Guide to the Best Breakfast in Milwaukee's North Shore

North Shore Boulangerie

Milwaukee's North Shore communities offer an impressive range of breakfast destinations, from century-old German institutions to trendy Belgian cafés. This guide covers 35+ restaurants across Shorewood, Whitefish Bay, Fox Point, Bayside, Glendale, and Mequon—organized to help families with children find their perfect morning meal.

The standout destinations

Three establishments define North Shore breakfast culture. Jack Pandl's Whitefish Bay Inn (1319 E. Henry Clay Street, Whitefish Bay) has served families since 1915, making it Wisconsin's oldest family-owned restaurant in continuous operation. Their legendary German Pancake—a dramatic Yorkshire pudding-style creation dusted with powdered sugar and lemon—is described as "a rite of passage for North Shore children." Sunday brunch runs $27-35 prix fixe and includes champagne, a refillable pastry plate, and ten entrée choices. Children receive a small treasure chest with toys after their meal. Reservations via OpenTable are essential for weekends.

Solly's Grille (4629 N. Port Washington Road, Glendale) earned a 2022 James Beard America's Classics Award for its butter burgers and old-school atmosphere. This tiny 16-seat counter-service diner, operating since 1936, serves breakfast Friday through Sunday starting at 6:30 AM. The Big Steer (tenderloin, eggs, Swiss Roesti potatoes, caramelized onions, and mushrooms) and Swiss Roesti Plate are local favorites. Expect waits on weekends—arrive early and be prepared for counter seating. No reservations accepted. Budget-friendly at $8-15 per person.

Café Hollander Mequon (5900 W. Mequon Road) represents the upscale brunch scene with its Belgian-inspired menu and rooftop patio. Weekend brunch runs 8 AM to 2 PM with dishes like the cult-favorite Hot Mess (andouille sausage, hashbrowns, cheese sauce, eggs for $17.95) and award-winning Bloody Marys. The dedicated kids' brunch menu offers $7.95 items including waffle wedges and mini burgers. High chairs available, stroller-friendly, and Winter Domes provide heated outdoor dining November through March. Reservations recommended via OpenTable.

Shorewood: Urban village charm

Shorewood's Oakland Avenue corridor offers the highest concentration of breakfast options in the North Shore.

North Shore Boulangerie

4401 N. Oakland Avenue | (414) 963-2153 | northshoreboulangerie.com

This LGBTQ-owned authentic French bakery opened in 2014 and has become essential to the community. Hours run Monday–Saturday 7 AM–5 PM, Sunday 7 AM–3 PM. Fresh croissants baked with all-natural yeast daily, quiches, and omelets pair with exclusive Café Richard coffee from Paris. Counter service keeps waits minimal even with children. Price: $$. Street parking on Oakland Avenue; arrive early for best spots.

Colectivo Coffee Shorewood

4500 N. Oakland Avenue | (414) 312-8295 | colectivo.com

Milwaukee's beloved coffee company operates this location with hours from 6 AM weekdays, 6:30 AM weekends until 6 PM. All-day breakfast burritos and bowls, fresh bakery from Troubadour Bakery, and beans roasted daily in Milwaukee. The sunny patio and unique "illusion crooked room" wood feature create a distinctive atmosphere. Mobile app ordering and delivery available via DoorDash, GrubHub, and UberEats. Price: $-$$. Casual, quick-service environment works well for families.

Three Lions Pub

4515 N. Oakland Avenue | (414) 763-6992 | threelionspub.com

This authentic British pub serves weekend breakfast starting at 9 AM Saturday and Sunday. Their Full English Breakfast has been rated "best they've had even in England" by visitors. Despite the pub setting, it's welcoming to families with high chairs available. Book online via their website for reservations. Takeout available via Toast; delivery through Eatstreet. Price: $$.

Hubbard Park Lodge

3565 N. Morris Boulevard | (414) 332-4207 | hubbardparklodge.com

This historic log cabin along the Milwaukee River serves Lumberjack Brunch buffet Sundays 9 AM–2 PM. Cathedral ceilings, wood-burning fireplace, and a veranda overlooking the river create a memorable setting. Described as "very kid-friendly," the buffet format lets children choose their foods. Heated outdoor domes available November through mid-March for a unique experience. Reservations required—book early. Price: $$-$$$.

Quick Options

Einstein Bros. Bagels (4301 N. Oakland Avenue) opens early for fresh-baked bagels, egg sandwiches, and Baker's Dozen platters. Fiddleheads Coffee occupies a stunning 1920s Mediterranean revival building with outdoor fire pit. Both offer budget-friendly quick service under $15 per person with mobile ordering available.

