
The Cottage La Jolla
A charming La Jolla gem in a vintage home, serving delightful Californian daytime cuisine with a focus on beloved breakfast and brunch classics.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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The Cottage La Jolla

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming La Jolla gem in a vintage home, serving delightful Californian daytime cuisine with a focus on beloved breakfast and brunch classics.
"Experience the BEST French toast you've ever had at this cozy La Jolla cottage!"
Avoid Weekday Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience; it can get very busy later in the day and on weekends.
Seasoning Preference
The kitchen tends to go light on salt and pepper; feel free to season your eggs and potatoes to your liking.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Californian
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Legendary French Toast
Experience unbelievably soft, moist, and fluffy French toast, often praised as the best ever tasted. Served with fresh berries and powdered sugar.

Cozy Cottage Ambiance
Dine in a charming vintage home or on a quaint brick patio, enjoying a warm and friendly atmosphere that makes you feel like family.

Diverse Savory Delights
From creative Eggs Benedict variations to flavorful skillets and hearty sandwiches, savor well-seasoned dishes made with fresh ingredients.
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Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Avoid Weekday Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience; it can get very busy later in the day and on weekends.
Seasoning Preference
The kitchen tends to go light on salt and pepper; feel free to season your eggs and potatoes to your liking.
Outdoor Dining Option
Enjoy dining on the patio on pleasant days; heaters are available for cooler weather.
Ask for Recommendations
Quality can vary, so don't hesitate to ask the friendly staff for their recommendations.
Tips
from all over the internet
Avoid Weekday Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience; it can get very busy later in the day and on weekends.
Seasoning Preference
The kitchen tends to go light on salt and pepper; feel free to season your eggs and potatoes to your liking.
Outdoor Dining Option
Enjoy dining on the patio on pleasant days; heaters are available for cooler weather.
Ask for Recommendations
Quality can vary, so don't hesitate to ask the friendly staff for their recommendations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Cottage La Jolla is celebrated for its exceptionally soft and delicious French toast, often hailed as the best. Diners also love the cozy, charming atmosphere, whether dining inside the vintage home or on the patio, and appreciate the friendly, attentive service. While most reviews are glowing, a few mention that seasoning can be light, and one reviewer noted issues with quality control during busy periods.
"Staff were very friendly and very helpful. Had 3 different people help me out if I needed anything. Smiles all around and attentive to everyone! Una was especially friendly and helpful.
The food is amazing here. I highly recommend the Crab Melt with salad. Perfect amount of food to fill you up, and absolutely delicious. The coffee cake is a nice add and super good. Recommend to split between a small group.
Sitting outside on a beautiful day is great. They do have some heaters if you do get cold to, and umbrellas to block out the sun."
SnowySoul Adventure
"Really great spot for brunch. We had a seat inside and as soon as you walk inside you are instantly smacked with a sugar high from all the beautiful sweets and baked goodies. Staff is have attentive to everyone including each other. Even if you don’t have brunch here would recommend stopping in to get some tasty and fun desserts or baked goods."
Keah Gomez
"The BEST French toast I’ve ever had!!! Soft moist and didn’t need a lot of syrup. Emphasis on the soft the bread was so darn fluffy and good!"
Pink Dragun (Pink_Dragun)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The Cottage is most famous for its incredibly soft and delicious French toast, often described as the best many people have ever had. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service are also major highlights.
Yes, especially on weekends. It's recommended to visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, as the restaurant can fill up quickly.
Yes, The Cottage offers dining on a charming brick patio. Heaters are available for cooler weather, making it a pleasant option year-round.
While not explicitly stated if reservations are accepted, the restaurant can get busy and sometimes has waits, especially on weekends. It's advisable to call ahead or be prepared for a potential wait.
The Cottage serves Californian daytime cuisine, with a strong focus on breakfast and brunch favorites like French toast, omelettes, and Eggs Benedict, as well as lunch options like sandwiches.
