Superb Breakfast Spots in Santa Clara to Eat With Friends

2628 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara

(408) 296-5982

Stan's Donut Shop truly lives up to its stellar reputation. When I arrived at 8:30 on a Saturday, there was a long line, but with lots of friendly and efficient staff, it moved quickly. Remember, it's cash only, but there's an ATM available. The selection is excellent, offering both the classic favorites like buttermilk, French cruller, and glazed yeast rings, as well as some creative specialties. I tried three different kinds, and my standout favorite was a yeast ring with chocolate frosting, topped with custard and a cherry. The surprise of a donut hole stuffed into the center under the custard was both unique and delicious. While the crullers come with several frosting options, the standard cake donuts are also really good. My cousin recommended their glazed donuts, and they truly are the best I've ever tasted. Coming from the Central Valley, a stop at Stan's is always on my agenda when I'm in the area. I always bring home a dozen glazed, two if my wife is with me, though they limit customers to one dozen. It's tough to describe just how perfect their glazed donuts are: soft, with the perfect chew, and they reheat wonderfully. Other donuts are solid, just not as standout. I appreciate that they're not overly sugary, and their soft, fluffy texture makes them very enjoyable. The prices are great too! Stan's ranks easily in my top three donut shops, thanks to their A+ quality and efficient operations. Being able to see how the donuts are made adds to the charm. I'm already looking forward to my next visit and highly recommend stopping by if you love donuts. Just remember to bring cash!

3051 Tasman Dr, Santa Clara

Finding 1 Oz Coffee Pop-Up Bar can be a bit of a challenge, hidden as it is in the central courtyard among office buildings in Santa Clara. But once you locate it, you'll be glad you did. The outdoor area is wonderful for relaxing, especially on a sunny day. The coffee here is genuinely good, and the staff couldn't be friendlier. While the menu might be limited in terms of food and drink options—understandably so, considering it's a small, free-standing coffee shack—the quality makes up for it. There's plenty of outdoor seating, which is perfect for bigger groups or just enjoying a cozy vibe on your own. It's one of the coolest, sleek little cafes in the Bay Area, offering a unique, hidden gem experience amidst the corporate spaces.

2315 De La Cruz Blvd, Santa Clara

(408) 588-1508

Service at Kenny's Cafe in Santa Clara is simply amazing. Kenny is genuinely nice, and you can tell he has a good soul. Today, I tried the breakfast burrito, which was truly enjoyable—not too greasy or salty. The chipotle sauce paired perfectly with the burrito. I'm definitely coming back to try the burgers. The breakfast burrito special was an excellent choice; it was amazing. The salsa was a bit spicy but had just the right amount of flavor. Kenny is great, and the food comes out fast. The food is not only great but also delicious, and the owner is super nice and friendly. I would definitely return; if you're looking to try something different, come enjoy it with your family. You won't regret it! God bless this restaurant—good food, good service! Kenny runs it all from start to finish, and it's clear he's a hardworking man who cares about his business. The place is filled with pictures as he loves interacting with his customers.

3985 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara

(408) 564-5454

Voyager Craft Coffee in Santa Clara has become a true staple for my breakfast outings. After visiting their Cupertino location, I was pleased to find that despite the close seating, the vibe here is really hip. The vanilla latte and avocado toast were absolutely delicious, making it easy to spend over two hours enjoying the evolving smell of fresh bread. Although the ricotta toast wasn’t on the menu anymore, I don't drink coffee often, but Voyager is a must-stop every time I'm in South Bay. Their selection of flavors is quite fun and offers something unique, with options from Bali, Manila, and other specialties. While the coffee looks great, the taste could use a bit of improvement. There's usually a long line, so I haven’t had much interaction with the staff, and finding parking and seating can be a challenge. However, the breakfast offerings like the chocolate croissant and blueberry scone are delightful. Whether you're visiting once or picking up an order to go, it’s worth the visit.

