We had the good fortune of connecting with Omar Garcia and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Omar, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I really enjoyed working in the restaurant industry as server/bartender for many years. This industry became like my second nature, it was easy to learn about different cuisines, cooking styles and food presentation. Although I did not have any cooking experience, it was time to take the next step and open my own restaurant so I can eventually find financial independence.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
There are many great restaurants close by, the attributes that really makes us standout are attentiveness, great food & very relax/welcoming vibes from all team members…. for those same reasons we were able to survive the pandemic ( we open 3 months before pandemic started ) , for those same reasons I have some room to venture out and be creative with new dishes, new food presentations and some weekly specials. Our guest/regurals appreciate our new ideas because constantly they get to enjoy something new.

e.i – Salmon Avocado Toast, Breakfast Board, Duck Benedict, Breakfast Waffle, Flambé Sauce, White Chocolate Sauce –

The challenging part (as we al know) is inflation, I need to be very careful how I manage inventory in oder to control prices. We proudly serve most of our food from small business around us. For example, our coffee is certified organic and it’s locally roasted (by this amazing local small family owned business) at least 3 to 5 days before we start using it here at the restaurant. When we grind the coffee, all the properties are very fresh on the beans and all amazingness just pours over every single cup of coffee. Same with vegetables and fruit…. we do preparation at least 3-4 times per week to keep everything fresh.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
San Diego, CA is a never ending fun, interesting and beautiful city. I would take my friends to Balboa Park (museums), Oceanside Pier, La Jolla Cove , SD Zoo, Julian .. even TJ, Mex…. defiantly to my restaurant for breakfast. =0)

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have been extremely lucky in this industry, I’ve worked with outstanding managers, very talented chefs and amazing co-workers. I’ve learned from all of them and I am very thankful for it. Even to this day I have very solid friendships with many those wonderful people. The most important person in this wonderful journey is my wife Fabiola, she became the essential foundation behind all my efforts to make this restaurant a reality.

Website: BreakfastMug.com

Instagram: @Thebreakfastmug

Facebook: @Thebreakfastmug

Yelp: The Breakfast Mug

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.