Last updated: 2025-04-07
Mackinac Island’s historic charm extends beyond its fudge shops and horse-drawn carriages to its vibrant brunch scene. From the elegant 1852 Grill Room to the cozy Boxwood Coffeeshop & Café, the island’s restaurants blend Victorian elegance with modern culinary flair.
Whether savoring eggs benedict at the waterfront Pink Pony or enjoying fresh pastries at Round Island Kitchen, brunch on the island offers stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac. The Carriage House and Seabiscuit Café round out the morning dining options with local favorites.
Discover the best island brunch spots below!
Featured Brunch Spots in Mackinac Island
- Pink Pony
- The Chuckwagon
- 1852 Grill Room
- Carriage House Restaurant
- Round Island Kitchen
- Boxwood Coffeeshop & Café
- Seabiscuit Café
- Lucky Bean Coffeehouse
- Watercolor Café
1852 Grill Room
What to Expect
Seasonal fine dining within historic Island House Hotel
Description
Nestled inside Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island, 1852 Grill Room offers casual fine dining with a scenic backdrop. Specializing in classic American breakfast cuisine, the restaurant serves morning meals from 8:00-10:00 am during its seasonal operation from May through October. Guests can enjoy traditional breakfast fare with a sophisticated island-inspired twist in an elegant yet relaxed dining environment.
Where: Mackinac Island | More Info: 1852 Grill Room
Boxwood Coffeeshop & Café
What to Expect
Picturesque island coffee shop with resort-based to-go brunch options
Description
Boxwood Coffeeshop & Café offers a convenient brunch experience within Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island. Located in the Main Lodge Marketplace, this café provides specialty coffees, teas, breakfast and lunch to-go options, complemented by beer and wine selections. Perfect for island visitors seeking quick, quality morning meals with scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Where: Mackinac Island | More Info: Boxwood Coffeeshop & Café
Carriage House Restaurant
What to Expect
Waterfront dining with live piano accompaniment
Description
Waterfront brunch destination on Mackinac Island featuring classic American cuisine with Michigan-sourced ingredients. Specializing in fresh Lake Superior seafood and locally-grown produce, the Carriage House offers an elegant dining experience overlooking the Straits of Mackinac. Guests can enjoy seasonal brunch highlights with panoramic waterfront views, accompanied by live piano music in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting.
Where: Mackinac Island | More Info: Carriage House Restaurant
Lucky Bean Coffeehouse
What to Expect
Locally-owned coffee shop with transparent bean sourcing
Description
A charming Mackinac Island coffee shop nestled on Market Street, Lucky Bean Coffeehouse specializes in artisan coffee blends like Twilight and Restless. Owned by local entrepreneur Carolyn May-Fairbanks, this coffeehouse offers carefully sourced beans with transparent farm-to-cup origins. The shop combines local island heritage with third-wave coffee brewing techniques, creating a unique coffee experience rooted in quality and community connection.
Where: Mackinac Island | More Info: Lucky Bean Coffeehouse
Pink Pony
What to Expect
Waterfront brunch with panoramic Lake Huron views
Description
Iconic Mackinac Island waterfront restaurant offering a quintessential Michigan brunch experience. Nestled inside the Chippewa Hotel, the Pink Pony serves classic American breakfast favorites with stunning views of Lake Huron. Known for hearty island-inspired dishes like their signature Mackinac Benedict and fresh local whitefish, this historic spot combines casual charm with exceptional lakeside dining.
Where: Mackinac Island | More Info: Pink Pony
Round Island Kitchen
What to Expect
Michigan-inspired comfort food with panoramic island views
Description
Round Island Kitchen at Mission Point Resort offers a Michigan-inspired brunch experience featuring locally sourced comfort foods. Specializing in regional cuisine, the restaurant serves breakfast with standout dishes like the three-egg white frittata with peppers, tomatoes, and spinach. Their menu celebrates Mackinac Island's culinary heritage, providing guests with fresh, seasonal ingredients and stunning resort views.
Where: Mackinac Island | More Info: Round Island Kitchen
Seabiscuit Café
What to Expect
Island-inspired breakfast menu with local Michigan ingredients
Description
Nestled in the heart of Mackinac Island, Seabiscuit Café offers a charming island brunch experience with coastal Michigan flair. Known for hearty breakfast selections served from early morning, the café provides classic morning fare with local ingredients. Their menu highlights include signature breakfast sandwiches, fresh-baked pastries, and robust coffee selections perfect for fueling a day of island exploration.
Where: Mackinac Island | More Info: Seabiscuit Café
The Chuckwagon
What to Expect
Single best burger in Michigan
Description
A classic Main Street diner on Mackinac Island serving hearty American breakfast and lunch. Specializes in legendary burgers and quick, friendly service at the counter. Locals and tourists gather for no-frills, delicious comfort food in a traditional island restaurant setting. Known for their fast preparation and welcoming atmosphere.
Where: Mackinac Island | More Info: The Chuckwagon
Watercolor Café
What to Expect
Art-integrated cafe with daytime dining and evening creative workshops
Description
Watercolor Café offers a unique island brunch experience on Mackinac Island, specializing in made-to-order breakfast, sandwiches, and their signature Poppie pastry. This locally owned café transforms from a daytime eatery to an evening art studio, serving locally crafted breakfast items, smoothies, acai bowls, and providing a creative space with stunning island views.
Where: Mackinac Island | More Info: Watercolor Café
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