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Great Maple - Hillcrest is highly praised for its delicious food, generous portions, and friendly service. Signature dishes like the French Toast Logs and Maple Bacon Donuts are particularly popular. However, patrons note that parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours.

Great Maple - Hillcrest: A San Diego Brunch Haven with Elevated Comfort Food and Welcoming Vibes.

Nestled in the lively University Heights neighborhood of San Diego, Great Maple - Hillcrest stands out as a beloved destination for food lovers craving a modern spin on classic comfort food. This contemporary eatery blends seasonal ingredients with creative flair to elevate your brunch, lunch, and dinner experiences in a casual yet inviting setting.

Visitors rave about Great Maple's thoughtfully crafted menu items such as the smoked bacon scramble melt, house smoked brisket hash, and the ever-popular French Toast Logs with maple bacon — each dish boasting a perfect balance of flavor and generous portions. The Salted Caramel Budino con Panna is a divine dessert choice for those with a sweet tooth, while the Moroccan Iced Tea refreshes and delights with every sip.

The atmosphere at Great Maple promotes cozy comfort with options for both outdoor patio seating and a friendly counter bar, catering to solo diners and groups alike. Diners frequently praise the attentive and warm staff, making every visit feel special — from the polite hosts to servers like Jenny and Breanne who ensure your meal is nothing short of exceptional.

 Yes, reservations are accepted and can be made through OpenTable.

 Parking is limited; the restaurant has a small parking lot with approximately 10 spots. Street parking is available nearby.

 Yes, Great Maple - Hillcrest is pet-friendly and allows dogs in the outdoor seating area.

 The restaurant operates from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. On Sundays, it operates from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM.

 Yes, happy hour is available every night from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

What locals and visitors love about Great Maple

Great Maple - Hillcrest earns high praise for its delicious, flavor-packed dishes and welcoming service. Guests highlight the ample portion sizes and the standout flavors of signature items like the maple bacon French Toast Logs and brisket scramble. The cozy ambiance paired with friendly staff creates a memorable dining experience that many return to time and again. Although parking can be a bit challenging during busy times, the overall experience consistently wins over locals and visitors alike.

North America

United States

Overview  
Great Maple - Hillcrest is a culinary gem nestled in the vibrant University Heights neighborhood of San Diego, California. This contemporary restaurant is renowned for its elevated comfort food, crafted with seasonal ingredients that bring a fresh twist to classic dishes. The inviting atmosphere, combined with exceptional service, makes it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

As you step inside, the warm ambiance envelops you, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch or a cozy dinner. The decor strikes a balance between modern chic and rustic charm, featuring wooden accents and soft lighting that create an inviting space for gatherings.



The menu is a delightful exploration of flavors, showcasing standout dishes that have garnered rave reviews. One must-try is the **House Smoked Brisket Hash**, a hearty combination of tender brisket, perfectly poached eggs, and seasoned potatoes, all drizzled with a rich hollandaise sauce. Another favorite is the **Maple-Bacon French Toast Logs**, which are indulgently crispy on the outside and fluffy within, served with a side of warm maple syrup that elevates the experience to pure bliss.

The culinary team at Great Maple is dedicated to sourcing the freshest ingredients, ensuring that every dish bursts with flavor. Their commitment to quality is evident in their brunch offerings, which include a variety of options from savory to sweet. For those looking to sip on something refreshing, the **Moroccan Iced Tea** is a standout beverage that perfectly complements any meal, with its aromatic blend of spices and refreshing notes.

Great Maple is known for its elevated comfort food, particularly its brunch offerings like the House Smoked Brisket Hash and Maple-Bacon French Toast Logs.

Visiting Great Maple offers a unique dining experience with its cozy atmosphere, exceptional service, and a menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients.

Great Maple is conveniently located near various attractions in San Diego, including Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, making it a perfect stop for a meal after exploring the city.

One of the most delightful aspects of dining at Great Maple is the experience of watching the culinary team at work. The open kitchen design allows diners to witness the artistry that goes into each dish, creating a connection between the chefs and the guests. This transparency reflects their commitment to quality and passion for food.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting San Diego, make sure to stop by Great Maple for an unforgettable dining experience. Indulge in their delicious brunch offerings, sip on refreshing drinks, and soak in the inviting atmosphere. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family!

