Wake up LA: Square One Dining

Square One Dining on Fountain Avenue, tucked behind the Scientology Center that extends from Sunset to Fountain in East Hollywood, is a restaurant of little pretension and noble purpose: it serves one of the finest breakfasts in Los Angeles. Although two years ago, LAist had careless service at Square One, despite the great food (it even made a staffer’s top ten list), the service on this and previous visits was attentive and polite – and the food is still great.

Outside, Square One has an unobtrusive sign. Inside, the walls are painted an eggy yellow; in case any punsters don’t get the yolk, the ceiling is covered in grey cardboard egg crates. There are about 20 tables – half inside, half outside on the spacious, pleasant patio. On a recent Friday morning at 9 a.m., the inside was not even half full, and no one was braving the winter chill on the patio. On weekends, however, Square One fills up early and stays busy. The extensive menu features ingredients from organic and small producers. The website states Square One’s philosophy: “Natural is always best and basic is not a trend.”

I’ve had breakfast at Square One several times and have yet to be disappointed. Although the Square One menu has plenty of French toast and pancake selections for you sweet-loving carb loaders, my preference at breakfast is for salty-savory protein treats and in that area, this menu does not disappoint.