Milwaukee North Shore brunch guide: 40+ spots
The North Shore suburbs offer a surprisingly diverse brunch landscape, from James Beard Award-winning diners to century-old German supper clubs. Shorewood and Whitefish Bay dominate the dining scene with walkable restaurant districts, while Glendale's Bayshore area provides chain options and Brown Deer delivers authentic neighborhood gems. Note that River Hills and Bayside are exclusively residential—residents typically drive to Fox Point or neighboring communities for brunch.
This guide covers 42 establishments across seven communities, organized geographically with complete practical details for family planning.
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Shorewood
Oakland Avenue and Capitol Drive form the heart of Shorewood's restaurant scene, offering everything from French bakeries to craft beer brunch spots.
Hubbard Park Lodge, Riverclub & Beer Garden
3565 N. Morris Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53211 | (414) 332-4207 | hubbardparklodge.com
This historic log cabin lodge along the Milwaukee River offers Sunday-only brunch buffet from 9am–2pm in a cathedral-ceilinged setting with stone fireplaces.
Price: $$$ (buffet format)
Signature dishes: "Lumberjack Brunch" buffet featuring hot donut holes and Wisconsin comfort fare
Family features: Spacious seating, beer garden with cabanas, heated winter domes available for reservation
Dietary options: Buffet includes various options; call ahead for specific needs
Special features: Scenic riverside location, private dining rooms, seasonal beer garden
Reservations: Strongly recommended via website
Parking: On-site in Hubbard Park (free)
North Shore Boulangerie
4401 N. Oakland Ave, Shorewood, WI 53211 | (414) 963-2153 | northshoreboulangerie.com
An authentic French boulangerie serving European-style breakfast daily 7am–6pm with lunch from 11am–2:30pm.
Price: $$ (moderate)
Signature dishes: Fresh-baked croissants with natural yeast, quiches, tartines, exclusive Café Richard coffee from Paris
Family features: Counter service for quick, efficient dining; European bakery ambiance
Dietary options: Vegetarian pastry options, various salads
Special features: Supplies local restaurants and Sendik's; hall rental for private events; catering available
Parking: Street on Oakland Avenue
The City Market Café & Bakehouse
2205 E. Capitol Dr, Shorewood, WI 53211 | (414) 962-0100 | thecitymarketcafe.com
A community-focused scratch bakery operating since 1997, with daily breakfast service and a huge outdoor patio.
Hours: Mon, Wed-Sat 7am–7pm; Tue 7am–2pm; Sun 8am–2pm
Price: $$ ($8–15 average entrée)
Signature dishes: Market Frittata with spinach and baby swiss; Morning Wrap with guacamole and black beans; French toast with French vanilla cream custard; housemade avocado toast
Family features: Dedicated kids' menu (PB&J, noodles, sandwiches); ADA-accessible restroom; free WiFi
Dietary options: Dedicated plant-based menu section with vegan (VG) and vegetarian (V) items marked; vegetarian chili
Special features: Huge outdoor patio, accessible from bike trail with free tire pump, water bowl for dogs, second location in Wauwatosa
Parking: Street parking; can be difficult
Milwaukee Brat House – Shorewood
4022 N. Oakland Ave, Shorewood, WI 53211 | (414) 539-5826 | milwaukeebrathouse.com
A German pub featured on Food Network and Travel Channel, offering weekend brunch with traditional breakfast items.
Price: $$ (~$12–15 for brunch entrées)
Signature dishes: Shorewood Classic ($12.95) with thick-cut bacon, breakfast potatoes, eggs, toast
Family features: Casual pub atmosphere, outdoor seating, sports TVs
Dietary options: Vegetarian cheese curds, various protein options
Special features: Outdoor beer garden (seasonal), Lakefront IPA Beer Cheese Soup (featured in USA Today), reservations accepted
Parking: Street
Benji's Deli & Restaurant
4156 N. Oakland Ave, Shorewood, WI 53211 | (414) 332-7777 | benjisdeliandrestaurant.com
A Milwaukee institution since 1963 serving New York kosher-style deli breakfast all day on weekends.