Yes, the menu indicates that gluten-free options are available.
The service is consistently praised for being friendly, attentive, and helpful, making guests feel like family.
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This beach-adjacent Victorian house-turned-restaurant is a beloved neighborhood breakfast spot. Expect things like boozy strawberry compote stuffed inside french toast, or antojito benedict served with chili braised beef on housemade sopes instead of an english muffin and jalapeño crema swapped in for hollandaise. You’ll find us and all the other Cottage devotees milling around the sidewalk on a weekend morning, coffee from Brick and Bell in hand, waiting for our name to be called.
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A cozy beach cottage sets the stage for American comfort food with a California twist at this La Jolla staple. The restaurant serves lunch, but it’s the well-loved daily breakfast that has locals and visitors happily queuing—sometimes up to two hours on weekends. Egg dishes have unique fillings like soy chorizo and pork belly braised beef, and the sizable, shareable stuffed French toast is a can’t-miss.
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The first on our list is The Cottage, located only two blocks from our shop, is a culinary gem celebrating over 24 years in La Jolla. This charming retreat underwent a complete renovation in 2009, maintaining its commitment to tasty, classic American, and Southern California-influenced cuisine. With a beloved reputation for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, The Cottage welcomes patrons to its traditional American and Southern Californian specialties served within a charming, clean Victorian-style interior.
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I’m a big brunch gal, and my preferred brunch spots to eat a filling, delectable and aesthetically pleasing brunch–perhaps with a mimosa–are The Cottage in La Jolla, Madison on Park, and Café 26 Downtown, which has these adorable floral butterfly pea lattes. If I’m having brunch in Hillcrest or hitting the Farmers market on Sunday morning, I can’t help but stop by Hunt & Gather. They have the best funky clothing, including sexy kimonos and bodysuits that make for a fire festival outfit.
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The Cottage is renowned for its farm-to-table cuisine, showcasing fresh and locally sourced ingredients in every dish. From fluffy buttermilk pancakes drizzled with maple syrup to savory crab cake benedicts, the menu offers a delightful blend of classic brunch favorites and innovative creations. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely breakfast on the patio or gathering with friends for a hearty brunch, The Cottage is definitely a brunch spot to check out.
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New outposts set to open at the plaza in June 2024 are The Cottage, the well-known La Jolla brunch-lunch destination; The Yoga Barre, offering workouts for both beginners and long-time yogis; and SkinSpirit, a medical clinic offering comprehensive aesthetic services. Valley Farm Market, a specialty gourmet market selling local foods, fresh produce, premium pantry staples and award-winning meats and marinades, is slated to open in early 2025..
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Since 1992, this trendy and friendly spot has been serving delicious American and South California-inspired dishes to both locals and travelers alike. Every visit becomes a mouth-watering experience, fresh, juicy, and tasty!. Whether you’re craving their famous Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, omelets, Eggs Benedicts, and classic breakfast plates, you can come here for breakfast and always be treated with hospitality.
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For a more relaxed dining atmosphere that captures the essence of California’s beach culture, The Cottage La Jolla is a must-visit. This restaurant is beloved by locals for its hearty breakfasts, leisurely brunches, and a lunch menu that features everything from innovative salads to gourmet sandwiches. The Cottage’s sunny patio is the perfect place to enjoy a meal while soaking in La Jolla’s laid-back vibe.
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As far as where to see the seals in La Jolla, the best spot to view the seals in La Jolla is called “Children’s Pool”, a spot originally built as a kid-friendly beach, but has since been taken over by the adorable seals. There is a rope barrier limiting access to the sand, so be sure to watch from above and not get too close. The limited access is to protect the seals, especially during pupping months.
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Address: 7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037Phone:+1 (858) 454-8409Website:cottagelajolla.comDetails: $$, Californian restaurant. Nestled in the heart of La Jolla, The Cottage is a charming restaurant that offers a delightful breakfast experience. Guests rave about the delicious and diverse menu, which includes standout dishes such as the wild mushroom omelette, Monterey scramble, and house granola.
