May 28, 2025

Excellent Breakfasts in Santa Clarita With Friendly Faces

Venture toward Santa Clarita's bright breakfast spots where morning-fresh meals with fluffy whipped treats await, making each bite special and fun. Start your day with yummy dishes that fill you with sunshine and.

Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
California
Editor's Note: Brunch Expert is supported by our readers. We sometimes earn commissions when you click through to restaurants or affiliate links.

If you're looking for a tasty breakfast in Santa Clarita, you're in for a treat! The cafes here have cozy places where you can taste yummy morning-fresh dishes. They serve delicious pancakes, fluffy omelets, and crispy bacon that make breakfast feel extra special.

Waffle Love - Valencia

28255 Newhall Ranch Rd, Santa Clarita

(661) 753-3523

Reviewed by:

Paresh Douge

I was pleasantly surprised by my breakfast at Waffle Love in Valencia. The waffles were a real highlight – perfectly crisp on the outside and soft, with a unique chewiness inside that reminded me of pizza dough or pretzel. It was different, but I liked it. I ordered eggs over easy, and while they were cooked more than expected, they were still decent. The bacon was a standout; I really enjoyed it, and the avocado that came with the breakfast plate was a nice touch. The fried chicken, on the other hand, was a bit bland for my taste as it lacked seasoning, but it was moist and fresh. Despite that, I appreciated the variety and creativity in their menu. The customer service was impressive—they even brought us a free "Cinna Lovers" waffle, which tasted just like a cinnamon roll. The location is quiet, albeit a bit small, and the cleanliness of the tables and floors could use some improvement. The service was quick and efficient, thanks to the friendly gentleman who took our order and cooked our food. My husband had the breakfast plate with eggs, bacon, and a waffle, and he was satisfied with it too. Overall, Waffle Love offers a great twist on a traditional American breakfast. It would be even better with some potatoes as a side, but it's definitely a place to revisit. I wish they had a location in Sacramento! Though we were in a hurry and took our order to go, I'm glad we gave it a try and look forward to trying the waffles more next time. The strawberry & cream waffle was also a hit, and I’d recommend this quaint spot to anyone looking for decent waffle options.

Bagel Boyz

18580 Via Princessa, Santa Clarita

(661) 360-7039

Reviewed by:

Louay Mateen

I had such a great experience at Bagel Boyz for breakfast in Santa Clarita. I wholeheartedly recommend this restaurant. Bagels are often seen as a quick breakfast bite, but this place completely redefines that concept. I tried the Rancho chicken, Turkey guacamole, and a sesame bagel with cream cheese. To top it off, the owner generously gifted us some amazing sugar cinnamon crunch bagels, which were like donut creations—crunchy yet soft. Their dough is made without additives in a traditional way, and they even advised us to store the bagels in the freezer and warm them up when ready to eat. The place was bustling with people coming in for take-out and dining in. Parking is convenient in the plaza, and the customer service is quick and friendly. Aside from bagels, they offer salads, muffins, and flavored cream cheese. I loved the bagels and highly recommend this place. The bagels and cream cheese are fantastic, and the prices are reasonable for such freshly made products. I'm not a big fan of the pizza bagel, but their breakfast and lunch sandwiches are delicious, especially the jalapeno cheese. This was my first time eating here, and it was both delicious and reasonably priced. The staff was super friendly, and I will definitely be coming back soon. It's the best bagel shop ever; they go above and beyond to keep you satisfied, treat you like family, and everything is made fresh from scratch.

Western Bagel

23170 Valencia Blvd, Santa Clarita

(661) 254-1287

Reviewed by:

Miranda Bridgland

Finally tried Western Bagel in Santa Clarita for breakfast, and I'm really glad I did. I ordered the lox on a jalapeño bagel, and it was a hefty, delicious meal. It came loaded with cream cheese, tomato, red onion, fresh salmon, lettuce, and capers. The flavors were fantastic, though I felt a pinch more salt and pepper could have enhanced the taste. They served it well-packaged, so much so that it didn't make it home because I devoured it on the spot! While I do think it's a bit on the pricier side, if you're in the market for a top-notch breakfast sandwich or bagel, this is the place to go. The highlight of my visit was the amazing customer service, which is something I value a lot—the friendly service I received from Alyssa turned my day around. Despite the busy atmosphere, she managed everything with a welcoming smile and even suggested a drink to complement my order. Her genuine compliment really uplifted my spirits on a tough day. I wish there was a way to tip with card because her service deserved a $20 tip. Having lived on the East Coast and tried many New York bagels, I can confidently say that Western Bagel holds its own as one of the best. The friendly service and convenient hours make it a staple for breakfast in SCV, especially for those of us who hit the road early.

