My Orlando Breakfast Guide
Do you sometimes find yourself singing Eggs Bacon & Toast” as if you were a part of the Gergich Family? If so, this list is for you.
As a lover of all breakfast foods, I must let you all know the options set before you that are not Keke’s and First Watch. Of course, you can get a good breakfast at those spots, but I still want to try to support local, even when it’s just for some bacon and eggs. This list is not a Google copy and paste of places that merely exist, but places I go and have been going to fuel my addiction to greasy spoon diners, fluffy waffles, and expensive smoothie bowls. While this list is robust, so many unique places are surely missing. I’ll keep this list updated as I try and document more of our local diners and bakeries.
Also, shout out to the fantastic brunches of years past pre-Covid that I sincerely hope makes a big comeback. I’m talking specifically about the weekend brunches at The Strand, Buttermilk Bakery, andPizza Bruno. I miss you, and I want you back.
Deli Desires
Deli Desires was mentioned the most by far when I asked where everybody’s favorite local breakfast spot was in my Instagram stories. It’s clear Orlando has been craving solid breakfast options, and Deli Desires has captured everyone’s gut without even having seating in their small walk-up-only cafe. My go-to is usually the Bacon, Gravlax, or the Latke, but you truly cannot go wrong with anything on this menu.
Outdoor Seating: Takeout Only
Nic & Luc
Over in Longwood, you can find this breakfast spot that does takeout Tuesday - Friday and dine-in on Saturday. It's family-owned, and the scratch kitchen boasts a farm-to-table approach, no GMOs, plant-based options, and overall thoughtful eating. The two delicious sandwiches below are the Dirty Bird and the Chicken & Pig-wich. If you are looking for carb-free options, several keto-friendly menu items are available. So do yourself a favor and visit Nic & Luc; everyone will be able to find something they love.
Outdoor Seating: NO
Brick & Spoon
Over in Maitland, you can fill up on brunch with a southern flair, from deviled eggs, shrimp and grits, beignets, or overindulge in the insanely decadent stuffed French Toast. These breakfast options are not cheap, but you will likely have leftovers to take home and keep you full for most of the day.
Outside seating: On the weekends
P is for Pie
Update: Sadly P is for Pie has closed.
Beyond the pastry case, there’s a breakfast menu to indulge in that can get pretty decadent on the weekends. Look for items like the Southerner, which is stacked high with eggs, bacon, grits, a fried green tomato, and pimento cheese. Go for a warm and fresh cinnamon roll if you can fit it.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Cafe Linger
Update: Sadly Cafe Linger has closed.
College Park has several options for breakfast, and Cafe Linger is one you should try. They have an all-day breakfast (note they close at 3 pm) where you can get a simple platter like the Linger Breakfast, where you get to have both sweet and savory, or you can visit for a weekend brunch to try chicken and waffles, or a loaded crepe. FYI the iced lattes are good too.
Outdoor seating: Yes
The Sourdough BReadhouse
Update: This location has temporarily closed, check their socials.
Known for their bread baked in-house, you can get a filling platter here, including a full Turkish breakfast complete with bread, zahter, kaymak, tomato, cucumber, honey, butter, and more. However, if that isn't your speed, you can get an American Breakfast platter for $12.
Outdoor Seating: NO
Buttermilk Bakery
I really miss the amazing Brunch menu that Buttermilk had on the weekends pre-Covid, but regardless of whether that ever comes back or not, they reign supreme when it comes to sweet or savory breakfast pastries.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Deeply Coffee
It might just be your standard coffee stop, but look at the menu a little closer next time and you’ll notice a few hearty breakfast sandwich options that you can enjoy for dine-in or take to-go. They do have vegan options available.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Zaza New Cuban Diner
Give me Cuban Toast for breakfast every morning, and I'll be happy. Thankfully Zaza has that and some other delicious breakfast options, from Abuela's Creamy Oatmeal to one of my favorites, Carlito's Way, a steak and eggs platter. But, of course, it's also imperative to order a café con Leche.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Christo's Café
I know College Park has three beloved diners (add Shakers and College Park Cafe to your list), but I was always more of a Christo's gal. Of course, they have more than breakfast, but that's the only thing I've ever gotten here. My go-to breakfast is the Hungry Man, which consists of 3 eggs, bacon, ham, one sausage patty with home fries, hash browns or grits, and toast or biscuit, all for about $8.50.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Lineage Coffee
Lineage’s new baked items may not be part of a complete breakfast but they are absolutely delicious and paired perfectly with one of their lattes.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Jeff’s Bagel Run
These are the best bagels we have in Central Florida, and you can’t change my mind. They’ve announced their 2nd location in Orlando, so hopefully, this means more bagel opportunities before they sell out. I cannot stress enough just how good the Rosemary Salt bagel is, but now it’s my stomach's mission to get the French Toast bagel soon.
