October 31, 2023

Fortify Your Mornings with Fort Wayne’s Best Brunch Spots

Discover Fort Wayne's top brunch spots where mouthwatering classics meet inventive dishes. Essential for foodies seeking unforgettable morning eats! No fluff, just great food.

Richard Gargan
Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
Indiana
Fortify Your Mornings with Fort Wayne’s Best Brunch Spots
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March your appetite right into Fort Wayne - where brunch isn't just a casual mid-morning meal, it's a delicious expedition. Experience culinary strongholds fortified with sweet and savory delights, where waffles come with a fortress of whipped cream and omelets wage a welcome assault on your senses.

Bistro Nota

620 S Calhoun St, Fort Wayne

(260) 488-6682

Reviewed by:

Alex Lopez

I stumbled upon Bistro Nota during a business trip in Fort Wayne and was truly impressed. This understated place really delivers when it comes to food and service. I chose the braised short rib, which was extraordinary, perfectly paired with a glass of their Cabernet Sauvignon. Don't let the simple exterior fool you, Bistro Nota is worth the visit. Every dish we shared was cooked to perfection and seasoned just right. Our server was not only well-informed but also very attentive. The industrial decor gives the place a warm and welcoming ambiance. The brunch from 12-2 is not to be missed, and I am already looking forward to trying their dinner. On each visit, the quality never disappoints; it has quickly become my favourite restaurant in town. The staff is consistently friendly and helpful. The tantalising food is so impressive it's almost hard to put into words. The decor is simple, modern, and clean, adding to the overall fantastic experience. In my opinion, Bistro Nota might just be the best place to eat in Fort Wayne.

Brunch on Barr

Barr St, Fort Wayne

Reviewed by:

Orphia Louis

I must say that Barr Street Market, parented by YLNI, is truly top-notch. I was amazed to find well over 300 vendors on a busy day, all offering a fantastic array of items. It's the perfect spot to begin your Saturday. And for those interested, they even have bloody Marys and other drinks available. I have never been disappointed by a visit here. Although it's always handy to have cash, most vendors accept credit cards, making transactions smooth and easy. Once you visit Barr Street Market, you're bound to become a regular. Kudos, Fort Wayne! Another plus is the great food truck lot attached to the YLNI Farmers Market, and let's not forget the excellent people-watching opportunities! I'm definitely planning to visit some vendors' shops, including Edwin Coe in Busco. In a nutshell, this place is a must-visit.

Cindy's Diner

230 W Berry St, Fort Wayne

(260) 422-1957

Reviewed by:

Janet Simmons

I had a blast at Cindy's Diner! The atmosphere is warm and charming, truly reminiscent of an old school diner. I tried the breakfast here, and it was top-notch, honestly one of the best in Fort Wayne. My other half enjoyed a delightful cheese burger. If you're in two minds about visiting, take my word for it and go straightaway. You'll find this little place buzzing with people all the time, which adds to its charm. As for the food, it's delicious and budget-friendly. The next time I'm in town, I'm definitely swinging by. The staff here is super friendly, as are the patrons. I remember a time when my friend and I visited on her birthday, and the whole diner broke into wishes when they overheard it was her special day. It was such a warm, beautiful experience. A fun tidbit - if you're a regular, you get your own coffee cup, ready and waiting. And trust me, once you've been to Cindy's, the odds are high you'll become a regular. The food, the value, and the overall vibe are just too good to pass up. And let's not forget the chance to mingle with different people each time, due to its size. Cindy's Diner is just a great place to be. The food is yum, the prices are reasonable, and the opportunity to meet new folks each visit is a bonus. Can't wait to be back!

