Lovely Breakfast Spots in Madison for Kids and Families

909 E Broadway, Madison

(608) 298-7553

At least 4.5, but I just can’t bring myself to give a full 5 stars. 😬 Elie's Cafe is truly a gem for breakfast in Madison. The food has been consistently great every time I've visited, but today really stood out! It's always a better experience when a server greets you with a genuine smile, and that's exactly what happened today. I wish all wait staff were this kind and attentive. It’s a shame this level of service isn’t more common elsewhere! If there's one thing I'm not a fan of, it's those pesky surcharge fees – I dislike them wherever I go. That aside, Elie's Cafe is a lovely hometown diner with incredibly fresh and fast food. So far, I haven’t been disappointed by any of the dishes I’ve tried, and their prices are so reasonable that I feel compelled to leave a generous tip every time. The place isn't large, which adds to its cozy, hometown feel. The meals are down-home and delicious, with portion sizes so generous you’ll likely need a doggy bag. I recently visited with a group of five plus a toddler, and the staff was fantastic about accommodating our needs, even when we had to switch and add tables. We lingered for almost three hours, catching up as a family, and never felt rushed. Despite living 70 miles away, I’ll definitely stop by whenever I’m in the area. The cafe is very clean, with lovely decor and spotless restrooms. Elie's Cafe is a delightful gem that I’m happy to have discovered!

5518 University Ave, Madison

(608) 231-3666

The Original Pancake House in Madison is an absolute gem for breakfast lovers. The staff was incredibly friendly, and the portions were massive and delicious, especially considering the price. We stopped by after a morning at the farmers market, arriving around 9:30 am on a Saturday. It was busy, but we managed to get seated immediately. By the time we left, there was a wait, which made perfect sense after tasting the food. The pancakes and waffles are enormous, and if you’re lucky enough to get strawberries while they’re in season, they come piled high on your plate! My daughter couldn’t even finish her blueberry waffle, and my husband, who was pretty hungry, enjoyed a variety of items. The hashbrowns were amazing, and his eggs, pancakes, and coffee were very good. I tried the eggs Michael, which was good, though I found the English muffin a bit tough to cut, so I just had the sausage and poached egg. My potato pancakes were a tad gluey, but the applesauce was tasty, and I ended up sharing my husband’s superb hashbrowns. The staff kept our water glasses and coffees full, which was greatly appreciated. I also tried a strawberry pancake, which was honestly the best pancake I've ever had. It was incredibly fluffy, like a souffle, and the handmade strawberry jam was bursting with flavor. The strawberries themselves were sweet and fresh, a rarity for me to find in the USA, and everything was served at the perfect temperature. With many different sauces available, each bite could have a new flavor experience. Whenever my daughter is in town, this is her go-to breakfast spot. The portions are generous, so I often take half my meal home. If you plan on visiting on a Sunday, arrive before 9 am to avoid the crowds. If you’re nearby, you should definitely try it!

1511 Monroe St, Madison

(608) 256-9476

This place was amazing! First impression – we were greeted right outside the door and given an estimate on the wait time. We had a big group of 12 and arrived at the peak Sunday time of 10 am, so we ended up waiting for about 45 minutes. Despite the wait, the staff was excellent, constantly updating us. Smaller groups only had to wait around 5-15 minutes. Once seated, the staff was quick to take our orders and serve the food. The prices were great, and the portions were huge. Definitely planning on coming back! A quick tip: they only take cash, so make sure to have some on hand. We ordered the breakfast bagel with ham, cheddar, egg, grilled onion, and spinach, along with the French toast, which is made from cinnamon rolls. Both meals were absolutely delicious, but don't stop there. Treat yourself to the malted chocolate shake – it's the best shake I've ever had. The food was amazing, and Shea, our server, was possibly the best ever! I'm excited to return. Mickies Dairy Bar has become one of my favorite spots for breakfast and brunch in Madison. It's a charming diner with a wide variety of food options. There was a brief 10-15 minute wait, which was totally worth it. I had the scrambler, including yanks, eggs, toast, and more. It was delicious, came in a large portion size (you'll have leftovers), and was reasonably priced at $12 before tax and tip. They only accept cash, but there's an ATM inside for convenience.

