664984 Thu Nov 05 13:10:13 -0800 2009 8 2 Los Angeles Area 0 5158908 We're taking a friend for a birthday breakfast. Problem is I know all the places in OC and keep hoping that some Chowhound will enlighten me about a hitherto unknown (great) place. Right now, in consideration we have Taco Rosa Champagne Buffet, Beachcomber, Omlette Parlour, 333 --- but I am not excited. Any diamonds in the rough out there? (Yes, Ramos House Cafe is out. A bit too pricey.) Doesn't have to be in a great location ala Beachcomber. But food should be solid and there should be a bit of ambience. Thu Nov 05 13:10:13 -0800 2009 28056 vlad 1 5158929 Are you familiar with Break of Dawn in Laguna Hills? Thu Nov 05 13:16:39 -0800 2009 5158908 10883 JAB 2 5159015 This. Thu Nov 05 13:41:49 -0800 2009 5158929 10811 Das Ubergeek 2 5159485 Looks intriguing. Thu Nov 05 16:34:07 -0800 2009 5158929 28056 vlad 1 5159033 You might already know about it, but Old Vine Cafe does a nice breakfast Thu Nov 05 13:47:43 -0800 2009 5158908 43864 I got nothin 2 5159546 Wholeheartedly second Break of Dawn. It is truly a one of kind breakfast restaurant. The food is outstanding. Owner/chef used to good at the Ritz. Now I am craving the dish with the merlot poached eggs and the rice/portugese sausage dish. Thu Nov 05 17:00:13 -0800 2009 5159033 1122107 dlisted 1 5159800 Plums on 17th in Costa Mesa is good. I also really like the brunch at Memphis, though it's limited and decidedly southern. Favorite at the moment is actually the Beachcomber - but it sounds like you've tried it and aren't that much of a fan. Thu Nov 05 18:57:22 -0800 2009 5158908 239779 krick 1 5160109 I third Break of Dawn. It's our go to place for brunch. It's a casual atmosphere with amazing food. My husband and I have tried numerous dishes on the menu and have never been disappointed. Thu Nov 05 22:42:01 -0800 2009 5158908 1120955 LAM7319 1 5163338 I fourth Break of Dawn Sat Nov 07 09:56:11 -0800 2009 5158908 251266 funkyshanna