Tolon

614 S Harrison St, Fort Wayne

(260) 399-5128

Reviewed by:

Reynaldo Kayani

I can't rave enough about Tolon, where brunch is an experience in itself. The cocktails are impeccable, and the food is simply top notch. I had the perfectly cooked pork chop, served with flavorful dirty rice and a unique, spicy, pea salad. My wife savored her pasta, declaring it as one of the best. The service was prompt and tactful, giving us the space we needed to enjoy our meal while catering to our every need. The ambiance was bustling and lively, yet maintained a comfortable atmosphere. It's definitely a bit on the pricier side, but worth every penny. The restaurant is so good that we don't mind the 2-hour round trip drive to dine here. The owner's hospitable nature was the cherry on top, as he not only visited our table but also made my wife a special drink. We also relished the crab and potato soup and our main courses - a standout pork chop for me and the best scallops my wife has ever tasted. If you're ever in downtown Fort Wayne, Tolon is a must-visit; I assure you, you won't regret it. It was my first visit to Tolon and to say that it was phenomenal is an understatement. The ambiance at night with the beautiful lights was striking, albeit a bit loud due to the bustling crowd and music. Our waiter Scott made our experience superb with his friendliness, knowledge, and patience. The unforgettable taste of the food brought tears to my eyes – from the delectable deviled eggs starter to the juicy, flavorful chicken entrée. The side of fresh green beans and potato wedges in an indescribably good sauce was a delight. As for the peach cheesecake dessert, words fail me. You simply must try it. Tolon has swiftly risen to the top of my favorite eateries list. From the roasted bone marrow appetizer to the mains - the best salmon in Fort Wayne and a delicious organic chicken breast - every dish was a symphony of flavors. We also indulged in a rich, dense, shareable chocolate cake and an amazing handcrafted blueberry mojito mocktail. Finally, a special shoutout to their incredible service and staff. Tolon, you've won me over!

Friendly Fox

4001 S Wayne Ave, Fort Wayne

(260) 745-3369

Reviewed by:

Esmeralda Dearcia

I recently stopped at Friendly Fox for brunch while in Fort Wayne and I was not disappointed. It's a charming little place located south of downtown and I'm so glad it was recommended to me. Their veggie grilled cheese was absolute perfection and the Midnight Cuban, despite being a different take on the traditional Cuban sandwich, was very tasty. I loved the addition of beef brisket but I personally prefer the classic version with ham, although that's just a matter of personal taste. The service was quick and efficient. We got our drinks immediately and had plenty of time to read the menu before ordering. The only downside was that our server didn't check on us after our food was served. I would have appreciated a drink refill and some extra mustard for my Midnight Cuban. I was taken aback by the beautiful location and the warm inviting atmosphere inside. It had plenty of seating and a lovely care for plants both indoors and outdoors. The food was simply amazing. I'd highly recommend the Brisket Foldover - it was a beautiful blend of flavors and textures. And their selection of beverages is plentiful, making it perfect for all meal times including dessert and refreshments. The service was top-notch. Our server, Nora, was amiable and helpful. She made excellent menu recommendations and helped us find the best meal deal. Friendly Fox really stood out with its unique, neighborhood cafe vibe. It's now home to my favorite salads in Fort Wayne. There's not a single bad choice on the menu whether it's sandwiches, desserts, breakfast or drinks. I'd highly recommend it to anyone in the area. It truly checks all the boxes for a great dining experience.

BREAKFAST CLUBB 2 - (Formerly Spyro's)

6455 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne

(260) 436-7797

Reviewed by:

Benith Prada Parra

My first visit to BREAKFAST CLUBB 2, formerly known as Spyro's, for brunch was a wonderful experience. Initially, it was a bit confusing as they were changing their name, but don't let that deter you. The food won me over instantly. I went two mornings in a row while visiting Fort Wayne and was impressed both times. The food was not just good, it was great. Everything came out fast and piping hot. On one of my visits, I ordered the Garden Omelette after a morning hike and I couldn't have asked for anything better. Their Mexican frittata was flavorful, well-presented and simply delicious. The quick service added to the delightful dining experience. Even with the quick delivery of food, there wasn't any compromise in the quality. Moreover, the staff was friendly and the atmosphere was relaxed, perfect for a leisurely brunch. I was served by a lady named Kristin during one of my visits. She was prompt, attentive, and contributed positively to my dining experience. In short, I highly recommend BREAKFAST CLUBB 2 for a fulfilling brunch experience in Fort Wayne. From the excellent food to the efficient service and the pleasant environment, this place gets a big thumbs up from me. I can't wait to visit again.

