Best Hidden Gems Heaven Breakfast Restaurants in Santa Monica
4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Shoop's European Deli & Cafe
House-smoked salmon and European market with 24+ years of neighborhood service
Notable Picks
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
#2
Caffe Luxxe
8
Caffe Luxxe anchors the Country Mart mornings with serious espresso, silky matcha, and better-than-average pastries. It’s a casual, counter-service spot where locals linger over cappuccinos before school drop-off or a Montana Avenue walk.
Must-Try Dishes:
Matcha Latte, Nutella Croissant, Breakfast Sandwich with egg and cheddar
What Makes it Special: Specialty coffee and pastries with a relaxed, European-style café feel.
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
Operating since 1943, this historic diner got an Italian-influenced makeover from Capo restaurant's Bruce Marder. The bougainvillea-covered patio provides a romantic setting for orange pancakes and burrata caprese omelets, while maintaining its neighborhood coffee shop charm with Illy espresso and organic ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
Orange Pancakes, Burrata Caprese Omelet, Breakfast Burrito
What Makes it Special: Historic 1943 diner with Italian-influenced breakfast menu