Local's Guide to Brunch Spots in Grand Rapids

No matter what season it is, there's nothing quite like the perfect brunch to brighten your day. Whether it’s the food, drinks, or atmosphere, there are many Grand Rapids eateries to choose from that provide snug corners to chat with friends, calming music, a killer Bloody Mary and delicious food.

To find out which cozy brunch restaurants are fan favorites, we asked the locals on the Experience Grand Rapids social media pages to weigh in. Here are just a few places that are perfect for sharing a meal that will start your day on the right track.

Anna’s House

Saving the world from ordinary breakfast is no small feat, but Anna’s House expertly accomplishes this mission by providing fresh and local ingredients in all of its menu items.

This eatery’s all-natural menu is complemented by a bright and inviting atmosphere that combines soft, cozy lighting and an uplifting blue and green color scheme that makes you feel as though you are sitting down to a family meal at home.

Anna’s House offers the above experience at three Grand Rapids locations (Plainfield Avenue, East Beltline Avenue, and Grandville).

What locals say:

“Anna's House! Nothing warms you up quite like a cup of coffee and cinnamon roll the size of your face,” says @krisspitz on Instagram.

Wolfgang’s Restaurant

If you find yourself in the Eastown neighborhood among a small mob of people on the sidewalk, there’s a solid chance they are waiting to get into Wolfgang’s Restaurant. Despite the typical line that can be found extending out the door, locals say the experience is worth the generally short wait time.

As Grand Rapids’ first restaurant to serve breakfast all day, Wolfgang’s is a family-owned eatery with roots dating back to the 1900s. Wolfgang’s offers an eclectic menu with options ranging from unique takes on the classic eggs Benedict, skillets galore, steel-cut oatmeal, chocolate and peanut butter pancakes and a laundry list of omelets.

What locals say:

“Wolfgang's for certain! Pleasant staff, efficient service, the food of course is spot on (the best naps are taken afterward)...And don't forget to order that Cafe Wolfgang. #treatyourself” notes @grandgrubtours on Instagram.

Real Food Café

You’ll never go hungry at Real Food Café. Locals praise this quaint restaurant for its large portion sizes and pristine, friendly service.

Whether you sit at the bar to watch the cooks work their culinary magic or grab a table, Real Food Café offers a comfortable and “retro diner” atmosphere at both restaurant locations in Grand Rapids (Plainfield Avenue and Eastern Avenue Southeast).

If your cozy brunch crusade brings you to Real Food Café, be on the lookout for the “baccado” omelet, veggie hash or loaded pancakes. And don’t miss out on what could be considered the ultimate brunch indulgence: Nutella-stuffed French toast (filled with chocolate-hazelnut cream cheese and topped with sliced bananas, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream).

What locals say:

“Real Food [in] Alger [Heights Business District]. Real good fresh food. Real good service,”  says Yvonne Hall on Facebook.

Cherie Inn

Cherie Inn is a breakfast and lunch eatery in the East Hills neighborhood that provides homemade cuisine, gracious service, and the sophisticated ambiance of a European-style café.

First opening its doors in 1924, Cherie Inn is Grand Rapids’ longest-running restaurant and still resides in a 100-year-old building featuring original tin ceilings, vintage art and furniture that dates back to the 1940s.

Delectable menu options to consider for brunch include its variations on eggs Benedict (crab cake or grilled steak), strawberry cheesecake pancakes, cinnamon French toast or the turkey bacon club croissant.

What locals say:

“Cherie Inn – varied menu, warm and homey atmosphere, rarely a long wait. The staff are always so gracious and make a point to remember their regulars,” says @lolomikrut on Instagram.

More Brunch Ideas 

These are just a few cozy ideas to get you started. Additional places that locals recommended include:

• San Chez Bistro. Their menu offers a blend of authentic European, Mediterranean and Latin American cuisine in a fun, laid-back, and artful setting. After your delicious brunch, you might be tempted to return for happy hour or to sample their wide variety of tapas and desserts as well.
• SpeakEZ Lounge. Complement your brunch with their house-made Bloody Mary, their signature SEZ breakfast shot - which includes a side car of orange juice and a slice of bacon - or order the mimosa bottle service to split a bottle of Cava and your choice of two juices with your companions. 
• Brown Butter Creperie and Café. This cafe began as a food truck in 2015, and now resides in Eastown’s historic Windmill building, ready to serve you sweet or savory crepes, a gourmet Belgian waffle and a delicious coffee, all while enveloping you in cozy ambiance.
• The Westsider Cafe. Sample their classic breakfast staples, from skillets to egg sandwiches to buttermilk pancakes; or try one of their delectable daily specials, which are constantly rotating, so you can always try something new!
• Matchbox Diner & Drinks. Not only does this neighborhood restaurant offer breakfast all day - so you can plan your brunch whenever you like - but you can expect excellent service and friendly people to greet you.

Still hungry? Check out the Restaurant page for more foodie hot spots for any time of day.

This post was originally written by Matthew Makowski and has been updated by Experience Grand Rapids.