915 Atlas Ave, Madison

(608) 221-4815

I discovered Cottage Cafe on Google Maps while searching for a breakfast spot in Madison and it turned out to be a real gem. The place was bustling, with a full parking lot shared with a laundromat, which is always a good sign. While I waited for a parking spot, my wife went in to put our name down and was already enjoying a coffee by the time I joined her. The waitress was quick to take our order and was attentive with coffee refills throughout our meal. We ordered a pancake, which impressively took up the entire plate, and the biscuits and gravy breakfast that included four biscuit halves smothered in gravy with two eggs on the side. The food arrived promptly and everything was delicious. The prices were unbelievably reasonable, especially considering how most places are these days. The atmosphere was that of a classic old-school diner, which I loved. Most of the guests seemed to be older, adding to the charm. It's a busy spot, with lots of conversations filling the air, but the food comes out quickly despite the crowd. If you enjoy a down-to-earth, bustling diner experience with friendly and sassy staff, Cottage Cafe is the place to be. I even tried the Reuben on rye and couldn't resist taking home a slice of their chocolate pie. Overall, great food and good service made it a fantastic breakfast experience.

118 S Pinckney St, Madison

(608) 220-9520

We tried Marigold Kitchen in Madison for breakfast and had a great experience. Here's a rundown of what we ordered: scrambled eggs with greens and whole grain toast, fried eggs over easy with greens and multigrain toast, zucchini omelette with goat cheese and sourdough toast, and sweet potato kale hash. The scrambled and fried eggs were solid choices, both earning an 8/10 from me. The zucchini omelette was a standout with a 9/10, and the sweet potato kale hash matched that score with its flavorful mix. I also tried the turkey and bacon sandwich on gluten-free bread with cabbage slaw, which I enjoyed, and the pumpkin cinnamon roll gluten-free pancakes were incredible—definitely the best gluten-free pancakes I've ever had. They were moist, hot, and delicious, and I highly recommend them. The staff was welcoming and the atmosphere friendly, making for a pleasant dining experience. There were plenty of vegetarian options, and I loved the Chilaquiles and the roasted sweet potato kale and pesto hash. The Lemon Ricotta Buckwheat pancakes with berries were also fantastic. The fresh salad that came with my entrée had a delightful light vinaigrette dressing. To top it off, I ordered a latte that was so good I had to get a second one before even finishing the first. Overall, Marigold Kitchen has delicious food with a variety of choices, and I'll definitely be coming back again!

1351 Williamson St, Madison

(608) 259-9032

Let me start by saying that the food at Willalby's Cafe was surprisingly delicious. I had one of the best omelets I've ever had there. Despite the building and vibe being a bit quirky, the food more than makes up for it. My wife and I really enjoyed our breakfast; she had a scramble and I opted for eggs and hash browns, and we shared a giant pancake. Everything was fantastic! We sat at the counter where the two servers were attentive and very nice. I'm often wary of diner coffee, but theirs was unexpectedly great, like barista-level good. I tried it with soy milk, and they also offer almond milk, which is great for those with dietary preferences. The service was awesome and friendly, and the vegan French toast was a standout—with all the fruit and homemade veggie sausage that was hot, meaty, and delicious. The toast was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside with a buttery center. Just perfect. I was blown away by how they hit all the right notes for a satisfying breakfast experience. It's a classic greasy spoon with a simple menu and devoted to breakfast foods, offering generous serving sizes and even vegan options. I'll definitely be back!

