Last updated: 2025-04-07
Ithaca’s brunch scene thrives beyond the Cornell campus crowds, with spots like Hound and Mare and Coal Yard Cafe serving up locally-sourced morning fare. From the cozy corners of Collegetown to the bustling Commons, each restaurant adds its own Finger Lakes flair.
Whether craving the vegan delights at Angelhearts Diner or the artisanal pastries at Dolce Delight, Ithaca’s brunch destinations reflect the city’s commitment to sustainable dining. The Strand Cafe and Revelry Yards showcase the evolving food culture of this gorges town.
Explore Ithaca’s best brunch spots in Gorges Country!
Featured Brunch Spots in Ithaca
- Revelry Yards
- Allechant
- Angelhearts Diner
- Dolce Delight
- Hound and Mare
- Le Cafe Cent-Dix
- Monks on the Commons
- Coal Yard Cafe
- The Strand Cafe
- Milkstand
Allechant
What to Expect
Artistic culinary approach to traditional brunch dishes
Description
Allechant offers a creative brunch experience in Ithaca, featuring innovative cuisine that blends local ingredients with artistic presentation. Specializing in contemporary American brunch dishes, the restaurant delivers genuine hospitality in an inviting setting. Known for its thoughtful menu that transforms classic breakfast favorites into culinary masterpieces.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: Allechant
Angelhearts Diner
What to Expect
All-vegan comfort food brunch destination
Description
Angelhearts Diner serves innovative vegan comfort food in the heart of Ithaca. Specializing in plant-based brunch classics, this cozy eatery transforms traditional breakfast favorites into cruelty-free delights. Their menu features creative dishes like tofu scrambles, vegan pancakes, and hearty breakfast sandwiches that appeal to both vegans and curious food lovers seeking delicious, compassionate cuisine.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: Angelhearts Diner
Coal Yard Cafe
What to Expect
Globally-inspired brunch with locally sourced ingredients
Description
Coal Yard Cafe offers an eclectic brunch experience in Ithaca with creative dishes that blend global flavors and local ingredients. Standout brunch options include the Shakshuka with stewed tomatoes and feta, Flap Quacks featuring duck confit, and unique rice bowls topped with fried eggs. The cafe delivers a casual, inventive dining atmosphere with diverse menu options ranging from classic breakfast items to international-inspired plates.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: Coal Yard Cafe
Dolce Delight
What to Expect
Italian/Greek-inspired bakery with family recipes
Description
Dolce Delight offers a charming bakery and café experience in Ithaca, specializing in fresh pastries, biscuits, and breakfast classics. Rooted in an Italian/Greek culinary tradition, this family-owned spot serves delectable quiches, homemade soups, and creative sandwiches. Their menu celebrates local Finger Lakes ingredients with a personal touch, highlighting Maria Cacciotti Salino's passion for authentic, made-from-scratch cuisine.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: Dolce Delight
Hound and Mare
What to Expect
Made-to-order egg sandwiches with local ingredients
Description
Hound and Mare offers a cozy Ithaca cafe experience with made-to-order egg sandwiches and fresh baked goods. Specializing in artisan coffee and locally-sourced breakfast items, this cafe provides a warm, intimate brunch setting perfect for morning dining. Their signature egg sandwiches showcase local ingredients and creative culinary craftsmanship.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: Hound and Mare
Le Cafe Cent-Dix
What to Expect
Rotating daily French culinary specials
Description
A classic French bistro nestled in downtown Ithaca, Le Café Cent-Dix offers an authentic Parisian dining experience with elegant modern French cuisine. Specializing in traditional dishes like Frisée Aux Lardons and Steak Frites, the restaurant features a rotating Plats Du Jour that showcases the chef's culinary creativity. Guests can enjoy a flexible dining experience, whether seeking a full meal or light snacks paired with exceptional wines.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: Le Cafe Cent-Dix
Milkstand
What to Expect
Neighborhood American breakfast and brunch destination
Description
Milkstand serves classic American brunch staples in a neighborhood setting in Ithaca. Their menu features hearty breakfast favorites like fluffy buttermilk pancakes and savory breakfast sandwiches. Located in a casual, welcoming space at 215 N Meadow Street, this local spot offers fresh, made-to-order dishes that capture the essence of traditional American comfort food.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: Milkstand
Monks on the Commons
What to Expect
Locally-sourced ingredient-driven brunch with inventive cocktail program
Description
A downtown Ithaca brunch destination offering soulful Southern-inspired cuisine with creative twists. Signature dishes include Eggs Benedict with country ham on a grilled buttered biscuit, Avocado Toast with house-made salsa, and Sweet Cream Pancakes. The restaurant features a seasonal patio, dog-friendly atmosphere, and craft cocktails like Meyer Lemon Bees Knees and Pomegranate Margaritas.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: Monks on the Commons
Revelry Yards
What to Expect
Microbrewery with wood-fired oven and shipping container bar
Description
Revelry Yards offers a vibrant weekend brunch experience in downtown Ithaca, nestled just off The Commons. This microbrewery-restaurant hybrid serves up creative sharing plates alongside a dozen craft beers brewed on-site. Their expansive outdoor patio, featuring a unique shipping container bar and wood-fired oven, provides a casual dining atmosphere perfect for weekend gatherings.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: Revelry Yards
The Strand Cafe
What to Expect
Urban hotel restaurant with expansive day-to-night dining menu
Description
Downtown Ithaca's modern cafe offering a comprehensive dining experience with breakfast, lunch, and dinner services. Located inside the Canopy by Hilton, The Strand provides a refined yet relaxed atmosphere just one block from the Ithaca Commons. Known for its versatile menu spanning morning classics to evening dining, the restaurant delivers a contemporary culinary approach with locally-inspired dishes.
Where: Ithaca | More Info: The Strand Cafe
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