Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it provides the fuel and energy you need to explore Door County to the fullest! While several restaurants in the peninsula recommend reservations for dinner or even lunch, breakfast is a lot more easy-going, with many grab-and-go, friendly diners, or casual dining options available. On the other hand, there are some places so popular that you’ll want to try to be a morning person so you can get there early! Here are some of our favorite places to enjoy a hot cup of coffee and a great meal to take on the day.
5. Good Eggs
Good Eggs is just like it sounds—delicious homemade omelet wraps made-to-order with locally sourced Door County eggs! This is a great grab-and-go option if you’re in a hurry on your way up the peninsula or back home after a fun weekend. But make sure to get your order in early! You’ll need to download their app Good Eggs on the App Store or visit their website to submit your order, and they often receive several orders in advance that quickly pile up. But the wait is absolutely worth it! Their omelets and breakfast burritos are packed to bursting with melty cheese, fresh vegetables, and, of course, eggs. Even if you’re not an egg person, you can enjoy smoothies and parfaits too!
4. Big Easy
In Egg Harbor, Big Easy is the mouthwateringly delicious bagel and beignet breakfast place. Their beignets are truly authentic, and you’ll be transported to New Orleans as you bite into the indulgent, sugary fried dough! Many of their other breakfast options are Cajun-inspired, such as their Louisiana Skillet and Breakfast Jambalaya. Others are more traditional, ranging from a Breakfast Quesadilla to Bagel French Toast to Tater Tot Scramble. Pair a dish with a cup of hot coffee or a fruit smoothie, which you can add a shot to if you’re feeling frisky! After all, you’re on Door County time.
3. Chef’s Hat
While Good Eggs is a fantastic grab-and-go option in Ephraim, an alternative where you can slow down and relax for a while just across from the waterfront is Chef’s Hat. Their variety of breakfast options will satisfy any palate, and the quality of food and service is always top-notch. Choose from the Chef’s egg scrambles, breakfast wraps and salads, waffles and French toast, or other traditional breakfast dishes such as avocado toast or a fresh fruit bowl. One of the best ways to wake up in the morning is indulging in a good meal on their outdoor patio, watching the sun rise over Eagle Harbor and feeling the cool breeze on your skin.
2. Julie’s Park Café
One of the best things about Julie’s Park Café is not only does it serve breakfast all day, but it’s just steps away from Peninsula State Park! A great way to start your day is to enjoy a hearty breakfast at Julie’s and then walking off your meal on one of the several hiking trails around the park. But let’s not skip the best part—the breakfast itself! Their menu changes depending on the season, but some specials never leave, such as their delicious omelets and scrambles and wide variety of French toasts. If you have a sweet tooth, Julie’s has the perfect dish for you, ranging from Cherry Crepes to Cinnamon Bunch French Toast to buttermilk pancakes with toppings of your choosing. The inside of the café is just as charming as the menu, with outdoor scenery painted on the walls that will get you excited for that morning hike in Peninsula State Park. Julie’s Park Café has it all to get your morning started on the right foot!
1. White Gull Inn
Perhaps it’s no surprise that White Gull Inn has topped our list, but there’s a reason why you’ll need to get up early in the summertime! Their Door County Cherry Stuffed French Toast was named “America’s Favorite” by Good Morning America, and it’s clear to see why: two golden brown slices of egg bread are stuffed with Wisconsin cream cheese and Door County cherries, served with maple syrup. It may sound rather simple, but it’s heavenly delicious, and it’s a large reason why the restaurant is packed in the morning! Nevertheless, there are other breakfast options on the menu that are just as divine, such as their Autumn Caramel Apple French Toast, Door County Cherry Pancakes, Nice Guy Hash, and White Gull Granola. Even if you don’t have the chance to try their famed cherry French toast, you can’t go wrong with breakfast at White Gull Inn!