Greatest Breakfasts in Cedar Rapids for All Ages

501 7th Ave SE Suite B, Cedar Rapids

(319) 449-4046

Fabulous hole-in-the-wall place! Lightworks Cafe is family-owned, and I first visited them in November. I returned in February, and it's now on our to-do list for lunch. The food was perfect, and the drinks were spectacular. If you're into coffee shops, you have to come here. It's instantly become one of my favorite spots. I love that Cedar Rapids has this stylish coffee shop offering delicious and creative coffee and tea drinks, plus great food options. The owners are super friendly, and the prices are great too! The atmosphere is lovely, especially on a sunny day when the light streams through their floor-to-ceiling windows. As a mom of two young kids, I really appreciate the cozy baby changing table in the bathroom. Their coffee is so smooth, and the attention to detail in making the coffee makes it worth the trip for an excellent cup. Well done! Just a note that the kitchen doesn't open until 9 AM, but their breakfast is delicious with quality ingredients. We had the breakfast taco and breakfast sandwich with bacon, both of which were fantastic. The place was a little hard to find initially, as we drove past it the first time, but we'll definitely be going back!

201 3rd Ave SW, Cedar Rapids

(319) 200-2791

Absolutely adore this cafe! Groundswell Cafe is a lovely spot with an inspiring mission to serve the community. One of the things I love most is that instead of tips, they have a "pay it forward" fund that helps provide hot, healthy meals to those who can't afford them. The staff here are incredibly friendly and truly brighten your day with their warm smiles and excellent service. The food is fantastic, with options that cater to everyone, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes. Everything is made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients when possible, and it all tastes amazing. The house punch is also a must-try! Their commitment to helping the less fortunate is truly admirable. Groundswell Cafe used to be a musical arts center, supporting local kids with a safe space to explore the arts. It’s heartwarming to see how they continue to plant seeds for positive community growth through the Matthew 25 program. The farmers omelette, which can be ordered as a wrap, is a standout dish and absolutely delicious. Overall, this place is a treasure in Cedar Rapids. It’s a wonderful neighborhood spot with outstanding customer service and a noble cause. I’ll definitely be back and plan on paying it forward next time. Groundswell Cafe deserves all the support it can get! 🥰

560 Boyson Rd NE Suite A, Cedar Rapids

(319) 409-6905

I’m visiting from Minneapolis and tried Feedwell Kitchen and Bakery for breakfast in Cedar Rapids. Yesterday, I grabbed an Italian sandwich because they had sold out of The Beefst. It was one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had. I also managed to get the last strawberry rhubarb eclair, which was amazing. I knew I had to try one of their breakfast items before leaving town, so this morning, I ordered The Standard egg and cheese biscuit with ham. It was so good! I highly recommend this cute little place and suggest going early so you don’t miss out. There's such a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere as soon as you enter Feedwell. It’s the perfect spot for meeting friends over excellent coffee and delicious pastries or breakfast sandwiches. The avocado toast is one of my personal favorites. They are open for limited hours, and I've made the mistake of heading over for an afternoon meet-up only to realize they close mid-afternoon. Today, I saw a group of ladies knitting and enjoying their time, while young moms kept an eye on well-behaved toddlers as they sipped their coffee. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the cafe is clean and sunny. They even have a meeting room and a comfy sofa if you need it. I enjoyed the understated music playing in the background. The place was busy when we arrived around lunchtime, and when I had trouble reading the menu above the counter, they kindly gave us paper menus. Our to-go order took only about 10 minutes, and the staff remained friendly throughout. The herbed goat cheese on the chicken sandwich was particularly delicious. Feedwell is always a reliable spot for great coffee and a tasty bite. With gluten-free and vegan options available, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re grabbing lunch with friends or treating yourself in the morning, check them out!