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am–7pm; Sat 8am–7pm; Sun 8am–3pm (breakfast from open on weekends)
Price: $ (under $15 average)
Signature dishes: Famous Hopple Popple scramble, hand-carved corned beef, matzo ball soup, Reuben sandwiches
Family features: Classic deli atmosphere, family-owned for 60+ years, generous portions
Dietary options: Kosher-style menu, vegetarian options, soup options
Special features: Second location in Fox Point, delivery via multiple platforms
Parking: Available nearby
Fiddleheads Coffee – Shorewood
4334 N. Oakland Ave, Shorewood, WI 53211 | (414) 763-3827 | fiddleheadscoffee.com/shorewood
A Wisconsin-based coffee roastery in a 1920s Mediterranean revival building with full breakfast menu.
Hours: Mon-Fri 6:30am–7pm; Sat-Sun 7am–6pm
Price: $ ($6.25–8.50 breakfast sandwiches)
Signature dishes: Turkey Egg Gouda Croissant with fig jam, toasted avocado croissant, Aztec Mocha
Family features: Spacious café, outdoor patio with fire pit (seasonal)
Dietary options: Gluten-free buns available for all sandwiches, vegetarian Southwest Hummus sandwich
Special features: Old-world coffee house ambiance, WiFi, 8 Wisconsin locations
Parking: Street on Oakland Avenue
Foxhole Craft Beer Shop & Kitchen
4144 N. Oakland Ave, Shorewood, WI 53211 | foxholeshorewood.com
A Southern-inspired bottle shop with weekend brunch starting at 11am Saturday and Sunday.
Hours: Mon-Thu 4pm–10pm; Fri 4pm–12am; Sat 11am–12am; Sun 11am–9:30pm
Price: $$ (moderate)
Signature dishes: Crispy chicken sandwich with signature coating, soft bagels, crispy potatoes
Family features: Very kid-friendly with giant outdoor games (Connect Four, Jenga), dog-friendly patio, ice cream available
Dietary options: Hand-breaded fresh items, menu adapts based on community feedback
Special features: Craft beer retail (take home or enjoy on-site), outdoor patio with firepit, bar bingo and trivia, health score 99/100
Parking: Street
Stone Creek Coffee – Shorewood
4106 N. Oakland Ave, Shorewood, WI 53211 | (414) 964-1608 | stonecreekcoffee.com
Milwaukee's beloved craft coffee roaster (founded 1993) with light breakfast pastries.
Hours: Mon-Sat 6am–7pm; Sun 7am–7pm
Price: $ (budget)
Specialty: Craft coffee, Cream City Ice (caffeinated ice cream), espresso drinks
Parking: Street on Oakland Avenue
Corner Bakery Cafe
1305 E. Capitol Dr, Shorewood, WI 53211 | order.cornerbakerycafe.com
A fast-casual chain serving breakfast all day with accessible location near the Oak Leaf bike trail.
Hours: Daily 6:30am–10pm
Price: $ (budget-friendly)
Signature dishes: Turkey Avocado Sandwich, pancakes, scrambles, fresh-baked bakery items
Family features: Good for kids, dogs allowed outdoors, good for groups
Dietary options: Vegetarian options, light/healthy options, variety of salads
Special features: Free bike tire pump, self-fill water bowl for dogs, takeout and delivery
Parking: Street; accessible location
Einstein Bros. Bagels
4301 N. Oakland Ave, Shorewood, WI 53211 | (414) 962-9888 | einsteinbros.com
A fresh-baked bagel shop with 20+ bagel flavors and breakfast sandwiches.
Price: $ ($6–12 per person)
Signature dishes: Maple French Toast bagel, Maplehouse breakfast sandwich, Texas Brisket breakfast, Baker's Dozen with Shmear
Family features: Quick counter service, family meal deals available
Dietary options: Egg white options, vegetarian bagel options
Special features: All-day breakfast catering, online ordering
Parking: Street
Whitefish Bay: Classic Wisconsin brunch
The charming Silver Spring Drive commercial district anchors Whitefish Bay's dining scene, featuring a legendary supper club and a growing collection of contemporary eateries.
Jack Pandl's Whitefish Bay Inn
1319 E. Henry Clay St, Milwaukee, WI 53217 | (414) 964-3800 | jackpandls.com
A 110-year-old Wisconsin institution (established 1915) run by the third-generation Pandl family, famous for the region's most iconic brunch item.
