Love Pipes...there Hawaiian bread french toast is the bomb...only reason I don't give it 5 start is there wait to get in...guess that is a good thing..just not the best ambiance for taking someone out to eat. Food is off the hook tho. I come at least once a month. read more

Delicious and huge portions. Always a line though. I tried the Kooks cafe around the corner and it offers similar portions and better veggies. read more

This place pumps out the kind breakfast grinds, and the prices don't gouge 'ya. read more

Pipes Cafe - #1 burrito rocks! - American Near Me - Cardiff, California

In college, my friends and I went out of our way to visit this cute little cafe on the coast. While there are many breakfast options in both San Diego proper and La Jolla, there is just something about Pipes that makes it noteworthy. The breakfast burritos here are out of this world. You can really taste the care that goes into each burrito and the quality of the ingredients inside. One of the hallmarks of a good burrito is that it is layered correctly. While this seems simple, many places seem to screw it up. Pipes does not. read more

I can't believe I've never posted a review of this place, and I've been coming here on and off for the past couple years! Their customer service is nothing short of excellent. The vibe is very laid back (as it's by the beach), the customers are just as friendly as the staff, and who doesn't like an eatery with surfboards on the walls, right? This morning I decided to try their breakfast tacos, and they're pretty bomb! You get three, and they come with eggs, cheese, bacon, onion, and cilantro, all on corn tortillas. This is the perfect breakfast to have, especially if you're under the weather. I believe in feeding a cold, and this dish will make you forget you're even sick. I also recommend the Big Breakfast...it's enough to feed two (unless you have a big appetite like myself), which is eggs, bacon, pipes potatoes, pancakes or French toast, and an English muffin. They serve lunch as well but I've only had their lunch once. I had an egg salad sandwich. The only thing I didn't care for were the onions, as there were too many and not diced enough so it felt like I was biting into large onion chunks, which made it difficult to fully enjoy my sandwich. I do look forward to trying the chicken burger though! read more

Such a great spot in Cardiff by the Sea. Huge portions, great prices and very friendly staff. Awesome patio that's pet and family friendly.

Classic surf cafe/enviorment. Food Is incredible. Can't beat the price for the portions you get. The breakfast burrito is the size of your face and the proportion of egg/cheese/ potatoe ratio is perfect. I hate when potatoes overwhelm my burrito, pipes does it right. Pica sauce is bomb. Friendliest staff around. If you find a better burrito, let me know....so I can reassure you you're on crack. Pipes Rules! read more

This is my number one favorite place to have breakfast in San Diego. Great way to start your day! So close to the ocean and easy to head down to Del Mar! Everyone is right on with their reviews...Huge Portions, Value, So CA Kicked Back, the Tattoo sleeve Guy working the counter is Awesome (Kind, Courteous, and very patient with my 70 year old Mother). Numeral Uno! read more

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Was on our way to SeaWorld and we asked our sister in law where was a good breakfast spot.....and so there we were....YUM! GReAT portions, GreAT prices and the food was yummy. Just what you need before a long day like a day at the beach, an amusement park or whatever. My husband is from the Mid-west, a meat and potatoes guy and he was very satisfied. The line was long but moved fast. Staff helpful and friendly, so were the customers, had a real comfy feel. read more

Pipes Cafe - Line never stopped! Fast moving...yes, it was that good! - American Near Me - Cardiff, California

So my buddies and I came here after a hard night drinking with huge hangovers. We wanted something that will bring some balance back and clear the system. Single handed the best breakfast burrito I've ever eaten. I got the #2 with avocado. It was massive and almost impossible to finish, full of flavor, and no skimping on any one ingredient. The hot sauce (or chili sauce) they server you on the side gives the perfect amount of heat. And what's up with the price? Holy TOLEDO, under $6 bucks for this??? One word: unbelievable. read more

Great breakfast menu. I had the breakfast burrito and it tasted fantastic. It was huge, if you cut it in half each "half" is probably the size of a baseball. 2 people can easily share a burrito. They give you complimentary hot sauce which wasn't too spicy, and added just the right amount of flavor. Cheap, fast, and pretty good food. read more

Sometimes I miss living a block away from this tasty joint. The girls that work there are always friendly, smiling and happy to assist you, even when the line is out to the street. The orange juice is always good. (Evolution I think) They have a nice selection of coffee and an espresso bar. The Breakfast burritos are large, delicious, and sometimes tough to finish. The Big Breakfast is another great option. (enough for two to share) Good pancakes and french toast. I've tried their lunchy offerings and specials and they are good too. Can't wait to go back!!! read more

Extra delicious breakfast for cheap. Great vibes, friendly staff, and hearty portions make Pipes my favorite post-morning-surf meal (commonly known as breakfast). The breakfast burritos are creative, yet traditionally homestyle and FAT; plus my "go to", the big breakfast w/pancakes, is cheesy, bacony, and fluffy (three of my favorite tastjectives [tasty + adjectives]). The frequently long line passes quickly provided you have some good company, and you are rewarded with a truly amiable "good morning! what can I get for ya?" Fresh-squeezed orange juice, PIPE'ing hot coffee, and an acai bowl are the kickers at this great indoor, better (especially when sunny) outdoor patio'ed cafe. read more