99 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids

(319) 200-1000

Loved this place! Breakfast here was fantastic. The avocado toast came with pickled onions that really elevated the dish, and the pancakes were warm with a perfect touch of crispiness, signaling their freshness. I also got a cappuccino, which was delicious and featured cute latte art. The vibes were great, with friendly baristas and charming decor. There's one bathroom that's absolutely hilarious, adding a unique touch to the experience. My husband and I tried the avocado toast with bacon and the biscuits and gravy with veggies—both were incredibly fresh and tasty. The staff was very friendly, and even though the place was fully seated, everything was served quickly. This spot is a wonderful addition to Czech Village, which is special since it's the neighborhood where my wife grew up. It's a joy to visit a nice place to enjoy breakfast with the family. We also enjoyed a visit today—I had one of the best omelettes ever, light and fluffy with just the right amount of fillings, and a blueberry muffin that was light and addictive. My wife loved her avocado toast, and the coffee choices are superb. Highly recommend stopping by for the excellent food, lovely atmosphere, and wonderful service.

120 3rd Ave SW Ste 2, Cedar Rapids

(319) 423-9297

Dash Coffee Roasters is a cute coffee shop with a great atmosphere. It's a great spot to settle in for a couple of hours to study or chat. I tried the El Ranchero breakfast sandwich and it was a delicious surprise. The scones looked amazing, with plenty of flavors to choose from, and I regret not getting one. I had a latte with their homemade maple nut flavor; while it wasn't my favorite, the latte art was impressive and the rest of my experience was fantastic. I'll definitely be back to try another coffee drink and a scone! The prices are a bit higher, but that's expected at a local spot that can't compete with larger corporations on cost. The staff is very friendly. I attend a men's Bible study here on Wednesday mornings at 6:00, and everyone is always welcoming. Feel free to join us. Espresso drinks are consistently good. The savory scone was just okay, but everything else more than made up for it. One thing that does bother me is being prompted for a 25% tip for counter service, especially when my drink isn't brought to my table. That aside, Dash Coffee Roasters is a great place for meetings with friends, family, co-workers, or even a date. The sandwiches are handmade, and the folks behind the counter are skilled at their craft. I highly recommend this coffee shop.

1519 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids

(319) 200-3030

Highway 30 Diner in Cedar Rapids deserves way more stars than I can give. If you haven't been here yet, you're seriously missing out! The food is made from scratch and honestly, it might be even better than what your mom makes. The pancakes? Absolutely the best. Despite a bit of a wait, the friendly and genuine staff made the experience worthwhile. The vibe is like chatting with neighbors or old friends, and the staff truly cares about your satisfaction. The menu offers classic diner staples like omelets, biscuits & gravy, and steak & eggs. I went for the shipwreck, and every bite was a delicious blend of cheesy, savory goodness. Though my shipwreck was outstanding, meeting such friendly staff made my day even better. Whether you're in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, make sure to drop by Highway 30 Diner at their new location on 6th Street SW—you won’t regret it!

86 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids

(319) 200-4590

Lucky's on 16th in Cedar Rapids is a fantastic spot for breakfast! The scrambled eggs I ordered were perfectly fluffy and moist, hitting the mark just right. They paired wonderfully with crispy hashbrowns and fresh toast, making for a simple yet satisfying meal. The atmosphere was clean and casual, which I appreciated, and the service was both quick and efficient—our food arrived in about 10 minutes. I was drawn to their Tex Mex skillet with mashers, and it did not disappoint. The skillet was packed with flavor, and the eggs were cooked just the way I like them. The mashers had a delightful, fluffy center that was tasty, and I found the toast to be perfectly thick, capable of holding a generous portion of the skillet and an egg on each piece. I’ve heard people rave about their pancakes being as big as your head, which I'm eager to try on my next visit. The friendly and attentive staff, even with a full house, added to the comfortable atmosphere. I noticed pictures of various dishes around the restaurant that tempted me to try more from the menu. Overall, Lucky’s is a gem for anyone looking for a classic, relaxed, and satisfying breakfast experience. Highly recommended!

