Lincoln’s Top Breakfast Destinations

by Sriyani Tidball

There are some great, unique breakfast options in Lincoln. Here are a few places I can vouch for where you can get a hearty breakfast. 

Nestled within the recently opened Scarlet Hotel on UNL’s Innovation Campus at 2101 Transformation Drive, the Well & Good restaurant has quickly become a cherished breakfast destination in the city. From 7:00 a.m. to 11 a.m. each morning, patrons are treated to an extraordinary breakfast experience.

This boutique Marriott hotel pays homage to Nebraska in every aspect of its design, offering a hearty and diverse menu that celebrates the state’s culinary delights. The Scarlet Hotel proudly collaborates with local farmers and small businesses, showcasing the array of products cultivated within Nebraska and ensuring that all visitors savor a genuine taste of the region.

Well & Good maintains the tradition of homestyle cooking that generations of Nebraskans have cherished while infusing a touch of sophistication that caters to the expectations of the contemporary traveler. The restaurant effortlessly brings to life the flavors and memories of family recipes and home-cooked meals, echoing Nebraska’s rich agricultural heritage. Students find solace in the familiar tastes that remind them of home, while international guests are privileged to savor the culinary essence of the Good Life. 

Located at 330 S. 10th Street, Green Gateau is a charming, family-owned restaurant with exceptional all-day brunch service on Saturdays and Sundays. The brunch menu at Green Gateau served is a delightful cornucopia of options, each a culinary delight.

My favorite, the strawberry stuffed crepes, is a must-try, and if you’re a fan of eggs benedict, you’re in for a treat with their diverse selection, including options like spinach or salmon benedict. But it’s not just about the entrées; Green Gateau has earned a well-deserved reputation for serving the town’s favorite chocolate espresso muffins. To elevate your brunch experience, you can always complement your meal with a mimosa or a bloody Mary.

What truly sets Green Gateau apart, however, is their exceptional wait-staff. The courteous and attentive service adds a layer of warmth to the breakfast experience, making your visit an unforgettable brunch you’ll cherish. Their lunches and dinners are wonderful, too.

At 7900 South 87th Street, Greenfields is a culinary gem serving exceptional meals. However, this is the place to be if you’re searching for a hearty breakfast. With its friendly, Midwestern charm and family-owned ambiance, Greenfields promises a delightful breakfast experience every time you visit.

Whether you opt for a generously portioned Ultimate Steak omelet with all the fixings and a side of thick, homemade rye toast or indulge in their delectable pancakes or Belgian waffles adorned with fresh fruit, your taste buds are in for a treat. The best part is that they offer their brunch menu throughout the day, ensuring you can savor breakfast at any hour. 

Nestled at 6028 Havelock Avenue in the northern part of the city, The Engine House Café exudes the charming ambiance of a fire station with the original wood ceiling. This unique eatery serves a comprehensive breakfast menu with classics like eggs, bacon, burritos, and much more. My favorite is one of their signature dishes, the South of the Border omelet.

On weekends, it’s worth noting that The Engine House is a hot spot for breakfast enthusiasts, so there may be a brief wait. However, the culinary experience and the firehouse-inspired atmosphere make it well worth the wait for those seeking a memorable breakfast.

Good Evans at 70th and A streets will satisfy your craving for an exceptional brunch experience. Noted as a restaurant with unique breakfast dishes, Good Evans is sure to please. Picture yourself indulging in towering pancakes made with sweet potatoes or relishing every morsel of their exquisite French toast. Must-tries include shrimp & grits (yes, for breakfast) or the Nebraska Bene. You can’t go wrong with any choice!

Visit Cook’s Café, now located at 333 North Cotner Blvd., has a new location, menu, and patio seating. You can’t go wrong with any of the basic breakfasts they offer, but if you’re looking for a tasty treat, try the homemade corned beef hash. Gluten-free dishes are available. 

Nestled at 250 N. 21st Street, Suite 3 in Lincoln, The Hub Café has firmly established itself as the city’s beloved breakfast and brunch destination. Renowned for its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and offering a menu that embraces the farm-to-table philosophy, The Hub Café promises a delightful breakfast experience that will thoroughly satisfy you.

For those seeking recommendations, the Biscuit Egg Sandwich and the Avocado Toast have earned their place as personal favorites, and they’re sure to please your taste buds as well. With its dedication to freshness and a delectable menu, The Hub Café is a must-visit for breakfast lovers in Lincoln.

Le Quartier Bakery and Café is a delightful breakfast haven at Meridian Park on the corner of 70th and O streets. They open their doors at 7:00 a.m. on weekdays and 8:00 a.m. on weekends, ensuring you can start your day with a delicious breakfast experience.

At Le Quartier, you’ll find an array of freshly baked pastries, including delectable cinnamon rolls, paired with piping hot coffee to kickstart your morning. The café offers indoor and outdoor seating, making it a versatile and inviting spot for a relaxed and enjoyable breakfast. Whether you’re seeking a cozy indoor atmosphere or prefer to dine al fresco, Le Quartier Bakery and Café has you covered.

C.Berry’s downtown at 1422 O Street is where flavors come alive, even at midnight. Downtown barbecue and late-night breakfast is your ultimate destination for mouthwatering pulled pork, delectable burnt ends, smoked cheeseburgers, the finest mac and cheese, and a sweet bonus with free dessert on Fridays. They serve a special late-night breakfast on Saturday and Sunday nights for those late-night cravings. 

At 2548 South 48th, The Eatery serves a feast for every palate. Their menu celebrates Midwest culinary delights, offering diverse options, from a bountiful garden-fresh salad bar to mouthwatering pasta, pizzas, and hearty entrees. They also cater to special dietary needs with their gluten-free and vegan options. And for those who crave breakfast at any hour, they serve it all day long. Try one of their flavorful breakfast bowls, or if you’re looking for a BIG breakfast, the Breakfast Feast includes all your breakfast favorites.

Penelope’s Lil’ Café, at 4724 Pioneers Boulevard., has been a popular local restaurant for breakfast for years. The B&G (biscuits and gravy) combo is a fan favorite. For many, it is their go-to place for breakfast in Lincoln, with a friendly atmosphere, delicious food and fair prices. 

Woodees, at 201 Capitol Beach Blvd., is a small café in a big town. Many faithful customers say this is one of Lincoln’s best restaurants as the food is made fresh, and they have never eaten anything they did not love, especially their breakfast.

Piedmont Bistro, a cozy upscale restaurant at 1265 S. Cotner Boulevard, Suite 38, offers a chef-inspired menu serving breakfast items on Friday, Saturday and Sunday starting at 8:00 a.m. My favorites include the Wild Mushroom Crepe or the Brioche French Toast. Check out their lunch and dinner menus while you’re there, as you will surely return. 

Many of the hotels in the downtown area offer breakfast. My favorite is Embassy Suites Downtown at 11th and P streets, which provides a full breakfast to those residing in the hotel, but in a pinch, you can always pop in and pay for a wonderful made-to-order breakfast. Check page 62 for all the best coffee houses in the city that offer your favorite blend, freshly baked sweet rolls and muffins, and more.