Hours: Sunday brunch ONLY 10:30am–2:30pm; dinner follows
Price: $$$ | Prix fixe brunch $27 per person includes sparkling wine/mimosa, refillable pastry plate, soup/salad/fruit, coffee/juice, choice of 10 entrées
Signature dishes: Pandl's Famous German Pancake (Yorkshire pudding-style, legendary), Salmon Eggs Benedict, Wiener Schnitzel, Schaum Torte with strawberries, liver-dumpling soup
Family features: Classic family dining, high chairs, fresh flowers on tables
Dietary options: Limited vegetarian; egg-free Caesar dressing available
Special features: Beautiful outdoor patio with heated tent, largest beer stein collection in the Midwest, Pandlbrau house beer, complimentary birthday pie, Tiffany lamps and oak tables
Reservations: Recommended via OpenTable
Parking: Free lot available, street parking
MOXIE Food + Drink
501 E. Silver Spring Dr, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217 | (414) 204-8980 | eatatmoxie.com
An upscale contemporary American spot named OpenTable's Top 10 Milwaukee Area Neighborhood Gem.
Hours: Sunday brunch ONLY 10am–2pm; dinner Mon-Sat 5pm–9pm
Price: $$$ (expensive)
Signature dishes: Salmon Eggs Benedict, Bourbon Peach Short Rib Sliders with Cambozola cheese, Quinoa Stuffed Mushroom Caps, Lemon Blueberry Cake
Family features: Warm, inviting neighborhood atmosphere, high chairs
Dietary options: Vegetarian options, vegan options (Brussels Wrap), gluten-free available on request
Special features: Full bar with craft cocktails, outdoor patio, LGBTQIA+ owned, nominated for Milwaukee Magazine Best Bar 2026, catering and private events
Reservations: Highly recommended via OpenTable
Parking: Street on Silver Spring, public lot nearby
The Bay Restaurant
342 E. Silver Spring Dr, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217 | (414) 455-3045 | thebayrestaurant.com
A casual American neighborhood spot in a historic 1955 building with Sunday brunch and live jazz.
Hours: Mon-Sun 11am–9pm; Sunday brunch
Price: $$ – $$$ (mid-range)
Signature dishes: Jordan River Dates with chorizo and goat cheese fondue, Salmon Cakes with homemade remoulade, Friday Fish Fry (hand-battered haddock), seasonal beet-based Veggie Burger
Family features: Laid-back atmosphere, high chairs, accommodates families
Dietary options: Gluten-free options, vegetarian options
Special features: Live jazz Thursday & Friday, exposed brick and original hardwood, outdoor patio, NFL game day viewing, catering via EZCater
Parking: Free public parking behind restaurant, metered street (Mon-Sat until 6pm)
Stone Creek Coffee – Whitefish Bay Café & Kitchen
527 E. Silver Spring Dr, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217 | (414) 635-0017 | stonecreekcoffee.com/pages/whitefish-bay-cafe
Stone Creek's original 1993 location (reopened 2023) with a unique full kitchen and dedicated kids' play area.
Hours: Café 6am–9pm daily; Kitchen 6am–4pm daily
Price: $$ (moderate)
Signature dishes: Chef-crafted breakfast bowls, scratch-made pastries, wine on tap and local beer
Family features: Dedicated kids' play area with mini kitchen and magnetic wall, high chairs, counter service
Dietary options: Vegetarian and some vegan options
Special features: Walk-up window, extensive local artwork (MIAD alumni), coffee tastings and events, outdoor porch seating
Parking: Street on Silver Spring, free village lot on N. Marlborough Dr. (after 5pm)
Fitzy's Cafe (at Fitzgerald Pharmacy)
424 E. Silver Spring Dr, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217 | (414) 356-1424 | fitzyscafe.com
A nostalgic soda fountain revival inside the historic 1954 Fitzgerald Pharmacy with chef-driven food.