Breakfast Clubb

3232 St Joe Center Rd, Fort Wayne

(260) 492-6262

Reviewed by:

Stanley Thornhill

Breakfast Clubb has quickly become my go-to spot for brunch in Fort Wayne. The food here never disappoints - it's fast, delicious, and consistently high in quality. Plus, the prices are more than reasonable for the generous portions you receive (they'll even give you an extra egg if you order 2!). While Sundays can be particularly busy, it's worth the wait. However, if you'd rather skip the line, I recommend getting there early. The only downside is finding an opportunity to pay your check when there are 35 other people eager to get their breakfast fix. The menu at Breakfast Clubb offers a fantastic selection of breakfast items and the coffee is simply superb. Not to mention, the service is remarkably fast - the quickest I've ever seen. The staff is always friendly and ensures you're well taken care of. In summary, Breakfast Clubb is an exceptional breakfast spot that can get crowded especially by late morning. Despite the occasional wait, there's no doubt in my mind that this is the best breakfast in Fort Wayne.

Dash-In

814 Calhoun St, Fort Wayne

(260) 423-3595

Reviewed by:

Louvenia Clark

I had high hopes when I walked into Dash-In for brunch. The fact that everyone must be over 21 was a surprise, so this isn't a spot for family brunch. I was warmly welcomed by the waitress and looked forward to the food. Unfortunately, my "spicy over-easy" egg was a let down as it lacked the promised spiciness and was slightly undercooked. Furthermore, the 30-minutes wait was a bit too long for me. The ambiance was lively, with music playing overhead and a bustling crowd, which might not be the best setting for intimate conversations. The prices matched the food quality, which was average in my experience. Despite this, I am attracted to the Dash-In's unique vibe. The art displays always catch my eye and I absolutely adore their smoked salmon and hummus plate. The atmosphere can be described as "hippy-dippy" with an artsy and vibrant energy. You could feel the passion of the staff towards their work, which I found commendable. I was also pleased with their fresh salmon and the delicious Carnitas Benedict my partner ordered. The Mad Apple Wood Bacon grilled cheese along with the tomato bisque is another must-try dish. I was also thrilled by the regular change in their art work and craft beers, keeping the experience fresh and exciting. The service was efficient and the staff were light-hearted. I particularly enjoyed the King of the Castle beer and the Vietnamese coffee. This spot has become one of my favorites and despite my initial disappointment, I've returned a few times. I am always intrigued to try their different offerings like the tomato bisque and the breakfast burrito, which were delicious. I am excited to try out more of their menu and I will absolutely be returning. I would rate Dash-In at 4.9/5 stars.

Conner's Kitchen and Bar

1150 S Harrison St, Fort Wayne

(260) 467-1638

Reviewed by:

Deborah Garduño

Conner's Kitchen and Bar in Fort Wayne is simply fantastic! My husband and I have had an amazing experience dining here. We started with their shrimp and grits, which are truly the best. Their fried green tomatoes were divine, and my husband couldn't get enough of their fish tacos. We both agreed that the elote on the side was a must-try. And let's not forget the Gooey Butter Cake for dessert. It's so delicious, it's the stuff of dreams! Our servers, Angelica and Johnny, were both friendly and professional. Despite being busy, they made sure we were well taken care of. Johnny even recommended some cocktails for us, which ended up being the highlight of our meal. We also tried their smoked chicken wings with dry rub and avocado ranch dip, along with the Southwest salad with added steak. Both were delicious and full of flavor. I personally enjoyed the week's special, a chorizo burger with corn, black beans, and fried onions. It was a hearty, flavorful dish that I would definitely order again, though I would suggest adding some fresh veggies for an extra crunch. Overall, Conner's Kitchen and Bar offers a welcoming and friendly space, with dishes that cater to all tastes. I can't wait to return to try more of their offerings. Whether you're a local or a visitor to Fort Wayne, I highly recommend stopping by for a meal. Be sure to call ahead or reserve online for the best experience!

