Greatest Breakfast Spots in Joliet: Serving Smiles All Day

3043 Theodore St, Joliet

(815) 267-3810

Love this place! I've been going for years, and Donut Den always impresses. The donuts are consistently amazing, and the staff is just as wonderful. Yes, prices have gone up a bit, but it's worth every penny for these dangerously delicious treats. If you're on a diet, beware; once you have a taste, it's tough to stop at just one. The dough is perfect—soft, chewy, and just the right balance of flavors in every bite. I stumbled upon Donut Den while driving by and noticed a steady flow of customers, which is always a good sign. The staff was friendly and quick, and the prices were fair for the quality you get. The yeast donuts are fresh and chewy, while the cake donuts are soft and delightful. I tried the "taffy apple" and "peanut butter crunch," and both were fantastic. They're way better and larger than the chain donuts. The owner is incredibly kind, and I love that they offer classic options like the old fashioned donut. If you're in the area, make sure to check them out. You won't be disappointed!

815 W Jefferson St, Joliet

(815) 727-3511

On a trip to the Joliet area, I had the chance to visit Home Cut Donuts, and it was a delightful experience. The service was great—everyone was very friendly and helpful. We got a mixed box of six donuts plus an apple fritter, and each one was delicious. I found the yeast donuts to be even better than the cake ones. My favorites were the apple fritter, the toasted coconut, and the angel crème. Overall, it was a fantastic experience with friendly staff and tasty treats. If you're in the area or just craving donuts, definitely check them out. Home Cut Donuts has been serving the Joliet community since 1966, and it’s easy to see why they're a local staple. Walking in, you're greeted with the warm smell of freshly baked donuts. Their variety is impressive, and they've certainly perfected the classic flavors and textures. Some standout options include the vanilla long johns and jelly-filled donuts, each offering a delightful sweetness that can brighten any day. Beyond just the donuts, the whole experience feels warm and inviting, made with love and skill. Whether you're sharing a box, treating yourself, or trying something new, Home Cut Donuts is the place to be for a celebration of flavor and tradition. We frequent this place regularly—every given Sunday. Don’t miss out on the donuts on a stick, choco cake donuts, and Bavarian crème, paired perfectly with a hot cappuccino topped with whipped cream. The staff does a fantastic job, and it’s a fun spot to sit inside and enjoy your treats. Highly recommended!

406 N Scott St, Joliet

(815) 630-3036

Sunshine Mexican Cafe - Restaurant & Catering is a gem in Joliet, especially for breakfast. They are attentive, clean, and very accommodating. My sister's wedding was a hit here! The hall was beautifully decorated, and the food was delicious, especially the birria. If we have another event, this is the first place we'll think of booking. They handled the decorations and serving with excellence, and the staff was professional and friendly. They even reminded us of traditions when we got caught up in the fun. I highly recommend hosting your next celebration here. The Sunday buffet is one of the best I've experienced, with an impressive spread of Mexican entrees like unlimited birria and chilaquiles. I'll definitely keep visiting for this. I also ordered catering for a brunch at home, and the amount and quality of food we received for 20 people were outstanding. The chilaquiles were amazing, and everything arrived right on time. I can confidently recommend their catering services. Dining in is also a pleasure. The food is consistently delicious, and the service is great. The waitress was friendly and attentive without being overbearing. It's a nice place to eat, and I appreciate having such a reliable spot in Joliet.

1101 Essington Rd, Joliet

(815) 280-5275

Every visit to The Curator’s Café feels like entering an art gallery, where the creativity isn't just in the decor but also in the food and drinks. The coffee is a standout, with each sip offering bold flavors and rich aromas that truly wake up your senses. Their breakfast and lunch sandwiches are something special. Made with fresh, quality ingredients, each one is like a work of art. Whether you're starting your day with a classic breakfast sandwich or enjoying a gourmet lunch sandwich, you won't be disappointed. The soups and salads are not to be overlooked. They're prepared with the same attention to detail, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors. I can't recommend this place enough! The sandwiches are always packed with flavor, and the portions are generous. The staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, always friendly, efficient, and making you feel like a valued customer. It's clear they love what they do. The Curator’s Café has quickly become my favorite spot for a great sandwich and a cozy environment. On nice days, the outdoor patio is a perfect place to enjoy your meal. The sandwiches, especially with their delicious bread, are a must-try. Pair the Van Gogh with a strawberry smoothie for a truly satisfying experience. The service is consistently excellent, making each visit enjoyable.

