Let’s get this out of the way first thing: There are no cereal cafes in Battle Creek. Yeah, we’re a little bummed, too.
But we still take eating breakfast seriously in Cereal City:
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The sweetest
Continental Pastries & Delicatessen, 928 W. Columbia Ave.
While some people stop by Continental in the morning for the bear claws, there’s no shame in starting the day with a little cake. Chocolate cream frosting and raspberry jam has dairy and fruit, right? After that, you might want to return to Continental in the afternoon for a salad from the deli.
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The most traditional
Pancake House, 185 Capital Ave. SW
This spot recently celebrated 50 years -- that’s a lot of pancakes. For many locals, Pancake House is a breakfast tradition. Of course, you should try the pancakes. If you’re looking for something savory, the omelets come highly recommended.But if you can’t decide, order the Mini Breakfast. It’s a little bit of everything -- eggs, meat, potatoes and a choice of pancakes or French toast or regular toast.
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The biggest
Clara’s Sunday breakfast buffet, 44 McCamly St.
Clara’s on the River doesn’t always serve breakfast, but when it does, it goes all out. The restaurant is in an old train station, built in 1888.Sunday mornings mean the breakfast buffet. Grab blueberry pancakes or biscuits and gravy, ready to eat. There’s also a mini-waffle bar and a chef who will custom-make an omelet right in front of you.
The most unexpected
Cafe 24/7 at FireKeepers Casino + Hotel, 11177 E. Michigan Ave.
FireKeepers has “casino” and “hotel” in the title, but it’s also a place to find some good eats.Cafe 24/7 is part of the casino, so customers need to be 21 or older. This comfort food cafe is open all day and night, so you can have breakfast at any time.That’s a good excuse for banana pecan pancakes or cinnamon roll pancakes. Or if you only want a little sweet, try the breakfast skillet or eggs benedict and get freshly made cinnamon raisin toast on the side.
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The best coffee break
Barista Blues Cafe, 91 W. Michigan Ave.
While you can grab your coffee and food to go, the full Barista Blues experience is to slow down and enjoy the company. Chat over an order of the house blend or a cappuccino.The breakfast menu is simple, ranging from muffins to breakfast bagels. Dress up your toast with peanut butter and bananas. If you’re hungry, the quiche is very popular.Owner Maryann Angelo is known to be accommodating, so talk to her if you have any requests for the kitchen.
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The best diner
Lake’s Sunrise Cafe, 117 E. Coolidge Ave.
This small gem is buried in a neighborhood down the street from Kellogg Community College and Bronson Battle Creek Hospital. Make sure you don’t miss turning down Coolidge, and the restaurant will be on your left. Grab a booth and check out the specials on the chalkboard.You know the kitchen is cooking up homemade food when the menu features names that relate to the restaurant. In the morning, try the Sunrise Omelet. It has ground beef, onion, mushrooms and Swiss cheese. The Sunrise Sampler gives you biscuits and gravy, one egg, two sausage links and potatoes.
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The doughnutiest
Sweetwater’s Donut Mill, 2807 Capital Ave. SW
Yeah, we had to make up a word to describe the extreme doughnut factor at Sweetwater’s. It’s open 24 hours and offers a wide selection. There’s no shame in appreciating the uncomplicated joys of a glazed doughnut or maple icing. There’s also the other end of the spectrum, though: doughnuts that are covered in candy or Oreos and stuffed with fillings.***Article written by freelance writer Annie Kelley.
