Brunch in Fargo, ND isn’t just a meal. It’s a lifestyle. Picture a Saturday morning: steam curling off a mug, sunlight sneaking in through frosted windows, and the comforting aroma of sizzling eggs and fresh-baked bread mingling in the air. That’s Fargo at its best—generous, warm, and quietly proud. Over the years, I’ve sampled more pancakes and sipped more coffee than I care to admit, all in the pursuit of that perfect mid-morning feast.
What sets Fargo apart is its blend of cozy tradition and creative flair. Whether you lean toward classic diners or modern cafes, the city delivers in spades. Through experience, trial, and the occasional happy accident, I’ve found spots where every brunch is a minor celebration. Pull up a chair. I’ll take you through Fargo’s standout spots, from tried-and-true institutions to unexpected gems, so your next brunch is never a guessing game.
Where to find the best brunch in Fargo, ND
Here are some of the top spots to find the best brunch in Fargo, ND:
- Lucky’s 13 Pub
- Granite City Food & Brewery
- Kroll’s Diner
- The Shack on Broadway
- Porter Creek Hardwood Grill
- The Boiler Room
- IHOP
- Randy’s University Diner
- Cracked Pepper
- Mehl’s Gluten-Free Bakery
1. Lucky’s 13 Pub
There’s a certain ease to brunch at Lucky’s 13 Pub. The exposed brick, cozy booths, and welcoming staff always set the right mood, whether you’re rolling in with friends or hungry after a long week. Lucky’s scratch kitchen shows its flair with every plate—fresh ingredients elevate even their most classic dishes.
My go-to is the stack of fluffy buttermilk pancakes paired with crisp hash browns and eggs just the way you like them. If you’re feeling adventurous, the Breakfast Skillet is a feast of roasted veggies, potatoes, and perfectly seasoned eggs. Vegetarian and gluten-free options make choosing simple, and there’s always something for every craving. Lucky’s is where brunch feels easy, satisfying, and just a little bit special.
2. Granite City Food & Brewery
Walking into Granite City Food & Brewery, you can’t help but notice the energy. Sun pours onto polished wood and the scent of fresh-baked bread drifts in from the open kitchen. The made-from-scratch menu sets Granite City apart, especially for brunch, where every dish feels inviting and a bit elevated.
I’m partial to the GC Classic Breakfast: eggs, country potatoes, fruit, and golden pancakes that feel made to order. If you’re leaning lighter, their Power Bowl brings together quinoa, avocado, and greens for a fresh, satisfying twist. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are all here, so no one feels left out. Brunch at Granite City is relaxed and made for lingering.
3. Kroll’s Diner
Kroll’s Diner feels like a time capsule in the best way, right down to the neon signs and retro booths. There’s something about slipping into a shiny seat and hearing the sizzle from the grill that makes brunch here feel comforting. Kroll’s blends local flair with classic American and German recipes, a combo that’s kept them a Fargo staple since 1972.
I always make room for their award-winning Knoephla Soup. Thick, creamy, and packed with dumplings, it’s the kind of bowl that turns strangers into regulars. The German omelet is another must, stuffed with cheese and potatoes for the perfect savory bite. Kroll’s keeps flavors simple, honest, and unforgettable—a brunch worth coming back for.
4. The Shack on Broadway
Breakfast at The Shack on Broadway is Fargo at its most genuine. Phones drop away as you settle into a cozy booth, surrounded by the sounds of families catching up over coffee. The Shack is famous for its warm, down-home cooking—no frills, just flavor. This place doesn’t rush you, and somehow, there’s always time for an extra cup of coffee.
If you take one tip: Do not skip the homemade buttermilk pancakes. They’re light, golden, and generously sized—built for sharing (or not). I’m also a fan of the huge, sticky caramel roll. Sweet, gooey, and fresh from the oven, it’s the perfect way to round out a laid-back brunch. The Shack turns a simple meal into something comforting and memorable.
5. Porter Creek Hardwood Grill
Porter Creek Hardwood Grill brings a bit of Napa Valley to Fargo. Sunlight pours onto the airy patio while laughter and the scent of fire-roasted veggies float from the kitchen. Porter Creek’s menu puts a California-Mediterranean spin on classic brunch fare, and the chef’s woodfire touch gives everything a distinct flavor.
If I’m here on a weekend, I can’t resist their vegetable and goat cheese frittata. Fluffy eggs, creamy cheese, and just-charred vegetables make each bite worth slowing down for. The roasted breakfast potatoes, crackly on the outside and soft inside, are another highlight. Brunch at Porter Creek feels laid-back yet refined—a perfect spot for food with character and a little sun on your face.
