Good breakfast places to eat near me

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but it’s also the most often overlooked. That’s similar to the food scene in Baton Rouge, which might have once been overlooked as well — but not anymore.

Named one of five underrated food cities in the south, Baton Rouge has a variety of breakfast and brunch offerings — from simple coffee and pastry combinations to more extensive offerings showcasing local Cajun and Creole influences. Whether you’re looking for a sit-down brunch or a cup of java to go, you won’t want to miss out on these best places to get breakfast downtown.

1. Milford’s on Third
2. Ruby Slipper Cafe
3. Simple Joe’s Coffee
4. La Madeleine
5. Coffee Bean Cafe
6. The Kolache Kitchen
7. Another Broken Egg Cafe
8. Bistro Byronz
9. Magpie Cafe
10. Highland Coffees
11. Rue Beignet
12. Louie’s Cafe
13. Coffee Call
14. Frank’s Restaurant & Smoke House

Breakfast in Baton Rouge is different from breakfast anywhere else. The beautiful surroundings of Lousiana’s capital alone make having your morning meal in Baton Rouge something extraordinary. You can find something new every time with the city’s menu selections. From Cajun-inspired egg sandwiches to steaming mugs o’ joe, you can find breakfast satisfaction at any of these exceptional eateries.

1. Milford’s on Third

You’ll find this newer gem inside the Watermark hotel on Third Street. A classic NY-style deli with a southern flair, Milford’s on Third is a definite must-try for breakfast in Baton Rouge. Whether you want to nosh on a bagel and schmear or simply grab yogurt and coffee to go, this stop will leave you satisfied and ready to take on the day.

Don’t be fooled by the relaxed atmosphere either. This stop’s high-quality products and recipes make even the simplest deli breakfast something special. Wondering what to try? Their handheld menu items like the Chicken Scrambler, Wakey Bakey or even Green Eggs and Ham pair perfectly with their variety of signature specialty coffees, espresso and teas. Or, if you’re in the mood for lighter fare, check out their fresh-baked muffins and scones. They also offer catering services, which is the perfect addition to a morning meeting or lunch event.

Author’s note: While there are many Baton Rouge eateries who hold tight to the city’s unique cultural culinary formula, you’ll find a number of these breakfast joints branching out into other types of cuisine, combining the best of the south with the best of other cultures and flavors. This combination is perhaps what makes Baton Rouge such a unique place to explore food and drink.

2. Ruby Slipper Cafe

Born in New Orleans, the Mardi Gras capital of the world, the Ruby Slipper Cafe offers up fresh breakfast fare in a restaurant with a friendly vibe. You’ll find the Baton Rouge location of this well-known Louisiana mainstay at 3535 Perkins Road. Open until midday seven days a week, the Ruby Slipper Cafe is the right choice whether you’re an early riser or someone who prefers a later start.

Though the Ruby Slipper Cafe offers seasonal specials, its core menu has a variety of inspired breakfast fare. Sample some pig candy bacon bites or fried green tomatoes to get you in a southern mood. Or ask the crew to whip up a gulf shrimp omelet with seafood fresh from nearby waters. If you’re looking for Tex-Mex flair, you’ll find it in breakfast tacos or migas brimming with eggs, pepper jack cheese and pico de gallo. 

You can also bring your sweet tooth around at any time. Ruby Slipper Cafe can satisfy your dessert desires in the morning.

3. Simple Joe’s Coffee

If you love a classic diner, you’ll appreciate hanging out at Simple Joe’s Coffee along Government Street. Their straightforward menu overflows with all your home-grown favorite breakfast foods like egg, meat and toast combos, pancake and French toast platters and jam-packed breakfast sandwiches. If you’re looking for something on the lighter side, indulge in blueberry quinoa or a veggie omelet.

Perhaps the nicest aspect of Simple Joe’s Coffee is the classic, timeless diner style. When you want to try one of the best breakfast spots in Baton Rouge, you can trust Simple Joe’s Coffee to bring you a laid-back atmosphere that will kickstart your day. No frills and all flavor is what you can expect every time you stop by this southern mainstay. 