653 S Park St, Madison

(608) 251-0311

I was really impressed with The Curve for breakfast in Madison. The place has a classic diner vibe, which I absolutely loved. The blueberry pancake was standout—huge and packed with blueberries, just delicious. My coffee cup was never empty, which is always a plus in my book. The service was prompt, and despite being busy, they managed to keep everything flowing smoothly. I had the corned beef hash with eggs, cooked just the way I like them, and buttered toast. It was amazing and definitely hit the spot. Prices were reasonable, especially for Madison, which was nice to see. Although the parking lot was small, I had no trouble finding free street parking nearby. Overall, I had a great experience and can't wait to return with my family to try the lunch menu. The Curve is a classic greasy spoon that captures the retro diner experience perfectly. It's a must-visit spot right outside downtown Madison.

301 W Johnson St, Madison

(608) 709-5569

Absolutely incredible spot for a nice breakfast or lunch on the weekends. The food is fresh and delicious. I tried the blind special, which lets you order a special for $11.95 without knowing what it is, and was treated to an amazing scramble that was filling and tasty. My friend got the corn beef hash that was also stellar. Highly recommend this spot for a weekend meal. This corner restaurant serves quality breakfast, cocktails, and sweet treats. The atmosphere is unique and historic, with an eclectic collection of souvenirs left by past patrons. My party ordered the Pulled Pork Cheese Grits, a Buttermilk Short Stack, and the Biscuits and Gravy. The spices on everything were great, with the pancakes and biscuits being extra fluffy. The only issue I had was that the grits were a little too liquidy for my taste, but overall, it was still fantastic. Service is quick and efficient, with food brought out in a timely manner. The atmosphere is quaint and historic, but in a mom and pop shop type of way. If you ever need a good bite to eat, definitely get in here and get yourself a stack of pancakes. The blueberry pancakes we ordered were exceptionally tasty, although I was a little concerned about the price of three strips of side bacon for $6.95. Otherwise, come in early to avoid the line if you don’t want to wait. Great menu, delicious coffee, and juices. Highly recommend it for breakfast in downtown Madison. One of the best places around, along with Marigold Kitchen on the opposite side of the square. Score: 4.7 out of 5.

107 King St, Madison

(608) 255-0285

I had breakfast at Ancora Cafe + Bakery in Madison on Labor Day, and I left impressed with my experience. The marshmallow cold brew was a standout—truly unique and flavorful. Our server, Brianna, was attentive and helpful, going out of her way to make adjustments when needed. The setting was serene, adding to the overall positive vibe. We tried the Mango Bango Benedict and Caprese Melt, both of which were delicious and satisfying. While the hot coffee could have been warmer, there were plenty of drink options available, which was nice. The space was clean, although a bit tight, and I noticed it might be challenging for wheelchair access due to narrow doors and stairs. However, the bakery items like the croissants were delightfully large and buttery, which made up for any minor inconveniences. Overall, Ancora Cafe + Bakery offered a delightful breakfast experience, and I look forward to visiting again.

1221 Ann St, Madison

(608) 255-2355

By far one of the best diners ever. So many places just phone it in with prepackaged, frozen, reheated food, but not here. How many diners actually know how to make a good steak? Parkway does. They're amazing, they're friendly, and they're fast. The food is so good, I'd eat there every day if I could. Smiles all around, and the full menu is available all day. I kinda want to go right now. It doesn't look like much from the outside, but the food is outstanding! My husband and I stopped for a bite before making our two-hour trek home, and it was well worth it, even though the one-way in and out made it a little tight. The burger was incredibly flavorful with the perfect char. I ordered it medium-rare, and it was so juicy, I almost thought I was at a burger joint. The cheese curds were golden and squeaky—absolutely perfect. They even accommodated my request to substitute pita bread for a wrap on the buffalo chicken, which was delicious and so generous in portion. We stopped here for breakfast and were seated promptly. The staff was friendly and attentive, and the restaurant was clean and well-maintained. Our food came out hot and plentiful. We'll definitely visit this restaurant again. It's our favorite breakfast spot—delicious with friendly and fast service as always. The jumbo cinnamon roll is the size of a dinner plate!