Hours: Daily 8am–8pm; Kitchen 8am–4pm
Price: $$ (moderate)
Signature dishes: Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese, The Fitz sandwich, Whitefish Melt, Coconut Pandan Cake, Purple Door Ice Cream with Burke's Candy toppings
Family features: Kid-friendly menu, old-school soda fountain with floats and shakes, ADA-compliant space
Dietary options: Vegan options (Vegan Dirt Cake), gluten-free available, made-to-order modifications
Special features: Craft coffee program curated by Discourse Coffee founder, locally-sourced bread from Rocket Baby Bakery, Chef Kay Dieterman (Michelin guide-recommended), patio seating
Parking: Street on Silver Spring
Breadsmith of Whitefish Bay
420 E. Silver Spring Dr, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217 | (414) 962-6203 | breadsmith.com/whitefishbay
Breadsmith headquarters location with European hearth-baked breads and 300+ recipes.
Hours: Mon-Sat 7am–6pm; Closed Sunday
Price: $ – $$ (budget to moderate)
Signature items: Apple Pie Bread, Cinnamon Cobblestone Loaf, Almond Orange Loaf, gourmet cookies, muffins, scones, simple sandwiches and soup
Family features: Casual atmosphere, quick grab-and-go, sample before purchasing
Dietary options: Whole grain options, no additives or preservatives
Special features: Over 30 years of artisan baking, European stone oven, active at Whitefish Bay Farmers Market, day-old bread donated locally
Parking: On and off Silver Spring
Forage Kitchen
103 E. Silver Spring Dr, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217 | (414) 212-8360 | eatforage.com/locations/whitefish-bay
A health-focused fast-casual concept excellent for dietary restrictions.
Hours: Mon-Sun 10:30am–9pm
Price: $$ (moderate)
Signature items: Grain bowls, Fiesta Bowl, Baja Salmon Wrap, house-made kombucha and tepache on tap
Family features: Casual, quick-service, healthy kid options
Dietary options: Excellent for dietary restrictions – vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free bowls
Special features: Outdoor patio, curbside pickup with dedicated parking spots, great for Klode Park beach day picnics, delivery via all major apps
Parking: Dedicated pickup spots, street parking
Bruegger's Bagels
601 E. Silver Spring Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53217 | brueggers.com
Kettle-boiled NY-style bagels with 40+ years of tradition.
Price: $ (budget-friendly)
Signature dishes: Double-Stack breakfast sandwich on Cheesy Hash Brown Bagel, cold smoked salmon with capers, Made-in-Vermont cream cheeses
Family features: Quick-service, kid-friendly items
Dietary options: Vegetarian and plain/vegan bagels
Parking: Easy on/off Silver Spring
Dunkin'
106 W. Silver Spring Dr, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217 | dunkindonuts.com
Quick-service donuts and coffee with breakfast sandwiches and mobile ordering.
Price: $ (budget-friendly)
Family features: Very family-friendly, quick service
Dietary options: Some vegetarian options
Special features: Dunkin' Rewards program, mobile app ordering
Parking: Easy parking
Glendale
Glendale offers the North Shore's largest concentration of chain restaurants at Bayshore Town Center, alongside beloved local institutions along Port Washington Road and Green Bay Avenue.
Solly's Grille — James Beard Award Winner (America's Classic 2022)
4629 N. Port Washington Rd, Glendale, WI 53212 | (414) 332-8808 | sollysbutterburgers.com
A 1936 Milwaukee institution famous for butter burgers and classic diner breakfast, featured on Food Network and Travel Network.
Hours: Tue-Thu 10:30am–7pm; Fri-Sat 7am–7pm (breakfast from 7am); Closed Sun-Mon
Price: $ ($7–17 breakfast items)
Signature dishes: Swiss Roesti potatoes with melted Wisconsin Swiss, Original Solly Butter Burger (1936 recipe), Eggs Benedict variations ($13–21.75), Rich Buttermilk Pancakes, Cheesehead Omelette
Family features: Counter seating with swivel stools, classic diner atmosphere, kid-friendly
Dietary options: Vegetarian omelettes, gluten-free bread available
Special features: Drive-thru available, outdoor seating, dog-friendly patio, happy hour specials, bottomless coffee, free WiFi
Parking: On-site
Bistro on the Glen
6823 N. Green Bay Ave, Glendale, WI 53209 | (414) 352-1940 | bistroontheglen.com
A family-owned gem since 2002 with breakfast served until 11am Mon-Sat and all day Sunday.
