Charming Spots in Salinas for Breakfast Lovers: The Best Morning Bites

8 Midtown Ln, Salinas

(831) 424-0159

Taqueria El Burrito King in Salinas, CA, is a fantastic spot for anyone who loves traditional Mexican food. Tucked away between two buildings, the aroma and the friendly faces guide you right to it. I tried the Breakfast Green Chilie Chilaquiles, and they were absolutely delicious. It came with crispy chilaquiles, fresh beans, perfectly cooked over-medium eggs, and two homemade corn tortillas. The green chile salsa, queso fresco, and crema added a wonderful touch. The place is small, with about three tables inside and a few outside, giving it a cozy, local feel. This place is definitely popular among the locals and worth checking out if you're in Salinas. I also ordered a breakfast burrito with eggs, potatoes, and cheese, and it was both tasty and satisfying. Plus, grabbing my to-go order only took about 5 minutes, even at 11 am! The staff is welcoming and attentive, making you feel right at home. The super burrito and sausage burrito are generous in size and live up to the restaurant's name. If you're passing through Salinas or live nearby, Taqueria El Burrito King is a must-try for its incredible food and warm atmosphere.

311 Williams Rd, Salinas

(831) 794-5525

CLUB DE BIENESTAR FAMILIA SALUDABLE in Salinas is simply the best. Everything about this place is excellent, from the delicious smoothies to the outstanding service. The atmosphere is welcoming and makes me want to keep coming back. It's a fantastic spot for nutrition, and I can't recommend it enough! 👌👍🏻

1552 N Main St, Salinas

(831) 442-8846

I stopped by Viva Espresso Organics in Salinas with my partner for a quick coffee break, and it turned out to be a great experience. The Oaxaca mocha was one of the most delightful mochas I've ever tasted. The staff were incredibly friendly, and the place was spotless. We decided to skip the usual Starbucks and try something local on our drive back to the Bay Area. Although there wasn't a public bathroom, which was a bit inconvenient after a long drive, the overall experience was worth it. The espresso was strong and bitter—perfect for true espresso enthusiasts—although it might be too acidic for sensitive stomachs. The only downside was that you have to ask for sugar or other add-ins, which can be a little annoying. The ladies at the counter were sweet and helpful, making the visit even more pleasant. Inside, the atmosphere is relaxed with people working on laptops, mild background music, and some nice high-top tables. Outside, there are sunny tables, but the busy plaza with cars driving by might not be the best setting for everyone. It's a bustling area with many shops, so getting in and out quickly can be a challenge. However, the coffee here is some of the best I've had in the United States, if not the world. The Java Chip, priced at $6.25, was fantastic with a smooth coffee flavor perfectly mixed with chocolate chips. I highly recommend this spot for coffee lovers looking for something special.

1182 S Main St, Salinas

(831) 757-7437

Emma's Bakery and Cafe in Salinas is a hidden gem that truly impressed me during my visit. I stopped by at 10am for breakfast and was delighted by the calm and relaxing vibe, perfect for some morning journaling. The standout for me was Emma’s Vanilla Bean Cheesecake; it was absolutely fabulous. The service was excellent, and the food was farm-fresh, which made the whole experience very enjoyable. I had the Blue Zones Avocado Toast, which was both tasty and filling. I also tried their strawberry almond croissants, and they were simply to die for. Their selection of pastries and baked goods is impressive, with options like freshly baked pies, cookies, muffins, croissants, and eclairs—each one more tempting than the last. As a bonus, the smell of freshly baked pies wafting through the air was irresistible. Emma's offers better choices than the Starbucks next door, especially when it comes to muffins and croissants. The almond croissant was particularly good, and the muffin was moist and delicious. Plus, their cookies are huge, making for a delightful treat. I'm thrilled to have discovered this cafe and look forward to trying more of their desserts in the future. If you're in Salinas, give them a try; you won't regret it!