2089 Atwood Ave, Madison

(608) 244-8505

Monty's Blue Plate Diner is an absolute gem, especially for breakfast. We were anticipating a 25-minute wait, but got lucky with counter seats opening up in just 10 minutes. The food was really good—the Smash Burger was super yummy, and while the Biscuits & Gravy could have used more sausage, the overall experience was great. The Irish coffee was delicious and paired perfectly with the meal. Our waitress was friendly and attentive, making sure our coffee cups were always full. I enjoyed it so much that I went twice in one week! The lunch experience was just as impressive, with the staff accommodating someone in our group with an allergy beautifully. The GBLT sandwich for lunch was delicious, and the Sweet Potato Hash for breakfast was wonderful. The diner itself has a cool vibe, and it's a perfect spot to visit after walking around the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. I tried the breakfast sandwich on a Sunday morning—despite being busy, the service was quick and the coffee hot with speedy refills. The portion sizes were just right. I love that they offer a separate vegan menu too! Monty’s is a classic diner with great food and even better service. I will definitely keep coming back and recommend it to others, especially when family is in town. A solid breakfast spot with frequent coffee pass-arounds and amazing staff!

44 S Fair Oaks Ave, Madison

(608) 216-5160

Fair Oaks Diner really impressed me for breakfast in Madison. The atmosphere is just wonderful, and it feels like stepping into a warm, welcoming community. The service is top-notch, with friendly staff doing their best, and the food is truly amazing. The prices are fair, which is always a nice bonus. Their steak fries are executed perfectly—crispy and hot. The whole experience is like stepping back in time with its charming, old-school vibe. The diner itself is small and cozy, with a counter, stools, a chalkboard of specials, and a few tables. The owner is friendly and adds to the overall congenial atmosphere. The food comes out quickly and tastes great. It’s a standard, authentic diner experience with prices that are average for a small diner in Madison. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a visit.

494 Commerce Dr, Madison

(608) 827-5800

I visited Yola's Cafe and Coffee Shop for breakfast and was thoroughly impressed. We tried the peaches and cream waffles as well as the breakfast burrito, both of which were delectable, leaving us with clean plates. Though the "sweet" iced matcha was less sweet than we'd hoped, the overall experience was delightful. The atmosphere at Yola's is lively and welcoming, making it a great spot for an early morning visit to secure your preferred table. The service stood out for its friendliness and attentiveness; everyone was genuinely nice, making the experience even more enjoyable. The staff were quick and efficient, with reasonable waiting times. While the honey lavender latte was average, it was pleasantly priced below average. The cleanliness of the cafe was noticeable, adding to the comfort of the visit. One minor hiccup was with the granola and milk order, which initially came with yogurt. The staff promptly addressed the issue, although the milk could have been presented better. Nevertheless, the positives far outweighed the negatives. Yola's is a cozy and warm place, particularly lovely with its fireplace during colder months, and the outdoor patio offers a refreshing breeze in warmer weather. The beverages are robust, which I appreciate since I dislike weak coffee, and the waffles are simply scrumptious. For a friendly spot to have a meeting or grab a snack, Yola's Cafe and Coffee Shop is a fantastic choice. The cheddar herbed cream cheese on their signature breakfast sandwich is a delightful pairing with fried egg and arugula—highly recommended. The pastries are fun, varied, and look delicious. I’ll definitely be returning for more of what Yola's has to offer.

