Cafe 222

Pop into this sunny downtown San Diego breakfast and lunch institution that has been serving up creative twists on American comfort classics since 1992. Topping the menu is the cafe’s Peanut Butter and Banana-Stuffed French toast, singled out by celebrity chef Bobby Flay on the Food Network show, “The Best Thing I Ever Ate.” Also starring in the savory lineup are Pumpkin Waffles, three versions of Eggs Benedict, and pillowy pancakes, loaded with treats like blueberries, Oreos or the restaurant’s house-baked granola. Cafe 222 is well-known for its homemade biscuits and gravy and offers all the standard scratch-made Mexican-style breakfast dishes. Standout lunch items are tuna and patty melts, and the restaurant’s famous chili. Customers can opt for a cozy booth, a stool at the counter, or greet the day with a fresh mug of coffee on the heated patio. A consistent award-winner for “Best Breakfast Downtown,” this bright and cheerful corner diner has become an area staple, and an out-of-town visitor’s delight. Drop by 7 a.m.-2 p.m. daily or order online at cafe222.com.