2010 N Main St, Salinas

(831) 442-0313

I was headed to Salinas with a craving for fish, reminiscent of Phil's in Moss Landing, so I was pretty picky about quality. I stumbled upon Fish & Chips for breakfast on Google Maps, and it sparked my interest. The location used to be a Long John Silver's, which honestly had the worst fish I've ever tried, so my expectations were low. I was totally wrong. The deep-fried fish was fresh, not frozen, and the shrimp were crunchy on the outside but moist and delicious on the inside. I tried the 20-piece battered shrimp and 4-piece fish with a baked potato. The portions of fish could be a bit bigger since I had to share, and, frankly, I didn’t want to! I’m a fan of clam chowder, so I gave it a go. It wasn’t what I expected; a bit runny and light on clams, more like a creamy potato and carrot soup. It wasn't bad but just not classic clam chowder. I’m giving this place four stars because I’m eager to try more menu items. The shrimp was a standout, and next time, I won't be sharing. The menu is extensive, and given the quality I experienced, I'm sure there's plenty more to love. The service was quick and friendly, lots of seating indoors and outdoors, and the place was spotless. If you’re searching for great fish and chips, or even menudo or pozole, this is your spot. The exterior might not catch your eye, but the food and atmosphere are perfect for a meal with friends or family. The owner and staff are welcoming, and the menudo, available on weekends, is now one of my favorites, complete with all the fixings and a spicy sauce to kick it up. Even though we arrived shortly before closing, service was top-notch, and you could see the care they put into making our meal. My husband and I polished off our four-piece fish and chips in no time. The fish was juicy, flaky, and super fresh. The menudo was a delightful surprise—mild but with an option for a spicier kick if you want. The interior is charming, the bathrooms are very clean, and there’s even a deck outside. I missed taking a photo since we devoured everything so quickly. If you’re in town, give this place a chance. With plenty of parking and incredible food, you won’t regret it!

122 W Market St, Salinas

(831) 424-9446

El Charrito is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Salinas. If you're in a rush, ordering ahead of time is a smart move because the line inside might look long, but trust me, the staff keeps it moving efficiently. I had the burritos and a bowl, and the food was delicious. If you’re gluten-free, the bowl is a great option since the burrito tortillas and torta bread are made with flour. Their aguas frescas are refreshing, and I especially enjoyed the cucumber, spinach, and lime variety when it was available. I visited Salinas for the weekend and was on the hunt for some good Mexican breakfast. This place popped up in my research, and with its convenient location and plenty of parking, I decided to give it a try. Despite the long line at first glance, it moved quickly, giving me plenty of time to decide what to order because everything on the menu looked amazing. I went for two burritos, a bowl, taquitos, chips, and guac. I also picked up some Corridos de Sinaloa for dessert. By the time I got back to where I was staying, the food was still warm, and I was blown away by the flavor and freshness—especially the carne asada and carnitas burritos. El Charrito ranks up there with some of the best authentic Mexican spots. It's like a more genuine version of Chipotle. I'd recommend ordering online to avoid long lines, especially on weekends. The burritos are usually well-portioned, and the salsa is delicious. I mostly order through the app when passing through Salinas, but sometimes there's a wait even when ordering ahead. It would be great if tortas were available for online orders as well. Overall, El Charrito is a must-try and definitely deserves a spot on your food list.

818 Park Row, Salinas

(831) 771-8670

After moving to Salinas, I visited Bagel Corner for breakfast and was thoroughly impressed. The staff was exceptionally friendly, making the experience even more delightful. The atmosphere is inviting, with spacious seating both inside and outside, perfect if you want to bring your dog along. I ordered a veggie breakfast burrito, coffee, and fruit, all of which were delicious. The bagels looked appetizing, and I can't wait to try them next time. My husband enjoyed a Garlic Bagel Sausage and Egg Sandwich, and we both appreciated the freshness of everything we ordered. The only downside was the coffee, which had various added flavors. I'd prefer a natural coffee taste without additional flavorings. Overall, our breakfast date was a success, and this has easily become my favorite breakfast spot in town. I highly recommend Bagel Corner for anyone looking for a tasty and pleasant breakfast experience.

1110 Northridge Shopping Ctr, Salinas

(831) 449-1110

I'm not usually a bagel person, but my visit to Blazin' Bagelz completely changed my perspective. The chicken breast sandwich was delicious, and though they were out of strawberry bagels, the jalapeño cheddar bagel was a surprisingly great alternative. The flavors were just right, and you could tell they use fresh, quality ingredients. The menu is extensive, which made picking a drink a fun challenge. The atmosphere was welcoming, and the staff went the extra mile to ensure a great experience. I even tried a create-your-own bagel with lox, tomato, onion, and spinach, and it was fantastic. My husband enjoyed his vanilla latte too. There are so many bagel options, including seasonal ones like pumpkin. While there were a couple of hiccups, like flavors mixing due to shared knives, the staff was understanding and quick to fix it. One employee, whose name I think is Mealea, was especially kind and brought my order to me, making the visit memorable. Overall, Blazin' Bagelz has a lot to offer, from tasty bagel sandwiches to a wide range of drinks. I'm already planning to return to try more, including their enticing ube cookies. If you're up for a tasty breakfast adventure, this is the spot.

