Square One is best described as “that brunch place across the street from the blue scientology building.” Because that’s exactly what it is. A longtime neighborhood staple, It’s a solid daytime brunch spot that almost evokes a different era of LA’s brunch scene, back before everything was overly branded and catered for the social media influencer crowd. The branding is very understated (quite literally a circle in a square), and the atmosphere is very casual, substance over style, with well-priced and well-portioned brunch staples

Despite it’s off the beaten path location (beaten path being, well, Sunset) and decidedly modest presence, it’s a very popular spot among locals, often drawing a wait on the weekends. Whereas it once was a beacon in an otherwise “drive through” part of East Hollywood (for a while it was on my daily commute, so I knew every single establishment on that stretch of Fountain), more and more shops and restaurants are opening up nearby, creating a micro neighborhood thriving in the shadow of the ominous Scientology building that’s actually worth driving out (and braving street parking) for. So if you’re ever looking for a post-hike brunch where you don’t need a reservation and don’t need to dress up, where you can bring your dog, wear your sunglasses and treat yourself to a satisfying breakfast or brunch or lunch without breaking the bank, this is the place to be.