Pancakes and eggs

If breakfast is, in fact, the most important meal of the day, then why not do it right?

The Griddle Cafe

Gargantuan portions of solid American breakfast fare served all day (amen to that!) is the big draw. We’re partial to the flapjacks, available in a whopping 14 varieties. An added bonus: The endless parade of hipsters makes for choice people watching.

* Flapjacks, $5.95 to $7.95; egg entrees, $6.25 to $8.95; 7916 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood; (323) 874-0377.

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Marston’s

The French toast at this modest but endearing eatery just north of Old Town is justifiably legend. Thick-cut sourdough bread is dipped in batter, coated in crushed cornflakes and fried to golden. Omelets, gigantic things served with crisped potatoes laced with onions and peppers, are swell too. And you gotta love the friendly, small-town-style service.

* French toast, $7.95; omelets, $6.50 to $10.50; 151 E. Walnut St.; Pasadena; (626) 796-2459.

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John O’ Groats

It’s carb heaven at this Rancho Park-adjacent joint. There’s hearty steel-cut Irish oatmeal, tender buttermilk pancakes and savory potato cakes seasoned with cilantro. We’re partial to the original room with its classic U-shaped counter and blue-and- white checked floor. But on busy weekends, we’re just happy to be able to score a table, any table.

* Oatmeal, $5.25; pancakes, $5.75 to $7.25; 10516 Pico Blvd.; West L.A.; (310) 204-0692.

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Pedals

There are few experiences more quintessentially Southern Californian than dining on the patio at this chic, easy spot in the Shutters on the Beach hotel. A view of the skaters and bikers rolling by on the adjacent boardwalk nicely accents a menu featuring light, lemony ricotta pancakes and hearty corned beef hash. Brunch seating is first come, first served.

* Pancakes, $14; corned beef hash, $14. 1 Pico Blvd.; Santa Monica; (310) 587-1707.

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Off Vine

There’s much to like about weekend brunch at this cheery, cottage besides the charming setting. The menu nicely bridges breakfast and lunch. Highlights include eggs benedict and a grilled chicken sandwich. Live it up with an order of cinnamon “bunlets,” straight out of the oven, two- or three-bite cuties.

* Eggs Benedict, $9.95; chicken sandwich, $9.95; cinnamon bunlets, $3.95; 6263 Leland Way; Hollywood; (323) 962-1900.

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-- Leslee Komaiko