Evanston’s Best Breakfast

when it comes to location and atmosphere.

It’s safe to say Walker Bros’ has mastered the art of flipping pancakes, but pancakes aren’t the only star items on the menu. Walker Bros’ offers a wide range of delicious dishes from pancakes to waffles, french toast, omelets and breakfast meats.

Many students have voted the Apple Pancakes as their go-to order; however, senior Amanda Nelson says, “My favorite thing to order are the hash browns”. So whether it is a savory or sweet breakfast dish you are craving, Walker Bros’ has you covered.

Service also plays a big role in its overall rating. Walker Bros’ service receives ratings that are off the charts. No one likes waiting hours for their food to come. Thankfully, the servers there get the job done—the food arrives fast and hot!

Well, what makes their service great? Junior Elise Pollack explains, “My food always comes pretty quick, I never have to wait much longer than 15-20 minutes.”

As sophomore Esther Mueller says, “it is the best breakfast place in the area.”

Stop by next time you’re looking for a bite.

Photo courtesy of Isa de los Reyes

Ovo Frito Cafe

Located just a few blocks north of downtown Evanston, Ovo Frito Cafe’s bright atmosphere, five-star service and extensive menu make it the perfect spot to enjoy an early or mid-morning meal.

Ovo Frito “started as a dream for an American dream,” as co-founders Roberto Flores and Zinnia Iglesias put it on the website. The husband and wife team worked a combined three jobs for over 13 years before finally opening their cafe in July of 2017—it immediately took off.

The menu is the main factor in Ovo Frito’s success. The sheer size of it is sure to have you struggling between a “delicious craving,” a classic omelet or something from the “breakfast eggsquisities” section. The many unique American and Mexican-influenced dishes range from cinnamon pancakes to chorizo to equally delicious vegetarian and vegan options.

“One of my favorite things to order at Ovo Frito is the Zarzamora French Toast,” freshman Chloe Von Hoff says. “It’s french toast filled with pastry cream and has blackberries on the top.” She also recommends washing it down with a steaming cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and chocolate syrup.

I took Chloe’s advice and tried the Zarzamora French Toast for myself. If you have a sweet tooth, this dish is made for you. A river of sweet cream and fresh blackberries sit sandwiched between two pieces of brioche french toast. Topped with powdered sugar and whipped cream, every flavor present in the Zarzamora French Toast perfectly compliment each other to create a great experience for your taste buds.

From what I’ve heard, you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Freshman Ethan Martin agrees.“Everyone’s meal at the table was delicious and paired well together.”

Aside from the menu, the bright, welcoming environment contributes to the restaurant’s success as well. Translating to “fried egg” in Portuguese, Ovo Frito takes inspiration directly from their name for their decorations. Stepping into Ovo Frito is like stepping into the yolk of a fried egg. From the sharp yellow of the walls to the eggshell hanging lights to the egg-inspired art all around the restaurant, the whole atmosphere is one that is sure to have you smiling all through your meal.

Ovo Frito has never disappointed, so next time you’re in the mood for a morning meal, head down Maple Ave. to the perfect little brunch spot—Ovo Frito.