Love, love, love this place! I've been here a dozen times and always make it appoint to go there when I'm in the San Diego area. The employees are always super friendly and laid back and the food is made to order. I've had the breakast burritos which are amazing but it's definitely a lot of food for me so I switched it up and went for the egg sandwich and I swap the bacon for sausage, so YUM! But to be honest, what really seals the deal for me is the coffee. Oh my, the choices! The Irish cream special blend is so good but the Hawaiian Hazelnut is the BOMB. I easily refill my cup 2-3 times. I never carry cash but when I know I'm going to Pipe's I'm prepared but don't worry, they have in ATM in store in case you forget to make an ATM run before hand. I can't say enough about this place, except for the fact I wish it was here in Texas. read more

Local, casual breakfast stop with classic surfer foods (variations on egg, cheese, bacon, onions, toast/english muffin). Great coffee! Nothing to write folks about, but a solid, dependable source of easy going breakfast. read more

Burritos as big as your head. Coffee is good too. Dont expect to eat the burrito and then do anything as a friendly food coma will ensue. So relaxing to sit outside a pipes. One issue is they only take cash. Serious oink fest. read more

This spot is BUSY, really a popular place. Food is awesome and is right off the coast.

Its the joint! Love the breakfast burritos. mmm. Bring cash (cards not accepted). Well worth it. :) read more

Well the good folks at Pipes have stepped into the 21st century with a computerized POS system and the ability to accept credit cards. For the few gringos that may carry cash they gladly accept that payment as well. Having dined here before my sweetie and I shared a the three breakfast tacos offering and added a side of spuds. Could have made a meal with just the potatoes that had just enough crispy exterior that blended well with the light addition of melted cheese and chopped green onions. Wish we lived closer as it would become our every weekend morning treat. read more

Pipes is, hands down, the best breakfast/lunch place anywhere in North County. I usually go for a late lunch or late breakfast. I always sit on the outdoor deck. Dogs are welcome outside. Very friendly staff. Very casual. It feels like you're home. Be ready for the very friendly, family like atmosphere; serve yourself water. The food is extra-ordinary. Very yummy fresh ingredients. Homemade foods that you can't get everywhere. Any of the breakfast burritos, breakfast plates, and sandwiches are all excellent. I also love the Cobb salad. Be sure to visit Dana at the coffee bar! She's the Best! Any coffee drink is available. And yummy homemade cookies. read more

Pipes Cafe - Pipes is a great place for family get-togethers. - American Near Me - Cardiff, California

This place has great food for breakfast. Fast service. Don't let the long line stop you as it goes by fast. Great pancakes. All of our food was excellent. read more

Always the BEST! Been a customer for many many years - amazing food, heartfelt service, chill vibe - what more could you ask for?

I've been coming to Pipes for breakfast and lunch for 7 years. Not all the time because it does get crowded, but I've always been treated great and the food is excellent. The ladies are good at what they do, and She who keeps the place moving always greets me with a smile and a "hi Patrick" and knows my cafe Americano order (she's the usual barrista). Families go there, singles go there, and just plain locals like myself go there on a nice sunny day to watch the people hang out and enjoy the entire view. And the portions are always huge. read more

Pipes is one of my favorite local joints. The only problem is that it seems to be everyone else's favorite, too! Seating can be hard to find sometimes, and don't come here if you get antsy standing in lines, but frankly I don't really consider these drawbacks. There are lines because this place is delicious and cheap. Not only that, but their portions are HUGE; perfect for someone who spent their morning surfing the nearby break after which this establishment is named. Their breakfast menu is pretty simple -- pancakes, or eggs mixed with various veggies and meats, possibly wrapped in a tortilla. The scrambles are mountains of food, the breakfast burritos are massive, and the pancakes are as big as the plate they put them on. My favorite are pipes potatoes: perfectly browned chunks of potato smothered in tons of cheese and onions, and in equally epic portions as everything else. You can get out of this place with a stuffed belly and probably some leftovers for between $5-6. If you like moderate portions two people could easily share a plate, which cuts down on price even more. read more

Our brother-in-law turned us on to Pipes years ago when we were in town visiting. My wife, a french toast connoisseur, was immediately addicted. I like to try something different every time I go and have never been disappointed. Now that we live in the area, we'll be visiting much more regularly. The food is consistently great and you can't beat the location and local flavor. Thanks Pipes! read more

This place is DE-LISH-USH!!! I haven't been here since I used to work in Encinitas, back in 2007. Me and my lady and kid were on our way to Lego Land today, so i decided to take them there for breakfast. Had a #1 and #2 burrito and the kiddo had a grilled cheese on wheat. They loved it!!! The boy doesn't normally finish his food, but he did this time. Check it out if you are in the area. The Breakfast Burritos are amazing. Thanks Pipes Cafe for some great food! read more

