Of all the things I love in life, my love for the first and best meal of the day is unfaltering. I take breakfast rituals so seriously that I am dedicated to trying every breakfast in the St. Louis area. From the places I have tried thus far, here is a list of some of my favorite spots and the best occasion to go to each for.
Mud House: for cozy coffee house vibes and something vegan
I knew I was in love with this place from the second I stepped foot in. From playing The Beatles to vintage board games covering the walls and ceiling of the bathroom, this place was cute and the food was great. I had the “Vegan Slinger” and was pleasantly surprised by how yummy it was; it had a spicy kick if that’s something you’re into. I would not recommend the dirty chai latte, but their orange juice and lemon poppyseed muffin were fabulous.
First Watch: for a weekend recap spot with the ladies
Sure it might be a chain restaurant, but its walkable location for folks in or around the Central West End is unbeatable. The ambiance is bustling but bright here. Bottomless coffee and an extensive menu with everything you could ever be craving in the A.M.—say less. I had the “Healthy Turkey” omelet and loved it. I was a bit hungry afterward, so I wished I had gotten a side of sausage or something sweet!
Courtesy Diner: for something classic and on the budget
A St. Louis classic, there are multiple Courtesy Diner locations and they are open 24 hours (conditionally)! From a short stack to a double cheeseburger, any craving can be satisfied here. Make sure to bring cash, though, as it is cash only!
Blueprint Coffee at High Low Coffee Bar: to get work done
The huge windows and floor-to-ceiling shelves of books make this industrial building a cozy workspace. The drinks are on the pricier side but are well worth it. This is my favorite place to come on a rainy day to cozy up, read a book or get loads of homework done.
Hello Juice and Smoothie Bar: for something that makes you feel good
If you’re looking to spend a little more money to get a meal with high ingredients, this is the place to go. Hello Juice has a modern, clean ambiance and when I tried their “Big Foot” smoothie bowl, I was in love. You can also grab a cold-pressed juice, smoothie or other healthier breakfast options here.
Vincent Van Donut: for something quick and sweet
I have told everyone and their mother about this local spot in the Grove neighborhood. They have huge, gourmet donuts that sell out fast on the weekends. A single donut might cost you somewhere from $4-5 but I would argue that the experience of eating these donuts is absolutely worth the investment! They have rotating donut flavors, but my favorites have been the New York Cheesecake and Lemon Lavender.
Kingside Diner: for your friends who are in St. Louis for a weekend visit
Every time my family comes to visit me in STL, my mom begs us to go here. If you can avoid the long wait time, you will surely enjoy your breakfast experience here. Located in the historic Central West End neighborhood, this chess-themed diner is cute and delicious. The menu is pretty extensive and has some fun takes on classics. Give the “To Bee or Not to Bee?” French toast a try!
City Coffeehouse + Creperie: for a classy day followed by a visit to the art museum
Dressed in blazers and ready to tap into our intellectual side, my friends and I ate here on our self-proclaimed “Arts’ Day.” The crepes were delicious and the location matched the energy of our day. Whether you’re looking for sweet or savory, they have every crepe flavor known to man here and The Creperie is located conveniently close to Forest Park.
Coma Coffee: for a place to get work done
On a sunny day with light streaming through the big windows and a big cup of coffee next to you, there’s no project that cannot get completed here. I had their avocado toast and a cappuccino when I visited Coma and loved it all. My friends and I got lots of schoolwork done and felt motivated in this productive environment.
While this is not a comprehensive list of all the places I have been to and loved, it does cover a good chunk of them. St. Louis is full of coffee shops, cafés and diners that are worth a visit! Grab a friend or two and go enjoy breakfast like it’s meant to be!