Hours: Tue-Sat 8am–9pm; Sun 7am–3pm (brunch all day); Closed Mon
Price: $$ ($6.50–21.75 breakfast items)
Signature dishes: Eggs Benedict with homemade hollandaise ($14.50), Florentine Benedict, Salmon Benedict ($21.75), award-winning Matzo Ball Soup, "Glendale's Finest" Burger
Family features: Kids' menu, personalized table service, reservations for groups up to 14, high chairs
Dietary options: Gluten-free bread, multiple cheese choices, vegetarian options
Special features: Full spirits bar, free wine tasting first Wednesday monthly, live music, free WiFi, 40+ years culinary experience
Parking: Glendale Square Mall lot
The Brick Pub and Grill
6343 N. Green Bay Ave, Glendale, WI 53209 | (414) 797-0710 | thebrickpubandgrill.com
A neighborhood pub across from Kletzsch Park offering excellent Sunday brunch with multiple outdoor patios.
Hours: Open 7 days (contact for brunch hours)
Price: $$ (moderate)
Signature dishes: Sunday brunch specials, Brick Breakfast Panini, homemade French Onion Soup
Family features: Four-season sunroom, kid-friendly, 14 TVs for sports viewing
Dietary options: Vegetarian items, gluten-free options
Special features: Two outdoor patios with 3 patio TVs, Friday Fish Fry, Wednesday pasta night, Thursday pizza, Monday Mexican, live music
Parking: On-site
Three Lions Pub
4515 N. Oakland Ave, Shorewood, WI 53211 | (414) 763-6992 | threelionspub.com
An authentic British pub on the Glendale/Shorewood border with weekend brunch featuring $25 bottomless mimosas.
Hours: Sat-Sun brunch 9am–2pm; Mon-Sun regular hours vary
Price: $$ ($12–18 average)
Signature dishes: Full English Breakfast (Tannery Row) with English bacon, white pudding, baked beans, mushrooms, grilled tomatoes; Challah French Toast; Traditional Eggs Benedict
Family features: Kid's meals with crayons, games (darts, pool, video golf), family-welcoming
Dietary options: Vegetarian Black Bean burger, gluten-free bun (+$2)
Special features: $25 Bottomless Mimosas during brunch, award-winning Fish and Chips, Old Speckled Hen on tap, outdoor beer garden, giant projection screen, private room available
Parking: Street and nearby lots
The Cheesecake Factory
5799 N. Bayshore Dr, #L100, Glendale, WI 53217 | (414) 906-8550 | thecheesecakefactory.com
Bayshore's 200+ item mega-menu restaurant with weekend brunch and 30+ cheesecakes.
Hours: Weekend brunch Sat-Sun 10am–2pm; Mon-Thu 11am–10pm; Fri-Sat 11am–11pm; Sun 10am–10pm
Price: $$ ($15–30 entrées)
Signature dishes: Eggs Benedict, omelettes, Fresh Strawberry Shortcake, famous waffles
Family features: Kids' menu, high chairs, large seating capacity
Dietary options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free items marked on menu
Special features: Full bar, outdoor seating, reservations accepted, curbside to-go spots
Parking: Free at Bayshore Town Center
Mallards Restaurant – Bayshore
5689 N. Bayshore Dr, Glendale, WI 53217 | (414) 509-5555 | mallardsmn.com
Southern/Cajun-inspired brunch with Hot Chicken & Waffle and Shrimp n' Grits.
Hours: Sunday brunch 10am–2pm; Mon-Sat 11am–10pm; Sun 10am–9pm
Price: $$ ($15–30 average)
Signature dishes: Hot Chicken & Waffle, Shrimp n' Grits, Elote Corn Fritters, Jambalaya, Lobster Rolls
Family features: Kid-friendly, wheelchair accessible, accommodates large groups
Dietary options: Gluten-free options
Special features: Full bar with craft cocktails, outdoor patio, private rooms for 10–100+ people, Happy Hour Mon-Fri 2pm–6pm and all day Sunday
Parking: Free at Bayshore Town Center
Panera Bread
5665 N. Centerpark Way, Unit N-141, Milwaukee, WI 53209 | panerabread.com
Clean-ingredient fast-casual with breakfast sandwiches and bakery items.