Whitefish Bay: Historic Silver Spring Drive dining district

Jack Pandl's Whitefish Bay Inn (detailed above)

The region's crown jewel. Their outdoor heated tent extends patio season, and the famous complimentary bread chips and rye sticks shouldn't be missed.

Stone Creek Coffee Café & Kitchen

527 E. Silver Spring Drive | (414) 635-0017 | stonecreekcoffee.com

Milwaukee's coffee institution since 1993 operates this location with a full breakfast kitchen (the only Stone Creek location offering this). Hours: 6 AM–9 PM daily, kitchen until 4 PM. Chef-crafted breakfast bowls, scratch pastries, and locally roasted coffee. The space features a dedicated kids' play area and four-season porch—ideal for families with young children. Mid-afternoon (2-4 PM) provides a quiet window for stroller parking. Wine on tap for parents. Price: $-$$. Mobile app ordering available.

Fitzy's Cafe

424 E. Silver Spring Drive | (414) 356-1424 | fitzyscafe.com

A modern take on the classic 1950s soda fountain inside historic Fitzgerald Pharmacy (opened 1954). Daily hours 8 AM–8 PM, kitchen until 4 PM. Craft coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and Purple Door ice cream. No alcohol served, creating a wholesome family experience. High chairs, stroller-friendly patio, and vegan/gluten-free options available. Perfect for breakfast before running errands, with milkshakes that locals rave about. Price: $-$$. Online ordering via Toast Tab.

MOXIE Food + Drink

501 E. Silver Spring Drive | (414) 204-8980 | eatatmoxie.com

This LGBT/women-owned upscale establishment relaunched Sunday brunch in late 2024 after a pandemic hiatus, serving 10 AM–2 PM. More suited for date brunches than family outings, with a 6-guest maximum per table. Their Queen Mary Bloody Mary (optional cocktail shrimp garnish) and Bourbon Berry Bramble showcase craft cocktails. Reservations recommended via OpenTable; patio is first-come, first-served. Price: $$$. Use the free village lot on N. Marlborough Drive.

Fox Point: Residential community with reliable favorites

Fox Point offers fewer options but several standouts serve the area well.

Maxfield's Pancake House

333 W. Brown Deer Road | (414) 247-4994 | maxfieldspancakehouse.com

The top-rated breakfast destination within Fox Point, this family restaurant has #1 ranking among 11 Fox Point restaurants on TripAdvisor. Hours: Daily 7 AM–2:30 PM. Signature dishes include Oreo Pancakes (local favorite with plentiful Oreos), huge skillets, Belgian waffles, and blintzes. World cuisines blend with traditional American breakfast. High chairs available, casual noise-tolerant environment, and walk-ins welcome with reasonable wait times. DoorDash delivery available. Price: $. Parking lot on-site.

Benji's Deli & Restaurant

8683 N. Port Washington Road | (414) 228-5130 | benjisdeliandrestaurant.com

This New York-style kosher deli has served the North Shore since 1963. Fox Point hours: Mon–Fri 10 AM–7 PM, Sat 8 AM–7 PM, Sun 8 AM–3 PM with breakfast served all day. The Hopple Popple (scrambled eggs with fried salami, potatoes, cheese) is a signature Midwest farmhouse dish. Corned beef omelets come in huge portions. Located in a mall with easy parking near I-43. DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Seamless delivery available. Price: $ (under $12 average).

Friendship Café & Bakery

8649 N. Port Washington Road | (414) 755-5855

An inclusive kosher café supporting job training for adults with disabilities. Nut-free, kosher, with dairy-free and gluten-free options—ideal for families managing allergies. Scratch-made bagels and pastries. Hours: Mon–Thu 7:30 AM–4:30 PM, Fri until 3 PM, Sun 9 AM–4:30 PM, closed Saturday. Online ordering via Toast. Price: $.

Bayside: Best served by neighboring communities

Bayside residents (population ~4,400) typically travel to Fox Point, Whitefish Bay, or Mequon for breakfast. Maxfield's Pancake House sits literally on the Fox Point/Bayside border—stand on the sidewalk and you're in both communities. All options listed for Fox Point and Whitefish Bay serve Bayside within a 5-10 minute drive, with generally easier parking than downtown Milwaukee.

Glendale: Bayshore dining and local institutions

Solly's Grille (detailed above)

The James Beard-honored legend. Their butterscotch malts (when staff offers to make one) are house secrets. The chocolate-banana malts and Door County cherry shakes provide excellent treats for children.