Outdoor Seating: No
Sedano’s
Sedano’s is a grocery store, but you can pop in for a classic Cuban breakfast. Fresh Cuban bread, a pastelito and a Cuban coffee.
Loading Gastrobrunch
Over in St. Cloud they are brunchin’ like no one’s watching. This place is packed on the weekends so make a reservation. I got the Chicken N’ Waffles, a good portion of two large Belgian Waffles with Chicken, candied bacon, Sriracha maple, and cream cheese butter. It was decadent and delicious, and I thought the Sriracha syrup gave it a nice kick. They serve Lineage coffee, and I got their Winnie the Brew, Lineage’s famous 431 cold brew topped with cold foam creamer. There is a lot to choose from on the brunch menu, so no matter whom you go with, they are sure to find something, and while a lot is on the indulgent side, they have healthier options.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Reyes Mezcaleria Brunch
The brunch at Reyes is an ideal spot on the weekends, whether you are inside the gorgeous space or enjoying their expansive patio. I don’t think these pancakes are on the menu anymore, but there are definitely sweet and savory options that you can enjoy with a mimosa, glass of sangria, or a bloody mary. Additionally check out the brunch at their sister concepts The Monroe and Osprey Tavern.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Winter Park Biscuit Co.
I snapped this quick pic, and it isn’t doing this vegan breakfast biscuit justice. Sometimes eating is more important than documenting. It’s still hard to believe these soft, flaky biscuits are vegan, but they make the perfect breakfast sandwich with an impossible sausage, Just Egg, vegan cheese, and maybe some hot sauce on the side.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Farm & Haus
At Farm & Haus at the East End Market you will find breakfast options that include bowls, sandwiches, their award-winning avocado toast, and the occasional weekend special.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Skyebird Juice and Experimental Kitchen
Skyebird makes some of my favorite juices and smoothies in town. If you want something a little heartier check out their Acai sorbet topped with gluten-free granola, fresh fruit, house-made vanilla cashew cream and your choice of 2 toppings.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
La Femme du Fromage
Cheese lovers, this spot is exclusively for you. More seasoned gluttons for cheese can go straight to a morning cheese board, but if you need to balance your dairy intake, you can choose from one of the breakfast croissants that come stuffed with accouterments like bacon jam, eggs, arugula, or house pestos, ham and of course - cheese.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Tamale Co.
Breakfast tacos may be the most sensible food collaboration ever. However, if that doesn’t sound appealing to you, Tamale Co. has other breakfast options, including the always satisfying breakfast burrito, Huevos Rancheros, or a Tamale Sunrise.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Cindy’s Cuban Cafe
Mostly just College Park and Ivanhoe locals know about this gem. Simple breakfast pleasures can be found here, from standard classics to a full Cuban breakfast complete with the three C’s of a Cuban breakfast: croquettes, Cuban toast, and a Cortadito.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Se7en Bites
Only go here for breakfast if you have the ability to take a nap after. These indulgent, gut-busting breakfast and brunch options are truly decadent. When you are clutching your stomach as you walk out, you will understand why one dish is called the 7th Trimester. Breakfast is available until close, so whether you go for biscuits, waffles, or hotcakes, you can delight in all that is good about breakfast foods anytime.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Rosallie Le French Cafe
No matter what day you visit downtown Winter Garden, the outdoor patio of Rosallie will be full. They serve brunch all day with savory and sweet items from quiche, croissant sandwiches, a French breakfast board, and lots of freshly made pastries.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Black Bean Deli
Black Bean Deli could be your new breakfast spot if you can get there early enough. You’ll mostly find grab n go pastry options like empanadas, croquetas, and quesitos. Still, their take on Cuban breakfast sandwiches and their spin on avocado toast with crispy yuca is a small offering. Don’t forget your cafecito!
