My son and I had breakfast here. The service was very friendly. The food was delicious. He insisted that we log into Yelp and give this restaurant a 5 review! read more

Great breakfasts for our last family meal together until Thanksgiving! The lemon curd stuffed French toast, Chilaquiles, smashed pea toast and huevos rancheros exceeded our expectations! The cappuccinos and chai lattes with oatmilk were excellent. read more

This review is long over due! My mom was in a town a couple weeks ago and we came here on a weekday. Our food and service was amazing! The setting was kid friendly with our 2 year old and she enjoyed her little sliders and fries! Big shout out the GM Trevor. He was so friendly! Thank you for a great time! read more

We arrived at 1245 for lunch. We were greeted and seated right away. We sat in a nice booth in the corner, but it still had the last guest's check and credit card slip on the table. No problem, we sat down thinking it would be taken care of. The table was not cleaned/wiped (a broken crayon/oily fingerprints on the table), and the server did not greet us. No one offered drinks, flatware, or menus for ten to fifteen minutes. So, we sat and looked at the Encinitas Magazine, scrolled through our phones, and then as we were getting ready to get up and leave, someone asked if we wanted a menu. Yes, please. We got the menu and took a look. We both decided on the same thing, the hot chicken sandwich - I got mine with a side salad, and he got his with fries. The food came out quickly, and the portion size was large. The food was okay but surprisingly sweet for a hot chicken sandwich with much less heat/spice than I anticipated. The man who dropped off our food was eager to drop our food and get along with his day, and he seemed annoyed that my husband asked for a side of ranch dressing. Nonetheless, the man brought a ramekin of ranch dressing to the table and dropped it off. And, not soon after, we found a thick dark hair in the ranch. The hair was bad enough, but when the server returned later, we told her about the hair, and she said, "Oh...did you want me to get you another one?" At this point, I realized that she didn't care. She didn't care enough to offer us menus, drinks, and silverware. She didn't care enough about the hair to say, "Oh no, I'll be right back" with the damn ranch, without us having to ask her. Our experience at The Cottage in Encinitas boiled down to an all-around lack of anticipating the customer's needs/expectations (a clean table with place settings, a timely greeting, offering water or a beverage, and quick and decisive action if/when something goes wrong). I believe our expectations align with most people's and I think if most people received the same service we did today, they would also be disappointed. read more

My wife and I have only been here a couple times but both times have been fantastic experiences. From the courtesy of the staff, EXTREMELY quick food-to-table time, and simply the quality and flavor of the food itself, we cannot recommend The Cottage enough. The staff is so kind and thoughtful and the ambiance truly feels comfortable and inviting. Would give more stars if I could! Great job to all. read more

We came for brunch on a Saturday and it was busy but we got a table within 15 mins as a walk up. We ate outside on the cute patio and had our dogs with us. Very dog friendly! We ordered the regular eggs Benedict with bacon instead of ham and then shared the brioche French toast with banana caramel citrusy sauce. The food was delicious and worth the higher prices. The portions were enormous so I had a snack left over for later. I do wish the citrus caramel sauce was not so watery. I couldn't taste the citrus and it was more like sweet melted butter. The portions are huge. The breakky potatoes on the side were not that great. A little soggy and since I like mine crispy and crunchy on the outside they weren't my favorite. Will I be back? Yes if I get that hungry I will! It's a cute atmosphere and the staff was friendly and helpful. read more

Great service, great food! would definitely go there again! the portions for the French toast is huge, they make great leftovers. plenty of parking! read more

We're on vacation and found them for breakfast. Had the braised beef hash and was very disappointed. No asparagus as noted and the beef was more like boiled beef cubes. Also had the pork belly Benedict which was better. Our server was a bit blah. Overall a miss. read more

