There’s something magical about brunch. Maybe it’s the slow, easy pace of the weekend, the perfectly brewed coffee, or the fact that you can justify pancakes and eggs and a mimosa all in one sitting. Whatever your brunch vibe—sweet or savory, trendy or traditional—Arcadia has you covered. From tucked-away cafés to lively local favorites, there are plenty of mouthwatering brunch spots just waiting to be your new go-to.
Whether you’re brunching with family, catching up with friends, or just treating yourself to a solo date, these top picks are all within a 30-minute drive of Arcadia. Let’s dive into the best places to get your brunch fix in and around the city!
The Derby: Arcadia
Let’s kick things off right in Arcadia with a local legend: The Derby. Known for its rich history and steakhouse roots, this spot might not scream “brunch” at first glance—but don’t be fooled. On weekends, The Derby rolls out a brunch menu that’s every bit as refined and satisfying as its dinner service.
Try the prime rib hash for a hearty, flavorful plate that blends breakfast with classic steakhouse flair. Their eggs benedict are perfectly poached, and the mimosa cart? A total win. If you’re in the mood for an upscale brunch experience with deep local roots, this is your spot.
The Hive: Arcadia
The Hive is a cozy café that puts a modern twist on brunch classics, and it’s perfect for a casual weekend bite. This spot is known for its bright, airy interior, friendly staff, and a menu that manages to hit all the right notes—healthy, hearty, and delicious.
Fan favorites include their chorizo breakfast burrito, the acai bowl, and the fluffy ricotta pancakes topped with fresh berries. Coffee lovers will appreciate their locally roasted brews and house-made syrups. It’s the kind of place where you order your usual and the staff starts to remember your name.
The Peach Café: Monrovia
Just a quick hop over to nearby Monrovia lands you at The Peach Café, a charming neighborhood gem that’s all about comfort food with a homemade touch. The cozy cottage-style vibe makes it feel like you’re brunching at a friend’s house—if your friend was an amazing cook.
The menu has something for everyone, from light fare like avocado toast to indulgent dishes like crème brûlée French toast. Their cinnamon rolls are baked fresh and absolutely worth the carbs. With plenty of shaded outdoor seating, it’s a lovely spot to linger over coffee and conversation.
Russell’s: Pasadena
Classic, classy, and full of charm, Russell’s in Old Town Pasadena is a brunch staple you need to experience at least once (though, let’s be real—you’ll probably come back again and again). The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with dark wood interiors and vintage-style décor that gives off serious café-in-Paris vibes.
Their eggs benedict and corned beef hash are top-notch, and if you’re a fan of pancakes, theirs are consistently voted some of the best in the area. It’s an ideal spot for a brunch date, or a quiet morning spent people-watching on Colorado Boulevard.
Lavender & Honey: Pasadena
If you’re looking for a light, trendy brunch with Instagram-worthy presentation, Lavender & Honey is your go-to. This boutique café leans into artisanal toasts, specialty coffee, and small-batch baked goods that are as beautiful as they are tasty.
Try their Honey Lavender Latte paired with a Goat Cheese & Fig toast—or go full sweet with their Nutella Strawberry combo. Seating is limited, but the vibe is totally worth the wait. It’s a great option for a mid-morning catch-up or a solo brunch with your favorite book in hand.
Seed Bakery: Pasadena
One more hidden treasure in Pasadena (just a 15-minute drive from Arcadia) is Seed Bakery, a rustic-chic bakery and brunch spot that specializes in organic, whole-grain goodness. If you’re the type who gets excited about freshly milled flour, sourdough everything, and seasonal produce, you’ll be in heaven here.
Try their toast flight, featuring an assortment of seasonal spreads and toppings, or their quiche of the day, always baked to perfection. The open kitchen gives you a peek behind the scenes, and the smell of fresh bread alone is reason enough to visit.
From cozy cafés in Arcadia to elegant eats in Pasadena, the brunch scene around here is bursting with flavor and personality. Whether you’re sipping coffee at The Hive, indulging in crème brûlée French toast at The Peach Café, or enjoying a chic toast flight at Seed Bakery, there’s a brunch spot for every taste within a quick 30-minute drive.
And once you’ve satisfied your appetite, why not swing by Longo Lexus right here in El Monte? Whether you’re in the mood to browse the latest Lexus models or schedule a service, it’s the perfect way to round out your weekend adventures.
So next time the brunch craving hits, you know exactly where to go. Grab your crew (or just your appetite), and start checking these amazing Arcadia-area brunch spots off your list—one bite at a time.
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