Outdoor Seating: Yes
New General
New General has revamped their menu since my last visit, and it looks like healthier eaters will find several options here. Boasting both vegan and gluten free options, you can grab classic brekkie sandwiches, crepes, seasonal frittatas, or granola cereal bowls just to name a few.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Black Rooster - Brunch
The newest brunch on the block is at the curry Ford location of Black Rooster. Sure you can still get tacos for breakfast if you wanted but with items like Chilaquiles, Huevos Rancheros, and French Toast on the menu why would you?
Outdoor seating: Yes
BTW
Something for my Lake County peeps, over into Tavares, you will find BTW, which stands for burgers, tacos, and waffles. This waffle topped with bacon and chicken was the perfect size to allow for maximum antiquing after breakfast.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Purple Ocean Superfood Bar
With multiple locations you can have a deliciously indulgent feeling breakfast without feeling bad. From acai bowls, smoothies, and even acai topped waffles, it’s as tasty as it is beautiful.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Cuban American Cafe
Hidden downtown in the Fairwinds Building this delicious Cuban cafe has delicious breakfast options, especially for those of you still on the 9-5 grind downtown.
Outdoor seating: No
The Briarpatch
A popular spot on Park Avenue, especially for breakfast. It’s gotten a bit pricey over the years, but you can’t beat the location for a picturesque place to walk off the breakfast carbs after your meal.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Gnarly Cuban (pop-up)
Update: Their empanadas can now be found upstairs at the East End Market at the Neighbors.
Follow the Gnarly Cuban on Instagram so you can track this crew down and get your fix on some classic Cuban pastries. If your schedule doesn’t allow that, you can always order items for delivery. Is anything better than getting a box of croquetas delivered right to your doorstep? Don’t miss these adorable mini bottles of cafe con Leche.
Nomad Bakehouse
You can create an entirely new and mobile Saturday breakfast tradition by ordering from the online menu that Grace puts out weekly. Some of THE BEST breads and pastries Orlando has to offer. We are all just waiting for Grace to open up a full-service cafe with all her goods every day. Until that day, make sure to follow her on Instagram for local pop-ups, especially when she teams up with Chef Jes Talano.
New Moon Market
On the healthier side of options in College Park, you may think New Moon only has juices and smoothies. And while that beverage options are delicious, if you stop in you’ll find some breakfast toasts and smoothie bowls on the menu as well.
Outdoor seating: Limited
Stasio’s Italian Deli
Stasios is beloved thanks to their filling and delectable sandwiches, but that goes beyond lunch. Their breakfast sandwiches are just as delicious and huge, and come at a very reasonable price tag. The beauty below is a egg, cheese, and meatball breakfast sandwich which is big enough to share. This plus and iced coffee will only run you about $10.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Eola General
Picnic style outdoor seating at Eola allows for a quick breakfast of bagels, spreads, or an assortment of toasts. On a day with lower temps and a breeze you can create your own brunch to take to go and enjoy by Lake Eola.
Outdoor Dining: Yes
OUTPOST KITCHEN, BAR & PROVISIONS
Their move from College Park to Maitland has allowed for more breezy patio brunch space. However, if you have a serious breakfast sweet tooth, you will find they have more savory options on their brunch menu. You’ll find shrimp and grits, roasted oysters, and biscuits and gravy.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Cask & Larder
This one is a little unfair because you can only eat at Cask and Larder if you are at the Orlando Airport, specifically Southwest Airlines gates 100 through 129. It’s cruel to do to us locals since their weekend brunch was phenomenal, but all the more reason to get to the airport early and indulge. I will never forget this oatmeal dish for as long as I live.
