Brunch, the social pastime meal that combines breakfast and lunch (and usually mimosas) has gained enormous popularity over the past decade, becoming an Instagram staple and stronghold of western culture. The word brunch first appeared in print in 1896. In 1939, the New York Times declared Sunday a “two-meal day” and by the 1960s, brunch was considered a popular mainstream meal for some demographics. No one loves brunch more than us here at Lansing Mom which is why we are so excited to bring you the best brunch spots in + around Lansing.
The History
During the early 1900’s, brunch was intended to be a formal, drawn-out event primarily for the wealthy. The more laid back concept of brunch as we know it today slowly gained traction in the 1980s as a popular way to celebrate Easter and Mother’s Day. And by 2015, it had evolved further into a weekend communal event enjoyed most often by millennials and urban populations.
From 1896 to today, brunch has always been more than just a meal. In a world where so much social interaction occurs online, social gatherings like brunch give us opportunity to connect in real life. To slow down and spend time together while enjoying gigantic pancakes, hot coffee, and good conversation.
If you’re a fellow brunch aficionado, or if you’re just looking for something to spice up your weekend, there are plenty of local places to do just that. You can’t go wrong with any of these local Lansing brunch spots.
Brunch Spots in Lansing
Good Truckin’ Diner
Vibe: Good Truckin’ is a small diner in Reotown with an incredible menu. While there is usually a sizable wait to get seated, their food is a blend of classic diner fare with unique spins.
Best known for: Street tacos, breakfast burritos, cereal milkshakes, breakfast sammiches
Golden Harvest
Vibe: Known as much for their eclectic and eccentric exterior as they are for their food, Golden Harvest is a Lansing staple. This spot is best for a smaller brunch group, as it has limited seating and always has a significant wait. However, it’s worth it. You would be hard pressed to find a better menu or more unique experience just about anywhere. Golden Harvest is a must.
Best known for: eccentric atmosphere, incredible food
Fleetwood Diner
Vibe: Fleetwood is a traditional diner in every sense of the word. Their food is fast and always hits the spot for a classic diner brunch or breakfast. You can never go wrong with a trip to Fleetwood!
Best known for: hippie hash, classic diner food
People’s Kitchen
Vibe: This favorite Lansing spot has a fun, vibrant environment with plenty of seating both indoors and out. They use locally sourced ingredients, give back to the community in impactful ways, and their food is simply unparalleled.
Best known for: artisan recipes, unique cocktails, Really Good Fuc%@ng Pancakes (that’s really the name), and an ever-changing seasonal menu
Fidler’s on the Grand
Vibe: Fidler’s has a family restaurant feel with great service! You will be greeted by the owner who is very friendly and makes you feel right at home. This is a great spot for families and has a fantastic menu. Everything is made-to-order and if there’s something you want that’s not on the menu, they’ll make it for you if they have the ingredients.
Best known for: Homemade cinnamon rolls!
Soup Spoon Cafe
Vibe: A true cafe setting, Soup Spoon is a cozy spot with a menu that offers something for everyone. This is another great spot for a family or for a social brunch.
Best known for: Breakfast sammies, omelets, and elevated specialties like stacked french toast or steak & eggs. Also known for delicious vegan and vegetarian offerings.
Bangos Food Truck
Vibe: Bangos parks outside of Babe’s Corner on Saturdays from 9-2 and outside The Brew Cafe on Sundays from 8-2. It is the cutest, most Instagrammable truck with incredible food that you can grab and go. I highly recommend trying the Nasty AF Potatoes.
Best known for: amazing breakfast sandwiches and the best dang breakfast potatoes you’ll ever find.
Brunch Spots Around Lansing
Blondie’s Barn
Vibe: Blondie’s is a locally owned and family-run restaurant with American-style breakfast food. This is a great diner-esque spot for a family brunch outing that will leave you full, caffeinated, and happy.
Best known for: Omelettes, large portions and delicious lattes.
HopCat East Lansing
Vibe: HopCat has an upbeat, vibrant setting that’s great for families or for a girls’ brunch excursion. Their food and brunch cocktails are consistently delicious and feature classic breakfast fare with a twist.
Best known for: Bloody Mary bar (this is not currently available due to COVID restrictions), Salted Carmel Chicken & Waffles
Beggar’s Banquet
Vibe: This spot has old-world charm and an elevated menu that satisfies any brunch craving. Located right on MSU’s campus, Beggar’s is a perfect brunch spot for out of town guests or for a gathering with friends.
Best known for: Three words – Eggs. Benedict. Flight. Trust me on this one.
