Planning a beach hike or easing into the weekend, starting your day with brunch in the Indiana Dunes is always a good call. Think: fresh coffee, fluffy pancakes, perfectly cooked eggs, and classic mimosas in everything from low-key diners to cozy cafés. Here’s where to start!
Local and Farm-to-Table
The Goblin Duneside Eatery & Bar (formerly known as Goblin & the Grocer)
This upscale grocer near Beverly Shores combines thoughtful plating with seasonal ingredients and a strong brunch cocktail menu. You’ll find locally-sourced twists on classic dishes like their shrimp n' grits or Belgian waffles made with seasonal berries.
Third Coast Spice Café
Located in Chesterton, Third Coast offers a well-balanced mix of healthy options, hearty favorites, and gluten-free items. There’s a reason it’s one of the top-rated cafes in the region!
Chesterton's European Market
Held seasonally in downtown Chesterton (May to October), this open-air market features a variety of vendors selling pastries, breakfast snacks, and coffee. It’s a great place to grab a bite while browsing local goods.
Outdoor Dining
Stacks Bar & Grill
On most summer Sundays, Stacks in Valparaiso hosts a 21+ rooftop brunch with a live DJ (ideal if you’re after good views and a livelier vibe). Downstairs remains all-ages, with menu standouts like chicken and waffles, smoked brisket hash, and mimosa flights!
Maple + Bacon
This Valparaiso brunch favorite boasts a sunny terrace and creative spins on morning classics. Highlights include loaded eggs Benedict, hearty hash bowls, stuffed French toast, and the signature “maple bacon” cinnamon roll.
Boozy Brunch
219 Taproom
In downtown Chesterton, 219 Taproom serves weekend breakfast alongside a rotating selection of craft beers and cocktails. Choose from plenty of drink options to complement your eggs or sandwich.
Radius
Radius serves modern comfort food in a laid-back downtown Valparaiso setting, with brunch cocktails and a menu built for indulgence. They’re known for what many locals call the best burger in town—especially when paired with one of their fully loaded Bloody Marys, garnished with mac and cheese, onion rings, and other over-the-top add-ons.
Classic Diners
Tate’s Place
Tate’s Place is a long-time favorite for classic diner fare in Portage. Expect friendly service, strong coffee, and reliable brunch combos.
Northside Diner
Located in Chesterton, Northside Diner is a true classic diner, featuring cozy booths and a traditional American breakfast menu. Pancakes, omelets, and sausage gravy are the stars here.
Peggy Sue’s Diner
This retro-style diner in Portage is a great stop for a quick and satisfying brunch. The daily specials, bottomless coffee, and throwback decor round out the Peggy Sue’s experience.
Portage House of Pancakes
It doesn’t get more classic than Portage House of Pancakes, where the portions are generous and the namesake stacks come in all forms—blueberry, cinnamon, and beyond. The menu also covers the essentials, like hearty scrambles, biscuits and gravy, and other diner staples done right.
Brunch for Special Occasions
Lucrezia Café
Lucrezia Café doesn’t always serve brunch, but it is known for its sold-out Easter brunch offerings. If you’re craving some of the best Italian food in the area, you can’t go wrong.
Suzie’s Café & Catering
Suzie’s in Valparaiso is known for generous breakfast platters and house-baked pastries. For special occasions, they offer an on-site banquet room for rent, perfect for private events, as well as a catered breakfast menu.
Hungry for more? Browse all the dining options in the Indiana Dunes and map out your next brunch stop!