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The Cottage La Jolla has been serving delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch to the citizens of La Jolla, CA for over twenty-five years. Specializing in traditional American and Southern Californian cuisine, with a clean, Victorian-style interior atmosphere that works together to create a cozy dining experience that you’ll never forget. Stop in today and enjoy a meal with us in our cottage!
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A family favorite in La Jolla, The Cottage is a charming spot known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious, fresh meals. The menu focuses on breakfast and brunch and features tasty kid-friendly options like scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches. The spacious patio is perfect for families with kids, and it’s close to the beach, so you can easily make a day of it.
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There’s a reason The Cottage has been a brunch mainstay for over 25 years, and we think the secret lies in dishes like their Avocado Smash. It’s a simple, straightforward dish executed perfectly with ripe avocados smashed on Sadie Rose rosemary and olive oil bread, and topped with customizable fixings like mozzarella and tomatoes, or smoked salmon and capers. 7702 Fay Avenue, La Jolla
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The Cottage keeps things quaint and cozy for breakfasters leisurely easing their way into the day. Reminiscent of sweet, slow summer mornings, their beachy dining patio is the only place to sip your Cottage Mocha. You’ll never run out of options at this San Diego breakfast spot, with everything from griddled French toast and pancakes to crafty classics like scrambles and Benedicts.
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A longstanding breakfast and lunch spot in The Village, The Cottage offers a cozy patio for dog lovers and a menu to dine for, from creative comforts like cinnamon swirl pancakes to savory wild shrimp omelets and more. Indulge in The Cottage’s relaxed environment in between neighborhood errands with the pooch or on a lazy weekend morning enjoying the amazing La Jolla weather.
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The wait was super long, which is common at brunch, so this wasn't a problem for us. The Cottage is a great spot in La Jolla to get eggs benedicts and french toast!. This is a really trendy place to eat and while you're facing the long wait luckily it's right by la jolla cove which is a beautiful beach side area with a lot of sea lions so it's easy to stay entertained
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🍽️ American | $$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps | 📞 +1 858 454 8409. The Cottage is a quaint diner, located in downtown La Jolla, offering extensive and delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. The Cottage is a staple local restaurant that is a favorite among local La Jollans looking for a casual dining experience that is guaranteed to deliver incredible food.
La Jolla
The blue-grey vintage cottage has a wide tiled patio shaded for outdoor dining that is surrounded by a charming white picket fence. Patrons ascend a short set of white trimmed stairs to the restaurant’s entrance. Inside, white beadboard and light grey walls are complemented by a triptych of abstract art in a soothing mixture of green, blue, cream, and grey tones.
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Since 1985, The Cottage has carved out a spot in the La Jolla brunch scene with its welcoming atmosphere and tried-and-true California-style breakfast and lunch offerings. Housed in a 1900s-era home surrounded by a white picket fence, it offers seating both indoors and on a spacious patio shaded by umbrellas. Breakfast here leans hearty but health-conscious.
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Since 1992 this chick and cozy location have served the locals and visitors tasty American and South California influenced food. With the freshest ingredients always made to order, every visit becomes a mouth-watering experience. You can have breakfast, brunch, dinner or just drinks here and you will get fantastic flavors and hospitality every time.
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Village of La Jolla • $$ • Breakfast Address: 7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037 Reservations: No Ocean View: No Online menu. The Cottage is one of the original La Jolla breakfast restaurants and perhaps the most well-known. It’s not uncommon to see lines on weekends for tables, but they set out coffee and coffee cake nibbles to enjoy while you wait.
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Established way back in 1985, The Cottage in La Jolla has been the centre of serving mouth watering breakfast, brunch and lunch to the locals and visitors to the coastal town alike. After over 25 years of service, it is super popular and a bit of a la Jolla constitution. The Cottage specialises in traditional American and Southern California food.
