The Great Breakfast Burrito Debate
There's an abundance of breakfast burrito options in Los Angeles. But which ones reign supreme?
There’s several schools of thought when it comes to what makes the “best” breakfast burrito and why, but after surveying my Instagram and TikTok audiences, a common theme shines through - we are all very okay with an Americanized version of a burrito, filled with silly things like tater tots. In fact, that is what the great majority of us are seeking out when we commit to a breakfast burrito as our breakfast of choice. See below for the top 5 winners, along with a list of honorable mentions (I’ve got some work to do!)
Top 5 Breakfast Burritos in LA
Location: Fairfax (and Culver City coming in Feb, just announced this week!!)
Why it’s the BEST: Cofax tops every list for a reason. They’ve mastered the perfect combination of all the flavors and textures you’re looking for in a breakfast burrito. The potatoes and peppers, not a runny or watery egg in sight, several different meats to choose from based on your preference (you can even get pastrami!)
Make a day out of it: Stroll about the streetwear and hype shops surrounding Cofax (Rip N’ Dip is my personal favorite), sync up your trip with the Melrose Trading Post on Sundays, or catch a movie at Braindead Studios - schedule here.
Location: Venice and Larchmont
Why it’s great: Great White leans into the tater tots, as I touched on earlier. This is a good sized burrito but you don’t feel totally gross after eating it. I love this burrito, and the side salsa made in-house.
Make a day out of it: Make your burrito to-go and eat it on the grassy hill overlooking the beach across the street. On your right, you can watch the Venice skaters performing all their fun tricks on the half pipe. Map to “Windward Plaza” (who calls it that?!) if you need an anchor point!
Location: DTLA
Why it’s great: Wake & Late also goes the tater tot route, and absolutely no one is mad at it. This is a simple walk up window, they’ve got a few options for you to choose from, and you get multiple salsas to dip. We love it!
Make a day out of it: Walk off your burrito food baby and browse the aisles of The Last Bookstore - don’t miss the book tunnel and bank vault on the second floor! Alternately, start your morning at the Los Angeles Flower Market and treat yourself to a burrito on your way out.
Location: Malibu
Why it’s great: I would call this a more “classic” burrito, as Lily’s is a proper Mexican restaurant also serving up delicious chilaquiles, tacos and more. No tater tots in sight here. Just make sure you save some room for Malibu Seafood, Broad St Oyster Co, or Reel Inn on your way home. (More on Malibu in a TTS newsletter coming soon!)
Make a day out of it: Pick up Lily’s and head north to El Matador Beach. This beach is comprised of so many cool caves and rocks to explore. Enjoy the peaceful nature of a morning on the beach before the crowd comes in (this beach is small and can get very busy at peak hours!)
Location: Santa Monica
Why it’s great: Dogtown serves great coffee AND great burritos. They have a few options, all packed with flavor and fun ingredients. It’s not going to blow your mind, but it’s certainly going to cure your hangover.
Make a day out of it: Dogtown is located right past the new and improved Main St hub in Santa Monica. Walk across the street and take a nice walk down the beach path. If you’re feeling ambitious (or extra guilty over how you just housed that massive burrito) - you can walk (or bike!) all the way down past the pier and into the Palisades, taking the Roosevelt Tunnel under the PCH to cross into the neighborhood!
Honorable Mentions (from me and the Ticket to Sarahdise community!)
Lucky Boy, Pasadena
Phanny’s, Redondo Beach
Millcross, Culver City
Alfalfa, Santa Monica
Tacos Villa Corona, Atwater Village
The Country Kitchen, Malibu **several people said this rivals Lily’s, I need to see for myself (!!)
Hilltop, multiple locations
Go Get ‘Em Tiger, multiple locations **highly recommend the chorizo!
The Rooster, Mid City **also sold at all Alfred Coffee locations!
George’s Burger Stand, Boyle Heights
Some Other Breakfast Burrito Round Ups to Peruse
Where to find the best breakfast burritos in L.A. (LA Times)
The Best Breakfast Burritos In Los Angeles (The Infatuation)
These Breakfast Burritos Are There for You When You Need Them Most (LA Mag)
An Epic Guide To LA's 25 Most Epic Breakfast Burrito Spots (LAist)
Did I miss your favorite? Reply to this email and tell me what I’m missing! See you next week!