My husband had done some research for brunch spots and came across this place. Unfortunately, the food did not live up to expectations. The crab and prosciutto benedict sounded interesting, but was super salty and the instead of prosciutto you get salty Canadian bacon (aka ham). The lemon curd french toast was alright. The scone with a special apple sauce was pretty good. We didn't have to wait to get seated and over all vibe was nice -- it's a lively spot and service wasn't bad, but the most important aspect, food was quite sub-par. Would not recommend or revisit this spot. read more

I've been to the location in La Jolla and the service & food there was phenomenal! I was expecting the same quality and was met with disappointment. I got the chilaquiles and added avocado and braised beef hash on top. It came out with bacon and was missing ingredients that were supposed to be included (beans, cilantro). I told the waiter and he brought me out the missing ingredients instead of remaking the plate correctly. As I've had this exact dish before, i know how it looks and tastes, but after I told them it was missing stuff, they didn't seem very apologetic or willing to help fix the problem. I don't like making a big deal of things or being a bother but I was so unsatisfied that I had to ask them to remake the food. The food came out again with beans on the side and not mixed into the dish (at the other location they mixed everything together so this is what I was expecting). I asked her about it and she said "oh I like my beans like that too but they don't mix them in here. Maybe it's different at the other location". If this is the same chain, wouldn't the food be made the same? I had takeout at the La Jolla location and it was delicious. You would expect dine in service to be better but unfortunately at this location it wasn't. The only redeeming factor was the matcha latte which I would get again. The manager did take my meal off the tab so I did appreciate not having to pay for the food, but I would've rather enjoyed something delicious than have to get refunded. Would 100% drive to La Jolla instead of eat at this location read more

I was so excited to go to The Cottage yesterday. The decor is great and he employees are exceptional. I wish I could say the same about the food. I was so disappointed. The potatoes were over cooked, the English muffins were sponge and the coffee cake was not typical coffee cake. I did like my latte..... Not sure I will go back. read more

Highly overpriced for slightly uncommon brunch menu offerings. My pork belly benedict was good but nothing I would order again - same story with the chicken sandwich. The insult came when we ordered a chili lime shrimp bowl that ONLY CAME WITH 5 SHRIMP. These were served on a plate with most of the space taken up by quinoa and other non-shrimp items. If you care at all about value for your money please eat somewhere else. read more

Below average breakfast at a premium price: I won't be too harsh with the stars because this is still a new location and they deserve some time to work out the kinks, But, the reality is that while they are working things out, you'll get a better breakfast at a better price at other nearby brunch joints such as Breakfast Republic or Naked Cafe. Our food came out room temperature (all three dishes)... They didn't offer any refills on the $5 drip coffee... The cheese was unmelted on the breakfast sandwich. Apart from that, things tasted fine, but when you're paying $17 for a breakfast sandwich, you expect something special, which this wasn't. read more

Stopped in for a quick coffee. The owner/manager gave me a free scone with jelly and butter with my coffee, which was really sweet! It's a true English scone, which I absolutely love. When I have more time for lunch, I will definitely come back for a meal. It's a cute spot and great location! read more

High quality, delicious breakfast, but La Jolla prices. I always forget, the Cottage is not the greatest for picky kids.

We wanted so badly to love this place. We love the one in La Jolla and this would've been a great addition to Breakfast Republic, Naked Cafe and 101 Diner; all of which we love. Sadly, our first experience wasn't good. I had the pork belly benedict and the pork belly was overcooked and lacking in flavor. The accompanying potatoes were boring. My wife had the Antojito benedict. The sopas were basically flavorless and seemingly stale (hard to cut or chew) and the braised beef was just spicy, but not tasty (if that makes sense). My son got the same and only ate about half, which rarely happens. Then there's the cost. For those three entrees, a tee and a coffee, the cost was $80 after tip. Definitely not worth it from our first and only experience. read more

So excited to see that this long-time La Jolla favorite opened a location in North County. We stopped by around 9:30 this morning. They were already fairly busy but we got seated right away. Amazing service with prompt attention. One of the staff even came out with fresh water for our dog! We felt it was a very nice touch. Food was great. They bake all their pastries in-house. The scone was so delicious I bought two to-go! We will be back, for sure. read more