All you need is a breakfast burrito and you're set for the whole day!! Eggs + avocado + sausage + bacon = breakfast heaven read more

Get. The. Burger. The burger at Pipes is approaching Nessy Burger territory in terms of it's goodness. Eat it when it's hot. Get grilled onions. Also, skip the fries...the burger comes with potato chips. Pipes gets 1 extra star for the excellent location. Be happy, people. You are in one of the most beautiful places in the world! read more

Cool sunny morning Some surfers wave hunting A few trophy kids and their trust funds And a seaside diner Cute little shop. I found very little wrong with my experience. Massive burritos. There must be half dozen eggs in there. I could have gone for a little more sauce and peppers in the burrito. Coffee wasn't bad either. Staff is cool. Definitely adds to the experience. Now if it was clear of entitlement brats. Eeshhh. Won't go into it but it could have cost them 2 stars. What can ya do. read more

For a quick, hot cup of coffee served with a smile. Pipes Egg sandwich is a full breakfast and two eggs scrambled actually look like four. read more

Pipes Cafe - Surfing Olaff loves Pipes! - American Near Me - Cardiff, California

Several people brought their dogs. Expect a long line. You order food at the counter then grab a seat. Some customers grab seating while waiting in line which is a bit annoying. Fun atmosphere and good value! read more

Pipes Cafe - Some tables on the patio have a view of the ocean. - American Near Me - Cardiff, California

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Great tunes, food and service. Always a cool vid to keep the stoke... specialty coffee as well. The heart of cardiff...

My husband and his family have been coming to Pipes since they were in diapers and I gotta say it is one of the best breakfast places in San Diego. We LOVE the #1 burrito, Pipes Sandwich (ask for it on a bagel), egg tacos, and any of the scrambles. Honestly, you can't go wrong here with any of the food options. We love the coffee too! Dana makes a mean Milky Way mocha. Even if the line is long, stop by because a day in SD is incomplete without Pipes! read more

I love this FUNKY place. Good food, good people, you can smell the ocean from there. Parking can be a challenge, but that's ok if you want good food with an oven view. read more

I love you pipes! Every time I am in town, I like to sit on your patio and feast on your #2 breakfast burrito with green chili and cilantro! Thank you for using REAL green chili, not that pickled can stuff! I love your cakes and I am a big fan of your coffee! All you can drink and good... How dare you not tempt me to leave! Casual, awesome patio, cool people... why go anywhere else? read more

Been going here for years. Seems lately the pace has evolved a tad. Prices have gone up (expected) and service has faltered (not at the coffee cart though). Got the chicken sandwich with healthy portions, but even the Carl's Jr. actor couldn't pick it up and put it in his face because the chicken was 2 to 3 large pieces and the bun dissolved into mush likely from the Ortega chili's. Was a nightmare eating it. We don't live so close, so we won't be going out of our way as for the price there are less crowded, card-accepting breakfast spots. Nextdoor there is a great donut shop (not the device though) called VG Donuts. Worth a try!!! read more

I go to this place all the time. They have so many great choices and they give you SO much food! The location is great and the vibe is too. I will never get tired of this place. read more

Pipes Cafe - the big breakfast with french toast! im addicted to the potatoes.... - American Near Me - Cardiff, California

I'm usually pretty lenient when it comes to service at restaurants because I know how busy and stressful it can get. But the service has been beyond terrible. First off, the guy who took our order was rude. Then we couldn't find a single place to sit and after waiting and looking for a table for a long time, a big group cleared a table. So we quickly went to sit down and the waitress wouldn't let us sit there. She took apart the tables and told us to keep looking. We had to break up our family and all sit in different tables. When we left another family came in and put together those tables in the middle and sat together, the waitress didn't say a thing to them. Absolutely never coming back here and a warning to other Latino families, avoid this place because they obviously don't want your business. read more

It was an amazing day when we stepped in here in a big group for a nice and sunny brunch. I was here with a friend's family who is coming to this place for last 30 years and everyone knew my friend, her mom and her brother and the owner and server were so warm. I must say that the location is perfect, it is right by the Cardiff beach, so you can dig into your brunch/ breakfast and hit the beach afterwards. We got a nice spot for the big group and as it was a sunny day, we took up a spot in the shade. I am always an eggs person, so I went with their eggs special with bacon and potatoes, but their portions are so huge that my friend and I decided to share Pipe's egg special with pancakes for the table. The portions were really huge and for 7.95$, it seemed like a pretty damn good deal. They also have a little coffee shop outside and they do all kinds of drinks from coffee to lattes to much more. My friend and her brother went for Acaibowls which are pretty popular and healthy to add to your brunch. I would say this place was perfect with food, price, service and location. This is definitely a perfect spot for a breakfast/ brunch right by the beach. What went right - food, inexpensive prices, service, location right by the beach What could be improved - nothing, these guys are doing a great job! read more

Love Pipes Cafe! Hometown cooking,super friendly service & the pancakes were delicious ! read more