1488 Constitution Blvd # 1488D, Salinas

(831) 444-8414

Emily and her team at Creekside Bagel Bakery are absolute rockstars, delivering exceptional customer service and an unforgettable experience every time. From their humble beginnings near the Greyhound Station in Salinas to their current spot, they have consistently served us with delicious breakfast bagels, coffee, tea, and more, all while keeping that same friendly and welcoming vibe. It's one of my favorite spots to grab a breakfast bagel. My go-to is the Monterey Bagel with extra bacon—it's loaded with avocado, bacon, eggs, mushrooms, and alfalfa sprouts. Absolutely delicious! They have a fantastic variety of bagels, including cinnamon, blueberry, sesame seed, cheese, and strawberry. The staff is always friendly and even remembers regulars' usual orders, which is such a nice touch. The bagel hot dog is popular, though I haven’t tried it myself, I hear others rave about it. Their drink selection is impressive too, with great smoothies, coffee, and Boba drinks. The recent renovation has improved the space significantly, adding outdoor seating, which I love. The food is consistently hot and fresh, and the lattes are spot on. I highly recommend stopping by. Just a small request: it would be great if they could remove the “Out of Order” sign from the restroom. My kids love their breakfast bagels and ask for them a few times a month. The improvements have made the spot even more accessible, and lunch is just as great. I've never had a bad meal there!

545 E Alisal St suite e, Salinas

(831) 676-3381

Down in Salinas to drop off Klausner Hauffinpopper at his son's home for a birthday party, the old gummer turns 103 in 2 days. He wanted to go get some Mexican food, so we stopped at Deli-Café 3 Hermanos because he said they're the best! First time for my wife and me to order food, and we were blown away. The food was amazing, especially the tortas, which we will definitely be going back for. The pastries are fresh and have a great variety. Known to locals, they have the best Mexican bread, and they sell a lot, so it’s always fresh. Just remember, it's cash only. The pan dulce looked delicious, so make sure you have cash on hand for that. Overall, a fantastic experience!

332 S Main St, Salinas

(831) 424-1989

I visited Cherry Bean Coffee Roasting Co. again today for breakfast, and it was a delightful experience. The service was much improved; the cashier was attentive and friendly, which made a big difference. My iced latte was top-notch with rich flavors, exactly what you'd hope for in a coffee shop. The black and white iced cookie I had was quite good too. This place really knows how to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that stands apart from big chains like Starbucks. I've been a regular here for over 20 years, and it just has this unique charm and authenticity that keeps bringing me back. While there's always room for improvement, like a bit more friendliness from some staff members, the overall vibe and the quality of their offerings make Cherry Bean a standout spot. Plus, you won't find a full-sized homemade egg and sausage quiche at Starbucks. The building itself is full of nostalgia, and the rewards of frequenting such a place are undeniable. It's a little gem that truly deserves to be recognized as the area's best coffee house.

258 Main St, Salinas

(831) 758-5257

Dudley's Oldtown is one of my favorite spots for breakfast. We come here pretty often because the food is consistently great, and the atmosphere is welcoming. The sausage patties are the best in town, and the servers are incredibly sweet and friendly. We were looking for a different breakfast place, and Dudley's did not disappoint. The service was good, and the food was excellent. I’m already planning my next breakfast visit. The tuna melt is a must-try; it's delicious with perfectly melted cheese. I also ordered the Phoenix, which comes with bacon and avocado, and it was pretty good too. Their bread is bigger, which I really enjoy, but the tuna melt portion is a bit smaller. For sides, they offer fries, salad, and soup, and I chose a salad with ranch dressing. I came here with friends, and the place is owned by the mighty Nhams, who are really cool people. The waiter was very nice, and the quality of food is impressive. Overall, Dudley's Oldtown offers really good food and very friendly service!