Contemporary restaurant serving elevated comfort food with seasonal ingredients in a casual setting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfazZqcEF3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJZw3le-dU2YAR1jqdNCWE4Is/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfazZqcEF3EAE

Always a great time at Great Maple! All of the hosts were extremely nice, polite, and had great attitude. Special shout out to our waiter Jenny who was kind, attentive, expeditious, and amazing the whole time! The smoked bacon scramble melt and the house smoked brisket hash were delicious. Can’t wait to come back!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzNk9UVXZRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJZw3le-dU2YAR1jqdNCWE4Is/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzNk9UVXZRRRAB

Best breakfast place in SD! We had salmon toast, maple-bacon french toast logs, chilaquiles, and brisket hash! Everything was amazing. We were pleasantly surprised by the level of quality! Shout out to our server, Breanne, who treated us so nicely even though she had a full section!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfZ08ydnl3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJZw3le-dU2YAR1jqdNCWE4Is/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfZ08ydnl3RRAB

We went to Great Maple on a Thursday morning at about 0930. We did not have reservations but were able to be seated immediately on the patio. Could have also sat at the counter. 5 star customer service right there. However I highly recommend that if you’re going to go after 1000 or on a weekend you book in advance. Very popular spot. The Moroccan Iced Tea was amazing. Highly recommend. I didn’t care for the Johnny’s Kentucky Spirit. It was a touch too bourbon forward for me at 0930 and neither the orange or berries were strong enough to balance the drink. This is my fault as I had preconceived notions. The House Smoked Brisket Hash was under seasoned for my taste and served a little under temperature. I didn’t think the hollandaise had enough acid or my palette. This is not to say it wasn’t good. The toast was perfect as were the poached eggs and bacon. Because I’m a glutton I ordered the key lime pie even though I was full. The filling was divine and the perfect tartness. All in all I would most certainly go again. The atmosphere and service were spot on. Next time I’ll just try new things that caught my eye.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2OXZTRk1BEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJZw3le-dU2YAR1jqdNCWE4Is/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2OXZTRk1BEAE

After years of anticipation, I finally had the chance to indulge in a late breakfast at The Great Maple in Hillcrest. This popular spot didn’t disappoint!
We opted for the Pigs in a Blanket and the Brisket Scramble, and both dishes were absolute winners. The savory, flavorful combination of ingredients in each dish was simply divine.
The ambiance was cozy and inviting, perfect for a leisurely meal. While the wait time was a bit longer than expected, the quality of the food made it worth the wait.
If you're looking for a delicious and satisfying brunch experience in San Diego, I highly recommend giving The Great Maple a try. I also strongly recommend the Salted Caramel Budino con Panna.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzX2NPMkNBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJZw3le-dU2YAR1jqdNCWE4Is/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzX2NPMkNBEAE

We headed to the restaurant directly from the airport for breakfast, and it definitely dissolved our fatigues from the early flight. We had the scrambled eggs with basil and tomatoes, it was really refreshing. We also ordered the pig in a blanket, it was unexpectedly delicious, the sausage inside was very flavourful and not dry at all. The portions were huge, it filled us up for hours! If you order the house blend coffee, it will be unlimited free refills. We also got served by the nicest staff which is always a plus. Overall a very nice breakfast and brunch place, will definitely recommend and come back to try out the cocktails!

Enjoy Brunch at Great Maple - Hillcrest, San Diego

Great Maple - Hillcrest is a modern American eatery specializing in elevated comfort food with a twist. Using seasonal and sustainably sourced ingredients, they strive to create crave-worthy dishes.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Serves Breakfast

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Brunch

Serves Dessert

Serves Coffee

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Cocktails

Great Maple is a contemporary restaurant in University Heights, San Diego, known for its elevated comfort food made with seasonal ingredients. The warm ambiance and eclectic decor create a perfect setting for casual dining or special celebrations.

Great Maple - Hillcrest

A selection of our most popular dishes, featuring modern American comfort food with a twist.

GM Brioche French Toast

Smoked Bacon Scramble Melt

California Chorizo Scramble Melt

BBQ Pork Belly & Eggs

Pigs in a Blanket

Fruity Pebbles Pancakes

Classic Two Eggs Breakfast

Great Maple - Hillcrest Menu

Nestled in the heart of San Diego's vibrant University Heights, Great Maple - Hillcrest delights with a menu that skillfully elevates classic American comfort food. This casual yet contemporary spot is beloved for its seasonal ingredients and inventive twists that cater to a variety of palates, including vegetarian options.

While the Great Maple menu shines brightest with its mains, the specials like house-smoked brisket hash and pigs in a blanket stand out. The pigs in a blanket combine fluffy pancakes wrapped around flavorful pork sausage, delivering a playful yet satisfying starter or brunch special that embodies the restaurant's creative comfort style.

The mains at Great Maple are a celebration of hearty, elevated dishes that blend rich flavors with a comforting vibe. Highlights include the GM Brioche French Toast, featuring golden brioche bread soaked in a vanilla, cinnamon, and maple syrup-infused batter, offering a luscious start to your day.

Savor the Smoked Bacon Scramble Melt, where smoky bacon, fluffy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese nestle between slices of toasted sourdough bread for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. For those seeking a spicy kick, the California Chorizo Scramble Melt offers a bold contrast with rich chorizo, eggs, and sharp cheddar, also served on sourdough.