Egg Plantation

24415 Walnut St, Santa Clarita

(661) 255-8222

Reviewed by:

Leroy Rottman

Egg Plantation is a really cute spot for breakfast and brunch! We visited on a Saturday morning, and even though there was a bit of a wait, it wasn't too bad. The service was excellent, and everyone got their food in a timely manner. I highly recommend the Eggs Benedict—it was delicious. The kids' menu is great, too, and very affordable, which is always a plus. Although it's just in Newhall, the wait for a table can be long, but it's clear why—this place offers truly great food and service. Hosting two good friends here turned into a memorable experience for us. Even though I don't live nearby (roughly a thousand miles away), I look forward to returning someday. The ambiance is nice, providing an elevated breakfast experience while still being affordable. Egg Plantation boasts an impressive menu with 101 varieties of omelettes. The Smoked Salmon Omelette with cream cheese, capers, and chopped red onions was excellent. And don't even get me started on the small pancakes—they were as big as the plates! Happy tummies all around! The Bloody Mary was just the right amount of spicy, too. Overall, I would definitely recommend this place for its delicious food, great service, and inviting ambiance.

The Old Town Junction

24275 Main St, Santa Clarita

(661) 702-4888

Reviewed by:

Kasandra Adams

We've been to The Old Town Junction many times, and it’s always a pleasure. This time, I tried the Filet Stroganoff paired with a Liquid Candy IPA. The Stroganoff sauce was incredible, bursting with flavors and a hint of sweetness—just delicious. My wife had the Parisian House Gnocchi, and the presentation was lovely. The main dishes were fantastic, especially the short rib, which I would definitely order again. The desserts weren't as memorable, but everything else was great. The restaurant has a fairly large food selection and a speakeasy-feel bar that's packed with craft cocktails. The service is polite and professional, and the food consistently impresses. The burgers and Brussels sprouts are particularly amazing. It’s definitely a spot we’ll revisit soon.

Jimmy Dean's

28018 The Old Rd, Valencia

(661) 702-9444

Reviewed by:

Patricia Serrano

Jimmy Dean's in Santa Clarita is my go-to spot for breakfast. The food there is truly amazing, offering a wide variety of options like hamburgers, kraut dogs, burritos, and tasty milkshakes. I love their charbroiled burgers, which are some of the best I've had. The prices are great, and even when it's busy, the service is quick. It's conveniently located if you're visiting Six Flags or getting your car washed next door. The menu diversity ensures there's something for everyone, making it a healthier drive-thru choice. While prices have risen a bit, that's just a California thing and not their fault.

Way Station Coffee Shop

24377 Main St, Santa Clarita

(661) 255-0222

Reviewed by:

Brad Potla

Way Station Coffee Shop is a gem on Main Street in Old Town Newhall. The diner has a charming, nostalgic atmosphere with old license plates and vintage signs decorating the walls. The history of the place adds to its charm, with the building's past as an ice cream parlor still visible in the original bar counter and stools being used today. What really stood out to me were the reasonable prices and generous portion sizes. The pancakes were fantastic, and the staff was incredibly friendly, making the experience even better. It's refreshing to find a place that opens early for breakfast, although it's good to note they're closed on Tuesdays. Coming straight off the plane from Hawai'i, I was craving a hearty meal, and Way Station delivered with delicious hashbrowns, steak, and gravy. The area surrounding the diner is delightful as well, adding to the overall experience. Although there was a 40-minute wait on a Saturday morning, it was a good sign of the diner’s popularity. The waitlist system could be improved, but the atmosphere once inside was fun and welcoming. The food did take a bit longer to arrive, and there were some minor issues with the cooking, but the positives far outweighed any negatives. The menu is straightforward with all the essentials, making it easy to find something to enjoy. Overall, if you're in the area, Way Station is a must-visit for breakfast or lunch.