984 E 9th St, Lockport

(815) 836-3880

Honey Field Pancake House & Restaurant in Joliet offers a truly satisfying breakfast experience. The ambiance is cozy, and the service is top-notch. Our waitress was incredibly courteous and attentive, ensuring our needs were met throughout the meal. Although the food took a bit longer to arrive because it was freshly made, it was absolutely worth the wait. The coffee was fresh, and the food was delicious, with fresh ingredients evident in every bite. I tried the Grandma's veggies skillet with a banana fosters pancake upgrade, and both were fantastic. My mom couldn't stop raving about her pancake combo with pumpkin pecan pancakes. The portions were generous, leaving us with plenty of leftovers. The standout dish for me was the jalapeño and cream cheese quiche. It's now my go-to choice, perfectly balanced with a slight kick from the jalapeños without being overly spicy. The steel-cut oats were also a highlight, adding to the overall excellent experience. In summary, if you're looking for a place with great food and service, Honey Field Pancake House & Restaurant is a must-visit.

411 E Lincoln Hwy, New Lenox

(815) 717-8135

I tried Waffles Kafé for brunch with my girlfriend, and it was a delightful experience. We started our meal with refreshing orange juice and then enjoyed the multigrain pancakes and the ham & cheese skillet. The food was good, and the service was exceptional. Our server even helped us take some pictures, which was a nice touch. The ambiance of the café is decent, and being located in a plaza means there’s plenty of parking available. I highly recommend this place, as my meal was amazing! I ordered the chicken fajita bowl, which was a generous portion. The chicken was tender and fresh, the guacamole was plentiful, and the grilled peppers and onions were delicious. The dressing complemented the dish nicely. I couldn't resist trying some of my husband's waffle fries, which were perfectly cooked. He had the steak wrap, which was also large and flavorful; he couldn't stop raving about how meaty and delicious it was. Known for its incredible variety of waffle creations, Waffles Kafé takes this breakfast classic to new heights. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet like chocolate waffles or savory like bacon and egg waffle sandwiches, there’s something for everyone. The place is bright, clean, and updated with plenty of options to suit all tastes, including a high-protein section. They offer one soup a day with interesting combinations, mimosas, Bloody Marys, and other adult beverages along with specialty coffees. The atmosphere is pleasant, and I’ll definitely be returning.

1602 N Prairie Ave, Crest Hill

(815) 630-2013

Went here today for the first time and, just like everyone else has said in the reviews, this place did not disappoint! We went for a late Father's Day lunch and arrived just 45 minutes before closing. Even though we felt a bit bad about coming in late, the staff was incredibly nice and friendly. The food was hot, fresh, and everything we ordered was delicious! We’ll definitely be coming back, just earlier in the day next time. It’s truly a great hidden gem in Joliet. The food here is consistently tasty and always tastes fresh. The daily soups are especially delicious. Ruben, the owner, is very friendly, and the staff is hardworking, ensuring your coffee is topped off and all drinks are refilled promptly. We sat at table 1, but they really are #1. From the amazing customer service to the delicious food, this place has it all! I tried the tilapia, which was mouth-watering and delightful, and the Mexican burrito had just the right amount of spice. Fresh cold lemon water was always at our table, and the coffee was constantly being refreshed. The portions are well-sized and fairly priced, and I’ve always been treated with complete friendliness every time I visit. They even provide a fancy vase with lemon water for you to refill your own glass, which is perfect for someone like me who drinks a lot of water. I stopped here while searching for the feel of my smaller hometown in my new city, and it's probably the best restaurant I've been to in the city so far. Do yourself a favor and stop by if you have the time, even if it's just for coffee – it’s worth it!

1150 W Jefferson St, Shorewood

(815) 666-1447

On our Saturday morning visit to Happy Place Cafe, we were pleasantly surprised by the lack of wait time. My family and I ordered the steak and Fajita skillet, both of which were delicious with generous portion sizes. The toast was delightful, although the pancake and coffee were not up to the mark. Despite only taking a bite of the pancake and not finishing my coffee, the friendly service and tasty main courses made our visit worthwhile. We returned on a Friday early evening with my 5-year-old, who was intrigued by the name. It was a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a sit-down breakfast later in the day. Although the salad had a few less-than-fresh pieces, everything else was just right. While we experienced a bit of a wait for our meal, the combination of breakfast and lunch options and great service made up for it. Catherine, our server, consistently provides excellent service, enhancing our overall experience each time. Prices are reasonable, and the clean tables and comfortable seating make Happy Place Cafe a spot we will definitely visit again. Highly recommend this friendly local gem!

