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Waltham Breakfast: A Guide To Kid-Friendly Breakfast And Brunch Spots

Waltham's Top Bites For Family Breakfast And Brunch

By Maria Barrette, Publisher of Macaroni KID Waltham+ February 14, 2024

Discover the best breakfast and brunch spots in Waltham with our comprehensive guide. Explore mouthwatering menus and find the perfect Waltham breakfast restaurant for your family outing.

Waltham parents, imagine this scene ...

It's Saturday morning, the sun is barely up, and you're already in the midst of wrangling tiny humans with bottomless appetites and boundless energy. Maybe you forgot to get your grocery delivery this week and you're fresh out of eggs.

Or maybe you forgo your end-of-the-week trip to Market Basket or Costco because you couldn't bear the thought of battling over a parking spot. 

Yep, we've all been there.

But fear not, weary parents, for a really delicious breakfast in our city is not hard to come by. 

Forget the soggy cereal you found in the back of your pantry — this is your guide to conquering the best of the Waltham breakfast scene with your family in tow.

Waltham's Top Restaurants For Family Breakfast And Brunch

Joseph's Two

  • Location: 805 Main Street, Waltham, MA
  • Parking: Lot and street
  • Reservations: No
  • Takeout: Yes
  • Outdoor Seating: No
  • Payment: Credit card and cash
  • Google Maps rating: 4.4 stars (837 reviews)

Joseph's Two is a Waltham institution, a diner where the portions are generous and the staff are pros at handling syrup-fueled meltdowns. While some reviewers mention that the decor is simple and the parking limited, the overwhelming consensus is that the food is delicious and satisfying.

Restaurant Callouts:

  • Omelette Excellence: From the "Western" with its perfectly cheesy goodness to the "Meat Lovers" packed with savory delight, Joseph's Two's omelettes are a popular choice. The "Joseph's Special" is also a crowd-pleaser, loaded with everything you need for a hearty morning meal.
  • Pancake And Waffle Power: While some reviewers suggest they could be slightly crispier, the sheer size and fluffy texture of the pancakes and waffles at Joseph's Two are undeniable.
  • Coffee Approved: Never an empty cup in sight! Joseph's Two keeps the coffee flowing, making it a haven for caffeine-craving parents.

Bonus points for parents: Highchairs, booster seats, and a kids' menu with mini pancakes and French toast. The friendly staff, known for their patience and attentiveness, will make your family feel welcome, even during busy weekend brunches.

Remember: Joseph's Two is a popular spot, so be prepared for a wait, especially on weekends. The classic charm, generous portions, and delicious food make it a Waltham breakfast staple worth trying.

Wilson's Diner

  • Location: 507 Main Street, Waltham, MA
  • Parking: Lot and street
  • Reservations: No
  • Takeout: No
  • Outdoor Seating: Seasonal
  • Payment: Cash only (ATM available)
  • Google Maps rating: 4.6 stars (637 reviews)

Step back in time at Wilson's Diner, another Waltham institution housed in a charming Worcester Lunch Car. Step up to the counter and feel the buzz of the kitchen unfold before your eyes, or settle into a cozy booth and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere.

Restaurant Callouts:

  • Family Feel: Between the friendly regulars and welcoming staff who remember your faces, Wilson's Diner fosters a warm, community atmosphere. You'll feel like you're part of the family, enjoying friendly banter and attentive service.
  • Worthy Food: The quality and quantity of food at Wilson's Diner is consistently praised. Their "Wilson's Special" is a popular hit while the home fries are also a favorite, celebrated for their perfect home-cooked taste.
  • Diner Delights: Experience the timeless charm of a streetside dining car. Watch your food being prepared right before your eyes at the counter, or listen to the satisfying clink of the old cash register. It's a unique and authentic diner experience that's hard to find elsewhere.

Reminder: Be prepared, as Wilson's Diner is cash only, though there is an ATM on hand.

Overall, Wilson's Diner offers a delightful combination of delicious food, friendly service, and a truly unique atmosphere. It's a Waltham staple worth visiting, especially if you're looking for a nostalgic and family-friendly breakfast experience.