Price: $ (budget-friendly)
Signature dishes: Ham Croissant Benny, breakfast sandwiches, soups, salads
Dietary options: Vegetarian options, clean ingredients
Special features: Outdoor seating, takeout
Chick-fil-A
5201 N. Port Washington Rd, Glendale, WI 53217
Fast-casual breakfast (closed Sundays) with chicken-focused morning menu.
Hours: Mon-Sat (Closed Sundays)
Price: $ (budget-friendly)
Signature dishes: Chicken Biscuit, Hash Brown Scramble, Chicken Breakfast Burrito
Parking: Dedicated lot
Brown Deer
Brown Deer's dining scene spans from beloved family-owned diners to an acclaimed French bistro, plus practical chain options.
Family Table Restaurant
6598 W. Brown Deer Rd, Brown Deer, WI 53223 | (414) 354-5494 | family-table.net
A family-owned landmark since 1988 serving breakfast anytime with Greek specialties and classic American fare.
Hours: Mon-Sat 7am–7pm; Closed Sunday
Price: $ – $$ ($7–15 breakfast, $12–18 lunch/dinner)
Signature dishes: Greek Gyro Skillet, Big Fat Greek Omelette with gyro meat and feta, South of the Border Breakfast with chorizo, Chicken & Waffles, "Deuces" combo
Family features: Kids' menu ($2.95–6.75) including Mickey Mouse Pancakes, seniors' menu, high chairs, warm family atmosphere
Dietary options: Egg Beaters/egg whites (+$1), vegetarian options, fruit substitutions
Special features: Full cocktail bar, homemade soups and desserts, carryout via Grubhub
Parking: Street and lot
Pastiche Bistro and Wine Bar
4313 W. River Lane, Brown Deer, WI 53223 | (414) 354-1995 | pastichebistro.com
The North Shore's most authentic French bistro experience with Sunday-only brunch in an intimate setting.
Hours: Sunday brunch 10am–1pm; Dinner Tue-Sat 5pm–9pm; Closed Monday
Price: $$$ ($18–35 entrées)
Signature dishes: Croque Madame with gruyère and mornay sauce, Warm Duck Confit Crepes with goat cheese and blackberry port sauce, Florentine Benedict, French Onion Soup, Baked Alaska
Family features: Not particularly kid-focused; white tablecloth dining suited for adults and special occasions
Dietary options: Vegetarian options, gluten-free with advance notice
Special features: French courtyard patio, full wine bar, wine dinners and cooking classes, wheelchair accessible throughout
Reservations: Recommended
Parking: Lot available, wheelchair accessible
Kurt Schulz Delicatessen and Pastry Shoppe
8752 N. Deerwood Dr, Brown Deer, WI 53223 | (414) 354-1004 | kurtschulzdeli.com
A beloved local bakery in Historic Brown Deer Village with fresh pastries and limited breakfast service (Thu-Sat until 11am).
Hours: Opens 6:30am; breakfast items Thu-Sat until 11am only; Closed Sunday
Price: $ – $$ ($1–10 breakfast, $7.50–13 sandwiches)
Signature dishes: Fresh-baked Danish, Elephant Ears, Pecan Sticky Buns; Saturday fresh donuts and Bienenstich (Bee Sting) coffee cake; French Toast made with in-house Butter Horns; best corned beef Reuben on the North Shore
Family features: Casual family-owned atmosphere, fun décor (bobble heads, Rock Em Sock Em Robots), welcoming service
Dietary options: Vegetarian sandwiches and salads, fresh-made items
Special features: New York-style deli, custom cakes and catering, award-winning homemade chili, Wednesday Sub Day ($7.50), pet-friendly outdoor patio (summer), featured on FOX6
Parking: On and off-street, bicycle rack
8900 Bar & Bistro
8900 N. Kildeer Court, Brown Deer, WI 53209 | (414) 357-1648 | 8900bistromilwaukee.com
Hotel restaurant inside Four Points by Sheraton with Wisconsin-American comfort cuisine and special occasion brunch events.
