18 of the Best Breakfast Spots in Cleveland

Steve's Doghouse (Sal’s Menu) - 3850 Pearl Rd., 216-398-1446

Sal is a Cleveland legend who’s worked the grill at Sal’s Menu for more than 30 years. His well-deserved retirement a few year's ago came with the news that the Brooklyn Centre will merge with iconic Cleveland diner Steve’s Lunch. Morning shift will continue to serve Sal’s menu, which pays homage to local workers with its names. Read more about Sal’s Menu in Scene : here

Shore Restaurant and Diner - 12009 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-221-8711

Blink and you might miss this Lakewood treasure along Detroit Ave. The tiny, quaintly-decorated destination is the definition of a neighborhood diner helmed by friendly faces. Breakfast specials include everything from bacon and eggs to steaks and strawberry hotcakes.

West Side Market Café - 1979 W 25th St., 216-579-6800, westsidemarketcafe.com

The West Side Market Cafe keeps everything old-school, just like its landmark mothership. Your breakfast is served while surrounded by vintage photos of the market and Cleveland’s early days. Take a step into the past while you start your morning with fresh blueberry-stuffed French toast, veggie frittata or a hash plate with Cajun-seasoned potatoes and andouille sausage.

Blue Door Café - 1970 State Rd., 330-926-9774, bluedoorcafebakery.com

Straight from the farm freshness guides this Cuyahoga Falls café. Flaky gourmet croissant, freshly baked bread and French waffles topped with Mitchell’s ice cream are just a few of the warm, decadent dishes you’ll find here every morning.

Cafe Miami - 4517 State Rd, Cleveland, OH 44109; (216) 661-3739

If its artfully quirky interior isn’t enough to win your heart, Café’s Miami’s Latin-infused menu that ranges from hot cakes to Cubanos is enough to win over anyone who wasn’t sure why this Old Brooklyn joint has such a following. Try their twist on the American breakfast diner classic served with Cuban toast or order up a piping hot empanada and plantains.

Eat at Joe’s - 1473 S Green Rd., 216-381-3101

This South Euclid haunt is a classic diner, and that’s why it has so many old-school fans that gather there every week. Breakfast is served all day and includes all the usual suspects, including omelets, French toast and pancakes alongside their meaty counterparts.

Ellie’s Waffles, Smoothies and Sweets - 14486 Cedar Rd., 216-242-4561

You never knew you needed a giant waffle doused in strawberry syrup, birthday cake-style ice cream and graham crackers until you walk into this east side treat shop. Prepare to be full for the rest of the day when waffles come up in the styles of apple pie, S’mores and strawberry shortcake. Muffins, cupcakes and fresh challah round out the bakery.

Lucky’s Café - 777 Starkweather Ave., 216-622-7773

Locally-sourced, creative breakfasts are served in this hip, artsy Tremont morning hotspot. Pop in for fresh baked goods and a coffee to go, or grab a seat in the petite eatery. Granola is made in-house and lemon waffles are served with bright blueberry compote. For a hearty start to the day, get their take on sausage and biscuits topped with scrambled eggs.

Southside Diner - 10705 W Pleasant Valley Rd., Parma, 440-842-6888

Prepare for a flashback to the 50s when you step into the red and white-tiled Southside. This Parma gem is retro to the max with plenty of throwback vibes to accompany fresh breakfast fare. Try savory breakfast tacos or slice into thick, decadently-topped waffles.

Grumpy’s Café - 2621 W 14th St., 216-241-5025

Comfort food is served up in this colorful Tremont favorite. Grumpy’s pays tribute to where it comes from with playfully named dishes like the West 14th St. Special, a corned beef hash with fresh baked bread or Tremont’s Favorite, a strip steak with eggs and their famous Cajun fries. Pancakes, omelets and French toast are a few of the traditional breakfast entrees and heartier fare is served for lunch and brunch.