Best Brunch Restaurants in Santee

11 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Brigantine La Mesa restaurant

1. Brigantine La Mesa

4.8

Exceptional(4160)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • La Mesa

Booked 54 times today

A San Diego tradition since 1969, the Brigantine has received many accolades in our 40+ year history: "BEST SEAFOOD", "BEST CASUAL SEAFOOD", "BEST HAPPY HOUR", and even "BEST SWORDFISH IN THE WORLD", according to USA Today - just to name a few.Well-known for our signature Clam Chowder, Grilled Swordfish, and Crème Brûlée, the Brigantine is a favorite among locals for consistently fresh seafood, succulent steaks and grilled meats. With an updated nautical decor, the busy Oyster bar is hands-down the local favorite. Lush flowering foliage outdoors creates an elegant dining experience on one of two charming patios.The La Mesa Brigantine serves dinner 7 nights a week, lunch Monday-Saturday, and brunch every Sunday.Join us for our signature Happy Hour.

2. Casa Gabriela

4.7

Exceptional(745)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • La Mesa

Booked 25 times today

Chef Gabriela Lopez brings her elevated Mexican cuisine to Downtown La Mesa. Using her grandmother's recipes from Guadalajara crossed with her cosmopolitan upbringing in Tijuana, Chef Gabriela's menu features authentic hand-crafted dishes and imaginative takes on classic dishes. All of Baja California is represented along with influences from other regions in Mexico.The spacious outdoor garden, cozy loft, and private dining areas are the perfect places to enjoy tequila and mezcal based cocktails, family celebrations, or brunch with friends.

3. Madi

4.7

Exceptional(414)

Price: Moderate

• Breakfast • Kensington

Booked 23 times today

Bringing all-day brunch and grab-and-go coffee to Normal Heights, Madi is the upcoming daytime counterpart to Madison on Park, the well-established mid-century modern restaurant and bar that opened in University Heights in 2015. Offering a quick-service coffee counter fueled by Heartwork Coffee out of Mission Hills that’ll feature the full range of espresso drinks, specialty beverages, and tea as well as fresh pastries, Madi will also be an anytime option for sit-down breakfasts, mimosa-powered brunches, and casual lunches.Its breakfast menu ranges from waffle churro sticks and breakfast burritos to skirt steak eggs Benedict and a variety of pancakes based on a 60-year-old recipe from Madison co-owner Matthew, whose family runs a century-old breakfast spot in the midwest.Lunch will hinge on build-your-own grain and salad bowls along with lettuce wraps, ceviche, a burger, and a classic Tuna Melt!

A photo of Farmer's Table - La Mesa restaurant

4. Farmer's Table - La Mesa

4.4

Awesome(2009)

Price: Moderate

• Farm-to-table • La Mesa

Booked 12 times today

Excited to announce that we officially have four locations open in San Diego including Bay Park, Little Italy, La Mesa, and Chula Vista. As a family run operation we believe every good neighborhood deserves an eatery where locals and visitors can enjoy “honest food done right”. Here at Farmers Table, we specialize in farm-to-fork cuisine that focuses on bringing locally sourced organic ingredients together to be savored in an inviting family-friendly atmosphere, where adults and children can enjoy many different food options that are just right for them. If you are looking for a magical brunch this week, come stop by for an unforgettable night.

A photo of 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego restaurant

5. 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego

4.3

Awesome(3212)

Price: Expensive

• American • Kearny Mesa

Booked 18 times today

For over 40 years, the 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant has been San Diego's landmark dining destination and is undoubtedly one of the most unique and memorable restaurants you will ever find. Located inside a replica of a World War I French farmhouse decorated with fascinating military memorabilia, antiques, and aviation relics, the restaurant overlooks Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, and has a cozy and romantic ambiance, with large stone fireplaces, intimate booths, and beautiful views. The extensive menu features mid-western aged beef and the freshest seafood. Here you will find USDA Choice Prime Beef steaks, slow-roasted Angus prime rib, fresh fish, salad entrées, seafood, chicken, pasta dishes, and fabulous desserts. Their award-winning Bottomless Champagne Brunch is not to be missed. Beautiful outdoor patios, a very popular Happy Hour, and excellent banquet facilities help make the 94th Aero Squadron one of the greatest dining experiences in all of San Diego.

A photo of Giardino Neighborhood Cucina restaurant

6. Giardino Neighborhood Cucina

4.8

Exceptional(1064)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Lemon Grove

Booked 11 times today

Located in the middle of Lemon Grove’s charming downtown area, Giardino is a welcoming and casual Italian inspired cucina where the neighborhood gathers for fresh and flavorful classic dishes found throughout Italy.Giardino offers an Italian-inspired menu of seasonally-driven dishes that use timeless Italian techniques and fresh ingredients. Guests will find items such as fresh seafood, pastas, pizzas and salads, as well as a variety of elements made in-house.

