The Best Brunch in Downtown & Gaslamp

Mediterranean-influenced brunch with housemade crepes, shakshuka, and a strong downtown location.

Cafe 21 brings a Mediterranean accent to San Diego brunch. The crepes are thin and delicate, the shakshuka is rich and spicy, and the menu includes options that go beyond the standard pancake-and-eggs format. The downtown location is convenient for visitors, and the University Heights location is more relaxed. The coffee is good and the cocktails are creative. The price is slightly higher than the neighborhood spots, but the quality and variety justify it. It is a strong choice for brunch with out-of-town guests.

Downtown pancake specialist. The Dutch baby and baked pancakes are the reasons to go.

Richard Walker's Pancake House is a downtown spot that specializes in pancakes, particularly the Dutch baby and baked apple pancake. The Dutch baby arrives puffed and golden, topped with powdered sugar and lemon, and the baked apple pancake is a shareable sweet dish. The menu is narrower than the full brunch spots, but what it does, it does well. The coffee is good and the service is efficient. It is the best option downtown for pancake lovers and a reliable breakfast before sightseeing.