June 4, 2025

Coolest Breakfast Spots in Springfield for Kids and Families

Stop by Springfield's peaceful breakfast spots where you can enjoy tasty morning meals. From crispy deep-fried goodies to rich, flavorful dishes, every bite is a delightful start to your day!

Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
Missouri
Editor's Note: Brunch Expert is supported by our readers. We sometimes earn commissions when you click through to restaurants or affiliate links.

Welcome to breakfast time in Springfield! Here, you can snack on delicious country-style cooking that makes you feel right at home. The places are cozy and warm, perfect for enjoying deep-fried dishes that are crispy and yummy.

Legacy Pointe Eatery

1130 Legacy Pointe Dr, Springfield

(217) 670-1217

Reviewed by:

Joel Graham

When I walked into Legacy Pointe Eatery for breakfast, I instantly felt at home. The warm and welcoming atmosphere immediately caught my attention. The hostess greeted us with a friendly smile and seated us in no time. Our waitress, Stacey, was outstanding—always on hand to help with our menu queries while ensuring our drinks were never empty. The menu had a unique and exciting array of options, making it tough to choose just one dish. We ended up ordering several items and enjoyed them all. Some were a bit unconventional, but I’m glad we gave them a try. We had a club sandwich, roasted cauliflower soup, Thai Chili roasted Brussels sprouts, Caesar salad, and the 5 grain medley, each dish leaving a positive impression. The entire experience was impressive, from the charming setting to the impeccable service and the exceptional food. I highly recommend checking this place out for yourself. The menu offers a delightful variety of meats and veggies. The staff were not only super friendly, but the chef even came out to ensure we enjoyed our meals. My friend was thrilled with his tofu wrap, and the pickled shrimp cucumbers were incredibly fresh and tasty—I could have easily eaten more! I had the shrimpatini, and it was incredible. All it needed was a piece of bread to mop up the delicious olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette. The blueberry old fashioned was perfect—I couldn’t resist having a second one. My husband tried the legacy burger and enjoyed it too. We stopped by during our travels from Wisconsin to Missouri and were drawn in by their gluten-free options. The special that day—shrimp and cheese grits with pork belly—was phenomenal. Even my non-gluten-free husband loved it! This place is a true gem, and I only wish it were closer to home because I’d come here all the time.

Le Peep

3232 Ginger Creek Dr, Springfield

(217) 679-1752

Reviewed by:

Oscar Scham

Great food and service in a delightful atmosphere. Always consistent and highly recommended! They serve bigger portions and have lower prices, and it's nice to see the clientele starting to skew younger. If you haven’t been to Le Peep in a while, give them another try. Here's a secret menu pro tip: the Southwestern Omelette is actually a Spanish omelette with added chorizo, and it's fantastic. We were visiting friends up north and a group of eight of us decided to meet for breakfast at Le Peep. While eggs aren’t usually my go-to for breakfast, I ended up ordering smothered hashbrowns, milk, and a few sides. Even with our large group, the service was prompt, and our waitress was knowledgeable and flexible. Despite being quite busy for a Wednesday morning, the food was delicious, the staff was incredibly kind, and this cute gem of a place truly impressed me.

Wm. Van's Cafe

107 W Cook St, Springfield

(217) 679-3287

Reviewed by:

Maybelline Delacruz

August 9, 2024 - I visited Wm. Van’s Cafe for breakfast and was pleasantly surprised by the overall experience. The atmosphere of this downtown café is fantastic, with stylish furniture that creates a unique and inviting vibe. The staff were exceptionally friendly, which really enhanced my visit. While the service was a bit slow, the food made up for it. I started with the avocado toast, which was simply delicious, and the hot chocolate was a perfect complement. The Red Eye Benny, although a bit lukewarm, was full of flavor. The cortado was decent, though I would have preferred it hotter. Despite the timing issues, the quality of the food stood out. The menu offers a good selection, making it tough to choose just one thing! I also tried the Strawberry & Goat Cheese Salad, Cubano, and the Sausage, Egg & Cheese Biscuit. Everything was tasty, and I couldn't resist sampling the sausage gravy as well. Even though the portions are on the smaller side, the café’s reasonable prices and great coffee make it worth a visit. Wm. Van’s definitely has the potential to be a fantastic coffee spot, and I’ll be coming back to see if they improve. It’s become my go-to for a cozy place to enjoy a delicious breakfast and excellent coffee.