4. La Madeleine

Serving a tasty French country breakfast, La Madeleine makes for a great morning stop. Check out their hearty French Country Breakfast platter (two eggs, a potato galette, bacon or sausage and a butter croissant) or their Parisien Eggs if you’re in the mood for more traditional French fare. Or, indulge in a made-to-order custom crepe or omelet, complemented with one of their specialty coffee drinks.

Among their more traditional morning beverages, which include cappuccino and espresso, you’ll find a non-traditional Decaf French Roast boasting the flavor of traditional French coffee without the caffeine.

5. Coffee Bean Cafe

Located on Coursey Boulevard, the Coffee Bean Cafe serves up all the tasty perks your coffee-loving palate craves. As you might suspect from its name, the Coffee Bean Cafe offers a vast selection of coffees and drinks on the menu. Whether you like a deep, rich brew or prefer your java over ice, you’ll love the options you get at this Baton Rouge breakfast destination.

Need a little pick-me-up beyond your caffeinated fuel? Dive into a breakfast sandwich, enjoy one of their many omelets or ask for a cinnamon roll swimming in sweet, creamy icing. If you need some quick carryout, you can place your Coffee Bean Cafe order online for fast, friendly pickup.

6. The Kolache Kitchen

The kolache originated in Central Europe and has slowly made its way into the breakfast repertoire stateside. An oven-baked pastry filled with a variety of sweet or savory fillings, the kolache is a unique and tasty breakfast item being served up fresh daily at The Kolache Kitchen.

Besides a variety of kolache offerings, their menu also includes breakfast tacos, empanadas and cinnamon rolls. With locations on Nicholson Drive and Jefferson Highway, these tasty, portable breakfast eats have become especially popular with LSU students. Want to check it out but can’t make it there first thing in the morning? No worries. They’re open for breakfast all day.

7. Another Broken Egg Cafe

With three locations (Downtown, Citiplace and Perkins), there’s nowhere too far from Another Broken Egg Cafe. When you arrive, order a breakfast cocktail and then peruse the menu full of eggs benedict, omelets, beignets, sandwiches and a variety of other traditional brunch favorites all served with a twist.

Some of the notable items on their menu include their cinnamon roll french toast, crab cakes and seasoned country potatoes. Even if those items don’t tempt your palate, we’re pretty sure you’ll find something to love from their more than 130 menu items to choose from.

8. Bistro Byronz

A revival of the beloved 1980s sandwich shop “Byronz,” this charming southern cafe — owned and operated by the original Byronz team — has two Baton Rouge locations (Mid-City and Willow Grove) serving up Sunday brunch.

Featuring Louisana flavors in a casual, unpretentious environment, their extensive brunch menu features Pain Perdu, Bistro Sardou, Shrimp Pomme Paillard, Poché Etouffée, Crabcake Benedict and a Brunch Burger as just a few of their extensive offerings. The menu has been updated to reflect its new bistro flair, but it still boasts a few throwbacks to the best of the old Byronz — including its famed Byronz Bread.

Coffee

No good breakfast is complete without coffee. Some would say they can’t start their day before one — maybe two — cups of that rich, dark brew. Whether you’re looking for simple drip coffee or you’re in the market for house-roasted specialty beverages, Baton Rouge has no shortage of options.

Finding a decent cup of coffee can quickly become overwhelming if you aren’t sure where to look. What really makes a coffee shop stand out is the quality of their coffee and the food they offer to accompany it. After all, coffee somehow tastes better when its paired with a scone or pastry, don’t you think? Check out these Batton Rouge coffee shops, but make sure to save room for a taste of their outstanding breakfast fare.

9. Magpie Cafe

While this is technically more than just a coffee shop, Magpie Cafe — with downtown and Perkins locations — is worth a stop just for their java. Their secret to a great cup of coffee is their adherence to the Italian method of “Slow Bar” single-cup brewing, similar to methods used in Portland and Seattle, to brew great coffee.

Among Magpie Cafe coffee offerings are a variety of single origin, blend and espresso beans. As a “community-based cafe” preferring to serve food made from ingredients sourced from local farmers and artisans, their menu frequently rotates with pleasant results. Sit down and try one of their fresh, locally sourced brunch items, or grab a seasonal scone to go.