Halfway House cafe

15564 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita

(661) 251-0102

Reviewed by:

Brittany Paulin

I had a fantastic breakfast experience at the Halfway House Cafe in Santa Clarita today. The food is outstanding, and the staff is incredibly friendly. I opted for The Halfway House Super Breakfast, and it was more than enough to satisfy my appetite. With a large orange juice and ice water to accompany my meal, it was perfect. I highly recommend visiting this spot, even if it means going out of your way. I stopped by on a Friday with fellow riders, and we all had a great time. The place has a charming, historic vibe that offers a nice break from the usual hustle and bustle. I love riding my motorcycle here from Lakeview Terrace, taking the scenic route through Little Tujunga Canyon and Sand Canyon to Sierra Highway. The food is consistently good, and I usually go for breakfast since it's available all day. The chicken fried steak and eggs with cottage fries and biscuits and gravy are hearty enough to keep you going all day. The staff adds to the enjoyment with their friendliness. This iconic restaurant is steeped in history and decorated with vintage signs that bring a smile. It’s a unique place with a lot of character. When I visited less than a month ago on a Monday morning, it was busy, but our waitress was attentive and sweet. The coffee and food were both excellent. My husband had the steak, which was tender and juicy. I tried the polish sausage but would love to come back and have the steak myself. Overall, a wonderful spot with good vibes and great food.

Crazy Otto's Diner

19132 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita

(661) 299-6886

Reviewed by:

Ana Cristina Folds

As soon as we walked into Crazy Otto's Diner in Santa Clarita, the staff greeted us warmly, and our waitress was incredibly attentive and professional throughout our visit. The food was simply incredible, and the portions were generous—definitely a great value for the price. I can't wait to return, and I recommend bringing a big appetite because they're ready to thrill you and fill you. Being in the area, we decided to give this local diner a try, and I'm so glad we did. Based on our waiter's recommendation, I ordered the pork chops with hash browns and biscuits and gravy. Though I don't usually eat much pork, this dish was phenomenal. We also tried the corned beef and hash with hash browns, and it didn't disappoint. It was the first time I was impressed not only with the food but also with the service. Our waiter was spot on and even let us sample the chili, which was excellent. If you're in the area, I highly recommend stopping by and giving this local eatery a try. The restaurant is clean, the ambiance is cool, and both the food and service are outstanding. The $20 for fried steak and eggs with biscuit and gravy was a good deal. Based on earlier reviews, I might have enjoyed the regular steak and eggs more since I prefer my steak medium pink. Service at the bar was fast and attentive despite the restaurant being full, likely due to the after-Sunday-mass rush. The food was satisfying and came in large servings, so much so that all three of us had leftovers. It's always a good experience for brunch with family and friends, and my family loves this place!

California Bakery & Cafe

23021 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita

(661) 255-1254

Reviewed by:

Heather M Romero

California Bakery & Cafe in Santa Clarita is a fantastic spot for breakfast and treats! Their donuts, pan dulce, and other baked goods are simply amazing. The staff is incredible, from the friendly owners to everyone who makes the delicious food. They're always helpful and sweet, making sure you get exactly what you need. A huge plus is that they're open 24/7, so if you're ever craving a midnight snack, this is the place to go. They offer a variety of options, from hot chocolate to pastries. For special occasions like Dia de Los Reyes and Valentine's Day, they create unique items like roscas and heart-shaped conchas, which is a charming touch. They are also great with custom orders, showing their commitment to customer satisfaction. During my visit, we ordered three pork tamales and some donuts—a glazed and a chocolate one. Everything was fresh and tasty. The drinks are good too, with fresh-squeezed lemonade as a refreshing option. What truly sets this place apart is the wonderful service. The staff members are genuinely nice and patient, never making you feel like you're a bother if you have questions. California Bakery & Cafe is a must-visit spot when in California, especially if you love donuts and excellent service. It’s conveniently located at Soledad and Bouquet in Santa Clarita. While the tamales were a bit dry, the overall experience and delicious food more than made up for it. I love this place!