Sara’s Family Restaurant

5792 Coventry Ln, Fort Wayne

(260) 436-4185

Reviewed by:

Idk Rodríguez

Sara’s Family Restaurant in Fort Wayne is a fantastic place for brunch. The staff is friendly and attentive, keeping my coffee cup filled and swiftly clearing away plates. The food is simply amazing, especially their unique jalapeño pancakes and tender chicken and waffles. The freshness of the fruits and the excellence of biscuits and gravy were also noteworthy. I love the fun twist of naming breakfasts after presidents and influential women. My server, Olivia, was prompt, helpful, and made sure I had everything I needed. The food portions were large, well-cooked, and the best hashbrowns I’ve had in a while. The quick service and kind staff add to the overall positive experience. Even the salads are fantastic here. Sara's is a place where pride in their work is evident in every aspect. I highly recommend it if you're in Fort Wayne!

Waynedale Cafe

5700 Bluffton Rd, Fort Wayne

(260) 478-8129

Reviewed by:

Juventina Ballard

I really enjoyed my experience at Waynedale Cafe for brunch in Fort Wayne! The staff was incredibly accommodating and friendly, going out of their way to make dishes vegan upon request. The food, oh, it was absolutely delicious and the portion sizes were very generous. The dining room layout is simple but clean, creating a pleasant atmosphere to enjoy a meal. The menu is quite extensive and wonderfully includes authentic Mexican dishes for both lunch and dinner. If you're a traditionalist, the breakfast menu is substantial and everything is prepared well. A dish I highly recommend is the chillaquiles - just delicious! Although, I suggest asking for the sauce on the side. Despite being unpretentious in its interior decor, the food quality is top notch. I even introduced a guest from Belgium to this place and he enjoyed the food, just wished for a bit more spice. Overall, I highly recommend this place for its fantastic food and excellent service. It's a place I always love coming back to.

Willie's Cafe

3434 N Anthony Blvd, Fort Wayne

(260) 485-3144

Reviewed by:

Randa Vargas

I recently visited Willie's Cafe for the first time and was impressed by its cleanliness and friendly atmosphere. Even though it took a while for our food to arrive, the friendly staff and reasonable prices made up for it. Our waitress was exceptional, constantly refilling our coffee and checking in on us. I ordered a BLT wrap that was generously filled with crispy bacon and a fresh, sweet fruit salad. My friend's Grilled Chicken wrap also had a generous portion of chicken. The restaurant was pleasantly quiet and cozy. I can see myself visiting at least once a week; the chefs are amazing and the servers are always on point. If you happen to visit around lunchtime, do try their ham and bean soup special - it's a game-changer. We came as a large group and they accommodated us effortlessly. The food was scrumptious and you get a lot for the price you pay. I absolutely loved it here and will definitely be back. This place is a 10/10 recommendation.

Liberty Diner

2929 Goshen Rd, Fort Wayne

(260) 484-9666

Reviewed by:

Joshua Martinez

My initial visit to Liberty Diner in Fort Wayne was absolutely fantastic. The portions were generous and incredibly tasty. The crepes reminded me of French toast while the soup was flavorful. A hearty plate of salad and livers with onions were also savored. It looked like it was formerly a Denny's, and the food was good, but the moment they brought out the freshly baked bread every morning, I was sold. It's worth a special trip! As for the seating, we chose a booth. However, the bench was sloped towards the middle, which gave me a bit of a backache upon leaving. But I feel it was probably just that specific booth. The diner has a classic, timeless American vibe which I absolutely loved. While the service was top-notch, the food could use some enhancements. The salad, for instance, lacked special toppings like crunchy elements, nuts, cheese, or eggs that could have elevated its taste. The burger was alright. However, the standout was our waitress, Holly. She took the time to thoroughly explain everything to us and even brought out an extra soup for us to taste. The soup had a unique sourness to it, similar to lemon, which made for an intriguing and pleasing flavor. Overall, my experience at Liberty Diner was memorable, and I will most definitely be returning for more of their fresh morning bread and to try more dishes.