6. The Boiler Room
The Boiler Room hides below street level, but brunch here always feels like a bit of a discovery. It’s got just enough edge: exposed brick, creative specials, and a menu that leans into comfort food with a twist. The Boiler Room stands out for locally inspired dishes and a relaxed, urban vibe—the sort of spot where brunch easily turns into an afternoon hangout.
I keep coming back for the Breakfast Poutine. Crisp potatoes, melty cheese curds, and a lush gravy topped with eggs—heartwarming and memorable. If you like going lighter, their vegan brunch bowl is full of fresh flavors and textures. The Boiler Room crafts brunch that stays in your memory long after you head back up the stairs.
7. IHOP
IHOP in Fargo is the kind of place where brunch cravings never go unanswered. It’s cheerful, familiar, and always humming, with plates arriving stacked high and coffee that just keeps coming. IHOP stands out for its consistency and its legendary pancakes—a reputation that holds up bite after bite.
Whether you’re an old-school fan or a brunch newcomer, their buttermilk pancakes are a must: fluffy, golden, and griddled just right. I also like ordering the Spinach & Mushroom Omelette, packed with fresh flavor and always served hot. If sweet is your speed, the blueberry pancakes remind you why IHOP endures as a brunch favorite. No surprises here—just pure comfort and plenty to choose from.
8. Randy’s University Diner
Randy’s University Diner has all the charm of a classic roadside stop, but with Fargo heart. Bright booths and friendly staff create an atmosphere where regulars and first-timers blend in like old friends. The menu is full of homestyle hits, and you can always count on hot coffee and made-to-order meals.
For brunch, the Country Breakfast is a standout: eggs any style, plenty of hash browns, and breads toasted to just the right crunch. If you’re craving something sweet, the cinnamon swirl French toast never disappoints. Randy’s does the basics better than most, using fresh ingredients and no shortcuts. This is the kind of diner that feels like a weekend tradition in the making.
9. Cracked Pepper
Cracked Pepper feels like a favorite neighbor—bright, casual, and always ready with a fresh take on brunch staples. What sets Cracked Pepper apart is their emphasis on local, house-made ingredients, making every meal satisfying and a little bit creative.
My top pick is the Garden Scramble: eggs packed with veggies and a kick of seasoning, satisfying without ever feeling heavy. The fresh-baked muffins are a local legend—soft, not too sweet, and never short on flavor. With vegan and vegetarian options front and center, choices here feel thoughtful. Cracked Pepper is proof that you don’t need fancy to deliver a memorable brunch.
10. Mehl’s Gluten-Free Bakery
Mehl’s Gluten-Free Bakery is a bright spot for anyone looking to brunch without worry. Walking in, you’re greeted by displays of baked goods that look—almost unbelievably—gluten-free. Mehl’s has mastered making gluten-free and vegan options genuinely crave-worthy, and you don’t have to have an allergy to appreciate that.
I always start with the cinnamon coffee cake; soft, perfectly spiced, and not a crumb goes to waste. Their breakfast sandwiches, made with house bread, are another win, offering fluffy eggs and all the fixings. Vegetarian and vegan choices feel just as indulgent as everything else. Mehl’s proves that a gluten-free brunch can hold its own—and then some—next to any bakery in town.
More Things to Try in Fargo, ND
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places for brunch in Fargo, ND?
Lucky’s 13 Pub, Granite City Food & Brewery, Kroll’s Diner, Porter Creek Hardwood Grill, and The Boiler Room all have strong brunch menus, each with its own style—from classic American comfort food to creative, locally inspired dishes.
Are there vegetarian or vegan brunch options in Fargo?
Absolutely. Almost every spot on the list offers vegetarian choices, and many—like Cracked Pepper and Mehl’s Gluten-Free Bakery—feature vegan and gluten-free items as well.
Which cafes have gluten-free brunch options?
Mehl’s Gluten-Free Bakery specializes in gluten-free, but you’ll also find solid options at Cracked Pepper, Granite City Food & Brewery, and Porter Creek Hardwood Grill.
Where can I get brunch with outdoor seating in Fargo?
Porter Creek Hardwood Grill is known for its patio, and several other locations have seasonal outdoor seating. Call ahead, especially if you want a sunny table.
Can I get brunch to go in Fargo?
Yes. Many Fargo brunch spots offer takeout options, with spots like Cracked Pepper, IHOP, and Mehl’s Gluten-Free Bakery making it easy to bring brunch home or back to the office.
What time does brunch usually start in Fargo?
Most Fargo restaurants serve brunch from the late morning, usually starting at 8 or 9 a.m. Some places, like diners, serve breakfast all day. It’s always smart to check hours online or call ahead for specifics.