2862 University Ave, Madison

(608) 233-3388

I've been coming to La Brioche True Food for years whenever I'm in Madison, and it never disappoints. The atmosphere in the back part of the interior is elegant, while the front and the outdoor patio are equally inviting. The food is consistently great, with their potatoes, porridge, and omelets being particular standouts. It's hard not to indulge in dessert, and the croissant bread pudding I had last time was excellent. The service can be hit or miss depending on your server, but overall, I've had positive experiences. The last time I visited, our server, Emeralda, was a bit hard to find at times, but previously, the staff has been attentive and friendly. We always make our way back for brunch, enjoying their eggs Benedict on croissant, chilaquiles, and parfait, paired with coffee and a vanilla latte with two shots of espresso. The place can be busy on weekends, but there are pleasant carpeted waiting areas both inside and outside. The well-maintained gardens add to the charm, and dining on the beautiful outdoor patio with the sound of a pianist playing inside creates a wonderful ambiance. The menu is extensive, featuring French-inspired dishes, a variety of coffees, cocktails, and an outstanding in-house bakery. It's a cozy and elegant dining experience that I continue to look forward to. This time, I enjoyed breakfast tacos with just the right amount of spicy salsa and an order of French toast with berries and crème anglaise, both of which were delicious. I'll definitely be back for more tasty meals.

638 State St, Madison

(608) 286-1640

I visited Sunroom Cafe & Machiques Venezuelan Restaurant for breakfast, and it was a delightful experience. This charming little spot is located on the second floor, just up the stairs and through the door on the right. I started with the huevos rancheros, which were delicious and reasonably priced at $11.59. The portion size was just right. Although the service was a bit slow, the wonderful food and cozy atmosphere more than made up for it. On this visit, I focused on their Venezuelan offerings, and they didn't disappoint. The tequeños, which are Venezuelan cheese sticks, were absolutely incredible. I also tried the patacón, a Venezuelan fried plantain sandwich, which was massive and so tasty. If you're curious about trying a Venezuelan street-style burger, this place is definitely worth a visit. The restaurant is now family-owned and though they're just starting out with a small team, they're doing a commendable job. Long-time visitors should appreciate the effort and the fresh touch of diversity this brings to State Street. It's a quiet, straightforward breakfast spot that covers all the basics of a good brunch. While I might not go out of my way for it, I would certainly drop by again when in the area for a varied breakfast menu. Their arepas are fantastic, with a range of options to choose from – the shredded pork arepa is a personal favorite. The chicken empanadas and tequeños are also top-notch. Overall, it's a great place to enjoy a hearty and authentic meal.

724 S Gammon Rd, Madison

(608) 819-6865

Couldn't be more pleased with everything at Pancake Café Madison. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted warmly, making us feel like our visit was truly appreciated. The restaurant was super clean, and the music perfectly complemented our delicious breakfast. Our server was attentive without being intrusive, which I really appreciated. One of my pet peeves is getting my pancakes cold, but here they serve them with warm syrup—YUM. My pancakes were absolutely delicious. I couldn’t help but wish we had a Pancake Café back home in California; life would be perfect. This was hands down the best breakfast I've had in a long time. My grandma even remarked, “this is terrific! How come I’ve never heard of this place?” We chose to eat outside, and the combination of wonderful weather and fantastic food made the experience all the better. The avocado toast was the best I've ever had, ideal for both breakfast and lunch. It was clear this spot was the right choice. Everything was on point! The staff was super friendly, and the food was amazing. The breakfast burrito was excellent, and while the chilaquiles were solid, a touch of fresh cream on top would have made it perfect, as that's the standard in Mexico. I highly recommend this place. The food was very tasty, portions were generous, and the coffee hit the spot. Our server, Sabrina, did an outstanding job meeting our needs and making us feel comfortable. The dining room was roomy and clean, with lots of natural light streaming in through the big windows.

