I've noticed the same thing about the EL breakfasts with some exceptions (Athens & Prague come to mind). US EL seem to be particularly bad (stale bagels & pastries). You can take breakfast in the regular restaurant but the benefit is only for the continental breakfast, not a full one. The continental can be pretty good - fresh fruit, cereals, oatmeal, cold meats & cheese, yogurts, and lots of breads & juices.

As a Diamond, I have sometimes been offered a full breakfast but the more common scenario is an offer to upgrade to full for a small fee.