Rose Donuts & Café

BY DINA SCAGLIONE

Every once in a while, you find an unassuming eatery that delivers an unexpected dining experience. That’s precisely what happened when I visited Rose Donuts & Café in San Clemente. When you come to Rose’s, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by its vast menu of culinary delights, from hearty breakfast burritos to deli sandwiches to freshly made to order salads and delicious grilled burgers.

Don’t let the name fool you. Yes, there are donuts. In fact, more than 5,000 are served up fresh each year on National Donut Day. But we’re not talking about your typical everyday cake donuts, glazed bars and jam-filled treats. Rose’s also serves gourmet donuts, designed to celebrate every holiday of the year. For those seeking something a bit naughty, you must try the bacon and maple glazed donut. It’s both sweet and savory and worth every indulgent bite. Bagel lovers are not overlooked at Rose’s; there are a variety of flavors to enjoy with a schmear of cream cheese or decked out with smoked salmon and jalapeño.

Looking for a healthy way to start your day? I highly recommend Rose’s Breakfast Burrito. A tasty combination of egg whites, avocado, Swiss cheese and red skinned potatoes wrapped in a large flour tortilla with a side of fresh salsa. The deliciously grilled chicken wrap is generously sized, loaded with flavorful grilled chicken, lettuce, spinach, sprouts, chopped tomatoes, red onions and chunks of avocado. The marinated steak sandwich is loaded with tender, seasoned grilled sirloin, bell peppers, and onions served on a grilled roll with lettuce, tomatoes and Swiss cheese. For a twist on an American classic, try Rose’s yummy Donut Burger.

Owner Susan Lim has been working in the family business since she was a young teen and is now ushering in the next generation with her 4 daughters lending a hand. Their warmth and hospitality are just the icing on the cake (or donut in this case) to round out your palette pleasing dining experience.

Rose’s also serves gourmet coffee and teas, smoothies and even a Vietnamese iced coffee, with just the right amount of sweet and creamy. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, Rose’s offers a jam-packed menu that would take months to eat through. Challenge accepted.

Rose Donuts & Café
624 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente
949.493.9200 | RoseCafeSanClemente.com