Charlie Parker's Diner

700 W North St, Springfield

(217) 241-2104

Reviewed by:

Marquinton Bush

Stepping into Charlie Parker's Diner felt like a trip back in time. This cozy spot in Springfield surprised me in the best way. The place was buzzing with the smell of fresh coffee and bacon, and the friendly staff made me feel instantly welcome. I tried the classic breakfast horseshoe, and it was fantastic. The toasted bread was loaded with sausage, fries, and a creamy cheese sauce — an explosion of flavors and textures. The portion size was more than generous. The variety of pastries here was unexpected. I loved that they whipped up a stuffed Banana Foster French Toast for me, even though it wasn't on the menu. Their pancake stacks and waffles are also worth mentioning. Charlie Parker's Diner is a true hidden gem with its tasty food, cozy atmosphere, and impressive pastry selection. It's a must-visit for classic American comfort food lovers. Despite a 15-minute wait, we were seated in just about 7 minutes. The food and prices were excellent. After a few disappointing meals elsewhere in Springfield, finding this diner was a relief. The blueberry pancakes and hash browns were delicious — the pancake was enormous, even though I ordered a small one, and the hash browns were perfectly cooked. Even though the place was busy, service was quick and efficient. The seasoned potatoes were particularly tasty. I couldn't finish the giant pancake, but I’m already looking forward to my next visit. This is hands down one of the best breakfasts in Springfield. We'll definitely be back!

Star 66 Cafe

3752 Camp Butler Rd, Springfield

(217) 523-0611

Reviewed by:

Coochetta Karrer

My hubby and I have been dining at Star 66 Cafe for over 20 years, and it never disappoints. The homemade food is simply amazing, and the wide variety of breakfast options ensures there's something for everyone. The portions are generous, so we often have leftovers to take home. The atmosphere is clean, bright, and welcoming, with friendly and courteous staff. Even when it's busy, we still receive quick and attentive service, and the owners are always around with a friendly smile. A highlight is definitely the turtle cheesecake – it's the best I've ever had and an absolute must-try! The staff goes out of their way to make sure you have everything you need, constantly checking to refill my water. Star 66 Cafe is a local gem with a huge menu; I can't believe it took me this long to enjoy it. Definitely 10 out of 10!

Lulu's Diner

608 S 9th St, Springfield

(217) 210-2277

Reviewed by:

Betty Holman García

Lulu's Diner is a delightful spot for breakfast in Springfield! During our visit, we shared French toast, omelets, and corned beef hash, and everything was tasty and satisfying. The service was exemplary; Klori, our server, was attentive, friendly, professional, and really sweet. It felt like being welcomed by old friends. One of the highlights was the "Pay it Forward" box that allows them to give back to the community, which I found heartwarming and commendable. On top of that, the diner was clean and tidy, including the restrooms, which shows they take pride in maintaining their space. The next table's food looked amazing too, and Cindy, noticing my interest, told me they were having a club and gyro wrap. Her attentiveness, along with Jessica’s from the previous day, made the experience even better. The staff truly go above and beyond. The standout dish for me was the meat skillet, generously loaded with bacon, sausage, cheese, and the best hash browns I’ve ever had. The eggs were cooked perfectly, just as I like them. It was a big portion, and I happily saved half for later. The diner has a bright and cheery atmosphere, with plenty of windows and friendly staff who make you feel right at home. Even when busy, they manage to seat everyone promptly. However, be sure to get there before they close at 2 PM, as they do turn people away if they arrive too late. Overall, Lulu’s Diner offers delicious food, a welcoming environment, and exceptional service. Highly recommend stopping by if you're in the area!

Chick-fil-A

2431 Wabash Ave, Springfield

(217) 546-2000

Reviewed by:

George Roberts

I stopped by Chick-fil-A in Springfield for breakfast and had a great experience. The food was delicious, especially the waffle fries and mac n cheese. Although the wait time can sometimes be a bit long, the friendly staff at the drive-thru always makes it worth it. Their spicy chicken is top-notch, and I find that their service is consistently polite and efficient. The clean kitchen and well-managed drive-thru add to the positive experience. If you're in the area looking for a tasty breakfast option, I'd definitely recommend giving this Chick-fil-A location a try.

Sunrise Cafe

1201 S 2nd St, Springfield

(217) 753-1311

Reviewed by:

Jose Carey

Great food! Sunrise Cafe is a classic spot in Springfield with friendly and accommodating staff. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. Whether you're in the mood for breakfast or lunch, this place is a must-try. I ventured off the beaten path and wasn't disappointed. I had the horseshoe and pancakes, both of which were served in good-sized portions, and the coffee was fantastic. The servers were friendly and attentive, making the experience even better. While the place isn't fancy, it's very clean, and I would definitely come back. The food is made fresh to order and arrives promptly, with attentive staff always ready to help. I highly recommend this cafe to anyone passing through. It's one of my favorite breakfast spots, with a nice atmosphere and great food every time.

Parkway Cafe

Parkway Cafe, 2715 N Dirksen Pkwy, Springfield

(217) 544-2233

Reviewed by:

Scott Boyine

I visited Parkway Cafe for breakfast and had a fantastic experience. The decorations are charming, and I love that all the coffee cups are different. I ordered the breakfast ponyshoe with bacon, and the potatoes were perfectly crispy—just how I like them. The staff was lovely and kind, making sure our large group was fully taken care of throughout the meal. There were about 15 of us from a church group, and everyone enjoyed their food. The service was impressive, especially given the size of our group. Lindsay, our waitress, was amazing! Overall, the atmosphere is relaxing with Oldies playing in the background, and the food is delicious. I'll definitely be back!

Papo's Cafe

3290 W Iles Ave, Springfield

(217) 679-6044

Reviewed by:

Roberto Yunior

I stopped into Papo's Cafe for a quick breakfast during a trip from Chicago to St. Louis and was pleasantly surprised. The ordering process was straightforward—we placed our order at the counter and seated ourselves, and our food arrived quickly. The place was clean and inviting, with a nice outdoor patio option. The food was fantastic. I tried the breakfast bowl with avocado and chorizo sausage, and it was packed with flavor. My companions had a bagel breakfast sandwich and oatmeal, both of which got rave reviews as well. The plates were spotless when we finished. I’ll definitely be back. The highlight was the cinnamon roll, which was bigger and tastier than expected. We also enjoyed the Sante Fe burritos (even sans chorizo) and the avocado toast, which was just alright. The coffee was delicious, especially the Cocomellow latte—worth trying if you're in Springfield. The decor inside is thoughtfully designed and upscale, making it feel more inviting than places like Panera. There are different seating areas, including a cozy lounge, and the main order counter is easy to access. I ordered the spicy biscuits and gravy with cheddar and jalapeño biscuits covered in spicy chorizo gravy, which was very good. With such an interesting menu, I see many return trips in my future. Definitely check this place out when you're around.

D & J Cafe

915 W Laurel St, Springfield

(217) 753-1708

Reviewed by:

Karla Lopez

D & J Cafe is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Springfield. It was our first visit, and we absolutely loved it. I ordered the western omelet, while my wife chose the special with eggs, sausage, and biscuits and gravy. Everything was delicious, especially the biscuits and gravy, which were the best I've had in a long time. The café has a classic, homey feel, with options to sit at the bar or at tables. While the coffee mugs might be chipped, the food makes up for it. The standout features are the amazing staff and service. Destiny, our server, was always pleasant and attentive, and Jay, the cook, prepared our meals perfectly. We have specific dietary needs, and they accommodated us without hesitation. Jay even makes sure to have special items ready for my daughter, who has severe allergies, when we visit on Sundays. Kudos to the owner for having such a wonderful team. Even if the parking lot looks full, there's plenty of room inside. We enjoyed our visit so much that we're already planning our next trip back. If you haven't been here, you're missing out!

Homestyle Cafe

1144 N 9th St, Springfield

(217) 525-5800

Reviewed by:

Elizabeth Haney

DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH!! What a great little breakfast joint! I stopped by for breakfast on the way to a conference a few weeks ago, and it was exceptional. The place has a down-home feel and offers down-home service. I went for the eggs and avocado toast, and it was AWESOME!! The toast was loaded with fresh guacamole and a mix of spices that hit the spot. Here's the thing: I had been driving past this place for years, not giving it a second glance. But recently, I've made it a point to explore hidden gems, and this one was a delightful find! It seems like they've done some recent updates, and the menu offers a wide range of options. I wanted to order everything, which means I’ll definitely be coming back! The service was excellent. Dawn got us started, quickly getting our drinks and informing us that Jessie would be taking over. Both were attentive and friendly, making sure my coffee never ran dry, even during the busiest moments. And when the food arrived, it didn’t disappoint. I was thrilled with my choice of the Hercules skillet with tomatoes. Great food, great price, and wonderful staff. Overall, I’d give it 4 stars – fast, friendly service with delicious food right on Rt. 66. Breakfast was very good. However, I have to mention that the bathrooms were a bit of a letdown, only 1-star quality, which is why the overall score isn’t higher.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

5975 S 6th St, Springfield

(217) 529-2290

Reviewed by:

Froy Pendarvis

Stopping at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Springfield for breakfast was a truly delightful experience. The warm, rustic ambiance immediately made me feel at home. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring we felt well taken care of throughout our visit. Our waitress, in particular, went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed. The breakfast menu offered a great variety of classic country dishes. I ordered the Grandma's Sampler, which was a satisfying mix of pancakes, eggs, bacon, and sausage. Everything was cooked to perfection and tasted fresh, embodying that homemade quality I was hoping for. The pancakes were fluffy, and the bacon had just the right amount of crispiness. What stood out most was the welcoming atmosphere and the sense of community among both the staff and customers. It's a place where you can enjoy a hearty meal while feeling like part of a larger family. Cracker Barrel is more than just a restaurant; it’s a comforting experience filled with good food and great company. I wholeheartedly recommend it for anyone looking for a cheerful and fulfilling breakfast spot.

Hy-Vee Market Grille

2115 S MacArthur Blvd, Springfield

(217) 726-1011

Reviewed by:

Krewella Hinojosa

I had some enjoyable experiences at Hy-Vee Market Grille for breakfast. The portions are decent, and I appreciate how clean the tables always are. It's clear they sometimes have staffing challenges, but the team does a commendable job keeping up with customers. There's a nice variety on the menu, and the bar area is a fun spot to relax, especially with so many TVs to choose from for entertainment. They offer a good selection of drink specials, which makes it a great place to meet up with friends and take advantage of those offers. In terms of consistency, I've had a range of experiences over time. Some visits have been fantastic, while others were a bit off. Despite this, the food is generally good, and you get decent value for what you pay. The facility is clean and well-run, and the staff is friendly and helpful. While the pricing can feel a bit high, especially with appetizers, the quality of the food largely justifies it. My most recent visit went smoothly, with attentive service, which was a refreshing change from some earlier visits where things didn't go as well. Overall, it's a convenient spot with a diverse menu, and when the service and food are on point, it's definitely worth a visit.

Panera Bread

3101 W White Oaks Dr, Springfield

(217) 726-5070

Reviewed by:

Leah Betz

Panera Bread in Springfield has become one of my favorite breakfast spots, thanks to its consistently positive experiences. The place is always bustling, which speaks volumes about its popularity. The ordering process, whether online or in person, is straightforward, and the staff is attentive and efficient. The food quality is top-notch. I especially enjoy the Greek salad paired with the creamy tomato soup. Both are fresh and full of flavor, making every meal feel like a treat. While the prices can be a bit higher, the quality and taste make it worth it. The bread is always a delightful accompaniment—perfectly balanced in texture and taste. The ambiance is another highlight. The cafe is spotless and inviting, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. The cleanliness is evident from the dining area to the service counters, contributing to a comfortable dining experience. Overall, Panera Bread in Springfield is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for quality food in a clean and welcoming environment. Whether dining in or using their convenient new delivery service, it’s a spot I look forward to visiting time and again. Don't forget to save room for their delicious pastries—they're a perfect way to end a meal.

Bob Evans

4221 Conestoga Dr, Springfield

(217) 698-3800

Reviewed by:

Gabriel Myers

I went to Bob Evans for breakfast in Springfield and had a great experience. The atmosphere felt really homey, and our waitress was very sweet. I tried the classic breakfast with coffee and loved that they offered a choice of bread; I went with the banana nut bread, and it was delicious! On another visit, I opted for the western omelette with hash browns and biscuits and gravy. It was a terrific meal that filled me up for the day, especially since I was traveling. The portions were generous, and everything tasted fresh. The service was friendly and attentive, which made the experience even better. I'm looking forward to coming back regularly.

Sgt Peppers Cafe

3141, 5919, 3141 Baker Dr, Springfield

(217) 525-5939

Reviewed by:

John Price

Sgt Peppers Cafe was a mixed experience for breakfast. The food was quite good, and I particularly enjoyed the Greek omelette. My wife loved her French toast bites as well. The Beatles theme and oldies music playing in the background added a fun touch to the atmosphere. However, the cleanliness left a lot to be desired, with a noticeable sticky film on the tables, floors, and seats. It was a bit off-putting. The prices were on the high side, especially for the portion sizes, and there were some unexpected charges for substitutions and condiments. The service was decent, with friendly but not particularly attentive staff. While the food quality was there, it didn't quite justify the cost. The atmosphere could use some improvement in the cleanliness department. Overall, it was a decent visit, but I'm not sure if we'll be returning.

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