568 Boyson Rd NE #190, Cedar Rapids

(319) 320-2424

Passing through Cedar Rapids, my breakfast stop at Cruz's Cafe was a delightful experience. I ordered the Country Shipwreck breakfast skillet, packed with bacon, sausage, ham, and eggs topped with sausage gravy, minus the peppers, and it was delicious! Others in my group went for the classic breakfast with bacon or sausage, and everyone was satisfied. The service stood out the most—despite the morning rush, the staff greeted us warmly and seated us quickly. The ambiance was pleasant, with clean facilities and tasteful decor. Although it can get noisy during peak hours, the welcoming atmosphere more than makes up for it. I must mention the iced coffee selection, which was a treat, and the cinnamon roll French toast was a standout—I’ve never tasted anything quite like it. Even among the bustling environment, the food consistently came out perfect, making this a go-to spot. The coffee could be a bit stronger, and I wish the fruit offered more variety and freshness, but these are minor issues compared to the overall quality and warmth of the cafe. Having visited a few times before, I can say Cruz’s Cafe maintains its charm with each visit. The new extended hours and homemade specials are exciting additions. With top-notch service and delicious food, I'd recommend Cruz’s for a satisfying breakfast or lunch in Cedar Rapids.

1616 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids

(319) 200-2698

The Village Tap is such a cool little spot for breakfast in Cedar Rapids. They serve up some fantastic breakfast plates, and I can't wait to go back for lunch. Their pizza is a must-try too, especially with half-price dine-in on Tuesdays. Since they've remodeled the interior, the place looks great, and the food is just as good as ever. The breakfast skillet was awesome! Our waitress was super nice and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed. I'd highly recommend listening to your server when they mention the portions are large—trust me, they're not kidding! The food and service are excellent, and it's a perfect spot for breakfast or to relax and catch up with friends. Plus, they have the NFL Sunday ticket, which is a big bonus. I recently had breakfast there again, 6/5 stars! The Chicken Kiev was tasty, and the service was spot-on. Highly recommend The Village Tap!

69 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids

(319) 200-5776

Czech Town Station in Cedar Rapids is an absolute gem for breakfast! The pancakes are the standout for me—the best I’ve ever had. They’re huge, soft, and have this perfect crispy bottom. Lightly salted and just cooked to perfection. While everything else was great, the pancakes definitely stole the show. My boyfriend tried the hash browns and they were spot-on perfect. The eggs Benedict flight is a must-try, with options like crab cake, pork sausage and gravy, and Florentine. Each one was on a grilled English muffin, crispy on one side and just delicious. Service was fantastic too. When my dad and I stopped by for lunch, our waitress was super helpful and accommodating, even guiding us through some beer selections to complement our meal. We had schnitzel with tots and potato salad and ate every bite. It was a great boost to keep us going as we explored more of Czech Village and Cedar Rapids.

715 2nd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids

(319) 200-1094

What a delightful spot Midtown Station is for breakfast in Cedar Rapids. The waitresses were incredibly nice and friendly, setting a warm tone for the meal. I tried the smoked sausage sandwich with kielbasa, and it was awesome! I washed it down with a Witchslap, one of the great beers they have on tap. They offer both inside and outside seating, adding to the cozy, comfortable atmosphere of the older building. My friend had the Philly, while I gave the eggs benedict combo a try. Although the English muffin was burnt on the bottom and the hash browns were a bit overcooked, the overall experience was still positive. There's a 4% charge for using a credit card, which is something to keep in mind. The breaded pork tenderloin was served over fries until it reached a firm texture, yet it was still very tasty. The service was excellent throughout. The patio dining area is very nice, and the prices are pretty good considering the portion size and quality of the food. Midtown Station offers real food at about the same price and time commitment as a fast-food chain, making it a great alternative. I'll definitely be returning for another visit. Overall, it was a good experience, and I highly recommend trying it out. Ben truly put his heart and soul into this creation, and the service was awesome, with a special thanks to Ann.

804 5th Street SE, Cedar Rapids, IA, United States, Iowa

(319) 826-3923

I had breakfast at Riley's Cafe 2727 in Cedar Rapids and left feeling satisfied. The portions were deceptively large and generous, making sure no one leaves hungry. The food was delicious, especially the eggs which were cooked to perfection. The friendly staff added to the experience, ensuring that we felt welcome and attended to. Our waitress was wonderful, attentive, and made the visit enjoyable. Riley's Cafe is definitely a place worth visiting for a good breakfast.