Hours: Dinner daily 5pm–10pm; Contact for brunch availability (Mother's Day and holiday brunch buffets)
Price: $$ (under $30)
Signature dishes: Friday Fish Fry (cod, shrimp combos), Wisconsin comfort cuisine, monthly chef specials
Family features: Casual dress, accommodates large groups, private event facilities
Dietary options: Vegan options noted, vegetarian available
Special features: Live music, full bar, banquet facilities, delivery via Chow Now
Parking: FREE large hotel lot
Poco Loco Cantina
4134 W. River Lane, Brown Deer, WI 53209 | (414) 355-9550 | pocolococantina.com
Fine Southwestern/Yucatan cuisine in Historic Brown Deer Village with acclaimed tacos and famous margaritas.
Hours: Tue-Thu lunch 11:30am–2pm, dinner 4pm–9pm; Fri 11:30am–9pm; Sat 12pm–9pm; Closed Sun-Mon
Price: $$ (most items under $15)
Signature dishes: Maple-glazed Duck Tacos ($14), Strauss Lamb Tacos ($12), Crab Quesadillas, daily fish tacos
Family features: Kid-friendly, cozy intimate setting, accommodates large groups
Dietary options: Gluten-free options, vegetarian options, fresh ingredients
Special features: Excellent tequila selection, outdoor patio (as big as indoor seating), free WiFi, TripAdvisor ranked #2 in Brown Deer
Parking: Nearby
Denny's
8001 W. Brown Deer Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53223 | dennys.com
24/7 breakfast with value menu and family specials.
Hours: Open 24/7, 365 days including holidays
Price: $ – $$ ($6.99–18)
Signature dishes: Signature Slams, Banana Salted Caramel Pancake Breakfast, Sizzlin' Skillets, Grand Slams
Family features: Kids eat FREE every Tuesday 4pm–10pm, complete kids' menu, high chairs
Dietary options: Vegetarian options, senior menu (55+), customizable dishes
Special features: Delivery via app, curbside pickup, mobile ordering with rewards
Parking: Dedicated lot
IHOP
8101 W. Brown Deer Rd, Brown Deer, WI 53223 | (414) 371-2370 | ihop.com
World-famous pancakes with Build Your Own omelettes and extensive breakfast menu.
Hours: Vary by day (typically 6–8am opening to 8:30–11pm closing)
Price: $ – $$ ($8–16)
Signature dishes: Original Buttermilk Pancakes, Chorizo Fiesta Skillet, Belgian Waffles, Crepe Combos
Family features: Kids' menu, high chairs and boosters
Dietary options: Gluten-friendly pancakes, senior menu (55+)
Special features: Delivery and takeout, no reservations
Parking: Dedicated lot
Fox Point
Fox Point's dining options cluster along Port Washington Road and Brown Deer Road, serving residents from Fox Point, Bayside, and River Hills.
Maxfield's Pancake House
333 W. Brown Deer Rd, Fox Point, WI 53217 | (414) 247-4994 | maxfieldspancakehouse.com
The primary brunch destination for the eastern North Shore, known for creative pancakes and generous portions at reasonable prices.
Hours: Daily 7am–2:30pm; breakfast served all day
Price: $$ ($8–15 average)
Signature dishes: Oreo Pancakes, Health Pancakes with walnuts and granola, Gluten-Free Pancakes, Greek Gyro Skillet, Trio of Crepes, Dutch Baby, Cinnamon Apple French Toast, Potato Pancakes (Latkes)
Family features: Kid-friendly menu and atmosphere, high chairs, accommodates parties up to 70, reservations for 6+
Dietary options: Robust gluten-free menu, egg whites available (+$1), vegetarian skillets and omelettes, healthy choices section
Special features: Low wait times typically, DoorDash delivery, second location in Wauwatosa, health score 93/100, currently renovating
Parking: Ample free shopping center lot (Audubon Court)
TripAdvisor: Ranked #1 of 11 Fox Point restaurants
Benji's Deli & Restaurant (Fox Point Location)
8683 N. Port Washington Rd, Fox Point, WI 53217 | (414) 228-5130 | benjisdeliandrestaurant.com
The second location of Milwaukee's beloved 1963 kosher-style deli with full breakfast service.