2020 N Main St, Salinas

(831) 442-1955

La Mariposa Bakery is a breakfast gem in Salinas. They offer excellent customer service, and the highlight is definitely their wide selection of delicious Mexican pastries. The prices are really affordable, making it easy to indulge in all the treats. I can't get enough of their tortas de tamal; they're simply the best. Their tamales are the standout, generously stuffed with meat, steamy, and large—truly the best in town. On a cold day, the champurrado is perfect; its chocolatey warmth is so comforting. The chile relleno burritos are mouthwateringly delicious. Every visit leaves me happy with my purchases because the food is consistently awesome. Their burritos are filling, and the tamales are larger and more satisfying than others I've tried. The employees are friendly, helpful, and patient, enhancing the entire experience. Their pan is fantastic, with my favorite being the pineapple empanada. They have a great variety, and I'd definitely recommend checking them out and sampling some of their tasty offerings.

975 E Blanco Rd, Salinas

(831) 424-9743

The staff at Denny's in Salinas always impresses me with their friendliness and personal touch; they remember us every time we visit. We've tried various menu items, and we’re always satisfied. The atmosphere is welcoming, with home-like seasonal decorations that make it feel cozy. During a recent meal, our waitress, Saira, made the experience exceptional with her attentive and warm service. She anticipated our needs and gave great recommendations. Her dedication to customer service truly made our visit memorable. Another time, Jose B stood out for being attentive and friendly, even when handling everything on his own. The food and prices are great, and the attentive servers always make dining here enjoyable. Despite one disappointing burger order, the overall experiences at Denny’s make me eager to return and recommend it to others.

515 Work St, Salinas

(831) 444-1969

Stopping by the Starbucks on John St. in Salinas for breakfast was a pretty decent experience overall. The drive-thru is efficient, and the staff generally gets the orders right, which is always appreciated. My husband, who is quite the charmer, was treated well and received an impressively large cup of cold foam, which had us both laughing. While there were a few hiccups with the order, like the cold brew being a bit watered down and the foam not living up to expectations, the staff did their best to remedy the situation when I pointed it out. It's clear that they are trying to make sure everyone leaves satisfied, even if it takes a little extra prompting. Though there aren't any restrooms or seating options available, the location is conveniently close to the freeway, making it an easy stop if you're in a hurry. Coffee prices are what you'd expect for Starbucks, but it’s always a nice treat to grab a cup on the go, even if home-brewed coffee is more economical. In the end, it's a well-run Starbucks with a team that’s quick to make things right, which is why I keep coming back.

1257 N Davis Rd, Salinas

(831) 757-9933

I had a really tasty breakfast at The Bagel Bakery in Salinas. The fresh bagel with cream cheese was spot on, and while the boba drink was pretty good, the tapioca pearls were a bit crunchy. I would definitely go back, especially for the chicken panini on sourdough—it was incredibly crunchy with lots of veggies and absolutely delicious. I highly recommend it; you won't be disappointed. However, the customer service could use some improvement. I had to wait a while for someone to take my order, even as an employee continued to stock trays of bagels. It felt like my business didn't matter much, and waiting at 7:30 am for bagels seemed a bit off for a bagel spot. There was also an incident where my sandwich was burned, but they did make me a new one after I let them know. Although the bagels and drinks are worth going for, the service aspect could be better. I hope they can step up their game because the food is great, but the waits and lack of customer engagement are making people reconsider.

1075 N Davis Rd, Salinas

(833) 548-4307

Had a great breakfast experience at IHOP in Salinas. Sara gave us excellent service, always wearing a smile. The food was delicious with good portions, and everything felt fresh. The restaurant was clean, and the staff was friendly and professional. Even though this location is pretty busy, especially on weekend mornings, we only waited about 20-30 minutes. They’re doing a good job with Covid protocols, which is reassuring. I liked that the place was quieter than expected, making it easy to go over my lines while we waited. Prices are a bit high, especially with appetizers, but that's typical for Salinas. Although the restaurant was busy, service was fast. It took a few minutes to get drink orders, and the iced tea wasn't great. The pancakes were the highlight for me, particularly the Halloween ones my son loved. I tried the cowboy scramble but probably wouldn't order it again. Overall, kind employees and wonderful wait staff made the visit enjoyable. Bonus star for their friendliness!

1255 De la Torre St, Salinas

(831) 424-9551

During my two visits to Denny's in Salinas for breakfast, I had a great experience. The highlight of my visits was definitely the service. Maria N provided excellent service and seemed to be managing everything smoothly. The restaurant had a welcoming atmosphere, and my meals were satisfying. The place wasn’t very crowded, which made for a peaceful dining experience. Overall, I’m really impressed with this Denny’s location and highly recommend checking it out for breakfast.