1906 Blairs Ferry Rd NE, Cedar Rapids

(319) 550-4517

While visiting Cedar Rapids, I decided to stop by Scott's Family Restaurant for breakfast, and I must say, it was a pleasant experience. I ordered "The Cowboy," which came with scrambled eggs, wheat toast, and hash browns topped with American cheese sauce. The portion sizes were decent, and the price was surprisingly affordable, around $19. The place had a cozy, old-time diner feel, reminiscent of grandma's kitchen, which added to the charm. It was quite busy, but the diverse menu made it easy to find something appealing, all at reasonable prices. Although the service was a bit hectic due to the crowd, and our server seemed to have her hands full, she was moving quickly to accommodate everyone. The food itself was tasty; I especially enjoyed the crispy hash browns, even if the cheese sauce wasn't exactly to my taste. Overall, despite the few hitches in service, it was an enjoyable breakfast spot with a solid menu. I'm curious to try their lunch or dinner options next time. It's definitely worth a visit if you find yourself in Cedar Rapids.

1028 3rd St SE Suite #1, Cedar Rapids

(319) 200-4449

Crosby's turned out to be a great stop for breakfast, even though we had a bit of a mix-up with the menu. We originally detoured our road trip to try their crab Benedict, only to find out that their online menu wasn't up to date and the brunch options were limited. Despite that, the experience was positive. We ended up ordering lunch instead and both the smash burger and the chicken sandwich were pretty good. The mac and cheese had a nice cheesy flavor with a subtle kick from what seemed like Cajun seasoning; I would definitely recommend it. The service was impressive. Everyone we encountered was polite and accommodating. Our server did a great job answering our questions and providing solid recommendations for sides. The bartender was also helpful, sharing their happy hour specials with us. We tried a new beer based on her suggestion and it didn’t disappoint. The outside seating area was another highlight, with a pet-friendly vibe. I ordered the steak sandwich which was tasty, though the steak could have been a bit more tender. The arugula and cherry tomatoes added great flavor, but the bread was a bit thin and fell apart easily. The mustard hoisin glazed Brussels sprouts were a hit; crispy with a flavor-packed glaze, though not always balanced. For dessert, the chocolate lava cake was the perfect end to the meal. It was soft and moist with a delicious hot lava filling, and the vanilla bean whipped cream complemented it beautifully. Overall, Crosby's delivered excellent service and food. The homemade pasta with sweet corn béchamel was a surprising delight, and kudos to Bryce and Terrance in the kitchen for their great work. I’m looking forward to trying more from their menu in the future.

393 Edgewood Rd NW, Cedar Rapids

(319) 396-3045

Four of us visited Tommy's West Restaurant in Cedar Rapids at 2 PM on a Saturday. While some in our group opted for lunch, I chose to explore their breakfast offerings, and I must say, the food did not disappoint. However, it was the cinnamon rolls that truly stole the show. These massive delights, about 6-7 inches in diameter, were incredibly delicious, soft, and perfectly frosted. I was so impressed that I ended up purchasing six cinnamon rolls to take home and share with my family. The service was friendly and fast, which complemented the very good food. The spaciousness of the restaurant is another highlight, making it an ideal spot for larger groups. For me, dining at Tommy’s West was a walk down memory lane, with fond childhood memories of visits to the original Tommy's on 1st Avenue. It was a delight to experience this location and admire the mural. The baked steak I tried was wonderful and disappeared quickly from my plate. The hash browns were tasty, and my husband enjoyed his omelet, though he found the pancakes to be just okay. Unfortunately, the elephant ear didn't live up to expectations, which was a bit disappointing for him, but the server did a great job overall. The restaurant's all-day breakfast fits perfectly into the diner theme, and their homemade jellies, jams, and apple butter are not to be missed. I'm looking forward to returning and trying more menu items, especially since they’re open for dinner too. Overall, Tommy's West is a fantastic diner experience, and I can't wait for my next visit.

