My Updated Orlando Breakfast Guide
As a lover of all breakfast foods, I must let you all know the options set before you 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 smoothie bowls. Also, something to note, I’m personally not a boozy, loud brunch person, so if you’re looking for those types of recommendations, I’m not going to have them for you.
While this list is robust, many unique places still need to be added. I’ll keep this list updated as I try and document more of our local diners and bakeries.
DINER VIBES
DIXIE BELLE cafe
Down near the Conway area is the highly beloved Dixie Belle Cafe, one of the spots that came with many recommendations. They served up an ample light and fluffy waffle and some stellar sweet potato biscuits that are made fresh daily. My breakfast combo was also much more affordable than other places I’ve visited recently. The Waffle Combo with two eggs and a choice of breakfast meat was only $9.99. The service was very good and fast, and I would recommend this spot.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
DIXIE CREAM CAFE
This is the “other Dixie” breakfast spot located in downtown Windermere. The breakfast menu is extensive, and deciding between sweet and savory is tough. I wanted a breakfast combo with a waffle REAL BAD (insert Jennifer Coolidge voice), but alas, they didn’t have one, so I had to make it an add-on. This of course, made it more pricey, but I can at least say it was delicious.
Outdoor seating: YES
Christo's Café
I know College Park has three beloved diners (add Shakers and College Park Cafe to your list), and it's up to you to pick your favorite or rotate. Christo's has 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.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Shakers american cafe
Shakers, named for the cute collection of salt and pepper shakers all over the restaurant, is another highly loved spot in College Park. Along with classic staples, they always have a specials list posted.
More Diner Vibes to Try Out:
GRAB N GO
Deli Desires
Deli Desires was mentioned the most 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 cannot go wrong with anything on this menu.
Outdoor Seating: Takeout Only
Black Rooster - breakfast burritos
Sadly, when we lost the Curry Ford location of Black Rooster, we lost brunch. The good news is that the Mills 50 location has started doing Friday breakfast burritos. One meat one veggie option. They are quite filling, the only thing is that it’s grab and go only starting at 8:30 am until sell out, so you have to be quick and early.
Outdoor seating: No
Jeff’s Bagel Run
These are the best bagels in Central Florida, and you can’t change my mind. They’ve announced more locations blessing the greater Orlando area, so hopefully, this means more bagel opportunities before they sell out. I cannot stress enough how good the Rosemary Salt bagel is, but now it’s my stomach's mission to get the French Toast bagel soon.
Outdoor Seating: A few tables at the College Park location and some other locations have minimal seating.
URBAN STREETWISE
Urban Streetwise moved locations and is now in the ghost kitchen off Dollins Avenue. I’m not sure how that has impacted portion sizes or if there is anywhere you can actually eat there, but I can tell you their food is good. On my visit to their old location I got the Chicken and WAffles Hot Mess and I loved it! It’s still on the menu, so if you are feeling a craving, you can order online, through Door Dash, or go pick it up.
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 an egg, cheese, and meatball breakfast sandwich, which is big enough to share. Technically, they have seating, so you don’t have to grab n go, but the counter seating is often full, and the food is easy to transport (or eat in your car).
Outdoor seating: Yes
Gnarly Cuban (pop-up)
Update: Their empanadas can now be found at Freehand Goods in College Park. They are currently working on their own brick and mortar space.
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 the adorable mini bottles of cafe con Leche.
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
More Grab N Go Spots:
SIT DOWN AND CHILL
Nic & Luc
Over in Longwood, you can find this family-run spot with breakfast and lunch. The scratch kitchen boasts a farm-to-table approach, no GMOs, plant-based options, and thoughtful eating. Several keto-friendly menu items are available if you are looking for carb-free opportunities. So do yourself a favor and visit Nic & Luc; everyone will be able to find something they love.
Outdoor Seating: NO
Brunch at Redlight Redlight
Brunch by Chef Jes is one of my favorites in the whole city. Redlight Redlight is such a comfy atmosphere (also kid-friendly and dog-friendly) and what is coming out of the tiny kitchen is remarkable.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Flower Cafe
This spot is down off 1-92 near Margaritaville, in the Sunset Walk Promenade. It’s a pretty cafe that seems almost out of place in this highly touristy area, but if you find yourself on that side of town, it’s a nice place to meet up with a friend who is visiting and doing the Disney thing, or study and grab a coffee and baked good.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
The Sourdough BRead house
With their new location in Casselberry, Sourdough Bread House is known for its 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, you can get an American Breakfast platter if that isn't your speed.
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
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
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
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
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
Image Credit: Three Birds Cafe
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
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 not in my personal rotation, it’s gotten a bit pricey over the years, but people seem to enjoy the location for a picturesque place to walk off the breakfast carbs after your meal.
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
MORE SIT DOWN AND CHILL SPOTS
COFFEE SHOP/BAKERY BREAKFAST
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
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
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
PROPAGATE SOCIAL HOUSE
Breakfast is served all day here with a healthy dose of oxygen from all the plants in the space. Breakfast sandwiches, bagels, toasts, among vegan options can all be found at this coffee house.
Outdoor Seating: Yes
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
More Coffee Shop/Bakery Spots:
VEGAN/HEALTHY
DaJen Eats - dajen eats has closed
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. A new menu is set to debut in August when this spot is re-opening.
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
Skyebird Juice and Experimental Kitchen - skyebird has closed
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
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
Image Credit: WYC Designs
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
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
MORE VEGAN SPOTS TO TRY
brunch
THE MONROE
Weekend Brunch vibes at the Monroe don’t disappoint. If you are looking for a stunning backdrop to impress your friends and southern comfort dishes like Stuffed Creme Brulee French Toast, Fried Chicken, and Steak and Eggs, you might want to add this to your essential brunch list. Brunch hours are 11-3 on Saturdays and Sundays. If boozy brunches aren’t your thing, they have a solid coffee bar here.
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
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
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.
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.
Other brunch spots:
Everything compiled with images 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.