2635 E Cass St #9733, Joliet

(815) 726-0881

A week ago, my wife and I stopped by Cherry Hill Cafe in Joliet for breakfast, and it was an experience worth sharing. We both ordered our meals with sides and coffee. The cream of chicken soup was a solid choice, and we both enjoyed it. My wife had the patty melt, which was pretty tasty, and I went for the Reuben. While the sandwich didn't have as much meat as expected, the staff was attentive and promised to pass the feedback to the kitchen. The atmosphere at Cherry Hill Cafe is charming and feels like a cozy, small-town spot. The waitstaff is friendly and welcoming, which adds to the pleasant dining experience. We've been enjoying Cherry Hill Cafe for years and always find the food satisfying, especially their breakfast options. Their Spanish breakfast menu is a hit with us, and the country skillet is a favorite, loaded with delicious sausage. It's a convenient spot for us, especially after visits to Silver Cross Hospital, and it's become our go-to breakfast place. The restaurant has been remodeled with a unique county-style vibe, complete with distinctive tables and booths. We feel right at home every time we visit, and we love coming back to this great family restaurant.

1819 Knapp St, Crest Hill

(815) 744-9001

The Southern Cafe in Crest Hill, IL is a fantastic spot for breakfast. The food is amazing, and the portions are large, so make sure you come hungry. The setup is clean and inviting, and I was so pleased with my experience that I’m already planning my next visit. During my visit, I had the andouille sausage with jalapenos, biscuit, cheese, gravy, and eggs. The portions were huge, and I couldn't finish everything. The highlight was definitely the Nasty Skillet with pancakes instead of toast – I got two full-sized delicious pancakes! The service was outstanding, with our server going above and beyond to help everyone around her. She truly deserves a raise. The coffee could use some improvement, but overall, this place is highly recommended. If you skip a meal or two before coming, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy all the great food. This is a terrific spot, and the value for your money is excellent.

3004 S State St, Lockport

(815) 722-7146

Stopping at Norma's Cafe for breakfast was a delightful experience. I was drawn in by the promise of good food at reasonable prices, and they certainly delivered. The menu is full of American favorites, from burgers and fries to meatloaf and biscuits and gravy, making it a perfect spot for anyone looking for a hearty meal. Just remember, they only take cash, but there’s an ATM inside for convenience. The atmosphere feels like a nostalgic step back to the 1970s or 80s, which adds a unique charm to the visit. The cafe is clean, albeit a bit dated, and the gravel parking lot somehow adds to its old-school vibe. As for the service, it was commendable. Our waitress was quick to attend to us, and though there was a small mix-up with the eggs – we got over easy instead of scrambled – it was easy to overlook given the overall pleasant dining experience. While I wouldn’t recommend the cream of mushroom soup due to its texture, the rest of the meal was spot-on. The coffee was exceptional, and the kitchen sink omelet, although made with fake cheese, had a good flavor. The workers were friendly and professional, making sure our order was precisely as we asked. Overall, I give Norma's Cafe a solid 10/10. It’s a fantastic find on the way to Chicago, and I’ll definitely be coming back. I highly recommend this spot for anyone in the area looking for a great breakfast. The location, staff, and food are all top-notch – thanks to the whole team for a wonderful meal!

564 Brook Forest Ave, Shorewood

(815) 744-0356

Crispy Waffle in Joliet is an absolute gem for breakfast lovers. From the moment we walked in, the friendly staff made us feel right at home, setting the tone for a delightful experience. Although we were seated in a high traffic area, the hustle and bustle added to the lively and welcoming atmosphere of the place. The menu is extensive, covering both breakfast and lunch, which made choosing just one item a bit challenging. Our waitress was incredibly helpful, guiding us through the options with a smile. I decided to try the Signature Waffle and breakfast combo, and I'm so glad I did. The waffle was perfectly crispy and came out fresh and hot, just what I was hoping for. The portion sizes were generous too, ensuring we left fully satisfied. While on a previous visit the Romeo omelette and chocolate chip pancakes weren't quite to my liking, this visit completely changed that. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable as always. The cozy atmosphere at Crispy Waffle is complemented by their excellent service and tasty dishes. Despite being a busy spot, especially on weekend mornings, it's well worth the visit. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a great breakfast or brunch experience. I will definitely be returning to try more of their amazing offerings.