2221 The Alameda, Santa Clara

(408) 217-8599

Yesterday, Head Roaster Gabby stopped by my office for a pop-up, and it inspired me to try the Voyager Craft Coffee closest to me for breakfast. I'm glad I did! The staff was friendly and welcoming, which made for a great first impression. They've got a knack for explaining their menu, which is helpful, especially if English isn't your first language. I decided to try a matcha with soy, which cost me $6 with the surcharge. It was smooth and didn't clump – definitely something I'll order again in the future. While I'm usually a cold brew fan, this matcha might just become my new go-to drink. I also tried a flat white and an espresso over ice, both of which were excellent. The barista recommended a chocolate croissant, and even though I was aware of the calories, it was too delicious to pass up. The ambiance at Voyager is comfortable and inviting, and I've enjoyed the consistency across their different locations. Their drinks are creative, with unique flavors like the Santiago hot coffee that I highly recommend. The interior has a simple yet tasteful aesthetic, making it a great spot to relax. It's worth noting that parking can be tricky during peak hours, but it's definitely worth the effort. Voyager is now a staple for me whenever I'm in the Bay Area, thanks to their inspirational drinks and incredibly kind staff.

202 Saratoga Ave, Santa Clara

(408) 345-2667

I had the chicken and waffles at Bloom for breakfast in Santa Clara, and it was really tasty. Everyone at the table enjoyed their food, even though it was unusual that the food arrived before the drinks. Despite that quirk, the overall meal was great. The wait time can get long here, but it's definitely worth it. Parking in the plaza isn't an issue, which is a plus. The restaurant has a cozy and lively vibe, which is surprising given the location. I was craving something sweet like their French Toast or Pancakes but ended up trying the Avocado Toast with a side of Pancake. I loved the chunky avocado pieces and the generous portion of greens. The pancakes weren't overly sweet, which I appreciated. The chicken and waffles were delicious, with syrup served on the side, which was perfect for someone like me who doesn't want it too sweet. The waffles were crispy yet fluffy, and the fried chicken was juicy and cooked just right. I came here after tennis with two friends, and the portions were more than enough to share. The scrambled eggs had more ingredients than eggs, which was interesting, and though my fresh squeezed OJ was warm, the service was quick, and getting ice was no hassle. Overall, Bloom is a fantastic brunch spot, and I definitely plan to return.

4300 Great America Pkwy #132, Santa Clara

(408) 727-4888

I decided to visit House of Bagels for breakfast during my stay in Santa Clara, and it was a fantastic choice! It was just a short 10-minute walk from where I was staying. I ordered a sausage, egg, and cheese bagel on blueberry bagel with a white mocha, and I was pleasantly surprised to find two sausages in the bagel. Everything was hot and fresh, and I enjoyed every bite. We stopped by on a Tuesday morning for breakfast, and the place was buzzing with activity. By 8 AM, they were already running low on bagels, which shows how popular they are. The menu was more extensive than it first appeared, with lots of options tucked away in the display cases. We also tried a fruit smoothie, which was refreshing. Though there was a slight burnt smell in the air, it didn’t detract from the overall experience. The place has a cozy vibe, and while the cashier wasn’t the friendliest, the quality of the food more than made up for it. I also tried a sesame bagel with cream cheese, and it was delicious. House of Bagels is a great spot not only for their bagels but also for their breakfast sandwiches, including options with lox. We had a bacon, egg, and cheese on an everything bagel, and it was a great start to the day. There's a small seating area, and while there's no public bathroom, they do have sodas in bottles. The staff was generally nice, and they’re open on game days too. I highly recommend this spot and will definitely return if I'm in the area again.

