Orange County’s breakfast burrito scene is about to get a new heavy hitter.
On Saturday, Jan. 17, Earlybird Breakfast Burritos will make its official Orange County debut, landing at the Lab Anti-Mall in Costa Mesa. While the wee-hour burrito purveyor built its brand in San Diego’s Pacific Beach, the move north represents a homecoming of sorts for founder Scott Slater. The veteran restaurateur, best known for launching Slater’s 50/50 burger-gastropub in Anaheim Hills, is returning to his O.C. roots with a concept that trades half-pound burger patties for one-pound breakfast burritos.
Taking over the space formerly occupied by Barbonzai (whose owners are retiring), Earlybird aims to fill a niche at the Lab’s culinary ecosystem. Alongside Nook Coffee and Goodtown Doughnuts, the arrival of these savory A.M. treats make the Anti-Mall a perfect morning pitstop.
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Earlybird’s menu focuses on massive, tightly-wrapped burritos. Highlights include the Bacon Bird, a combo of eggs, tater tots, bacon, guacamole and salsa roja. Other burritos include Carne Asada, Savory Sausage, Spiced Soyrizoi, Eggie ‘n’ Cheesy, and the Firebird with fried chicken tossed in a spicy garlic sauce.
The menu also offers breakfast sandwiches and bowls for those who eschew the tortilla.
Exclusive to the Costa Mesa location will be the launch of Earlybird Bottled Buzz, a grab-and-go beverage roster that includes drinks like Dirty Boba, Thai iced tea, champurrado-inspired chocolate lattes, turmeric ginger lattes and horchata.
The grand opening, happening on Saturday. Jan. 17, goes from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Early risers, take note: The first 100 guests in line will snag a free breakfast burrito. Free breakfast burritos will be given to the first 25 guests on Sunday, Jan. 18 and Monday, Jan. 19. Regular operating hours begin Sunday, Jan. 18 at 7 a.m.
Find it: 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa