February 12, 2024

Eugene Brunch Spots: Discover the Best Brunch in Eugene!

Craving brunch in Eugene? Dive into our top picks where pancakes flirt with poached eggs and mimosas never run dry.

Richard Gargan
Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
Oregon
Eugene Brunch Spots: Discover the Best Brunch in Eugene!
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Welcome to a tour of Eugene's brunch scene, where every nook offers not just a meal but an experience, a tradition, a piece of the city's heart on a plate.

Mi Cafe +

439 W 11th Ave, Eugene

(541) 654-0360

Reviewed by:

Shawn Harper

Mi Cafe + in Eugene is truly a brunch destination worth raving about. The food here is absolutely amazing and comes at a really affordable price, something that's hard to find these days. You get generous portions, ensuring you leave fully satisfied. Even the americano I tried was delicious – the espresso was just right, light and flavorful without the bitterness you sometimes find elsewhere. The place itself is cozy, making it a great spot to hang out. Although being served plastic utensils with my meal was a bit of a letdown since I was dining in, it's a minor issue in the grand scheme of things. I've decided in future visits I'll just pass on the utensils. That said, it hasn't deterred me; I've been here a few times already and each visit has been a fantastic experience. The food is both delicious and authentic, getting a thumbs up from my Hispanic partner. The coffee is top-notch with a wide variety for everyone to enjoy, the service is outstanding, and the overall vibes inside are just so relaxing. It's easily one of the best places to eat in Eugene, and I'm already looking forward to my next visit. On a special note, the blended chai tea with pumpkin spice was a revelation – so good! And the toasted blueberry bagel was the perfect accompaniment. The staff, and particularly the manager, were incredibly warm and welcoming, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. And let's talk about the Matcha Latte for a moment – it was a Matcha Made in Heaven! The way they've mastered the blend, froth, and overall presentation is commendable. Drinking it felt like a cozy hug for my taste buds, definitely a highlight of my visit. Mi Cafe + has quickly become a must-visit spot for me in Eugene, and I can't wait for my next brunch there. From the food to the drinks and the service, everything is top-notch. A stop here is sure to brighten anyone's day!

Theo's Coffee House

199 W 8th Ave #1, Eugene

(541) 344-6491

Reviewed by:

Ashley Leman

Went for a quiet dinner with a friend and found the environment quite relaxing. It was an off night with no show happening and business seemed a bit slow, which was perfect for what we were looking for. We opted for salads and a pizza. The salads hit the spot with what tasted like a homemade emulsion for dressing. Now, the pizza was a delightful surprise - it was larger than expected, maintaining a good quality throughout, especially the crust which was thin but not crispy, just how I like it. There’s a full bar that we didn't explore this time, but given the quality of the food, I'm confident the drinks would be on par. Theo’s offers plenty of seating, a cozy coffee spot, and an inviting breakfast menu, which makes it a go-to place in the morning. The hot chocolate added a cozy touch to the whole experience, making the vibe feel very old school and welcoming. The baristas were super kind, enhancing the overall experience with their friendliness. Speaking of breakfast, their special - a ham, egg, and cheese croissant - was simply delicious. Coupled with homemade baked goods and a great cup of coffee, it rounded out the experience beautifully. Definitely a place to check out for yourself if you're looking for good food, a relaxed atmosphere, and friendly staff.

Perugino

767 Willamette St #102, Eugene

(541) 687-9102

Reviewed by:

Nathan Cain

Visiting Perugino for brunch was an absolute delight. The coffee and treats on offer were exceptional. The mocha and chocolate biscotti I opted for were simply divine, showcasing the quality of their ingredients and the skill of their baristas. Upon entering, I noticed the place has limited seating and the space felt a bit close but, in all honesty, it's well worth it for the quality of coffee you're getting. It was my first visit, and I decided to try something different, so I went for an iced dirty pumpkin chai. Although it turned out a bit watery for my taste, my friend's choice of the s'mores special drink was fantastic and made up for it. The ambiance of the place, enhanced by the great lighting, created a welcoming atmosphere. There is limited comfy seating, which is something to keep in mind, but if you can grab a spot, it's a nice place to relax. One downside was the cleanliness of the bathroom, which was not up to par, especially first thing in the morning. However, looking at the bigger picture, Perugino stands out as an awesome coffee shop and restaurant. It's a great spot for a casual drink or a bite to eat. The place has a great vibe, and you can even reserve it for after-hours events. Not to be missed is their turmeric latte - a unique offering that is surprisingly good. What made our visit even more serendipitous was the fact that we stumbled upon this place by chance. The Italian-styled coffee was so impressive that it quickly became our go-to coffee spot in town, compelling us to return several times. For anyone looking for top-notch coffee and a pleasant place to unwind, I definitely recommend checking this place out.

Buddy's Diner

1725 Coburg Rd, Eugene

(541) 344-6583

Reviewed by:

Ram Giles

What a wonderful first experience at Buddy's Diner for brunch! My sister decided to treat our elderly parents and me to a morning out, and we couldn't have asked for a better place. Despite it being Labor Day, the wait was only about 5-10 minutes which was a pleasant surprise. The service was impressively quick; our food arrived before I even finished my first cup of coffee, which I absolutely loved. The diner's atmosphere is so inviting, with an open and light setting filled with windows that bring the outside in. It creates a lovely dining experience that I didn't even know I was missing until now. And the wait staff? They were the epitome of friendly and inviting, showing a remarkable level of patience with our group, which made us feel right at home. As for the food, it was simply delicious. It's clear the cooks know their way around the kitchen. Our coffee cups were always full, and even when we found a little hair in our food, it didn't bother us much because everything else was spot on. That said, I'd recommend a bit of attention to the cleanliness to avoid such minor hiccups in the future. I tried the Philly steak omelet, a new addition to their menu, and it was outstanding. Although I wasn't a huge fan of the biscuit and gravy, I've heard their lunches and burgers are to die for, so I'm eager to give those a try next time. Despite living 80 miles away, the trip to Buddy's Diner definitely felt worth it. The locals, including my sister, are lucky to have such a gem in their vicinity. I can't wait to go back. It's a place I'd highly recommend to anyone looking for a delightful brunch experience. Buddy's Diner definitely left a great impression, and I look forward to creating more memories there.

The Original Pancake House

782 E Broadway, Eugene

(541) 343-7523

Reviewed by:

Estiben Antonio Temeka

This place is fantastic! From the delicious pancakes to the thick-cut extra crispy bacon, everything was well cooked and seasoned. Even with a packed house, the service was fast and friendly, keeping things moving smoothly. The short wait time, despite the crowd, really shows how great the food is here. The fresh squeezed OJ was a refreshing find, and it was cool to see all the UH & Prefontaine memorabilia. The service was excellent, attentive, and our food came out promptly. The menu offers a great variety of options, and the environment was very baby-friendly, which was a plus for us. The tropical syrup was a delightful surprise. Being particular about using only maple syrup from New Hampshire, trying a house-made tropical syrup was a leap out of my comfort zone, but it was worth it. The flavor was incredible, especially paired with coconut pancakes. The whole breakfast experience was enjoyable, and I'm eager to try more of what they offer next time. Our server, Mary, was awesome, taking her time to explain the menu and options. It's not often you find such attentive service. The food was really good, and the portions were just right. This place definitely keeps up the standards.

Morning Glory Café

450 Willamette St, Eugene

(541) 687-0709

Reviewed by:

La Toya Hector

Found this small little nook but was blown away by the AMAZING food! Decided to try the seasonal pumpkin waffles and, honestly, they were to die for. Alongside, the Sunny Bear drink was a delightful treat - highly recommend both. I also tried the vegan soy-sage patties which, despite being a bit crumbly in texture, were still very tasty. Everything tasted like it was home-cooked, a rare find with lots of vegan options available. One small downside was the $1 surcharge for alternative milks, a bit disappointing to see. Still, this place is definitely worth a visit if you're in Eugene. It's become a beloved spot for me! The sweetest little café/bakery around. Their vegan cinnamon rolls are the best I’ve found since moving here, and their waffles? Perfectly crispy, and though not super fluffy, they taste amazing. The service here is another high point; everyone working here is so kind and helpful, making it a special treat to visit. The atmosphere is perfect for both autumn and summer vibes. Loved it here! Had some time to kill waiting for my train and wanted something to eat - couldn’t have made a better choice. I opted for their French toast, topped with a sweet strawberry drizzle that was just delightful. 100% planning on going here again!

Studio One Café

1473 E 19th Ave, Eugene

(541) 342-8596

Reviewed by:

Koffi Johnson

We wanted to branch out and try a new spot for brunch in Eugene and stumbled upon Studio One Café through some online recommendations. Deciding to give it a shot, we weren't disappointed. Upon arrival, the warmth and coziness of the place immediately caught our attention. It's rare to find a spot that combines a welcoming atmosphere with top-notch service, and Studio One certainly delivers on both fronts. Our server was the highlight of our visit – not only was he friendly and attentive, but he also performed juggling acts for my kid, adding a unique touch to our experience. The menu was impressive, boasting a variety of options that cater to all tastes. My brunch dish was satisfying and hit the spot, while my wife opted for a burrito, which was decent but could have benefited from a bit more flavor, perhaps with some salsa like the one that came with my meal. A group of friends and I also had the chance to visit Studio One Café over Easter weekend, and it was equally delightful. The cozy patio and interior set a perfect backdrop for the occasion. The menu's vast selection made choosing a bit of a challenge, but in the best way possible. I indulged in the Chocolate pancake meal, which was generously portioned and absolutely delicious - a word of advice, two pancakes are more than enough. A friend ordered the French toast sandwiches, and they looked so tempting; I know what I’m trying next time. The café also impressed me with its Eggs Benedict selection on a day when our original breakfast spot was closed. It was a pleasant surprise to discover such a gem thanks to a quick Google search. Not only was the food mouth-watering, but the coffee and tea were also beyond satisfactory. The place oozes charm and personality, making you feel right at home the moment you step inside. If there was any downside, it would be the slight wait to pay after our meal, but it was a minor hiccup in what was otherwise a fantastic dining experience. Studio One Café is a must-visit for anyone looking for exceptional brunch options in Eugene. The place truly stands out for its cozy ambiance, diverse menu, and the kind of service that makes you eager to return.