2000 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

(408) 244-6267

Visiting Holder’s Mission City Grill in Santa Clara for breakfast was a genuinely pleasant experience. I opted for the steak and avocado eggs Benedict while my dining companion chose the California eggs Benedict, swapping Canadian bacon for regular bacon. Both were served with perfectly cooked eggs and a side of hash browns. The portions were just right, and the prices are competitive with similar spots. Magdalena, our waitress, was incredibly friendly and attentive, offering helpful tips on the best times to visit during the week and weekends. The diner-style restaurant features a nice decor and welcoming ambiance, blending modern elements with a touch of retro flair. I also had the chance to try the crabmeat omelet, which, although not on the menu, was easily ordered thanks to Omar, our polite server. It was delicious and generously sized, with the béchamel sauce enhancing the flavor. My husband enjoyed a chicken dish customized without pasta, which was a hit. The large glass of orange juice was another highlight. Overall, the food was tasty and well-presented, and the service was impeccable. It was the first time we visited, and it certainly won’t be the last. I recommend booking a table in advance if you’re planning a visit. If you're in the Santa Clara area, make sure to stop by for a great meal at any time of the day.

5237 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara

(408) 982-3417

I came in to Orchard Valley Coffee on a Saturday morning to get some work done and was genuinely happy with my experience. The atmosphere was inviting, with plenty of space and lots of seating options, especially in the back. I settled into a cozy bench with a pillow and was able to focus on my work without any distractions, even though the place was bustling with people. I ordered a house coffee and a mushroom quiche, both of which were delicious. The quiche was so good that I’d return just for that! The staff was incredibly friendly, and the environment was super clean. It’s a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. They offer happy hours both in the morning and afternoon, which is a nice perk. The coffee is refreshing and not like your typical chain coffee—definitely my new go-to spot! While the prices are a bit high, with an iced peppermint coffee with almond milk costing almost $8, it’s still worth supporting this local spot. Hopefully, we might see those prices come down a bit. When I was in the area for work, I also grabbed a chocolate croissant and a vanilla latte, both of which exceeded my expectations. The storefront is beautiful, the music is good, and everything felt very clean and put together. Overall, a 5/5 stars experience. You can definitely count on a great visit here!

1595 Franklin St, Santa Clara

(408) 247-7272

We decided to visit Sara's Kitchen for breakfast as part of our regular get-together with friends, and this time, our friend chose it since it's her birthday month. Right from the start, the table service was attentive and friendly. We received multiple coffee and water refills, and our food was served relatively quickly. The restaurant itself is smallish, with a cozy diner/cafe vibe. My wife and I shared the "hangover" breakfast, which came with 2 eggs, bacon, sausage, hashbrowns, and a short stack. The savory items were tasty, and the variety of sauces was a nice touch. The pancakes, though, could have used a bit more flavor. We also tried the biscuits and gravy. As someone who's pretty experienced with B&G, I often use it as a benchmark for new places. While this wasn't quite my ideal, it wasn't bad either. The serving size was generous with two biscuits, but they were a bit tough, and the gravy was thinner and less flavorful than I prefer. My wife and another friend, who also tried a gravy item, shared the same thoughts. When it came to paying, the cashier interrupted me multiple times, which was frustrating since we wanted to treat our friend for her birthday. It was confusing, especially since we were the only ones in line, and there didn’t seem to be a rush. Despite these hiccups, if a friend wanted to return here, I would consider it. It wouldn’t be my first choice, but I’m open to it. Afterward, we decided to head to Sara's Kitchen for lunch, as it’s my friend’s favorite spot. I had never been there before and love trying new places. My friend got a girly sandwich, and I tried the grilled ham and cheese—both were amazing! The food was fresh and packed with flavor, and the service was friendly and efficient. We had a wonderful brunch experience in a great atmosphere with steady customers. The food was served hot and was very tasty. The staff was incredibly friendly, and the coffee was good. I would give Sara's Kitchen 5 stars all day long. ☆☆☆☆☆

