Start yur day with a plate of perfection at two of Iowa’s best breakfast spots. From fluffy pancakes to savory omelets, these local gems serve up bold flavors and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident, these breakfast havens will leave you coming back for more.
The Breakfast Club
Looking for a breakfast spot that’s as fun as it is delicious? The Breakfast Club in Des Moines, Iowa, is the place to be!
This retro-inspired diner brings the 80s and 90s back to life with vibrant decor, music videos playing on TVs, and a menu that’s anything but ordinary.
From creative cocktails to hearty breakfast dishes, this East Village gem serves up a side of nostalgia with every bite.
Food Highlights
- Notorious B&G: A bold twist on biscuits and gravy featuring jalapeño cheddar biscuits, “ULTIMATE” gravy, a fried egg, and crispy bacon. Spicy, savory, and utterly satisfying!
- Chicken & Waffle: Buttermilk fried chicken paired with a fluffy waffle and drizzled with syrup. Crispy, juicy perfection in every bite.
- S’more Donut Holes: Golden-fried donut holes dusted with cinnamon sugar, topped with marshmallow cream, chocolate sauce, and graham cracker crumbles. Dessert for breakfast? Yes, please!
- Seoul Food Hash Browns: Loaded hash browns inspired by Korean flavors, smothered in kimchi and other toppings. A unique and flavorful option for adventurous eaters.
- Egg White Veggie Omelette: A lighter choice packed with fresh veggies and served with fruit. Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring!
Atmosphere
Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a time machine to the 80s and 90s.
The colorful decor, exposed brick walls, and high ceilings create a lively yet cozy vibe. TVs play nostalgic music videos while the friendly staff keeps the energy upbeat.
It’s the kind of place where you can sip on a mimosa flight or chow down on loaded hash browns while reminiscing about the good old days.
Why It’s One of the Best in Iowa
The Breakfast Club isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. With its creative menu, retro vibe, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s perfect for foodies looking to try something new or families wanting a fun breakfast outing.
Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or adventurous flavors, this spot delivers every time.
Address: 212 E 3rd St, Des Moines, IA 50309
Milk & Honey
Looking for a breakfast spot that’s as charming as it is delicious?
Milk & Honey in Harlan, Iowa, is the place to be.
This farm-to-table gem takes small-town dining to the next level with its locally sourced ingredients and made-from-scratch dishes.
Owned by Ellen and Daniel Walsh-Rosmann since 2015, the restaurant is a love letter to fresh food and community spirit.
It’s a spot where hearty breakfasts meet a welcoming vibe, making it a must-visit for locals and out-of-towners alike.
Food Highlights
- Eggs Benedict: A unique twist on the classic! Served on English muffins with ham, tomato, fresh greens, fried eggs (instead of poached), and a drizzle of balsamic, all topped with hollandaise. The blend of flavors is unforgettable.
- Reuben Sandwich: Packed with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on marble rye bread. It’s griddled to perfection and served with your choice of sides like potato salad or sweet potato cubes.
- Breakfast Skillets: These hearty dishes combine eggs, potatoes, and other fresh ingredients for a satisfying start to your day.
- B.L.L.T.: Bacon, lobster, lettuce, and tomato on sourdough bread with spicy mayo—this sandwich is next-level delicious.
- Kids Pancakes: A massive pancake that’s fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, served with real maple syrup. A hit with kids and adults alike!
Atmosphere
Milk & Honey exudes small-town charm in a historic building with exposed brick walls and colorful barn quilt patches.
The spacious interior offers eclectic seating options that make you feel right at home.
Whether you’re grabbing coffee or enjoying a leisurely brunch, the vibe is friendly, cozy, and relaxed.
Why It’s One of the Best in Iowa:
Milk & Honey isn’t just about great food—it’s about community.
By sourcing ingredients from local farms, they ensure every bite is fresh and flavorful while supporting Iowa producers.
The creative menu keeps things exciting, and the warm atmosphere makes every visit special.
Whether you’re passing through or planning a day trip, Milk & Honey delivers an experience worth savoring.
Address: 1101 7th St, Harlan, IA 51537
The Café
Looking for a breakfast spot that’s as charming as it is delicious? The Café in Ames, Iowa, has been delighting locals and visitors alike for over two decades.
This farm-to-table gem is all about fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a warm, welcoming vibe.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a lighter start to your day, The Café has something to satisfy every craving.
Food Highlights
- Baguette French Toast: Thick slices of artisan baguette soaked in eggs and cream, then griddled to perfection. Served with butter and maple syrup, it’s a sweet way to kick off your morning.
- Portobello Scramble: A savory delight featuring pan-seared portobello mushrooms, parmesan scrambled eggs, fresh asparagus, and café potatoes. Perfect for mushroom lovers!
- Breakfast Quesadilla: Packed with house-made sausage, caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, cheesy scrambled eggs, and topped with chipotle mayo and chile-spiced pineapple. A bold and flavorful choice.
- Avocado Toast: A classic with a twist—fresh avocado on toasted sourdough with lemon zest and Maldon salt. Simple yet satisfying.
- Café Skillet: A hearty dish with café potatoes, diced ham, white cheddar, American cheese, garlic aioli, sunny-side eggs, and artisan toast. Comfort food at its finest!
Atmosphere
The Café offers a relaxed yet upscale vibe with trendy décor and a thoughtful layout that ensures every table feels cozy and private.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making every visit feel special. It’s the kind of place where you can bring family for brunch or enjoy a leisurely breakfast date.
Why It’s One of the Best in Iowa:
The Café’s commitment to fresh ingredients and creative dishes makes it a standout in Ames’ dining scene.
From the locally sourced menu to the inviting atmosphere, this spot is more than just a meal—it’s an experience.
Address: 2616 Northridge Pkwy, Ames, IA