Lunch Box Cafe

8814 Coldwater Rd, Fort Wayne

(260) 490-5722

Reviewed by:

Rosa Pannu

I've been to Lunch Box Cafe twice now, and both times have been an absolute delight! The photos I took could never do justice to the quality of the food here. I literally cleaned my plate both times and would have eaten more if I wasn't already so full. The food is top-notch, and the staff mirrors that quality in their excellent service. The menu may be diverse, but everything has an old school charm that makes it even more appealing. I can't recommend their breakfast enough, especially their southern omelet. It was the best corned beef hash omelet I’ve ever had. Not to mention, the sausage gravy was out of this world. My wife and I are also excited about trying the tenderloin, which we've heard great things about. I once placed a large carry-out order for my workplace, and the attention to detail and service from the owner and staff was remarkable. The breakfast burritos were a hit; they were so sumptuous that I saved half for later. Considering the quantity and quality, the prices are very reasonable. I'm eagerly waiting for my next visit! If it's your first time or you're a regular, you won't be disappointed. The food is freshly made to order, service is quick and friendly, and they never make you feel rushed. Plus, the atmosphere is just perfect. A hidden gem in the crown of Fort Wayne's dining scene, indeed.

The Bluebird Restaurant

4410 Bluffton Rd, Fort Wayne

(260) 478-4976

Reviewed by:

اسماء Blaney

I had a fantastic brunch at The Bluebird Restaurant in Fort Wayne. The food was delicious and reasonably priced. I enjoyed a delicious pancake which my child loved too. The chicken stir fry was awesome and my wife's breakfast was just as appealing. We always request Sam as our server, she's simply the best. The servings are generous, especially the skillets but they're incredibly tasty! I often go for the 2 egg platter which comes with a refreshing slice of cantaloupe. I had a delightful first experience and I'm excited to return. The French toast and its toppings were heavenly. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with great prices and exceptional service, has me eager to revisit. Overall, I can't wait for my next visit!

Sun Rise Cafe

10230 Coldwater Rd, Fort Wayne

(260) 416-0400

Reviewed by:

Gerardo Fleming

My girlfriend and I tried out Sun Rise Cafe for the first time and we were not disappointed. We chose different specials for our meal, each about $12.89, and found them to be worth every penny. The restaurant itself was clean and the staff were excellent. I enjoyed the pork tenderloin and while the other dishes were decent, I found they could use a boost in seasoning. Despite being incredibly busy, the service was top-notch. The Sun Rise Cafe was a change from the typical chain restaurants we were used to. It was crowded when we arrived, but the owner was quick to assure us a table would be ready in just 15 minutes or we could opt for the bar. We were impressed by the efficiency and friendliness of the staff, reminding me of some of my favorite diners back home in NY. In a later visit with a larger group, we enjoyed the same level of service and even more great food. Although there was a mix-up with the orders, it was handled professionally and quickly. The one downside was that the portion size could have been a bit larger for the price. Nevertheless, our waitress was attentive and kept our drinks topped up without us needing to ask. I'd rate Sun Rise Cafe a firm 4 out of 5 stars, docking a point only because of the portion size. It's a comfortable, laid-back spot that offers quick service, making it a great choice for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.