820 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids

(319) 261-2233

Best breakfast I've had in a long time! The menu offers such a wide selection that everyone in my group was thrilled with their meal. It's easy to customize your order, which is a fantastic perk. The restaurant isn't very large, so if you're a party of six, that's about the biggest group they'll comfortably accommodate. We decided to stop here based on a Google review while visiting town for the weekend, not knowing where to grab breakfast. Although the place was packed, we got a table right away. The coffee was great, and while we waited, we were already impressed by the friendly staff. The food didn't disappoint either, with generous portions that ensure you never leave hungry. The prices are very reasonable, far less than you'd expect for the quality and quantity you receive. Now, I make it a point to stop by every time I'm in town, which is every few months—but I miss going there weekly! It's good home cooking at its best. The eggs Benedict was a standout and worth the visit. The restaurant's small size means it's smart to arrive early to secure a seat.

3130 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids

(319) 261-1249

I had a wonderful experience at 16th Avenue Grill for breakfast in Cedar Rapids. The food is fantastic, and the standard diner fare really hits the spot. The pancakes were good, but what stood out was the all Meat omelet - it was very good. My first visit here won't be my last! The staff and owners are incredibly friendly, which adds to the welcoming atmosphere. The attention to detail in the decor and overall vibe was impressive. On a different visit, I tried the loaded shipwreck and French toast, and I couldn't think of anything negative to say. The food was good, and the service was great. It definitely feels like a classic ma and pa diner. During another visit, I had the Mac and Cheese Burger, which was a good deal at $14.85, including fries and a drink. The biscuits and gravy were good too, exactly as expected. It was nostalgic to be back in this building after 50 years when it used to be a Howard Johnson's. The food was excellent, and the service matched it. The prices are very reasonable, especially given the generous portions. I will definitely be back for more!

5050 Edgewood Rd NE #6613, Cedar Rapids

(319) 378-2945

I had breakfast at Hy-Vee Market Grille in Cedar Rapids and was impressed. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was fresh and delicious. Our server, Steven, was outstanding; we never had to ask for anything because he was so attentive. My daughters and I were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food. I had an issue with my shrimp being undercooked, but the hostess and manager went above and beyond to resolve it, promptly offering a replacement and an extra side at no charge. I wasn't seeking a free meal, just a good one, and they delivered. Overall, it was a great experience, and I look forward to returning.

3980 Center Point Rd NE, Cedar Rapids

(319) 200-4499

If you're looking for your next breakfast destination, make sure to visit the Breakfast Barn and Lunch House in Cedar Rapids. Despite the busy Father's Day crowd, the customer service and food quality remained top-notch. The staff truly rocks! I was one satisfied customer, enjoying a tasty breakfast that was plated with care. The real butter is a standout, a welcome change from the usual spreads. Vicki and Gretchen are absolute gems. They were friendly and incredibly efficient, always timely with refills and clearing plates. I attended a veteran breakfast with friends, and the staff was accommodating, helping us rearrange tables even when the back room wasn't available. With years of experience eating breakfast across the country thanks to my military and cooking background, I can confidently say this place knows how to do it right. The eggs were perfectly cooked to my request, and the overall meal was delicious. Yes, I miss the restaurant's previous incarnation with the pizza oven, but this spot fills a needed niche for home-cooked meals in a welcoming environment. It gives off a lovely diner vibe reminiscent of a small-town charm. While some reviews have criticized the food, I find those comparisons to high-end establishments unfair. For a home-cooked feel in a diner-like setting, Breakfast Barn is a solid choice. Cedar Rapids offers various culinary delights, and this spot holds its own. My wife and I had a great experience here. Everything was cooked perfectly and tasted amazing. The scrambled eggs were seasoned just right, and the sausage patties were meaty and well-prepared. Pancakes had that perfect crisp edge and fluffiness. Plus, the freshly squeezed orange juice was a delightful touch. The place is busy, so expect a short wait, but rest assured, it’s worth it. Overall, I recommend giving this place a try. The staff is accommodating, the food is good, and it’s priced reasonably for the area. Don't let a few negative reviews sway you. The Breakfast Barn deserves a visit. Keep up the great work!