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Let me start by saying that the food at The Cottage is simply incredible. Their veggie burger is a true masterpiece, bursting with flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy. The patty itself is made from a combination of fresh vegetables and hearty legumes, creating a perfect balance between lightness and substance.
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- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,578 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American, Cafe- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-4309- Read more on Tripadvisor. You may also like:The 50 top-selling used cars in San Diego metro area so far in 2024
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Address: 7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037Phone: (858) 454-8409 Website. With its classic Californian exterior and contrasting Victorian-themed interior, The Cottage is a cafe that feels modern yet snug. Although it’s situated on Fay Avenue, it looks like it should be right by the beach, with surfboards resting against the picket fences.
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Grab some complimentary coffee and coffee cake and leg out the weekend wait, because the food will be worth it. Recipient of accolades locally and nation-wide, breakfast is what The Cottage--very popular with local La Jollans--is known for. The light, airy interior and outside patio both provide family-friendly, pleasant dining space.
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For over 25 years, this delightful place has been drawing locals and visitors alike. Serving classic American food with a southern California twist, it’s oceanside atmosphere, cottage-like décor, and friendly staff are what bring people back. They serve breakfast daily starting at 7:30 am and if you don’t want to wait, come early!
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The Cottage is a quaint little restaurant that easily serves as the Best La Jolla Brunch experience in the area. Breakfast and Brunch are served from 7am to 3pm each day and the waitlist is representative of how good the brunch is. You can expect a twist on some classics like their stuffed brioche French toast which is divine!
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The Cottage is a popular spot for casual dining, offering a relaxed, beachy vibe and a diverse menu. Known for its hearty breakfasts and brunches, The Cottage also serves lunch and dinner with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying a meal while soaking up the California sunshine.
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Brunch is popular in La Jolla, and there is no better spot for it than at The Cottage. This small home, which has been turned into a restaurant, is an excellent place for a good meal with all sorts of fun options like french toast and eggs benedict. Do make sure to get there early though, as it is always busy.
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In the heart of La Jolla, you can find delicious coastal fare at The Cottage!. Their passion is to serve tasty, classic American & Southern California influenced food. The breakfast menu boasts omelets, classic egg dishes, and a griddle menu with sweets to die for – just say YES to the lemon ricotta pancakes!
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A charming café nestled in the heart of La Jolla, The Cottage is a local hotspot for breakfast and brunch. Their extensive menu features classic American dishes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The outdoor patio is a lovely place to enjoy a great meal and soak up the Southern California sunshine.
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We had dinner at Cafe Japengo, which is right across the street from the Hyatt, and at Zenbu in La Jolla itself, and had brunch at The Cottage in La Jolla. Zenbu and Japengo are similar in style, although Japengo is much bigger and has a huge sushi bar. Zenbu is very dark and has VERY loud techno music.
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This restaurant occupies a Victorian house and patio in the heart of elegant La Jolla. Open more than 25 years, The Cottage is a favorite of locals, so aim early and expect a wait. But even that part of your morning will prove enjoyable with the hot coffee and little cakes set out to ease your hunger.
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It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, though daytime meals are especially popular. The building feels residential, with a front porch and patio reinforcing its welcoming vibe. Menu options include crab benedict, lemon ricotta pancakes, and sandwiches with house-made sauces and spreads.
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Location: 7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037Must-try: Breakfast Burrito with a Twist At The Cottage, breakfast is elevated with their unique twist on the traditional burrito. Filled with scrambled eggs, avocado, and a secret sauce, it’s a must-try for those seeking something different.
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The Cottage is a long-standing favorite in La Jolla, famous for its delightful breakfast and brunch options. Housed in a quaint cottage, it serves a diverse menu that includes everything from pancakes and omelets to fresh salads and sandwiches, all in a cozy, homey atmosphere.