3787 Stevens Creek Blvd #104, Santa Clara

While on a walk in the neighborhood, I decided to try Cafe Big Mug for breakfast, and it was a great decision. The cafe has a quiet atmosphere, perfect for working or relaxing, with light music playing in the background. Even though it was busy, I found a cozy spot on a couch. The coffee was excellent—I ordered a mocha with oat milk, and it struck the right balance between sweet and strong. The vibe reminded me of Central Perk from Friends, which added to the calming experience. I suggest going early to check out the pastries. The food and drinks are good and moderately priced. I tried the Smoked Salmon Toast, which had a bit too much avocado but was ideal for a light lunch. The Mont Blanc is a standout drink with its refreshing cold brew and sweet cream foam. Inside, there’s plenty of seating, free Wi-Fi, and lots of outlets, making it a good place to work or unwind. There’s compact parking out front and more spots around the nearby McDonald's. The gender-neutral restroom and the Wi-Fi code on the receipt are thoughtful touches. Overall, I enjoyed my visit and look forward to returning with friends to explore more of their menu.

3014 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

(408) 816-7932

Big Mug Coffee Roaster in Santa Clara is a fantastic spot for a morning coffee break. Their coffee cups are really big, and the ambiance is perfect for relaxing. I was pleasantly surprised by how good the Tiramisu latte was; the blend of flavors was impressive and just the right level of sweetness. Although the prices are a bit on the higher side, the quality makes it worthwhile. Inside, the place is super cute and cozy, with real coffee mugs that add to the charm. I was initially hesitant about trying a new coffee place, but I'm really glad I did. The Tiramisu latte is phenomenal, with bold flavors that don’t disappoint. I also gave their salmon bagel a try. It was a bit on the pricey side and I was hesitant since I've never had a smoked salmon bagel before, but it was surprisingly good. If I find myself in the area again, I’d definitely make a detour to visit Big Mug. We tried the Mount Blanc iced coffee with level 1 sweetness, and it was a refreshing choice for a hot day. Overall, it’s a solid spot for coffee lovers, though I wish they had more vegan food options.

1745 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

(408) 243-6053

I love this Denny's! The servers are so nice, creating a calm and welcoming environment. The food is consistently delicious, with drinks served quickly. Honestly, this Denny's is underrated and stands out compared to others I've visited. My compliments to the chef and our amazing server, Salomé. We decided to go out for breakfast, and while the girls enjoy IHOP, I wanted some good old-fashioned Denny's. I'm so glad we came here. There was a new item on the menu, a new version of French Toast, which was very delicious. The portion sizes were generous, and we even had leftovers of pancakes and French Toast for a couple of days. The service was outstanding, with our waitress being attentive and doing a fantastic job. What really surprised me was the reasonable bill, especially since most places have become quite expensive. I have to mention that I was greeted, seated, and served very quickly, which was a great start to the experience. Although I didn't get a drink refill after receiving my meal, the overall experience was still very positive. The food was really good, and I felt comfortable and welcomed throughout my visit. I'll definitely be back in a couple of weeks. Whether I get my usual breakfast or try something new, like the Beetlejuice "The Afterlife" grilled cheese I had last time, I know I’ll have a great meal. Denny's has become one of my favorite places to eat, and I highly recommend it to others!

495 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

(408) 246-7580

Having just moved to the area, I was thrilled to discover Cramer's Bagels for breakfast in Santa Clara. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted politely, and my order was taken quickly. I decided on a veggie bagel sandwich and was pleasantly surprised by how delicious it was. It was different from what I've had at other shops, but in a good way! Plus, they threw in a couple of bagel chips and a pickle, which was a fantastic bonus. This spot has quickly become my go-to for bagel cravings. If you're in the area and looking for a great bagel, I'd definitely recommend it. On our first visit for lunch, we tried the bagel BLT sandwich, which was absolutely delicious. My toddler enjoyed his everything bagel, while I loved the hint of spice from my jalapeño bagel. The ham and cheese croissant was also a hit. The staff is always welcoming with genuine smiles, adding to the friendly atmosphere. Most of the time, I go for the breakfast bagel sandwich, driving out of my way just to enjoy one. Pairing it with a Vietnamese coffee (a little trick: let the ice melt a bit), I feel completely ready to tackle the day. I’ll definitely keep coming back!