The Cottage - Pork Belly Benedict - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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We love the La Jolla location, and were so excited that a new one was right here in Encinitas! Visited twice - disappointed twice. First time staff welcoming and attentive - food was not bad, but no more than hohum. Weird surly guy striding around grabbing dishes almost before we were done. 2nd time all staff surly, and inefficient. Again food was not fresh and nothing special. Soooo disappointing! read more

I love The Cottage in La Jolla but it always has such a long wait. At the Encinitas location we were able to sit down right away and enjoy the classics! read more

Great place for brunch!! I liked how clean the inside was and that their menus are gluten- sensitive inclusive. I ordered an iced lavender latte with the La Jolla Benedict with a gluten substitute. Giving this place 5/5 because DESPITE the coffee tasting like a waste of $7, everything else was amazing. Great portions and taste and the service was great. Plan on going back!! read more

First off my friend hurt his tooth very bad on the Antojito Benedict from the sopes being hard as rocks. He couldn't even finish his food. I ordered the caprese sandwich and it was a 1 out of 5, extremely plain and dry. Paid extra for avocado on my sandwich and there were 2 thin slices. The only thing that was good was the bacon, the iced tea, and the ambiance. No chance we'll be coming back. read more

Lovely little restaurant, tasty food, excellent service - nice waiter, Brandon O'Rourke.

The Cottage just opened in Encinitas (right between the Ralph's and CVS). It's big with multiple indoor dining areas and a large outdoor patio. They have a full coffee, breakfast, and lunch menu and it would seem they are on their way to being able to serve beer and wine as well. Its beautiful and the food and coffee drinks were good. We tried the scones and jam, which were excellent, and the rest of the pastries looked pretty yummy, too. There's plenty of parking since it's a large shopping center. There was no wait since they just opened and it's a weekday morning but I bet this place is going to be popular when people discover it! read more

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The absolute worst lunch meal. I ordered the grilled octopus salad. The octopus was so hard & chewy, it was inedible. I sent it back. I ordered chicken tenders for my grandson. Also inedible. The thick dry batter was so hard (barely any chicken). Awful. Third dish was the chipotle shrimp salad. Shrimp was so salty. Salad was thrown together with cucumbers & tomatoes. Management should take note. I am not one to complain but the food was a bust. Hope things improve. read more

Food was most excellent, service most excellent, modern fresh ambience. Want go back ASAP. Open until 300pm, we arrived 230pm, perfect brunch. read more

Had great expectations for this place but it was so-so. My wife's avocado smash toast was rock hard, overall taste was just bland. Same for my Mexicali Benedict. Would have mentioned it but the waiter was M.I.A. Only saving grace was hot sauce. read more

If you are looking for GREAT eggs benedict, The Cottage in Encinitas is perfect for you! It is less crowded than the original location in La Jolla, but just as bright with great service! I The decor is charming and welcoming. I ordered the Pork Belly Benedict and it was delicious. The hollandaise was perfect, the pork belly was crispy and meaty. We also ordered the crab and prosciutto benedict and it was great too, just a bit salty from the prosciutto. If you are an Encinitas local and have not tried this restaurant yet, YOU NEED TO plus you'll be supporting our local business! read more

The morning glory sandwich was best breakfast sandwich I ever had! Our server Olivia was very sweet and nice and the manager was also very kind. read more

I was in Encinitas on Monday waiting to have work done on my car at Encinitas Ford. I took a walk over to the Encinitas Village mall to have breakfast at The cottage. I'm so glad I did! The ambiance is warm and service is extremely friendly. I ordered the all American breakfast-2 eggs scrambled, chicken sausage, fried potatoes and a scone. The eggs were fluffy and perfect! The chicken sausage had nice tones of sage and rosemary. The scone was my favorite--light, biscuit -like texture with a hint of sweet. It was paired with homemade strawberry jam. Yum!! read more

