Brockton Villa

Description:

• A restored 1894 beach bungalow, this charming cafe is named for an early resident's hometown (Brockton, MA) and occupies a breathtaking perch overlooking La Jolla Cove. The biggest buzz is at breakfast, when you can enjoy such inventive dishes as soufflé-like "Coast Toast" and Greek "steamers" (eggs scrambled with an espresso steamer, and then mixed with feta cheese, tomato, and basil). Breakfasts are served until noon weekdays, until 3pm weekends. Lunch highlights include homemade soups and salads, as well as such sandwiches as the grilled organic salmon BLT. The somewhat less successful supper menu includes seafood and steak dishes, plus paella, pastas, and grilled meats. But any time you can actually enjoy this spectacular sea view, Brockton's food tastes good. Note: Steep stairs from the street limit wheelchair access.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010