Join the Breakfast Club

Break away from having breakfast in bed and venture out in the city to try a few eye openers that will kick-start your day!

by Brent Miller

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been told the most important meal of the day is the first one. Lucky for me, it’s my favorite. Breakfast or brunch, depending on how late I was out the night before, can be found all over Los Angeles. Here are a few suggestions to shake up your usual routine.

Bloom Café in Los Angeles is not only a great place to stop in for a healthy lunch, but recently I discovered their breakfast to be just as satisfying. They take full advantage of the Southern California weather by offering seating outdoors as well as inside—a common thread among many breakfast eateries. Along with my spinach, squash and mascarpone omelet, I ordered one of Bloom’s fresh-squeezed juices. My drink, the modified Focus, contained apple, spinach, ginger and lemon juice—an unbelievably tasty concoction. Although I tend to enjoy the sweeter options such as French toast, pancakes and waffles, this tasty combination was most delicious. Prices are reasonable and the service was prompt and professional. Make sure to arrive before 10 a.m., otherwise you’ll need to bring the newspaper and patiently read as you wait for a table.

Besides having arguably one of the best names for a breakfast hotspot, Jinky’s Cafe now has three locations to accommodate a variety of zip codes. Family owned and operated, Jinky’s original location in Sherman Oaks was my local favorite when I lived in the Valley. The menu arrives to your table in the form of a book, and the staff evokes the spirit of a Midwestern diner. Rather than having to ask for refills, they deliver the entire pot of coffee to your table and let you fill your own. Although the food is good, it’s more about the morning ambiance. My personal favorite is their Yucatán Quesadilla—eggs, cheese, mushrooms and tequila chicken sausage all mixed together and baked in a giant tortilla. It’s served with a side of sour cream and pea guacamole: Don’t knock it until you try it!

Last, but certainly not least, is a sweet little restaurant in Studio City called Jumpin’ Java Kitchen. Once again, be sure to arrive early, as it’s known to develop quite a wait on Sunday mornings. Should you experience a line, simply give them your name and walk two blocks over to the local farmer’s market and peruse all the vendors. The seating is minimal, but the food is excellent. It has a European feel to it. For those of you who crave sweets in the morning, don’t leave without trying their Cinnamon Kiss French Toast.

The Details

Bloom Cafe
5544 Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles
www.bloomcafe.com

Jinky’s Cafe
1447 2nd St.
Santa Monica
8539 W. Sunset Blvd.
West Hollywood
14120 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks

Jumpin’ Java Kitchen
11919 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City
(818) 980-4249

Brent Miller has more than 10 years experience—nationally and internationally—in the special event and food and beverage industries.