Sometimes all it takes is a strong cup of coffee, a farm-fresh omelet and a fabulous leafy courtyard to make a Saturday (or any) morning perfect.

This courtyard cafe, shaded by trees and lined with flowering plants, quickly fills with chatty locals. Inside the small bungalow, hardwood floors, antique furntiture and pastry-filled glass cases set a comforting scene. It's one of those order-at-the-counter-we'll-bring-it-out systems that actually works—with such an attentive staff, hot food comes out hot, and coffee refills are easy to come by. Breakfast is a boon with build-your-own omelets, homemade granola, hearty paninis filled with scrambled eggs, and pan de mie French toast with fig chutney and creme fraiche. For lunch, a number of fresh green salads and grilled sandwiches are offered. Next door, the Village Gourmet Cheese & Wine shop is chock-full of take-away items for a great picnic in nearby Griffith Park. —Lesley Balla