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Coffee & Breakfast in San Luis Obispo

Live Sunny Side Up

Waking up in San Luis Obispo is always better–and tastier–thanks to our close proximity to local farms and ranches. Year-round access to the freshest ingredients, plus an eclectic mix of Central Coast chefs, means you’ll have plenty of options for breakfast, brunch or a simple cup of coffee. Your biggest challenge? Picking where to try first. 

SLO embraces individuals of all appetites, catering to both hearty eaters and discerning palates alike, as well as everyone in between. Discover cafes that specialize in vegan and vegetarian cuisine, or go for the classic country experience at beloved diners and bakeries. Whatever you do, don’t miss your chance to experience a farm-to-table breakfast in San Luis Obispo: it’s the freshest and best-est way to sample the flavors of the season.

Best Breakfast in San Luis Obispo

Start every day on the right side of the bed with an authentic SLO breakfast. What does that mean? Well, what are you craving? There’s nothing like a breakfast burrito from Charlie’s Place to power you for all-day outdoor adventuring. Or, if you’re slowing your stroll, you can’t go wrong with classic French toast at Bon Temps Creole Cafe. Get as fancy or as no-frills as you need to be to start your best day ever with the best meal ever. Because no one does breakfast (or breakfast for lunch) quite like San Luis Obispo.

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Best Spots for Upscale Breakfast

Going to SLO? Go all out with a breakfast you’ll dream about for weeks after you get home. Not only are these upscale eateries perfectly indulgent, they’re perfectly – well, perfect – for special occasions. Book a table for a romantic morning date, celebrate a birthday or just celebrate that you’re on vacation.

2 friends toasting pink milkshakes at the ornate, pink-accented bar of the Madonna Inn's Cafe. Photo by @trippingwithmybff

Copper Cafe

Sure, the Madonna Inn is known for its iconic architecture and rooms. But did you know its onsite Copper Cafe is a hotspot for classic American egg dishes, pancakes and freshly-squeezed juices?

Big Sky Cafe

Head to Downtown SLO to check out the original farm-to-table restaurant, Big Sky Cafe, who’s been sourcing from local farms for more than 30 years. Their farm-to-table fare offers dishes for vegans, vegetarians and gluten-free diners.

Best Late Breakfast Places in San Luis Obispo

You don’t need to be an early riser to tuck into an authentic SLO breakfast. Go ahead–sleep in and slow your stroll with these low-key spots, perfect for lazy days, open late mornings and afternoons.

Novo Restaurant

On Sundays, Novo serves a cozy creekside brunch set to the sounds of running water and light conversation. Choose from benedicts, Belgian waffles, huevos rancheros, French toast and more.

Louisa’s Place

Voted “Best Breakfast” in the annual NewTimesSLO poll, Louisa’s Place is open for breakfast and lunch daily. Drop in between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. for homestyle cooking in cozy digs.

Charlie’s Place

Staying near Cal Poly, or planning a visit to campus? Be sure to stop by Charlie’s Place, where you can fill your belly with full American breakfasts until 1 p.m. or 2 p.m., depending on the day.

Breakfast Buzz

This casual brunch spot boasts what locals call the best breakfast burrito in the city. Breakfast Buzz’s eggy magic – benedicts, omelets, sandwiches and more – will have you coming back for more.

Quick Breakfast for Busy Days

They call us SLO, but some days we’re anything but. If you need to grab a bite and get on the road, count on these dependable eateries for fast food (but not fast food) that’s good and good for you. 

Nautical Bean

Nautical Bean does a lot with a little. Think quality, not quantity when you browse their menu of breakfast burritos, bagel sandwiches, muffins and plenty of original coffee creations. There are three locations across SLO to serve you. 

Black Horse

Comfort, community, and of course, coffee galore – that’s Black Horse Espresso & Bakery. Chill out or warm up with frozen and hot drinks, plus baked goods, sandwiches and other cafe standbys. There are two locations available to serve you in SLO. 

Best Sit-Down Cafes

Who says every day has to be non-stop? SLO your stroll for an hour or so in these cozy cafes, where comforting hot chocolate and baked goods abound.

Sally Loo’s

This bustling spot is a great place to start your day. It’s the perfect combination of delicious, locally sourced food and the cozy community that makes Sally Loo’s a local favorite.

Kreuzberg California

You might feel like you’ve been transported to Europe when you visit Kreuzberg, a large, mural-adorned open space specializing in tuxedo mochas and hot chocolates made with both white and dark chocolate.

Scout Coffee

Snap a new profile picture at either of Scout Coffee’s posh locations. The original cafe is all wood and exposed brick, while the Foothill location makes its mark with open, modern vibes–perfect for studying or catching up on reading.

Best To-Go Coffee Shops

Sometimes you don’t want to waste a single minute of your day waiting in a long line for a simple cup o’ joe. We get it – that’s why we’re sharing the fastest coffee shops in town, where speed is the name of the game (even when you’re living the SLO life).

Lucy’s Coffee Company

The name of Lucy’s Coffee Company is synonymous with cocoa. This coffee truck turned brick-and-mortar shop is a community hub – and the only place you can top your drink with real browned marshmallows.

Coastal Peaks Coffee

Located close to lots of shops and amenities, Coastal Peaks Coffee lets you espresso yourself with a big menu of not just coffee, but tea, smoothies and even convenient handheld fare.

Sasquatch Coffee House

When you’re in a real hurry, drive up to Sasquatch Coffee House. This little but mighty coffee hut offers classic and signature espresso drinks and tea.