Bistro on the Glen

6823 N. Green Bay Avenue | (414) 352-1940 | bistroontheglen.com

Family-owned since 2002 with 40+ years culinary experience, this café serves breakfast daily. The Cafe Omelet ($13.25)—hashbrowns, ham, cheddar cheese—is described as "a town favorite." Eggs Benedict with homemade hollandaise runs $14.50. Kids menu for ages 12 and under, high chairs, wheelchair accessible. Located in Glendale Square Mall with free, plentiful parking. Known for fast service even when crowded. Award-winning matzo ball soup. Price: $$.

The Brick Pub & Grill

6343 N. Green Bay Avenue | thebrickpubandgrill.com

Newly renovated restaurant across from Kletzsch Park serves Sunday brunch 9 AM–12 PM with $1 sliders and excellent Bloody Marys. Restaurant Guru awarded "Best Atmosphere 2024." Four-season sunroom, two outdoor patios, and 14 TVs at the horseshoe bar. Vegetarian and gluten-free options available. Free parking lot. Price: $$.

Bayshore Area Chains

The Cheesecake Factory (5799 N. Bayshore Drive) offers Saturday and Sunday brunch until 2 PM with its massive 200+ item menu. Extensive kids' menu, high chairs, and reservations available via OpenTable. Curbside To-Go service with designated spots. Price: $$-$$$.

Mallards (5689 N. Bayshore Drive) serves award-winning Cajun/Southern cuisine with Sunday brunch 10 AM–2 PM. All-day Sunday happy hour. Reservations via OpenTable recommended—they're booked 13+ times daily. Price: $$.

Stone Creek Coffee Glendale

6969 N. Port Washington Road | (414) 228-8699

Serving the community for 20+ years, this remodeled location offers specialty lattes, pastries, and light breakfast. Hours: 7 AM–7 PM. Great for quick coffee and pastry. Rated #8 of 30 Glendale restaurants. Price: $.

Mequon: The largest North Shore community

Café Hollander Mequon (detailed above)

The Belgian brunch destination with 38+ beers on draft, Winter Domes, and rooftop patio adjacent to the Interurban Trail.

First Watch

11032 N. Port Washington Road | (262) 518-0028 | firstwatch.com

This award-winning national chain operates 7 AM–2:30 PM daily with seasonal rotating menus. Signature items include the Tri-fecta (most popular dish), Million Dollar Bacon, fresh-squeezed juices from their in-house Juice Bar, and Project Sunrise single-origin coffee. High chairs, kids menu, wheelchair accessible. Outdoor patio seating. Weekend wait times: 15-30 minutes—join waitlist online or via app before arriving. Organic, gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options clearly marked. Alcoholic beverages available. Price: $$-$$$.

Cafe 1505

1505 W. Mequon Road | (262) 241-7076 | cafe1505.com

Established in 1991, this local institution serves "impossibly fluffy pancakes" that locals swear by. Hours: Mon–Fri 7 AM–3 PM, weekends 8 AM–3 PM. Homemade scratch soups, fresh bakery, Bloody Marys and mimosas. Spacious dining room plus sunny private patio. Deli/gourmet section for grab-and-go. Uses local Valentine coffee, Rishi tea, Lakefront beers, and Wisconsin's best distillers. Strip mall parking with easy access. Price: $-$$.

Fiddleheads Coffee Mequon

10530 N. Port Washington Road | (262) 241-8819 | fiddleheadscoffee.com

The only locally owned coffee house in Mequon, family-operated since 1996. One of their largest café locations features a fireplace, antique artwork, rough-hewn hardwood floors, and a free private conference room. Hours: Mon–Fri 6:30 AM–7 PM, weekends 7 AM–7 PM. Turkey Gouda Croissants, house-roasted coffee, and daily soups. Gluten-free buns available. Front and back parking lots. Price: $-$$.

Chuck's Place Family Restaurant

406 N. Main Street, Thiensville | (262) 242-9797

Classic diner with Cinnabon Morning Bun French Toast and legendary homemade corned beef hash. Known for deep dish pizza described as "best in Milwaukee." Set in a charming house with screened porch seating. Kid-friendly staff—children love the malts for breakfast. Neighborhood Favorite award winner 2017-2023. Back parking lot recommended. Price: $-$$.

Prime Minister Family Restaurant

517 N. Main Street, Thiensville | (262) 238-1530 | pmcatering.com

Family-run Greek-American restaurant for 31+ years serving breakfast all day from 7 AM–8 PM. Classic "Three Deuces" breakfast and Greek options. Gluten-free pancakes and toast available. Known as the after-church favorite. Excellent catering services for family events. Price: $.

