Breakfast in Los Angeles

With the potential that a few visitors from outside of Los Angeles will be descending upon the area to witness the fall nuptials, I thought it might be helpful to give a few recommendations

of interest to travelers. This is the first. Here are my three favorite breakfast places in Los Angeles. These are listed in order but it really depends on the mood or what I feel like and how long I feel like waiting. For example, today's mood is 'Morning Mist' and I skipped breakfast. I should also note that I prefer the traditional breakfast rather than getting too fancy.

1. The Pantry, downtown. This place is an LA instution. (It's old). There will be a line for breakfast and lunch during the week and brunch on weekends. Go for the counter service if you want to get a seat faster. Table wait can be between 10 minutes and an hour depending on how close to prime time you go and how lucky you get. You might get to the counter right away. Food service is fast once you sit down and your meal decision is easy because it's just the basics. The pancakes are a must. They come plain and are really fluffy. It is a full meal. For the hungry and/or hung over go for the eggs, pancakes, potatoes, bacon (always crispy) combo (I think it's #3).


2. The Griddle Cafe, West Hollywood. You go hear for an adventure and are not in a particular hurry to eat. The earlier the better on the wekend. by 11am the line is at least 30 minutes long. Order quickly and then wait as it will take about 40 minutes for them to get your food out if the place is full. They just don't have enough kitchen space so your order is going to be queued. The speciality to here are the crazy pancakes that are crazy big. They have about 20 different types. I've had the pumpkin style, rasperry style and another. I am also interested in trying the Cheesecake pancakes but I haven't had the nerve yet. Prepare to waddle home. The non pancake items are also good and also huge. 


3. The Alcove Cafe, Los Feliz. Ah, something a little different. You shouldn't have much of a problem finding a table here but there's a good crowd. Order at the counter, they give you a number and you find a table outside. The place has a nice laid back atmosphere with lots of foliage and it also has outdoor heaters for the cooler days. The breakfast items are the same traditional items but are prepared with a limit more flair. You will also find some Mexican breakfast plates. It's been a while so I forget what I've eaten here but's all been good. I also saw Ed Helms here - star of 'The Hangover'.