Taking your little ones out for breakfast is a high-wire act. You want the food to turn up fast, a menu with something even the fussiest eater will accept, nobody minding a little mess — and, ideally, a coffee actually worth drinking for the grown-ups. Here's where to do family breakfast in Sarasota, starting with the place we know best.
Why Families Love Waffle Monkey
We'll admit we're a little biased — but Waffle Monkey Sarasota was built for mornings exactly like yours. Families come back multiple times in a single week's holiday, toddlers and all, so we must be doing something right!
- Waffles win every time. Intentional or not, our main menu almost reads like a giant kids menu — well, apart from the mimosas! Even us adults are just big kids really, and who doesn't like food with shapes in it? Sweet or savoury, plain for the picky or piled high for the adventurous — the waffles arrive fast. The banana, honey and coconut Waffle Monkey, and the super indulgent Chocoholic are popular with kids, while our Chicken and Waffles & Egg and Bacon are popular savoury choices.
- More than waffles. There's plenty more breakfast options for the non-waffle holdouts — avo toast, chili eggs, a full English breakfast and our Monkey Bowl are popular new additions, and there's a nice selection of sandwiches suitable for breakfast and lunch too.
- Crayons anyone? Creative fun for all the family with our Waffle Monkey colouring page and a pack of crayons — so little hands stay busy long before the food lands.
- Fussy eaters? No problem! The kitchen will happily bend almost anything on the menu to suit — swap the ham for bacon, keep it plain, hold whatever needs holding. Gluten-free and vegan waffles are on hand too, so allergies and special dietary preferences are covered.
- Treat-worthy drinks. Thick milkshakes, fruit smoothies and fresh-squeezed orange juice — the kind of thing that turns a plain breakfast into an occasion.
- What mess? Sticky fingers, dropped forks, the great syrup negotiation — this is a café for families, not a hushed brunch room. Bring the chaos … well, in moderation!
- A proper welcome. The owners are hands-on — don't be surprised if Pete wanders over to say hello and check the little ones are happy. Regulars talk about being made to feel like part of the family.
- Open breakfast through lunch. Early risers or slow-Sunday types, the kitchen's going either way. (Hours shift a little by season, so check the café page before you head over.)
A Coffee That Makes the Early Start Worth It
Any parent who's been up since six knows the difference a good coffee makes. While the kids demolish a waffle, you get Café Britt — roasted at origin in Costa Rica, the same beans we've poured since day one. Not diner-pot coffee left on the warmer: a proper flat white, latte or Americano, made to order. Call it the parent tax, refunded in caffeine.
What families say
“10/10! It’s rare to find a place that accommodates food allergies so well AND tastes so delicious. I have celiac and my kids have gluten and dairy allergies, my husband eats a regular diet, and we were all thrilled with our meals. My kids and I had waffles and they were incredible. My husband had the full English breakfast and it was perfect. The staff was so friendly and welcoming, and very diligent to make sure our meals met our allergen-free needs. We will definitely be coming back.”
“A Gem in downtown Sarasota! The Chicken and waffles was amazing, the atmosphere is so cute, and the owners are so sweet and attentive to ensure you have a wonderful experience. Our group was served quickly, and they were able to make room for 2 baby strollers for us. There are also gluten free and vegan options so it's perfect for everyone in your group! Love it.”
“Really great place. The waffles are delicious, coffee too, the service is very friendly, and the vibe is very cool. We’ll definitely be coming back. It’s also very kid-friendly—our kids loved the small board game they were given to keep them occupied, which I thought was very thoughtful.”
A Few Other Family Favourites
We're not the only option in town. A few other Sarasota spots worth knowing, if you're after variety:
The Oasis Cafe & Bakery
A relaxed family café serving breakfast and lunch.
Honey Tree Cafe
A long-running family diner with a dedicated kids' menu.
Metro Diner
A casual comfort-food spot with a kids' menu.
However you do breakfast as a family, Sarasota has you covered. And when the morning calls for waffles the kids will cheer for and a coffee that'll actually get you through the day — you know where we are.