Leo's Place Diner

  • Location: 655 Main Street, Waltham, MA
  • Parking: Street
  • Reservations: No
  • Takeout: Yes
  • Outdoor Seating: No
  • Payment: Credit card and cash
  • Google Maps rating: 4.4 stars (475 reviews)

Imagine stepping into a friend's kitchen, but one with mismatched art on the walls, vintage memorabilia, and the warmest welcome you've had in ages. That's Leo's Place Diner, a Waltham gem where breakfast is a family affair, served with a side of history and charm.

Restaurant Callouts:

  • Counter Experience: Sit at the counter and watch the staff waltz between orders, a well-oiled machine fueled by friendly banter and diner know-how. It's a show in itself, and you're front-row center.
  • Long History: This little diner carries history on its shoulders. Leo's was originally located in Harvard Square, where it served diner food to hungry students and professors, creating a legacy that now thrives in Waltham.
  • Extra Spice: Some folks say the lack of culinary fireworks in certain dishes (e.g., home fries) leaves them wanting more. But hey, not every morning needs a three-alarm spice level. Sometimes, simple, honest-to-goodness diner fare is just what the doctor ordered.

Leo's Place Diner is a Waltham gem, brimming with character and charm. It's a place for family breakfasts, leisurely weekend brunches, and soaking up the warmth of a community diner with a storied past.

Pro tip: Be mindful of peak times as parking can be a challenge, but don't let that deter you from savoring the unique experience that Leo's Place Diner has to offer.

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In A Pickle Restaurant

  • Location: 265 Moody Street, Waltham, MA
  • Parking: Street or nearby city lots
  • Reservations: No
  • Takeout: Yes
  • Outdoor Seating: Seasonal
  • Payment: Credit card and cash
  • Google Maps rating: 4.5 stars (2,112 reviews)

In A Pickle Restaurant is a Waltham brunch spot that's all about creative dishes, big portions, and a fun atmosphere. Think tiramisu pancakes on one plate and Cinnamon Toast Crunch chicken and waffles on another. Sounds wild, right? But that's exactly what keeps people coming back for more.

Restaurant Callouts:

  • Expect To Wait: Weekends are popular, so be prepared for a line. They don't take reservations, but they do have a handy wait list online. Definitely use it, especially if you're coming from far away.
  • Generous Portions: One reviewer even got three meals out of their pumpkin French toast! So come hungry, or be ready to share.
  • Unique Menu: From Fruity Pebbles waffles to Oreo pancakes, they're not afraid to get adventurous. They do have traditional options like omelets and sandwiches alongside their more creative dishes.
  • Fun Vibe: Think comfy booths, funky decor, and a lively atmosphere.

Overall, In A Pickle is a good choice if you're looking for a fun and filling breakfast or brunch with a side of quirk. Just be prepared for a potential wait and maybe come with an open mind to their unique breakfast menu.

What About Buffet Options?

Waltham breakfast buffet options are few and far between, with hotels being the primary option. Among them, The Garden Grille at the Hilton Garden Inn Boston/Waltham is one destination worth calling out.

Picture this: freshly made scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, fluffy pancakes, and a bounty of fresh fruits, yogurt, and more await eager diners. Indulge in breakfast classics like breakfast potatoes and sausage, or opt for lighter fare such as creamy oatmeal and assorted bagels.

With its inviting ambiance and tasty offerings, The Garden Grille stands as the best breakfast buffet destination in Waltham. Priced at just $17 per person, it's an affordable luxury that promises a satisfying start to your day.

Wait! Where's The Best Breakfast Sandwich?

One Macaroni KID subscriber asked about the best breakfast sandwich in Waltham. I was stumped so I did some research, asked around, and learned (not from personal experience, at least not yet) that Roots to Rise has a respectable breakfast sandwich menu. One that's available all day too.

They offer pickup or delivery, and have an array of breakfast sandwiches with their Garden, Egg & Cheese Sandwich being a favorite. Roots to Rise even offers gluten-free bread and wrap options. Check them out at 75 Third Avenue in Waltham.

Of course, each restaurant option I listed above has breakfast sandwiches too.

Final Waltham Breakfast Thoughts

Remember, Waltham parents, every family is different. So, explore, experiment, and find your own breakfast haven.

And whatever happens, remember, syrup stains wash out, memories last forever, and sometimes, the only thing standing between you and a meltdown is a perfectly cooked bacon strip.

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