10. Highland Coffees

Located at the North gates of LSU, Highland Coffees roasts its own coffee in small batches to keep their coffee and specialty drinks always tasting fresh and delicious. In addition to great coffee and signature loose teas, you’ll find their cozy shop frequented by students and coffee lovers looking to indulge in their housemade pastries, cheesecake, cobbler, muffins, bagels and biscotti.

The best part is that a cozy atmosphere makes it a great spot to linger over a study session or a good book. Can’t make it to the shop but want to check it out? You can purchase their coffees and teas online and have them shipped anywhere in the United States.

11. Rue Beignet

Sometimes simple is best, and at Rue Beignet, they delight in making simple fare tasty. Their menu is limited — beignets and large and small finger platters round out their food selection. Choose from cafe au lait, iced coffee or hot chocolate to accompany your sweet treat. While they don’t offer much in the way of variety, they make up for it by successfully paying homage to this sweet, simple southern treat.

Historical Eats

Baton Rouge was established as a French military post in 1719, 20 years after being claimed by a group of French explorers. Since those early days, it has grown and expanded in many ways. Today, with a population of 227,715, the city is bigger than ever, but its loyalty to its past remains evident.

Nowhere is this respect more evident than in the city’s historical eateries, which continue to serve up some of the best food in town. While some have moved into different locations or expanded their menu offerings over the years, their history and consistency remain a bedrock of the food scene in Baton Rouge.

12. Louie’s Cafe

An LSU institution, Louie’s Cafe started as a lunch counter diner but has now expanded into a full-sized dining spot favored by LSU students and fans alike. Open 24/7, its breakfast menu boasts breakfast staples like their Seafood Louie omelet, Steak & Eggs and a variety of pancakes and egg dishes.

While breakfast is served all day, you’ll want to arrive before 11AM if you want a taste of their famous buttermilk biscuits. Located at the North Gates of LSU, its proximity to the football stadium makes this establishment a prime eatery for students and their parents, as well as sports fans. However, if you don’t fit that description, don’t let it keep you away. Some of their most loyal customers are old enough that they remember “Louie” himself and are always ready to dish on their favorite local spot.

13. Coffee Call

Home to some of the “best beignets in Baton Rouge,” Coffee Call is practically a landmark, housed downtown since 1976. Even though their location had to move when a Walmart was built on their original spot, their house-roasted coffee and customer favorite cafe au lait continues to draw their followers to the new site.

Coffee Call’s change in location didn’t change their menu. Their signature recipes and flavors are still going strong. While many know them for their soup, salad bar and other lunchtime delights, they’re the perfect mid-morning stop for coffee and a sweet treat. Just make sure you aren’t wearing black when you take a bite of those warm, sugary beignets — you might walk out covered in powdered sugar!

14. Frank’s Restaurant & Smoke House

Known for their homemade biscuits, Frank’s has been serving up a variety of homestyle delights since 1964. With three locations in and around Baton Rouge, Franks makes 600 to 700 piping hot biscuits every day. A family-run restaurant now in its third generation of ownership, Frank’s announced in 2014 that they would begin selling biscuit mix for patrons to make their own at home, but that hasn’t stopped their fans from returning for hot breakfast.

Ranked the #5 breakfast in Baton Rouge by Foursquare, they offer an extensive menu that includes omelets, breakfast sandwiches, pancakes and french toast. All traditional breakfast flavors. All served with a Frank’s twist. And don’t worry if you can’t make it in the morning — at Frank’s, breakfast is served all day long.

The Perfect Starting Point

Whether you’re a foodie with a trained eye for culinary artistry or a tourist with a hearty appetite, you’ll find a lot of options to choose from when it comes to finding breakfast in Baton Rouge. At Milford’s on Third, we’re proud to be a part of this growing food scene and even more proud to offer a unique NY-deli experience.

Our classic delicatessen is the perfect stop for breakfast, whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to start your day or a quick place to grab a coffee and go. While we hope you’ll have the opportunity to experience all that Baton Rouge has to offer for breakfast, we think you’ll find that our variety of options made from fresh, quality ingredients just might be the best choice you make during your busy day. We’re saving you a seat!