Brail's Restaurant

1689 Willamette St, Eugene

(541) 343-1542

Reviewed by:

Shel Rajnath

After a long hiatus from dining at Brail's Restaurant for brunch in Eugene, I decided it was the perfect place to celebrate my nephew's new milestone of getting his Food Handlers Card. He's enthusiastic about joining the restaurant industry, and what better way to celebrate than at a place that epitomizes what it means to deliver excellent food and service. The meal was nothing short of delightful. The preparation was top-notch, reflecting the professionalism and expertise of the wonderful folks working there. It's apparent they take pride in their craft, ensuring every aspect of the dining experience is on point, from a well-stocked variety of condiments to the thoughtful touch of individual creamers for coffee. Although my concern, similar to other establishments in Eugene, is the affordability aspect which sadly means my visits will be less frequent, I cannot help but praise the overall experience at Brail's. It's a gem for brunch enthusiasts, offering a delectable French toast sampler, a standout French dip, and the convenience of serving both breakfast and lunch all day. The pricing is competitive, making it an attractive option for those seeking quality without breaking the bank. Brail's is without a doubt among the top diners in Eugene, standing out with its consistency in food quality, cleanliness, and the warm, welcoming nature of the staff. The prompt service is a bonus, ensuring a pleasurable dining experience even when the place buzzes with activity over the weekends. Thankfully, opting for a seat at the counter usually means getting seated immediately, a little hack I've come to appreciate. The spacious dining area is another plus, comfortably accommodating groups of any size, with the option of enjoying the weather at one of the outdoor tables. With convenient parking options, Brail's easily becomes a go-to breakfast spot, not just for me but for the entire family. The pancakes are a hit with my kids, and the overall friendly and relaxed atmosphere has helped create many cherished memories. This place holds a special place in my heart, a testament to the wonderful experiences shared here.

Lion and Owl

60 E 11th Ave, Eugene

(541) 606-0626

Reviewed by:

Eswari Igisaiar Babauta

My visit to Lion and Owl for brunch was an experience I won't soon forget. This place strikes the perfect balance with its playful dishes, impeccable service, and a downplayed atmosphere that's both fun and approachable. Sampling all the brunch options was a delight, with a progressive menu that also includes local beers. The homemade chips and dip alongside the salad were incredibly tasty, contributing to the restaurant's appealing aesthetics. We opted for the oat pancakes and the breakfast sando; both were delicious and definitely worth another visit. The service matched the quality of the food, cementing this spot as my favorite in Eugene. Celebrating my 30th birthday here made the occasion even more memorable, especially with a bartender named MJ who went above and beyond to ensure my day was special. It solidified Lion and Owl as our go-to dining spot in town, not just for the incredible food but also for the top-notch drinks and service. The ambiance is inviting, with fresh decor that enhances the dining experience, and the staff’s friendliness is commendable. Despite the many positives, I gave this establishment a 4-star rating due to an issue we faced. Our party of eight experienced significant delays in the timing of our food orders. Though the restaurant promotes sharing dishes, the staggered arrival of our meals, starting with a Polenta dish and ending 20 minutes later with my order, was a bit of a letdown. Opting to wait for everyone’s food to arrive before starting to eat meant that the initial excitement was somewhat dampened. Even with this hiccup in service, I still find Lion and Owl a recommendable spot for those who don't mind the possibility of receiving their meals at different times. It's a place where the food, ambiance, and service usually combine to create a memorable dining experience.

Glenwood

2588 Willamette St, Eugene

(541) 687-8201

Reviewed by:

Jozé Walker

Everything about this place is absolutely perfect. The service was on point, with the food arriving so fast, fresh, hot, and delicious. I definitely recommend this place - you won't be disappointed. Although I must apologize for not having a picture to share; I simply couldn't wait to dive in. A gathering of interesting folks met to drink coffee and start the day right. It was a mix of friends and strangers, all coming together in a cozy atmosphere, engaging in discussions or simply enjoying the company. The staff were incredibly welcoming and made sure everyone was taken care of, especially the young woman who looked after us. She was truly a gracious and amenable host. However, I must note that in all my experiences of breakfasts around the world, this one was particularly salty - from the toast to the potatoes to the sausage. But that was just a small bump in an otherwise delightful experience. Despite that, a good time was indeed had by all. The tomato cheese soup was particularly memorable; so delicious! They have a large menu, offering both breakfast and lunch options. Whenever I'm in Eugene, Glenwood is a must-visit for me. The prices are quite reasonable too, and I'm already looking forward to stopping here again. The French toast, in particular, was awesome.

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