Rockford has a multitude of breakfast spots, many of which are worth noting. In this blog, I will highlight just some of the must-try breakfast spots within the city. These restaurants cover a range of sizes, menus, environments, and prices, so if you're in the mood for breakfast (or at some of these restaurants, lunch), this blog is perfect for you!
Lydia's Cafe 1710 Rural St #3, Rockford, IL 61107
A great breakfast spot that is centered around Rockford is Lydia’s Cafe. At this cute breakfast spot, many of the menu items are named after roads in Rockford...how cool is that? Additionally, the work of local artists is hung on the walls and is for sale. This restaurant not only serves American breakfast but also lunch as well so everyone can find something to enjoy. The restaurant serves many breakfast classics like pancakes, French toast, corned beef hash, huevos rancheros, and more! Another thing to note is this business is proud to be locally owned and operated.
Fresco at the Gardens 318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107
If you are looking for an upscale brunch, Fresco at the Gardens is the place for you. This breakfast spot is in Anderson Japanese Gardens (another must-see spot in Rockford). Here you can eat brunch with stunning views of the gardens either through the big windows or from outside on the deck. Some dishes on the menu are Steak and Eggs, Eggs Benedict, Early Start Sandwich (a classic breakfast sandwich), Monte Cristo (a French toast breakfast sandwich), and so much more!
Johnny Pamcakes 3700 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108
Another Rockford classic breakfast spot is Johnny Pamcakes (and no, that is not a typo). Johnny and Pam opened this restaurant and cleverly named the diner after themselves. Their menu is made up of American cuisine including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. One of my favorite menu items is their Stuffed French Toast.
Stockholm Inn 2420 Charles St, Rockford, IL 61108
A breakfast spot that has a long history in Rockford is Stockholm Inn. This restaurant has been a part of the Rockford community since 1940 and was officially named Stockholm Inn in 1968. This restaurant serves Swedish cuisine and American cuisine making it a standout breakfast spot. The restaurant serves breakfast and has a lunch and dinner menu as well. Some dishes to highlight from the menu are its excellent Swedish pancakes, strawberry orange juice, and in my opinion one of the greatest cinnamon rolls out there. If you cannot get enough of Stockholm Inn, you can take this restaurant home with you by visiting its gift store to buy items like lingonberry jam or Swedish pancake mix.
The Norwegian 1402 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103
A restaurant that gives a true testament to the strength of the Rockford community is The Norwegian. Through community donations, this restaurant was completed after unforeseen problems during the building process. The Rockford community stepped up to help bring good to the Rockford region through this restaurant. Outside of its notable community connections, this restaurant is the perfect place to go to enjoy an upscale brunch or dinner. The menu is composed of a wide range of traditional Norwegian food, such as Æbleskiver. This traditional Danish dish is made from fried batter. The outside crust has been compared to a European pancake with a lighter and fluffier center.
In Rockford, there is no shortage of breakfast spots with quite a variety of menus, environments, and prices. Some of the other great restaurants in the area include Jerry’s Cafe, Swedish Pancake House, and 5 Coins. Hopefully, you have been introduced to or reminded of these great Rockford breakfast restaurants and can give them a try!