4863 Hayes Rd, Madison

(608) 688-0512

While on vacation in Madison, I stopped by Perkins American Food Co. for breakfast and had a fantastic experience. I ordered the chicken biscuits with gravy on top, a side of eggs over easy, and potatoes. The food came out quickly and was piping hot. It was delicious and the portion size was perfect. I noticed a lot of people ordering hash browns, but I was very happy with my choice. The servers were incredibly friendly and always had smiles on their faces, which added to the positive atmosphere. The manager was actively helping out and chatting with everyone, which was really nice to see. Despite how busy it was, the bathrooms were very clean. I was really impressed with the speed and quality of the food. The kitchen manager was hilarious, joking and laughing with customers at the register, making the visit even more enjoyable. I hadn't been here in a long time, but I decided to bring some family along and it was a great decision. Our waitress was friendly, quick with a laugh, and very efficient. Another manager mentioned having the "Dream team," which says a lot about their pride in the staff. I've started coming regularly on Sunday nights because the food and service are consistently excellent. Heather, one of the servers, is awesome and always provides great service. If you're in Madison, whether on vacation or living there, I highly recommend stopping by for a meal. Next time, I'm definitely trying dinner. I love coming here every weekend!

3416 University Ave, Madison

(608) 442-9994

Panera Bread in Madison is a breakfast spot that I've come to truly appreciate. Walking in, the warm and inviting atmosphere sets a great tone for the morning. The smell of freshly baked bread and coffee is a comforting welcome. The menu offers an impressive variety, and I've always enjoyed the freshly baked bagels and pastries. The Asiago Cheese Bagel is a personal favorite, with its delicious flavor and perfect texture. The selection of soups and sandwiches is also commendable, and I’ve never been disappointed by their fresh and flavorful offerings. The Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a bread bowl is a delight, especially on cooler mornings. Service here is a highlight. The staff is friendly and attentive, which enhances the dining experience. Whether placing an order at the counter or using the convenient app for a quick pick-up, the process is smooth and efficient. Cleanliness is another strong point; the dining area and restrooms are consistently well-maintained. While Panera might be slightly more expensive than other fast-casual spots, the quality of food and overall experience justify the cost. It’s a great place for a casual breakfast, a meet-up with friends, or even a quiet spot to get some work done. Panera Bread in Madison is definitely a go-to for a satisfying breakfast.

2147 E Springs Dr, Madison

(608) 242-0560

We stopped by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store for breakfast in Madison, and I must say, it was a fantastic experience. The food was delicious, starting with the Bee Sting Chicken, which had the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. My boyfriend, who is from France, thoroughly enjoyed his meal as well, especially the pecan pie, which left quite an impression on him. The pancakes, biscuits, and gravy were classic favorites, and they did not disappoint. The fried chicken was also a hit, cooked just right. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a touch of country charm that made our breakfast feel special. Our waitress was very friendly, and the manager went out of their way to make sure we were happy with everything. Their kindness and genuine care added to the positive experience. While I would have preferred if the biscuits and appetizer were served separately to avoid crowding the table, it didn’t overshadow the overall enjoyment of the meal. Overall, it was an all-around great visit, and we would definitely return to this Cracker Barrel for another delightful meal.

2630 Damon Rd, Madison

(608) 673-6120

I love the food at Perkins American Food Co. for breakfast in Madison. Everything I've tried has been delicious, and the portions are more than enough to leave you feeling full. The prices are about average, but you definitely get your money's worth in terms of quantity and quality. The service was good overall, though I did have a small issue when our waiter wouldn't let us sit by the window, claiming it was too far for her to cover on her own. Despite that, I still gave her an 18% tip because she was attentive and the service was quick. We ordered rice, shrimp, baked fish, salmon, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and broccoli. The food was great, tasted fresh, and was cooked perfectly. One of the highlights for me is always the muffins. My client and her daughter get so excited when they see the Perkins bag, knowing they're getting those soft and fresh-tasting muffins. Plus, you can't beat their deal of buy 3, get 3 free. The wait staff is generally very attentive, and Duane, in particular, is wonderful. He has a knack for making people smile or laugh, which adds to the positive experience. If there's ever a problem, they fix it right away, which I appreciate. I really enjoy going to Perkins, and it’s always a satisfying experience.