Casa Canela Restaurant

27647 Bouquet Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita

(661) 523-7282

Reviewed by:

Walter Barnes

Breakfast at Casa Canela in Santa Clarita was a fantastic experience. The food is amazing, and the portions are generous, offering great value for the price. The service is quick and efficient, with friendly and attentive staff. Isabel C., our server, was particularly outstanding. Though it can get crowded and noisy during Sunday brunch, the atmosphere is lively and fun. My friend's chicken enchiladas poblanas and my corned beef hash with potatoes and eggs were delicious, as was the cinnamon coffee. We had to wait about 20 minutes, but it was worth it. The Eggs Benedict was a standout dish—absolutely perfect, and the fresh squeezed orange juice complemented it nicely. The breakfast burrito was decent, though a bit dry for my taste. Overall, the food alone makes it worth returning, and I'll definitely be back when visiting from Georgia. Highly recommended!

The Original Saugus Cafe

25861 Railroad Ave, Santa Clarita

(661) 259-7886

Reviewed by:

Teofilo Stolz

The Original Saugus Cafe truly feels like a piece of history with its old-school diner vibe. Walking in, the atmosphere felt homey, like stepping into a classic LA diner. The separate bar area is nice if you're looking for a bit of variety. Parking was a breeze, as we found a spot right out front. The service was polite, though we did wait a bit for our meals. I tried the Country Fried Steak for breakfast, which was crispy and enjoyable. The Biscuits and Gravy were alright, though I wished the biscuits were a bit flakier. Sharing a side of Pancakes was a great choice, as everyone at the table loved them. Overall, this place is a great local diner, perfect for a family breakfast or brunch when you're in the area. The menu is what you’d expect from a classic diner, with plenty of options like omelets, breakfast combos, eggs Benedict, and chicken n waffles. There's a TV with sports for those interested and plenty of seating with booths, tables, and a bar to choose from. While the decor feels a bit dated, it adds to its charm as the oldest restaurant in LA County. The service stood out as a highlight of the experience. I'd definitely return whenever I'm in the area, especially for their club sandwich, which I enjoyed before. It's a quintessential diner experience with fair prices and convenient parking.

Route 66 Classic Grill

18730 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita

(661) 298-1494

Reviewed by:

Angela Henriques

I've been to Route 66 Classic Grill three times now, and it's become one of my favorites! The vintage atmosphere is a real treat, with all the nostalgic decor and old-time music. The food is fantastic—I’ve tried the pancakes and French toast, and they were both delicious. My husband had the New Mexico Burger, and I can’t recommend it enough; it was so juicy and flavorful. The service here is great, too. Christine was especially helpful and made us feel welcome during our visit. The menu offers a lot of choices, and the portions are just right. We plan on coming back often! The restaurant has a unique, traditional American diner layout with plenty of booths that are always clean. The walls are filled with interesting American memorabilia, and there are TVs for watching sports. Though I wish there were more TVs for all the games on Sundays, the atmosphere is still enjoyable. One of my top recommendations would be the Avocado & Bacon Omelette. It’s really good and comes with a generous portion of hash browns and sourdough bread. The only minor hiccup was with our young waitress, who seemed new or just nervous as she didn't quite get our order right. For instance, I asked for a Flat White and got a black coffee with white milk instead. But overall, the service was good. While the hot chocolate could use some improvement, Route 66 Classic Grill is a great spot that’s reasonably priced. If you’re in the Santa Clarita area, I highly recommend stopping by for a bite!

Tamales Express

18283 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita

(661) 360-7751

Reviewed by:

Caty Greer

Tamales Express in Santa Clarita is a delightful spot for breakfast that I really enjoy. The tamales are fantastic, especially the rajas, which are some of the best I've had. It's such a relief not having to drive across town to Newhall anymore because the flavors here are spot on. The masa is just the right amount, which I love, and the taste is consistently delicious. The atmosphere of the place is clean and cozy, making it a nice spot to kickstart the day. The lady at the register is incredibly nice and friendly, adding to the positive experience. I'm thrilled to have found a local favorite that I can depend on for amazing tamales, and I'll definitely be back for more!

