Five great places to start your day

CULVER CITY

Maxwell’s Cafe. Don’t miss the strawberry-stuffed French toastat this tiny corner establishment crammed with mismatched boothsand tables. Casual Westside types flock here for breakfast withoutL.A. attitude. $. 13329 Washington Blvd.; 310/306-7829.

HOLLYWOOD

The Griddle Cafe. This Hollywood hangout serves tall, butterystacks of pancakes. With 15 varieties, including pumpkin andespresso and chocolate chip, it’s no wonder there’s a celebrityfollowing. Steaming hot coffee comes in a French press. $. 7916 W.Sunset Blvd.; 323/874-0377.

LOS ANGELES

Doughboys Bakery. Fresh muffins and breads are baked daily atthis West Hollywood spot. Breakfast specialties such as thedelicious red-beet hash are available all day. For something moresimple, try the peanut butter, banana, and chocolate sandwich. $.8136 W. Third St.; 323/651-4202.

LOS ANGELES

Roscoe’s House of Chicken ‘n Waffles. Locals line up to dig intothe fried chicken and waffles, a cardiologist’s nightmare. Ifyou’re not into morning chicken, try Natalie’s Special, twoflavorful waffles. $. Various locations, including 5006 W. PicoBlvd.; 323/934-4405.

WEST LOS ANGELES

John O’ Groats. This family-owned restaurant, which started withtwo tables and a counter, has expanded twice yet is still crowdedwith people sipping free coffee while waiting. Try the biscuits,flavored pancakes, or veggie hash. $. 10516 W. Pico Blvd.;310/204-0692. ― Wendy O’Dea

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