Catching the Wave of Flavored Tequilas

 

 

Huevos Rancheros With a Labneh Lift

Parakeet Café | Based in La Jolla, Calif.

Carol Roizen

Cracking the code on protein-packed breakfast dishes means delivering a nutrient-dense meal that fuels diners for the day ahead without weighing them down or sacrificing flavor. At Parakeet Café, a breakfast-brunch-lunch concept with a clean-label menu, the Power Rancheros threads that needle in its thoughtful composition. “Guests want food that feels indulgent and satisfying, but they also want to feel good after eating it,” says Carol Roizen, president and co-founder. “This dish hits that balance. An homage to the comforting flavors of traditional Mexican breakfasts, it feels nostalgic and familiar while still offering something elevated and unique to our brand.”

A lightly crisped corn tortilla is layered with creamy black beans and three over-easy eggs. Morita chile ranchero sauce brings smoky depth, subtle sweetness and a lingering warmth. Turkey bacon provides a savory crunch, with pico de gallo, pickled onion and a housemade labneh adding brightness and acidity. It’s finished with cilantro and onion ash.

“One of the most surprising elements was the labneh,” says Roizen. “Traditionally, ranchero-style dishes lean heavily on cheese or crema, but the housemade labneh completely changes the experience while contributing additional protein. Its tanginess and lighter texture balance the smokiness of the morita sauce in a way that makes the entire dish feel brighter and more layered.”

Read more Best of Flavor 2026