous portions and creative combinations like chilaquiles and breakfast pizzas, making it a reliable choice for hearty morning meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Martin's Spicy Chilaquiles, Flaky French Toast, Desperado Omelet
What Makes it Special: Twenty-plus chili varieties and southwestern breakfast focus