IHOP

18677 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita

(661) 250-1860

Reviewed by:

Donna Alexis

I had a great breakfast experience at IHOP in Santa Clarita. The owner is incredibly nice and professional, resolving any issues quickly and ensuring that customer concerns are heard and addressed. The staff is friendly and polite, always ready to provide excellent customer service. The cooks work hard to serve meals that are hot and fresh, and my family loves coming here, especially on weekends. This is our go-to spot for some quality family time, and every visit is a treat. Our server, Bette, was fantastic—attentive, friendly, and always cheerful. The food was delicious; we had pancakes and French toast that hit the spot. Though the strawberry lemonade splasher wasn’t my favorite, it might be a hit with kids. Compared to the IHOP on Bouquet, this location is definitely better. The bathroom was clean, and even during our 2 a.m. visit after a concert, the cook impressed us with perfectly cooked eggs. The one downside is the pricing, but there are specials that make it more affordable. I love having a pot of hot coffee at the table, which is great for early mornings or late-night cravings. On one visit, we waited a while to be seated despite empty tables, and noticed that the server seemed too engaged in conversation to take our order promptly. There was a mix-up with a dirty coffee cup, and it took longer than expected to get a replacement and some creamer. Despite this hiccup, I still recommend this IHOP for its overall great service and tasty meals. Thank you, IHOP!

Black Bear Diner Santa Clarita

23626 Valencia Blvd, Santa Clarita

(661) 799-4820

Reviewed by:

Rob Frazer

After driving past the Black Bear Diner in Santa Clarita countless times, I finally decided to stop in for breakfast last week, and I'm so glad I did! Everything about the experience was wonderful. My eggs were cooked perfectly to order, and the homemade sausage was absolutely delicious. The French toast was another highlight, so flavorful and satisfying. The staff provided great service, especially on a busy weekday morning, which made the visit even more pleasant. The atmosphere of the restaurant was warm and inviting, and it was great to learn about the restaurant's history from the menu. I'm already looking forward to my next visit and highly recommend Black Bear Diner for anyone craving a hearty and tasty breakfast. They really make you feel like part of the family.

Panera Bread

24133 Baywood Ln, Santa Clarita

(661) 287-3900

Reviewed by:

Justin Williams

Panera Bread in Santa Clarita is a solid choice for breakfast. The food is consistently good and clean, with flavors that really stand out. While their sandwiches could benefit from a bit more filling, I absolutely love their muffins—they're some of the best I've tasted. The service is great and efficient, which makes for a pleasant experience. Although the prices are on the higher side, that's often the case with organic options. On a recent visit, I ordered the seasonal Strawberry Poppyseed Salad, which was packed with fruits and quite tasty. I also tried the Chicken Sandwich, which was simple yet satisfying. The Mac and Cheese made for a nice side. I appreciate the variety of indoor and outdoor seating, and the 1/2 and 1/2 option is perfect for those times when I want a sandwich and soup for a quick, healthier meal. Overall, it's a reliable spot for a quick bite, with service on par with other Panera locations.

Denny's

16401 Delone St, Santa Clarita

(661) 252-9696

Reviewed by:

Diana Dailey

We've revisited this Denny's in Santa Clarita a few times lately, and it's clear they've made some great improvements. The restaurant looks much cleaner, and it's obvious the servers are genuinely engaged and happy to be there. We had a pleasant chat with the manager, who was both helpful and friendly. For those on a budget, there are reasonable menu options available. I'm glad to say that this Denny's is back on our list of local spots for good diner-style food. The Cali Club Sandwich is decent. The ham doesn't stand out on its own, but the bacon and cheese really elevate the flavor, making it an enjoyable meal. It goes well with mashed potatoes. This has become a family tradition for us to stop here after long trips. The staff is always kind and ready for a chat, the vibe is great, and the food never disappoints. They've added a few new menu items, and everything we've tried has been delicious. I usually stop by once a week, and Ella consistently provides outstanding service, whether I'm there to work on late-night homework or just grab a meal. I appreciate her dedication, and she always makes my visits memorable.

Denny's

18932 Soledad Canyon Rd, Canyon Country

(661) 252-3902

Reviewed by:

López Trautman-Evangelista

I had breakfast at Denny's in Santa Clarita, and it was a surprisingly positive experience. The staff was welcoming from the moment I walked in, greeting me with smiles and making me feel at home. The restaurant was clean and had a pleasant atmosphere, which was a great start to my morning. The menu offered a wide variety of options, and I was impressed by the generous portions. My meal was served hot and fresh, and everything tasted delicious. The coffee was refilled promptly, and the server was attentive, ensuring I had everything I needed. The highlight for me was the efficiency and friendliness of the staff, which made the experience truly enjoyable. I'm glad I decided to give this Denny's location a try, and I'll definitely be returning for another satisfying breakfast.

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