Last updated: 2025-04-07
North Shore brunch enthusiasts flock to Wilmette’s cozy breakfast spots, from the legendary apple pancakes at Walker Bros to the Mediterranean-inspired fare at Convito Cafe. This lakeside village’s brunch scene perfectly balances classic American comfort food with European-influenced cuisine.
Whether it’s the homestyle cooking at Ridgeview Grill or the fresh-baked pastries at EvaDean’s, Wilmette’s brunch destinations capture the sophisticated yet relaxed vibe of Chicago’s North Shore. Local favorites like Hotcakes draw weekend crowds from across the northern suburbs.
Explore North Shore’s finest breakfast spots below!
Featured Brunch Spots in Wilmette
- Walker Bros Original Pancake House
- Convito Cafe and Market
- Ridgeview Grill
- Hotcakes
- Peckish Pig (Evanston)
- EvaDean's Bakery and Cafe
Casual Dining in Wilmette
Convito Cafe and Market
What to Expect
European-inspired gourmet market and cafe with comprehensive culinary experience
Description
Convito Cafe and Market offers an authentic Italian and French countryside brunch experience in Wilmette's Plaza del Lago. Specializing in homemade cuisine, their Sunday brunch features European-inspired dishes crafted with gourmet ingredients. Guests can enjoy intimate dining or explore their market's extensive selection of prepared foods and international culinary offerings.
Where: Wilmette | More Info: Convito Cafe and Market
Hotcakes
What to Expect
Signature buttermilk pancakes with smoky bacon
Description
Classic American breakfast and brunch spot in Wilmette serving hearty traditional fare. Specializes in buttermilk pancakes with thick-cut smoky bacon, alongside Denver omelettes and creative specials like horchata French toast. Casual neighborhood restaurant with street parking and outdoor seating, perfect for a relaxed weekend morning meal. Cash-only establishment with friendly service and a no-frills dining experience.
Where: Wilmette | More Info: Hotcakes
Peckish Pig (Evanston)
What to Expect
Craft brewery with weekend bottomless mimosas and complimentary doughnuts
Description
Evanston's neighborhood brewery and restaurant offering weekend brunch with creative twists. Specializes in craft beer-inspired dishes like their signature house burger and weekend brunch featuring bottomless mimosas paired with complimentary doughnuts. Weekend brunch service runs 10:30am-2:30pm, with a unique transition between brunch and dinner menus.
Where: Evanston | More Info: Peckish Pig
Ridgeview Grill
What to Expect
Neighborhood-style American breakfast destination
Description
Classic American restaurant in Wilmette offering hearty brunch classics with a neighborhood feel. Specializing in traditional breakfast staples like fluffy buttermilk pancakes and savory eggs benedict, Ridgeview Grill provides a welcoming dining experience for locals and visitors alike. Their menu celebrates comfortable, straightforward American breakfast cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Where: Wilmette | More Info: Ridgeview Grill
Walker Bros Original Pancake House
What to Expect
Historic first location with stained glass interior and nationally recognized omelettes
Description
Walker Bros Original Pancake House in Wilmette offers a classic American brunch experience with legendary breakfast specialties. Known for their award-winning Bacon Cheddar Omelette featured on Food Network's 'The Best Thing I Ever Ate', this historic first location boasts charming stained glass windows and consistently draws crowds. Their menu showcases traditional pancake house favorites with a reputation for quality and consistent service.
Where: Wilmette | More Info: Walker Bros Original Pancake House
Cafes & Coffee Shops in Wilmette
EvaDean's Bakery and Cafe
What to Expect
Veteran-owned bakery with French-inspired brunch and artisan pastries
Description
A charming Wilmette bakery and cafe offering a delightful fusion of French-inspired brunch classics and local culinary creativity. Specializing in house-made French macarons and a standout Croque Madame, EvaDean's delivers an all-day breakfast experience with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their menu spans from fluffy scrambled eggs to gourmet burgers, complemented by craft cocktails like their signature Bloody Mary.
Where: Wilmette | More Info: EvaDean's Bakery and Cafe
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