995 Brook Forest Ave, Shorewood

(815) 254-9600

This breakfast place had been on my list for a while, and I finally got to try it this weekend. We were seated right away, even though it was quite busy. Our waitress was incredibly friendly, frequently checking in on us and asking for feedback. She really stayed on top of her service, which I appreciated. The restaurant was very clean, and the atmosphere was open with lots of daylight. We ordered the Gypsy Omelet and the Turkey Divine Omelet, along with pancakes and French toast. Their menu offers a lot of choices, which is a definite plus. I especially enjoyed the Gypsy Omelet, adding sour cream and hot sauce to it for an extra kick. The Turkey Omelet was tasty as well. I requested my hash browns extra crispy, and they were perfectly cooked to my liking. This breakfast spot has definitely earned my business. The prices are more than fair, in my opinion. The food was great, and my wife loved the freshness and flavor of her vegetarian skillet. The coffee was excellent, and my Cinnamon French toast was delicious. I'm glad we stopped by, and this will be our go-to spot whenever we're in the area. I would highly recommend it and look forward to returning. The only small downside was that the online menu isn’t accessible outside of opening hours, but other than that, it was a great experience.

1511 Riverboat Center Dr, Joliet

(815) 744-0985

I drove 30 minutes to try out the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Joliet, and it was worth the trip! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was welcoming, and it felt like stepping into a cozy, country home. Our waitress, Kelly, was outstanding—friendly, attentive, and always there to keep our drinks full. I had the chicken and dumplings, and it was delicious and arrived quickly. The service overall was excellent, creating a relaxed and enjoyable breakfast experience. Although my favorite dinner item, the roast beef, is no longer on the menu, the pot roast was still good. I'm planning to try the fish next time. The store had a great selection of pretty and varied merchandise at reasonable prices; I even spotted a giant KitKat bar and some nice Christmas items. And I can't forget to mention their sweet tea, which was the highlight of the meal. Cracker Barrel truly lives up to the hype with its friendly service and tasty food!

923 W Jefferson St, Joliet

(815) 726-2417

SubDock in Joliet is fantastic for breakfast! "Country," who took my order, was incredibly sweet and recommended the Rueben, which was spot on. I would've preferred Thousand Island over mustard, but that's just a personal preference. The meal, especially with fries, offers great value for the price, and I always leave satisfied. SubDock has become my go-to for a good sandwich, and I can count on them for consistent quality. The prices are reasonable, and it's a nice little gem in Joliet. Even though I've noticed portion sizes have decreased since Pete's ownership, the quality remains top-notch. Love SubDock!

20631 W Renwick Rd, Crest Hill

(630) 757-9059

Cutest little breakfast place! We went for my birthday for a brunch date, and I LOVED the decor, especially the neon egg sign. The staff were awesome and sweet, making the experience even more special. My birthday breakfast cocktail, a creation by one of the employees called Dragon of the West, is now a new favorite of mine. I’m literally recommending this hidden gem to everyone. The food was delicious and so filling. I tried the Carnitas Benedict, and it was excellent. The coffee flights are fun; a bit too sweet for my taste, but I appreciate the creativity. The breakfast potatoes were well-seasoned and delicious. I had the spicy egg bagel without bacon, with breakfast potatoes on the side, and it was unbelievable. Loved that they had Heinz ketchup. The service was great, with Jen, my waitress, being friendly and attentive. If you’re in the area, I’d definitely recommend grabbing breakfast, brunch, or lunch here. Overall, had a very good breakfast with the country fried steak that came with two eggs and potatoes. The coffee flight with fall flavors was very good. Great atmosphere and cleanliness.

510 Collins St, Joliet

(815) 722-7008

Taqueria Los Comales in Joliet has become one of my favorite spots for breakfast. The place is usually packed, which is always a good sign, and it's a decent size, so you don't feel cramped. I love that each table has a container with jalapeños, cauliflower, and onion—it's a nice touch. The service there is great, always attentive and friendly. I ordered the carne en su jugo, which came with a side of relish, diced onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and avocado—absolutely delicious. I also got an Agua fresca de tamarindo to go, and it was hands down the best I've ever had. I didn't take pictures since I was in a hurry, but I'm definitely returning for more. My wife and I go there twice a week because the food is consistently amazing and affordable. Parking can be a bit of a hassle later in the day, but it's worth it. My go-to is the steak burrito with cheese and beans, and I love that they have hot carrots on the table. The nachos with salsa are fantastic and only about three bucks. Their horchata has a lovely vanilla taste that I adore. We also tried a flauta and al pastor taco dinner, both of which were excellent. The tortilla chips were fresh, light, and crispy. The food was served quickly, and the inside was clean and nicely decorated. No complaints here—highly recommended!