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Whistle Stop
Credit: @grub.grade

Best Brunch in Oakland County

Story by Brandon Alger

It’s brunch time! “You'll love it. It's not quite breakfast, it's not quite lunch, but it comes with a slice of cantaloupe at the end.” Okay, in 2023 may not come with cantaloupe, but it’s objectively one of the most enjoyable dining experiences. Living here in Oakland County, we’re fortunate to have a variety of brunch spots. It would be impossible to list them all, and difficult to find the best ones, but here are some that I’ve really enjoyed, ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants for a special occasions.

418 South Washington, Royal Oak

Cafe Muse

This downtown diner is a great spot for brunch, including a variety of vegan options. Their brunch menu is European themed and separated into sweet vs. savory. My favorite here is the smoked salmon scramble. Their drink menu includes a full coffee bar, teas, juices, cocktails, wine and draft beer. There is paid street parking up front, but the Center Street parking garage is around the corner and free for two hours.

225 E Maple, Birmingham

Social - Birmingham

This very Earthy feeling restaurant, located in downtown Birmingham, has a rooftop bar and serves simple flavors and comfort food, but presents them in a way that feels upscale and refined. Their take on chicken and waffles is one of the best I’ve ever had, and the truffle fries are quite addicting. Social offers a variety of cocktails and bottled beer. For parking, don’t expect a spot on the street; you may get lucky, but there’s a garage a block north off Ferndale Avenue.

606 N Main, Rochester

Downtown Cafe, Rochester

Located at the northern edge of downtown Rochester, Downtown Cafe has some of the best fresh squeezed juice you can find. Their sandwiches are the perfect size to be filling but not uncomfortable, and the quiche varies from week to week giving you a variety of flavors to explore. The vibe here is neighborly and you can feel comfortable showing up just as you are.

96 W 14 Mile Road, Clawson

Three Cats at Leon & Lulu

This smaller cafe in Downtown Clawson serves brunch on the weekends, and more traditional lunch dishes during the week. There’s also a small “kittens” menu, so bring the family! Downtown Clawson itself makes for a fun walkable district to explore after brunch. Don’t miss out on Sabbath Coffee Roasters, where you can grab some fresh-roasted beans for brunch at home later this week!

15 S Main, Clarkston

The Fed

The Fed Community is in Downtown Clarkston, inside a restored bank. The interior is bright and welcoming. With an extensive wine list, you’ll find whatever you want to pair with your dutch baby pancakes, scrambles, or classic breakfast options. The french toast is made from challah bread and the biscuits can be served sweet or savory. Brunch is only available on the weekends, but if you come on Sunday, expect a wait.

29591 Orchard Lake, Farmington Hills

Sunrise Cafe

Located in an older strip mall and next to an auto parts store, Sunrise Cafe is simple and unpretentious, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it lacks quality. The options here are going to lean more toward the breakfast side of the spectrum and there’s no fancy cocktails, but it’s worth a mention for the fun diner-style atmosphere and incredible omelets.

24060 Woodward, Pleasant Ridge

Whistle Stop Diner

Whistle Stop is a train-themed casual diner with high-quality ingredients and a good tea selection. Seating is available at the bar, or at one of their tables. They serve Great Lakes Coffee and have a large cocktail selection. If you’re here on the weekend, The Crabber is their take on crab cakes, and it’s incredible. Their grits are also very unique and come grilled and seasoned with parmesan cheese. Another location is also available in Birmingham.

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Credit: @whistlestopdiners

27302 Woodward, Royal Oak

O.W.L.

Maybe better known for their 24-hour service, O.W.L. should not be left out of brunch conversations. Their $6 egg sandwiches hit the spot on a rough morning and the tacos del dia never disappoint. For something heavier, the chicken fried chicken is served with cilantro potatoes and a huge slice of Texas toast. Order ahead for takeout, or dine in at their bar, but if you’re going on a weekend you may need to arrive early to get a spot.

3087 Twelve Mile, Berkley

Berkley Common

Located inside what many people may remember as the “Berkley Front,” this New-American diner has a weekend brunch menu full of unique cocktails, brunch mainstays, and unique options such as the Brunch Burger or Whipped Feta. Fresh squeezed orange juice always hits the spot and you shouldn’t sleep on their coffee cake either. Weekend brunch is very popular here and is served from 11-3.

5586 Drake Road, West Bloomfield

Soul Cafe

This unique option is located within the Friendship Circle of West Bloomfield and provides vocational opportunities to adults with special needs. The menu is mostly-kosher and includes gourmet soups, salads, and traditional breakfast options. They serve both Chazzano and Starbucks coffee and offer fruit smoothies. The Soul Cafe is open Sunday through Thursday, from 9 to 3.

220 Merrill, Birmingham

220 Merrill

Think of this as more of an experience than a meal. You’ll spend more here than other spots on this list, but it’s worth it. With appetizer options like sweet and spicy calamari or mini lobster rolls, and entrees like the wagyu hash and eggs or the best chicken parmigiano I’ve ever tried, you won’t be forgetting this brunch any time soon. 220 also offers an extensive wine list and a full bar with craft cocktails.

2495 Lapeer, Auburn Hills

Four Korners Restaurant

This modest diner is one of the few sit-down options in this part of Auburn Hills, but it does not disappoint! Four Korners is very popular with locals and breakfast is served all day. Since you’re here for brunch I recommend you check their specials board, and if nothing here appeals to you try one of their skillets. The atmosphere can be a bit loud, but the friendliness at this family-owned spot makes up for it.

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