A photo of El Torito - La Mesa restaurant

7. El Torito - La Mesa

4.7

Exceptional(440)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • La Mesa

Booked 8 times today

The authority in great Mexican food for more than 65 years. Offering a memorable experience to make each guest feel like family.

8. Brigantine Poway

4.6

Exceptional(1237)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Poway / Rancho Bernardo

Booked 23 times today

In keeping with the Brigantine tradition of excellence, The Poway Brigantine features a generous assortment of appetizers on their widely popular "Share" menu. An abundant selection of fresh seafood and grilled meats round out the rest of the offerings.Newly redesigned at the end of 2006, The Poway Brigantine boasts a lively and contemporary atmosphere, unlike anything else in the area. Whether you're joining us for lunch, dinner, or happy hour, The Brig's casual and unpretentious atmosphere makes it the perfect everyday restaurant.With separate areas for private dining, The Brigantine is also an ideal place to make business connections, or celebrate special occasions with family and friends.Start your own community tradition and Meet Me at The Brig.

9. Public House 131

5.0

Exceptional(37)

Price: Moderate

• American • Scripps Ranch

Booked 1 time today

Welcome to Public House 131 our Chef Shahob Pourteymoor has designed a menu full of your pub favorites all made from scratch in house and sourced locally whenever possible or when seasons allow. We are located in beautiful Scripps Ranch and offer a wonderful outdoor dining experience. Our Craft cocktails are our specialty and our tap list includes close to 20 local San Diego beers.

10. MexicanBar

new

(0)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Poway

Booked 1 time today

Located in the heart of Poway, MexicanBar offers an authentic and vibrant Mexican dining experience with a modern twist. Reopened in May 2024 after a stunning remodel, MexicanBar features a fresh new look, a lively atmosphere, and a delicious menu crafted to satisfy every craving. From classic Mexican dishes to creative fusion options, we take pride in using fresh ingredients to deliver bold, flavorful meals. MexicanBar also offers a delightful brunch menu, handcrafted cocktails, hand shaken margaritas, and local draft beer to complement any meal. Whether you're here for a casual lunch, weekend brunch, or a festive dinner, our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional service in a welcoming setting. With a spacious sports bar area, indoor and outdoor seating, and a lively ambiance, MexicanBar is the perfect spot for both family gatherings and nights out with friends.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Sandivip
San Diego •60 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
The Brigantine in La Mesa is my very favorites. The food arrives hot and to perfection. Our server, Lula was personable and professional. Bravo to The Brig for your continued customer care.
More info
Brigantine La MesaPrice: Moderate• Seafood• La Mesa
•
4.8
R
Roberta
San Diego •2 reviews
4.0
Dined 2 days ago
The music on the patio was pleasant, but WAY TOO LOUD to have conversation. I had looked up the menu online before going for the first time and was disappointed that the menu I viewed was not available at "brunch". My group went for lunch. Jason, our waiter, was pleasant and accommodating to our requests. The decor is nice and intentional. The patio ambience was very pleasant.
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Casa GabrielaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• La Mesa
•
4.7
L
Lori
Orange County •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We loved this fun breakfast place! The food is yummy and the lattes are delicious. Servers are all friendly. I highly recommend reservations - we got there at 10 (and we had reservations). They took us in right away but there were many people waiting for tables. Also, parking is tough in the area - it is all street parking and the area is very very busy.
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MadiPrice: Moderate• Breakfast• Kensington
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4.7
M
Maria
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
The food was excellent as well as the service. Loved the look inside the restaurant.
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Farmer's Table - La MesaPrice: Moderate• Farm-to-table• La Mesa
•
4.4
T
Tamivip
Orange County •29 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 30, 2024
I’m so happy Champagne included brunch is back. I’ve been coming here for 40 years now. Great 👍 to add Saturday brunch option. Our first Saturday brunch was awesome. Mac and cheese with lobster is delicious 🤤
More info
94th Aero Squadron - San DiegoPrice: Expensive• American• Kearny Mesa
•
4.3

Best Brunch Restaurants in Santee

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11 restaurants available nearby

1. Brigantine La Mesa

2. Casa Gabriela

3. Madi

4. Farmer's Table - La Mesa

5. 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego

6. Giardino Neighborhood Cucina

7. El Torito - La Mesa

8. Brigantine Poway

9. Public House 131

10. MexicanBar

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