Create your Nature
This locally owned spot caters to a healthier crowd with several options of açai, oatmeal, and smoothie bowls. The bowls will run you anywhere from $8 -$13, and you can enjoy them and the adjacent outdoor courtyard.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Linda’s Winter Park Diner
Linda’s brings back a classic old Florida feel in their diner that’s been around since the 1950s. You'll get all the retro vibes you need here, from the green booths and chairs to the coffee mugs covered with old ads. Plenty of classic items are on the menu, from omelets to hotcakes, to combo breakfast platters. They close in the early afternoon, so get your fix during daylight hours.
Outdoor Seating: No
240 Rose Cafe
Park Ave adjacent you will find the newly updated 240 Rose Cafe, (once known as Carrie’s Cafe). You’ll find standard breakfast staples here, but they come with a Winter Park price tag. Service, however is quick, and they have a large covered patio.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Chef Art Smith's Homecomin'
Despite being an Orlando local, you won’t see me at Disney very often. However, if I found myself at Disney Springs, I might be persuaded to visit Chef Art’s for a southern-style brunch. The Church Lady Deviled Eggs are a crowd-pleaser, as are the Bee Haven Bay Fried Green Tomatoes.
Easy Luck Coffee
Coffee by day and beer and wine by night. Inside the Whippoorwill Beer House you’ll find the Easy Luck coffee counter. In the quiet morning hours, you’ll be able to get a coffee, and if you are not a big breakfast eater, you can still nosh a little from their variety of toasts.
Outdoor seating: No
DaJen Eats
If you are looking for a vegan brunch. you can check out DaJen Eats in Eatonville. Below are her famous Chick’n Biscuits that are back on the menu.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Craft and Common
Nothing hits the spot than grabbing a Dunes latte from Craft & Common. If you’ve been so obsessed with their drinks that you haven’t stopped to notice their food options, you’re going to want to give the menu another glance. You can grab a toast with fig and hummus or smoked salmon or maybe a vegan breakfast sandwich to pair with your drink.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Mr. Bill’s Donuts
Up in downtown Deland, there is a good chance you’ll miss getting some fresh doughnuts from Mr. Bills unless you go early. However, you can still grab a solid breakfast sandwich to make your trip worthwhile.
Outdoor seating: No
Three Birds Cafe
Breakfast is served all day at this very cute cafe in Winter Garden. Try the Strawberry Shortcake French Toast or the vegan breakfast sandwich. No matter what you choose pair it with one of their seasonal lattes.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Alex’s Fresh Kitchen
This Chicken and Waffles tower is not on the breakfast menu, but these waffles beg to differ. It’s an excellent dish for later in the day that gives you a brunchy feel without going to brunch. If this is too heavy for your morning break, try the Fluffy Pancakes, a veggie scramble, or a breakfast croissant. There is a vegan pancake option too!
Outdoor seating: One table
Vanessa’s Coffee Shop
Over on the East side of Orlando, I recommend that you give yourself plenty of time on the weekend if you plan on getting brunch at Vanessa’s Coffee Shop. On my visit, it was so packed I just decided to grab coffee to-go, but as I waited, I watched all the delicious-looking food come out. Several breakfast items are on the menu, so check it out if you find yourself near Lake Nona or St. Cloud.
Outdoor seating: No
Canvas
Another Lake Nona spot where you can brunch with a beautiful waterfront view. Check out their breakfast items that range from Chilaquiles to Lemon Myer Pancakes that I’m dying to try!
Outside eating: Yes
Propagate Social House
An outdoor breakfast surrounded by plants sounds like a weekend dream. Over in Apopka, it's happening with a one-stop coffee, plant, brunch stop at Propagate Social House. Breakfast sandwiches and quiche are on the menu, but follow them on social media for specials and food truck pop-ups.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Everything compiled above was a place I visited on my own adventures around Central Florida. Everything was paid for personally, and no business asked for or was previously made aware of their feature. Support local businesses.