Stephen's Plaza, 5231 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara

(408) 243-0698

House of Bagels in Santa Clara is easily the best bagel spot in the South Bay. The food is consistently fresh and delicious, with a wide selection of coffee and lattes that never fail to satisfy. The customer service is top-notch, with staff always greeting you warmly and creating a welcoming atmosphere. I've been a loyal customer for years and have fond memories of visiting this shop. The owner is lovely and always up for a chat, adding to the friendly vibe. I recently had a Jalapeño bagel sandwich and a Jalapeño bagel with cream cheese, both of which were incredibly fresh and tasty. However, I have noticed a couple of things worth mentioning. If you're ordering through Doordash, be cautious. I once encountered an unexplained charge of $11.41 for "special instructions" on my Lox Bagel order, even though I didn’t include any. Also, there has been some skimping on the cream cheese lately, which is disappointing considering how much I enjoy it on my bagels. Despite these minor issues, the overall experience at House of Bagels remains positive, and I still recommend it to anyone in the area. If you're looking for a place with slightly larger and fluffier bagels, the Palo Alto location is a great alternative with a broader selection. But if you’re in Santa Clara, this spot is a must-visit for a satisfying breakfast or snack.

2002 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

(408) 459-7546

I visited Panera Bread for breakfast in Santa Clara, and overall, it was a solid experience. It was my first time there, and I was impressed with the onion soup—it was really good. The house salad looked fresh and appealing, too. One thing I noticed was that the setup is more self-service; you order at the counter, pick up your food, and clear your table afterward. I was a bit confused about the tipping option on the invoice since you're doing a lot of the work yourself, but it's something to keep in mind. The cafe doesn't have the best lighting, which might not be ideal if you're planning to work there. On the plus side, it has plenty of outlets, booths, and long communal tables, which are great for a more communal dining experience. Pick-up orders are located in a slightly inconvenient spot by the bathrooms, but it's manageable. There are outdoor seating options, some in the shade and some in front, which is nice if you enjoy eating outside. However, it can get distracting because it's in a busy plaza. The order status screen is a helpful feature, and I've never had issues with the food quality—new salads are generous with ingredients. I did have an experience where I ordered a Kids' meal and received apples that weren't the freshest, which was disappointing. The self-check machine had some issues, but after reporting it, the resolution wasn't handled as well as it could have been. Despite this, I still think Panera is generally a good place to visit, and with some improvements in customer service, it could be even better.

2380 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

(408) 249-9923

Updated to 5 stars since they fixed the issue with low inventory. Thanks and sorry for being so harsh. I had a fantastic breakfast experience at Noah's NY Bagels in Santa Clara. The issues I previously encountered with low inventory have been resolved, and it has made a noticeable difference. The jalapeño bagels are now consistently available, which is great news for spicy bagel lovers like myself! While lines can be busy on weekends, the staff handles it well, and the wait isn't too long. They are friendly and efficient, especially during busy early morning hours, which is impressive. I tried both the bagel with lox and cream cheese, and the bagel with double egg and cheese, accompanied by a fresh cup of coffee. Everything was delicious and prepared quickly. The brisket bagel, although not on the menu, is worth asking for. The flavors are consistent, and the coffee is always fresh. Parking is convenient, which is a relief in this suburban area. The only downside was the lack of restrooms, but it's not a deal-breaker. Even though I'm not big on carbs, these bagels are good enough to make me a fan. The everything bagel is slightly tough to bite, but it's packed with flavor. I do wish there were hot drink options without caffeine. Overall, Noah's NY Bagels is a great spot for a quick and satisfying breakfast. I'll definitely be back, and I recommend giving it a try!