students eating at patio at Boiler Room

Best Overall: Boiler Room

210 Roberts Alley, Fargo

This is a classic brunch spot, known for awesome eats and atmosphere. Located in the heart of downtown Fargo, the Boiler Room has an all-day brunch menu that will make everyone happy. From chicken and waffles to the breakfast casserole (made with homemade cheesy tater tots!), there are plenty of savory options. Don’t forget the RumChata French toast or champagne strawberry waffle if you have a sweet tooth!

Village Inn Exterior

Best Place to Invite the Family: Village Inn

940 Holiday Drive, Moorhead

With a homey mom and pop diner feel, Village Inn has a menu full of choices. From classic diner fare such as eggs and bacon to waffles and crepes, Village Inn also serves classics like BLT sandwiches and burgers. Be sure to save room for pie – you can get a free slice with the purchase of a meal every Wednesday.

The Shack Exterior

Wait Time That is Totally Worth It: The Shack on Broadway

3215 Broadway N., Fargo

This favorite for many in the area is so good you might just have to wait. Many can attest to this – the line that often runs outside the door for people waiting to get seated. Aside from arguably the best pancakes around, one reason why people love The Shack is because the full menu is served all day long. Craving a burger at 8 a.m.? You’re in luck.

Bernbaums Exterior

Best Bagel: BernBaum’s

402 Broadway N., Fargo

BernBaum’s brings New York-style bagels with a Scandinavian flair to downtown Fargo. Two main bagels, plain and seeded, are offered, but various fillings and toppings are available. From hummus, fig cream cheese, and vegan lox made with carrots, BernBaum’s has a unique menu that you should explore. Don’t have time to sit down and eat? Grab a cold snack or meal from the in-store cooler.

Kara Lee drinking coffee at Young Blood

Best Toast: Youngblood

623 2nd Ave. N., Fargo

Expertly crafted coffee with a delicious menu of toasts, Youngblood is a hip place for a quick downtown brunch. With flavors like cinnamon and sugar toast with flaked sea salt or almond cream cheese toast with tomatoes, Youngblood’s menu will please all. The bread is hearty and crusty, filled with pockets that catch the toppings perfectly. You can smell the bread from inside Roberts Alley, as it is made in-house. You can even go home with a loaf for yourself.

Randy's Diner exterior

For the Sweet Tooth: Randy’s University Diner

2130 University Drive S., Fargo

While Randy’s has amazing food across the menu, the real star is the sweet offerings. Aside from caramel and cinnamon rolls that are the size of a salad plate, patrons also love the French toast made from a croissant. Fun fact: You can choose either toast or the famous coffee cake to accompany your breakfast meals here.

Fryin' Pan Exterior

Best Place for a Quiet Brunch: Fryn’ Pan

2920 U.S. Highway 10, Moorhead
300 Main Ave., Fargo

Don’t get me wrong – this place is always bustling with customers, but it has a laid-back vibe that ensures you’ll always be able to enjoy your coffee in peace. You can take along the book that you’ve been meaning to read that was sitting on your bedside table all semester or, if you’re feeling studious, a textbook. The menu is full of diner classics such as eggs, bacon, pancakes – the works.

Published October 2019