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am–7pm; Sat 8am–7pm; Sun 8am–3pm; breakfast served all day
Price: $ – $$ (under $12–15)
Signature dishes: Hopple Popple (signature scramble with potatoes and salami), Corned Beef Hash with melted cheddar, massive Corned Beef Omelet, Lox and Sautéed Onion Eggs, Potato Pancakes
Family features: Casual deli atmosphere, kids welcome, long-time servers know regulars, kids party menu
Dietary options: Kosher-style menu, vegetarian options, large portions (expect leftovers)
Special features: Delivery via DoorDash, Uber Eats, Postmates; catering services; famous carrot cake
Parking: Street and nearby lot
Ratings: TripAdvisor 4.4/5; Uber Eats 4.5–4.8 stars
Friendship Cafe & Bakery
8649 N. Port Washington Rd, Fox Point, WI 53217 | (414) 755-5855 | fcwi.org (order.toasttab.com/online/friendship-circle)
A mission-driven café supporting job training for adults with disabilities, with excellent allergy-conscious options.
Hours: Mon-Thu 6:30am–5pm; Fri 6:30am–3pm; Sun 9am–5pm; Closed Saturday
Price: $ (budget-friendly)
Signature dishes: Scratch-made bagels, house-made sourdough toast, seasonal challah, Mediterranean Toast with hummus and feta, Cookie Butter Latte, Collectivo Coffee
Family features: Highly family-friendly with attached sensory room for neurodivergent visitors, birthday party rentals, art studio attached
Dietary options: Nut-free facility (safe for allergies), Kosher, dairy-free options, extensive gluten-friendly options, vegan options
Special features: Supports employment for adults with disabilities, remote-work friendly, full catering services, custom cake orders, wheelchair accessible with ramp, reservations accepted
Parking: Dedicated lot
Quick reference: Best spots by category
Best bottomless mimosas/bloody marys:
Three Lions Pub (Glendale border) — $25 bottomless mimosas
Café Hollander Mequon — bottomless mimosas weekends (near River Hills)
Jack Pandl's — prix fixe includes sparkling wine/mimosa
Best for large families and groups:
Maxfield's Pancake House — accommodates 70+
The Cheesecake Factory — massive capacity
Jack Pandl's — classic family dining
Best for small children:
Stone Creek Coffee Whitefish Bay — dedicated kids' play area
Fitzy's Cafe — soda fountain fun
Foxhole — giant outdoor games
Best dietary accommodations:
Forage Kitchen — excellent for all restrictions
Friendship Cafe — nut-free, kosher, extensive gluten-friendly
Maxfield's Pancake House — robust gluten-free menu
Best upscale special occasion:
Buttermint Finer Dining (Shorewood) — $$$ elegant brunch
Pastiche Bistro (Brown Deer) — authentic French bistro
MOXIE Food + Drink (Whitefish Bay) — contemporary upscale
Best classic Wisconsin experience:
Jack Pandl's — 110-year-old German pancake legend
Solly's Grille — James Beard Award-winning diner since 1936
Hubbard Park Lodge — historic log cabin Sunday buffet
Best quick/budget-friendly:
Benji's Deli — under $15, huge portions
Fiddleheads Coffee — $6–8 breakfast sandwiches
Family Table Restaurant — $7–15 homestyle breakfast
Conclusion
Milwaukee's North Shore brunch scene punches above its weight, offering genuine culinary destinations alongside practical family options. Jack Pandl's German Pancake and Solly's butter burgers represent over 200 years of combined Wisconsin dining history, while newer spots like Buttermint and MOXIE bring contemporary sophistication to the suburbs.
For families, the Stone Creek Coffee play area in Whitefish Bay and Maxfield's accommodating large-party setup stand out. Those with dietary restrictions should note Friendship Cafe's nut-free facility and Forage Kitchen's health-focused menu. And for the full weekend brunch experience with bottomless drinks, Three Lions Pub on the Glendale border delivers British pub charm with value pricing.
The eastern communities of Bayside and River Hills remain dining deserts by design—their residential character means planning 5–15 minute drives to Fox Point or Mequon for brunch outings.


This guide covers every option we could find across Milwaukee and the surrounding counties so your family can enjoy this hearty comfort food without crossing the Mackinac Bridge.