The Local Favorite Surf And Breakfast Burrito Spots
Year round sunshine, close to four-miles of sandy beaches and sensational swells make Oceanside a California surfer’s paradise. And after a morning of catching waves, there’s no shortage of choice places to go replenish your energy with a satiating breakfast burrito. Locals in the know share their Oceanside picks for best post-surf eateries.
Chef Annalise Brolaski owns DOH! Gourmet Cookie Dough. Her company produces scrumptious vegan and gluten-free cookie dough that can be eaten raw or cooked. Annalise favors surfing at Oceanside Pier where the surf breaks both on the North and South side of Oceanside’s historic 1,942 foot-long wooden Pier. With plenty of lifeguards, certified surf schools and instructors on hand, Oceanside Pier provides an ideal choice for beginners. Following that Annalise enjoys dining at one local eatery, Johnny Mañanas, for a fantastic breakfast burrito.
To reach Johnny Mañanas walk a few blocks East to 308 Mission where you will discover colorfully painted and bedazzled murals portraying hibiscus and toucans. This fun Mexican spot serves tasty breakfast burritos all day, making it an excellent choice no matter the time. Order up front then grab a seat at the adjacent Johnny’s Patio Cantina for a fun South of the border experience. In addition, enjoy live music on the weekends and ice-cold cervezas, margaritas or micheladas from the bar.
Boyd Scofield also likes surfing at the Oceanside Pier, in addition to the less crowded Oceanside Harbor. He explains, “The Harbor and Jetties are, in general, best for advanced wave riders! The waves break harder and stronger here!” Outside of the water, Boyd sells surf books, magazines and artwork through his company, Surfbooks.com.
After surfing, Boyd prefers to drive a few miles inland to Mariscos Esenada on El Camino Real at Oceanside Blvd. He raves, “The food is always good and the portions are huge.” Breakfast here includes a variety of enticing burritos, a build-your-own-omelet-bar and other huevo (egg) specialties. The extensive menu lives up to its name (mariscos means seafood in Spanish) by offering a wide range of authentic dishes from ceviche to enchiladas. Additionally, if you’re a salsa lover try the delish complimentary house salsa and chips or fiery Serrano pepper option at the salsa bar.
Finally, head to South Oceanside for restaurateur Charlie Anderson’s recommended combination: Buccaneer Beach and The Buccaneer Café. Charlie owns the café plus the popular The Privateer Coal Fire Pizza and The Privateer Marketplace & Wine Bar. He comments, “Buccaneer Beach is my home where I surf daily and eat the best burrito on the beach at Buccaneer Café.”
You can’t beat the stunning scenery or flavorful fresh fare at this casual outdoor spot in Buccaneer Park directly across from pristine, family-friendly Buccaneer Beach. Charlie sources seasonal organic produce from nearby Cyclops Farms and beans from San Diego Coffee Company. Order gourmet coffee drinks and smoothies from the Buccaneer Brew stand and food from the café counter before chilling out at one of the welcoming rustic picnic tables. Bestselling breakfast items are the burritos (bacon, ham or sausage), tacos with slow cooked meat, and Avo Toast. California cuisine lunch options include burgers, wraps and sandwiches.
About the Author
Jolee Pink is an Oceanside-based writer, designer and artist. She runs the popular Eat Drink SD Facebook group and her Wabisabi Green lifestyle blog focuses on art, design, food and travel. For more information, please visit wabisabigreen.com.