Lakeside Cafe

1040 N Coliseum Blvd, Fort Wayne

(260) 387-5138

Reviewed by:

Ashley Rush

I had a really great experience at Lakeside Cafe for brunch in Fort Wayne. I was initially unsure due to the 80's themed décor, but to my pleasant surprise, I found everything to be really clean and well-maintained. Our server was excellent, the service was seamless and made our meal even more enjoyable. The food was incredibly tasty, with an impressive selection of bread types. I was particularly wowed by the crepes, which I highly recommend! The value for money here is exceptional, with fast, friendly service, delicious food, and reasonable prices. I even got to try a breakfast frittata for the first time, and it was delicious! On this particular day, I opted for a healthier choice and ordered the Greek steak. It was delicious and came in a generous portion. The hostesses were always polite and friendly, and the kitchen staff seemed equally as impressive. On my first visit, I ordered eggs and toast and was surprised by the quality of such a simple meal. I did order a cappuccino, though, and found it a bit too thick and sweet for my taste. Lastly, they did recently raise their prices, but they will still honour the prices listed on the menu. All in all, I have nothing but good things to say about Lakeside Cafe – definitely worth a visit.

Joanna’s Family Restaurant

3720 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne

(260) 755-0894

Reviewed by:

Clayton Kramer

I can't help but leave a glowing review for Joanna's Family Restaurant in Fort Wayne after numerous satisfying meals there! The food and wait staff are exceptional. The only slight hiccup was the manager who occasionally seemed a little absent. There were a few instances where patrons were left waiting to pay. However, this hasn't deterred me from coming back to Joanna's. I recently enjoyed a mouthwatering mushroom and Swiss burger with crispy fries and hearty potato soup for lunch. The extensive menu caters to all meals of the day, and I appreciate the variety. Mother's Day breakfast was a delight! Even though it was bustling, the restaurant remained clean and friendly. The wait was minimal, the food was scrumptious, and the portion sizes never disappoint. My server during my last visit was a young redhead who provided exceptional service. While it's not the cheapest place in town, you definitely get your money's worth! I'm impressed with the creative menu items not found in your average restaurant. Joanna's Family Restaurant is definitely worth a visit the next time you're in Fort Wayne and craving a hearty meal!

Klemm's Candlelight Cafe

1207 E State Blvd, Fort Wayne

(260) 471-6828

Reviewed by:

Tanner Haiser

Klemm's Candlelight Cafe is a charming, locally owned diner in Fort Wayne perfect for a relaxing brunch. It's a refreshing change from the commercial chain restaurant scene, providing an authentic hometown feel. The service is consistently friendly, making the experience comfortable and enjoyable. The food quality and portion sizes are outstanding for the prices. I was particularly impressed by the home fries and corned beef hash - the portion was incredibly generous! The reasonable pricing paired with an attentive waitress made my visit delightful and memorable. The menu offers some unique and delicious choices. The garbage plates are a must-try, and the Meatlovers skillet laced with BBQ sauce is simply out of this world. Their beverage service could possibly be improved, but doesn't overshadow the overall pleasant experience. Despite the minor imperfections, the warmth and originality of Klemm's Candlelight Cafe for brunch are captivating. I will definitely be returning on my next trip to Fort Wayne to savor their breakfast offerings. It's a classic Fort Wayne diner that knows how to deliver a hearty, fulfilling meal.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

1609 W Washington Center Rd, Fort Wayne

(260) 489-1855

Reviewed by:

Jayvon Mcgriff

My experience at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Fort Wayne was fantastic. This place has a great vibe, excellent food, and top-notch service. I particularly enjoyed playing games with my granddaughter and checking out the new specials they always seem to have. The general store inside always impresses with its great buys and deals. On my recent visit, even though the place was packed, the staff handled everything professionally and amicably. The wait time to be seated was negligible and the staff was efficient, helpful, and attentive. Our food arrived fresh and hot from the kitchen, making for an entirely enjoyable dinner. This was my second time having breakfast here and it just keeps getting better! The food was phenomenal, including the Bloody Mary. The 30-minute wait time was worth it, given the quality of the food and service. My personal favorite was the Biscuit Benny with sausage, apples, and a hashbrown casserole. Although I experienced food poisoning on my last visit, I'm certain it was a freak incident. After all, my wife enjoyed the same meal without any issues. I've been to this place numerous times without any problems and I assure you, despite the mishap, I'll be back. I wish the best of luck to the restaurant!

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