The BBQ Pork Belly & Eggs dish impresses with tender pork belly glazed in smoky barbecue sauce, served alongside perfectly cooked eggs and crispy potatoes — a robust main for meat lovers. Classic breakfast fans can enjoy the Classic Two Eggs Breakfast, featuring eggs cooked to order, your choice of bacon or sausage, toast, and potatoes, embodying the quintessential American breakfast.

Conclude your meal on a sweet note with indulgent desserts such as the Salted Caramel Budino con Panna — a creamy caramel pudding that perfectly balances sweetness with a hint of saltiness. The Key Lime Pie is another standout, offering a divine tart filling that refreshes the palate after a rich meal.

Great Maple offers a thoughtfully curated selection of beverages to complement your meal. Coffee lovers will appreciate the house blend coffee with unlimited refills, while cocktail enthusiasts can explore creative concoctions like Moroccan Iced Tea and classic cocktails crafted with care. The drink menu also includes beer and wine options, perfect for a relaxed brunch or evening gathering.

and inviting ambiance make this spot a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast, a comforting brunch, or a satisfying dinner, Great Maple's menu promises quality, flavor, and a welcoming atmosphere right in the heart of San Diego.

Savor delightful dishes at Great Maple in Hillcrest, San Diego! Indulge in modern comfort food and tempting desserts. Book your table today!

Great Maple Hillcrest: Modern Dining in San Diego

San Diego County

Served daily with a variety of sweet and savory dishes.

Brunch

Dinner

Happy Hour

great maple hillcrest san diego california restaurant brunch dinner happy hour coffee casual dining comfort food family friendly outdoor seating free parking vegetarian options served daily weekend evenings libations cocktails desserts kids menu modern atmosphere attentive service hospitality popular local spot reviews rave cuisine flavors smoked brisket hash bacon scramble melt maple bacon french toast logs chilaquiles salmon toast artisanal coffee unlimited refills key lime pie salted caramel budino con panna welcoming ambiance reservation recommended day time walk in patio seating dog free good for groups accessible payment nfc debit credit cards family good for children friendly environment diverse menu options vibrant neighborhood university heights destination san diego dining experience memorable quality fresh seasonal ingredients elevated comfort food casual setting impeccable hospitality culinary delights great maple hillcrest san diego ca usa 1451 washington street 92103  

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of University Heights, San Diego, Great Maple - Hillcrest offers an exceptional dining experience for food lovers seeking delicious, elevated comfort food served in a relaxed, casual setting. This contemporary restaurant at 1451 Washington Street is a beloved local hotspot known for its warm hospitality, inventive menu, and a welcoming atmosphere that caters to families, groups, and solo diners alike.

Great Maple serves brunch every day, inviting guests to indulge in a variety of sweet and savory dishes crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Noteworthy favorites include the house smoked brisket hash, smoked bacon scramble melt, and maple-bacon french toast logs. The salmon toast and chilaquiles also offer creative twists on classic flavors that continuously impress visitors.

 Arrive early or book ahead to secure a coveted patio seat and enjoy a refreshing Moroccan Iced Tea or one of their creative cocktails.

On Friday and Saturday evenings, Great Maple transforms into an inviting dinner destination featuring an elevated menu alongside a curated selection of craft cocktails, wines, and beers. The ambiance balances casual comfort with a touch of sophistication, perfect for date nights or group gatherings.

Happy Hour is a daily treat from 5pm to 6pm, offering guests the chance to unwind with delicious cocktails and beverages at a great value, accompanied by an array of small plates and appetizers that showcase the kitchen’s creativity.

 with a dedicated children’s menu and accommodating staff.

 perfect for soaking up San Diego’s sunny weather and people watching.

 include both street and lot parking to make your visit hassle-free.

 accepted include NFC, debit, and credit cards, ensuring a smooth transaction.

 thoughtfully crafted to satisfy diverse dietary preferences.

 for enjoying Great Maple favorites from the comfort of home.

 especially for weekend brunch and dinner to guarantee your spot at this popular eatery.

From its house-smoked brisket hash to the lovingly prepared cocktails and decadent desserts like salted caramel budino con panna and key lime pie, Great Maple Hillcrest exemplifies culinary craftsmanship and attentive service. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the cozy yet vibrant ambiance that makes every visit memorable.

Whether you're a local or just visiting San Diego, Great Maple is a must-visit destination for breakfast, brunch, dinner, or happy hour, promising a delightful taste of California's best comfort cuisine in a friendly and inviting setting.

California

Enjoy upscale comfort food at Great Maple Hillcrest, San Diego. Brunch favorites like Brioche French Toast await you! Reserve now for a delightful experience.

Great Maple Hillcrest: Delicious Brunch in San Diego

Discover expert tips for visiting Great Maple Hillcrest in San Diego. Make the most of your brunch with essential advice and menu highlights!

Insider Tips for Dining at Great Maple Hillcrest

Explore Great Maple Hillcrest's story, award-winning dishes, and vibrant atmosphere. Discover why this spot is a must-visit in San Diego.

Enjoy Brunch at Great Maple - Hillcrest, San Diego

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