I had been looking forward to checking out the new Encinitas location, and we had a wonderful experience. I went with my sister and niece for lunch on a Friday after a hike, and we were hungry. Isaac, who greeted us, was friendly and funny, and sat us at an adorable booth inside. The patio was pretty full but it wasn't too crowded indoors. The space is cute and sparkling clean, we loved the decor. We got the morning glory egg sandwich, chicken and goat cheese salad, and got to try the fruit plate and cinnamon roll. The food was beautiful and delicious, and my niece enjoyed her meal (grilled cheese with a side of bacon- she said it was "like a dream") and the wiki sticks were a hit, of course! Heather provided kind, smiling and attentive service. We're excited to come back and try more of the menu and drinks soon! read more

The Cottage in N. County did not disappoint. The inside decor is super cute & cozy. Outside dining is available but it doesn't have the same ambience as La Jolla does...but it'll do in a pinch. Wish I could remember our server's name as she was super friendly & efficient. Breakfast was yummy & came out fast. I'll definitely be returning to this location. read more

Superior brunch and coffee! Omg!! My best friend sent me a reel of this place via Instagram and I knew I had to try it. The food is AMAZING! I got the salmon hash and split the lemon ricotta pancakes with my friend. It was delicious! The mocha is also to die for! They use real chocolate in the mocha and it gives it such an amazing flavor. This place is a MUST! read more

Slow Service and helped themselves to a larger tip as evidenced by my bank statement My husband and daughter arrived to the restaurant before I did and once i got there were still waiting for the waitress to come around. The service was extremely slow and besides one baked good the food was so so. Nothing to write home about. When we paid we gave a slightly less than 20% tip. I always write the end total amount on my receipt so I can reconcile our checking account and the amount that hit my bank was around $2 MORE than I had tipped. So they obviously helped themselves to the 20% tip they felt they deserved even though the service was severely lacking. Beware! read more

Really good food. We ordered several things, each was exceptionally good. It's a bit pricey, but not too bad.

Great decor, excellent food, large portions. Parking so much better than the la jolla location.

My teenaged daughter (Little Miss Foodie) asked to try this place for a back to school brunch. Service was great. We shared a Smoked Salmon Hash and the waiter brought it out in 2 separate little cast iron dishes, which we really appreciated. The cast iron pan keeps the food hot and we loved it. Also one of the hot sauces (El Guapo, I think it's called) is seriously amazing. The horchata and cookie was also a nice treat. We will be back. read more

I would highly recommend going to The Cottage! They have an amazing variety of items to choose from and give amazing service! I was debating between three things and then our waitress asked if I liked crab cakes and when I said yes she recommended the crab cake sandwich. She said that if I didn't like it that she would happily take it back and give you something else. My waitress was Clair K and if you ever get the honor of having her as your waitress she will make your experience that much better! Thank you Clair and The Cottage for giving a ten star service and a ten star customer experience! read more

We enjoyed a relaxed early Sunday breakfast in the surprisingly nice outdoor eating area. We got there at about 8:30am and were seated immediately. By the time we left, the patio was almost full. The staff was courteous and efficient. The food was pricy but fresh and tasty. The green pea toast with poached egg and grilled halloumi was interesting. The individual components were all delicious but it was a bit complicated to put together. I will be back to try other dishes! read more

Have eaten here 3 times now and though the staff and service are consistently great, the food is very mediocre. There are many breakfast and lunch alternatives in the area that makes it doubtful I would return. The English muffin used for Benedict's is dry and doughy. The chicken in the chicken sandwich is a 1/4 inch flat over cooked, dry and tasteless. You have better choices! read more

Was visiting a friend over the weekend and heard The Cottage opened up a new location so I knew I had to stop in for breakfast. We had the most amazing experience; the food and service was 10/10. The employees are so friendly and helpful, I have zero complaints. I recommend the stuffed French toast, it was amazing!! read more