First Awakenings
125 Ocean View Blvd., Pacific Grove
(831) 372-1125
171 Main St., Salinas (831) 784-1125
Thick slices of cinnamon french toast, fluffy frittatas, eggs Benedict done classic or Florentine-style, and pancakes so big you’ll probably need a to-go box are just a sampling of the breakfast menu at First Awakenings. They’re also a testament to why this local breakfast institution has won this category for nearly a decade. First Awakening’s hearty omelets are available in all the standard styles, plus a few original takes, like the Acapulco Express: a spicy chorizo, avocado, green chili and onion composition enrobed in melted cheese, sour cream and chives. Other egg creations include the nifty “crêpeggs” which combines crêpe batter with eggs to deliver a thin, crisp and fluffy treat stuffed with fresh ingredients. Expect a wait weekend mornings, but know that it’s for a breakfast that will go down in the books as the best. Free coffee while you wait, too.