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Brockton Villa – an ideally located restaurant (pictured below with the orange umbrellas) in a beach bungalow right across from La Jolla Cove. Menu items include seafood dishes, sandwiches, and burgers, as well as all-day brunch offerings (I love their vegan breakfast tacos!).
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Enjoy some California cuisine that La Jolla is known for when you stop in The Cottage La Jolla. This daytime restaurant is located inside of a vintage home complete with a white picket fence. Enjoy incredible breakfast entrees such as salmon hash and eggs benedict.
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A long-time frontrunner in the San Diego breakfast scene, The Cottage remains popular due to its farm-driven brunch and lunch items, housed inside a quaint cottage complete with a white picket fence. It’s everything you hope for when starting your morning seaside.
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The Cottage (La Jolla): This iconic La Jolla breakfast cottage is a San Diego must - and the hype (and the lines) prove it. Get there early or check into their waitlist through Yelp to avoid waiting in line - but even if you do, it’s worth it. (@thecottagelajolla)
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When #eggporn meets avocado and Hollandaise four blocks away from the ocean, that’s just a little piece of California heaven. With a cute cottage vibe and sunny outdoor seating, The Cottage offers a fresh take on California brunch, as well as great smoothies.
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The Cottage serves up a delectable range of breakfast and lunch dishes to satisfy any craving. Their outdoor seating is dog-friendly and provides a relaxed setting to enjoy a lazy Sunday brunch. Don’t miss their homemade coffee cake – a local favorite!
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The Cottage La Jolla: A charming brunch spot near Coast Walk Trail, The Cottage La Jolla is known for California classics like stuffed French toast and eggs Benedict on their menu. Be sure to try the spicy Bloody Marys and enjoy the cozy outdoor patio.
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Tried to go to both Lucha Libre and Hodad's last night, but there were huge lines and the kids were low on patience. Went across the street to a place called Bar-b-que House. Little worried because it was small and not busy, but the food was great!
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Apart from exceptional dining, the village features a vibrant cultural and entertainment scene. The La Jolla Playhouse stages world-class productions, while the Birch Aquarium offers a fascinating underwater journey through various marine habitats.
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The Cottage: worth the wait for the lemon ricotta pancakes!. The wait can be intense later on weekend mornings, but there are several coffee shops and juice shops nearby: we love to put our name in, and then go grab a coffee and walk around a bit.
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One popular spot is The Cottage, known for its charming ambiance and mouthwatering brunch options. Here, you can enjoy classic dishes like eggs benedict or indulge in their signature lemon ricotta pancakes while sipping on freshly brewed coffee.
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Nestled in the heart of La Jolla, it’s been a go-to spot for locals for over thirty years. Whether it’s their lemon ricotta pancakes or a simple avocado toast, there’s always something worth waking up for.
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The Cottage is one of the most popular brunch spots in La Jolla, if not the most popular. The Cottage serves breakfast every day from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., while the lunch menu opens at 11:30 a.m.
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We were traveling from Iowa and Colorado with Gluten Allergies. They were out of GF bread but said they could make it happen and they did!. Awesome service and great food.
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For a taste of local flavors, The Cottage has been serving up breakfast bliss for years, becoming a reliable spot for backpackers seeking a wholesome start to the day.
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The Promiscuous Fork is known for burgers, sandwiches and Southern food and the casual The Cottage for breakfast and brunch. Himitsu is also recommended for sushi.
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7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037Phone: 858-454-8409 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by The Cottage La Jolla (@thecottagelajolla)
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The Cottage La Jolla: Known for its delicious breakfast and brunch options, The Cottage offers a charming and cozy dining experience.
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The Coffee Cup 1109 Wall St., La Jolla CA 92037 Hours: Friday - Sunday 8:00 - 2:00 pm Highlights: New extended outdoor seating
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– Californian daytime cuisine served on a patio with a white picket fence or inside a vintage home. A great spot for brunch.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit