I used to sleep late on the weekends. A long, wistful time ago when I just thought life was challenging. My husband and I went out to dinner and drinks; now we are awake at 6:00 am and tired by noon. That being said, we love breakfast and getting a jump on the day. It’s amazing how much you get done and can be home in time for nap when you’re up with the chickens. Speaking of chickens, next time you’re up for breakfast on the town with the family, head to these favorite spots (in no particular order).
Nom Nom Nom
Morning Call in City Park :: Since cafe au lait makes it possible to get out of bed and beignets make it worthwhile, this local favorite is always a winner in my book. It’s ok if powdered sugar gets everywhere and the kids aren’t quiet, especially with outdoor seating. I’ve done a play date here with 7 moms and our toddlers! Afterwards, the playground and feeding the ducks are a fun way to end the morning.
Coulis :: This uptown spot made my son quite happy with a giant pancake, and we loved the eggs benedict and omelet. It’s casual, with fast and friendly service. Plus, if you frequent Touro like we do, you can walk there after a doctor’s visit!
Surrey’s :: With two locations to choose from, the fresh squeezed juice is a must here. I love the Costa Rican Breakfast, while my husband enjoys the more traditional Montana plate. And the pain perdu was a hit with my toddler. Get here early, though, as there is often a wait on weekends.
Irish House :: Brunch starts at 9:00 am on weekends, and they also offer a nice cocktail menu for mommy and daddy. Happy hour is also worth a mention here, which is 3:00-6:00 pm on weekdays.
Manhattan Jack :: The pastries and croissants here are to die for! While in the hospital for my second son, my aunt brought me a chocolate peanut butter brownie that was amaze balls. Rich for breakfast, but boy was it good. They also offer breakfast sandwiches, as well as a lunch menu. As an added bonus, if you go after noon, you can walk over to Creole Creamery for dessert! Hello, sugar coma.
Katie’s :: I love love love this Mid-City gem. The Sunday brunch is delicious, but arrive early as the long wait may be a challenge for little ones. Lunch and dinner is also very good, and we are generally seated right away if arriving for an early dinner or late lunch. The charbroiled oysters <gasp> rival Drago’s, in my opinion.
Parrot Pete’s :: Westbankers enjoy this restaurant for its outdoor dining and kid-friendly mini beignets. The atmosphere is nice, with ducks to chase around from the pond. They also make tasty cakes and pastries.
District Donuts :: I recall seeing their donuts on my Instagram feed and was quite intrigued. My husband and son love donuts, but I usually would prefer a beignet. However, once I tried them, these gourmet treats are quite delicious. The donut flavors change daily, ranging from Vietnamese Coffee to traditional glazed. They also offer biscuits, kolaches and sliders.
Slim Goodie’s :: Serving breakfast all day, this is a local favorite. Order anything from traditional bacon and eggs to veggie omelettes to burgers.
Camellia Grill :: This longtime Riverbend restaurant starts serving at 8:00 am. Kids need to be old enough to sit on the stools, however. If you’re sans kids for a night on the town, they are open until midnight.
Toast :: Recently opened in the former home of Laurel Street Bakery, one of our contributors enjoyed breakfast here with her toddler. They open at 6:30 am on weekdays and 8:00 am on weekends.
Messina’s Runway Cafe :: Located inside the newly renovated Lakefront airport, this restaurant gets rave reviews. You can actually sit in the banquet room (if it’s not in use) and watch planes take off and land.
You forgot two Uptown spots that are always popular with families: Satsuma on Maple Street and Refuel Cafe in the Riverbend on Hampson. Satsuma has lots of healthy options and a fresh juice bar. Refuel has awesome waffles. You can even top them with Nutella.
Another option that is extremely budget friendly and kid friendly is Freret Po-Boy and Donut. How can you say no to breakfast for 4 for about $20? And the donuts are amazing!
I’ll also add Maple Street Patisserie. Its adjacent to two coffee shops and very kid friendly. Many times you will see the owner, Ziggy, handing out pieces of donuts to the kids who come in. The donuts there (plain glazed or chocolate) are simple but the best I’ve ever had. They have a huge assortment of fresh made pastries. I am partial to the almond croissants and the ham and cheese croissants. Bonus: you can also pick up a fresh loaf of bread for later while you are there.
going to check out messina’s. I also forgot to mention the breakfast at the hilton. its awesome. Its on the 11th floor of the hotel so the kids have endless hours of looking at the river boats, streetcar and people below. They have a full breakfast including made to order omelets, as much as you can drink juice and coffee and kids eat free!!
Oh, thanks, Nilong! Jude would love that.
Nom. Now I’m hungry. What a great list!! I keep meaning to take the kids to Pirate Pete’s.
We love Ruby Slipper in midcity! Very family friendly but arrive early
(They open at 8am) so you don’t have to fight the wait.
We love to take the kids to Betsy’s Pancake House in Mid-City!
I have to second Parrot Pete’s. They have the best pancakes and the atmosphere is very child friendly. If the weather is right you can also sit outside.
Yes Erin, it is especially nice when the weather is good!