PJ Piper Pancake House (nearby Cedarburg)

W61N514 Washington Avenue, Cedarburg | (262) 421-8040 | pjpiperwi.com

Worth the short drive for exceptional pancakes. Hours: Tue–Sat 6 AM–2 PM, Sun 7 AM–2 PM, closed Monday. The Works Skillet with toast and pancakes is the local favorite. Monthly pancake specials (currently S'mores) and "Breakfast Around the World" offerings. Lines out the door on weekends—they'll text when your table is ready, so explore Cedarburg shops while waiting. Counter seating available for faster service. Kids menu available. TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice #4 of 34 Cedarburg restaurants. Price: $.

Family planning essentials

By kid-friendliness rating

The most family-oriented establishments with dedicated kids' menus, high chairs, stroller space, and staff accustomed to children:

• Café Hollander (both locations) - Full kids' brunch menu, spacious, noise-tolerant

• First Watch - Efficient service, kids' menu, dietary options marked clearly

• Stone Creek Coffee Whitefish Bay - Dedicated kids' play area

• Fitzy's Cafe - No alcohol, nostalgic atmosphere, ice cream

• Jack Pandl's - Treasure chest tradition for children, multi-generational

• Maxfield's Pancake House - Classic family diner atmosphere

• Chuck's Place - Staff described as particularly kid-friendly

By wait time expectations

Minimal Wait Moderate (15-30 min) Longer Waits (30+ min) Colectivo, Fiddleheads First Watch Jack Pandl's (without reservation) Einstein Bros., Tropical Smoothie Maxfield's Pancake House PJ Piper (weekend) Stone Creek (counter service) Bistro on the Glen Café Hollander (weekend) Bruegger's Bagels Chuck's Place Solly's Grille

By price category

Budget ($8-15 per person): Solly's Grille, Maxfield's, Einstein Bros., Benji's Deli, Prime Minister, Stone Creek Coffee, Fitzy's Cafe

Moderate ($15-25 per person): First Watch, Café Hollander, Three Lions Pub, Bistro on the Glen, Milwaukee Brat House, Cafe 1505

Upscale ($25-40+ per person): Jack Pandl's (Sunday brunch prix fixe), MOXIE, Hubbard Park Lodge, The Cheesecake Factory, Mallards

Reservation recommendations

Essential: Jack Pandl's (weekend brunch), Hubbard Park Lodge (required) Strongly recommended: Café Hollander (weekend brunch), MOXIE, Mallards Available but not required: First Watch (waitlist app), Cheesecake Factory Walk-in only: Solly's Grille, Maxfield's, PJ Piper, most coffee shops

Parking tips by community

• Shorewood: Metered street parking on Oakland Avenue with 2-hour limits; arrive early weekends

• Whitefish Bay: Free village lot on N. Marlborough Drive; meters on Silver Spring turn over quickly

• Fox Point/Bayside: Generally easy lot parking at strip malls

• Glendale: Bayshore Mall lots free; Solly's has small lot that fills fast

• Mequon: Strip mall lots with ample space; back lot at Chuck's recommended

Delivery and takeout leaders

All major restaurants offer takeout. Apps active across the North Shore include DoorDash, Uber Eats, GrubHub, and EatStreet. Stone Creek and Fitzy's offer dedicated pickup parking spots. Café Hollander, First Watch, and Cheesecake Factory offer curbside pickup services.

Conclusion: Choosing your perfect breakfast

For special occasions and multi-generational gatherings, Jack Pandl's Whitefish Bay Inn delivers unmatched tradition with its 110-year history, treasure chest for kids, and memorable German pancakes. For trendy brunch with craft cocktails, Café Hollander Mequon offers the full Belgian experience with Winter Domes and rooftop views.

Budget-conscious families should prioritize Solly's Grille for a James Beard-honored experience under $15, or Maxfield's Pancake House for generous portions and Oreo pancakes that kids love. Families managing dietary restrictions will find Stone Creek Coffee Whitefish Bay and Friendship Café particularly accommodating.

For quick breakfast runs, Fiddleheads Coffee and Cafe 1505 offer quality local options with grab-and-go capabilities, while First Watch's waitlist app eliminates standing in line. Coffee lovers should seek out Fiddleheads' house-roasted beans or Colectivo's Milwaukee-roasted offerings.

The North Shore's breakfast scene rewards exploration—each community brings distinct character, from Shorewood's walkable urban village to Mequon's sprawling options along Port Washington Road. Whatever your family's preferences for atmosphere, budget, or cuisine, these communities deliver memorable morning meals within minutes of home.