Tupelo Junction Cafe in Santa Barbara is great. I came here for weekend breakfast for years when I lived up the road, and it never disappoints. The only downside is that the secret is definitely out, and the place can get busy some days on the weekend; but if the waiting list is too long, there’s no shortage of other options within walking distance.
The pumpkin waffles here are unique, and a must-try even if you don’t usually like waffles (which I don’t). My favorite, though, is the bacon-spinach-gouda scramble — I really like how they make this, somehow with the perfect blend and texture. It comes with these herbed potato things, and a choice of breads (banana bread, biscuit), any of which are delicious. I can also vouch for the drinks here — I usually get the OJ (top notch, fresh squeezed) and/or the mocha (above average for breakfast places, not too sweet).
I recall this place as being on the pricey side, but it’s maybe a bit cheaper than I remembered. We spent about $65 + tip for three, and that included going a bit overboard with drinks and appetizers on top of everything else.
Santa Barbara’s State Street and vicinity is loaded with awesome breakfast places (no surprise there, everyone nursing a hangover needs somewhere to eat), but Tupelo Junction Cafe is easily one of the best, if not the best.
-Nathan
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