Friday, May 15, 2015

Favorite Breakfast Spots in The San Fernando Valley

By Madison Moore



Some say it’s the most important meal of the day, it can also be the most satisfying meal due the numerous breakfast options available to those of us lucky enough to call The Valley  home.   Going out to breakfast in The Valley is always a treat and it can lead to new discoveries in the area. These are my top 18 favorite breakfast places scattered throughout The Valley.   

  1. Lakeside café: (map)














One of my all time favorite restaurants in the valley is Lakeside Cafe. The atmosphere alone is spectacular. It   shares it's setting with Los Encinos State Historic Park.  However the food is just as good! I would recommend for breakfast the eggs benedict or the yogurt parfait. Ask to sit outside and enjoy the lake and historic park. Bring the whole family or friends and make sure you walk over to one of the Valley's gems Los Encinos State Park.  It's history dates back to the late 17 hundreds - enjoy a fabulous day out in the valley!

  1. Leo and Lilys (map)














Another one of my favorites is Leo and Lilys.  I come here quite a bit with friends, sitting outside gives it a cute southern charm.  The food is fab and although I am partial to yogurt parfaits this is one of the BEST that I have ever had! I recommend that along with any type of eggs, the food is scrumptious.

  1. Cicis cafe (map)
















CiCi’s is one of those places where it is usually pretty crowded, and when I first got inside it was a little cramped, but after eating the banana flambé pancakes, the wait was worth it!  I don't typically eat like that, but it was unique and amazing! All their pancakes and waffles have a unique spin and the taste - delicious!  If you're in the mood for a sweet breakfast - this is the place to be!


4. Humble bee (map)






This place does not look like much from the outside and it is in an unusual place in a strip mall off Saticoy,  but once you get inside it is so cute and homey, I automatically fell in love. The staff is great and the food is fabulous! They are expanding their space so call first before heading over.  Also good for lunch.

5. Joe's café (map)





















This place always has a wait and trying to get in here is like trying to see the Pope. Don't worry - the food is worth the wait.  Their scrambled eggs are a classic, and the waffles are a favorite! If you like bacon - it's delicious here. P.S. you want a table outside on Chatsworth.

6Brent's Deli (map)

















Brent's Deli is a classic old school deli right in the heart of The Valley.  The food quality as well as quantity is perfect!  The poppy seed bagels and potato pancakes are to die for!  On weekends there is almost always a wait to get in but honestly, it's worth the wait!

7. Jinkys (map)

















The catch phrase they have is “better then breakfast in bed” and for once I can agree! Everything they have is so tasty that choosing just one item is real hard! However I would have to recommend their Belgian waffles with a side of bacon.  The waffles are crispy yet fluffy and the syrup is so fresh and warm!


8. Jerrys (map)















The atmosphere is so unique its old valley mixed with new Ventura Boulevard! I am obsessed with their matzo ball soup and poppy seed bagel. Although I try to stick to a healthy diet every time I go to Jerry’s I have to get the Matzo-ball soup - because its comfort food, while still being delish!

9. Main Kitchen café (map)






















I love sitting outside right on Chatsworth and Balboa - it has such an urban feel.  I really enjoy the eggs over easy and they cook them just right.  Although it is such a simple food, the yoke is always soft.  If you're not into eggs, try their parfaits!

10. Sweet Butter (map)















I am such a fan of sitting in the Sweet Butter courtyard - Europe anyone? Sitting in the courtyard helps one escape from the every day hustle and bustle of typical eateries. If you can't sit in the courtyard, don't fret - sitting at the outside tables is fun and you can people watch all along Ventura Blvd.  Their Belgian waffles are literally one of the most amazing things you will ever try. They are fluffy and light but full of taste.  I am obsessed!

11. Blu jam café (map)
















I really like the atmosphere here - old time diner feel with a hip modern flair!  I really like the flaky and crispy French toast! It is the ultimate and supreme French toast! I could eat this everyday! So good and cooked to perfection!

12. Nesmon (map)

















Want to go to Paris but don’t feel like the long flight…take a trip over here and sit outside, no joke between the music and atmosphere I thought I was in Paris! Love love love this cute little place, I would recommend the chai tea latte, and the croissant! Although simple and small, when your looking for a small breakfast and great atmosphere this is the place to be!

13. Vips café (map)





















I would recommend the California Delight! You will feel like a VIP.  The portions are big and you leave happy! Love the atmosphere and location!


14. More than waffles (map)






















This is pretty clear, waffles, waffles, waffles. Did I say waffles are the thing to get here - Carmel, vanilla waffles is literally one of the tastiest things you will ever have for breakfast! There is also nutella and bacon waffles, that is too different not to try - right? This place is cool and unique and is a definite must on your breakfast exploration!

15. Crave (map)















I really like the location you are right on Ventura Blvd., and can people watch while you eat. You order at the counter and they bring it to your table.  They are best known for their crepes, and I can say that the strawberry crepe is off the charts! Its filled with nutella, strawberries, and whipped cream! Can you say dessert for breakfast!


16. Steampunk (map)

















The place is as cool as it's name.  It’s a cute little spot, that’s easy to miss but once you get inside the food is very good! I would say to get a nice cappuccino, and egg in a hole! Its supper tasty and different!

17. Eat (map)















The corned beef hash is so good - ask for a poached egg on it - totally old school! I have never had anything like that and what a great surprise! Loved it and the atmosphere!

18. Bea beas (map)

















Pretty tasty, the location is not to far from the freeway, so easy access, I really liked their veggie omelet! It was real good and a hearty portion size! So come hungry. 

Well, although our food journey has come to and end, yours is just beginning! With all these amazing breakfast places to try, your mornings will be very busy!

Happy eating!  See you around the Valley.