Tourists, especially in the early months of the year when the weather is pleasant, come to Lake County. Whether it is a side trip after visiting Walt Disney World Resort or a recreational or outdoor excursion to the county’s 1,000+ lakes and rivers, everyone on the road needs a good breakfast. Here are five spots worth checking out for morning victuals according to our own experience and tips from Florida locals in the know.
Twisted Biscuit Diner
Downhome cooking meets refined dining at Twisted Biscuit Diner in Taveres. Open 7 days a week, the place claiming these are “not your mama’s biscuits” tops the list for culinary creativity and a dedication to deliciousness. The menu features eight meals dedicated to biscuits, from savory to sweet.
Fresh, specialty biscuits change daily, but one summer favorite is the strawberry, blueberry, and white chocolate. Just as popular as their biscuits, Twisted’s signature entrees include intriguing items like jambalaya hash, a cyclone omelet, and Florida Craker Benedict—made with fried grit cakes. Their pancakes are popular, too.
4101 County Rd 561, Tavares
Cheeser’s Palace Café
Located on the adorable West Montrose St. in Historic Downtown Clermont, Cheeser’s Palace Café traces its roots back to a wine and cheese shop in Ohio. Moving to Florida, owner Amanda Walsh started the idea as a catering company. And the food quickly gained a stellar reputation.
The menu offers seven styles of eggs Benedict, ranging from traditional to Florida-inspired seafood variations. The smoked salmon plate and cheese plates are some of the eateries’ most popular dishes. For those who love the sweeter side of breakfast, Cheeser’s offers Belgian waffles, French toast, and crepes.
707 W Montrose St, Clermont
Cody’s on 4th
Mount Dora is one of the cutest towns in Florida, so it deserves to have one of the cutest breakfast spots in the state. Cody Spitzig, owner of Cody’s on 4th, brings a passion of food and learning to the table. Her spot is known for great coffee and baked goods.
The Cody’s menu specializes in crustless quiche of the day and salmon sandwich creations. Diners can create their own sandwich or choose from one of six simple selections. All sandwiches come with a fresh fruit cup. Cody’s delivers, caters, and—like most of the restaurants on this list—serves some fun breakfast cocktails.
The Mason Jar
Tucked away in the heart of Lake County, The Mason Jar is more than just a restaurant; it is a beloved local institution. Since plating its first order of comfort food in 1979, this family-owned diner has been dishing up nostalgia with every meal.
The Mason Jar’s unassuming charm and classic American menu have remained virtually untouched. Hearty breakfast favorites include country ham and eggs, corned beef and hash, and the Twin Hooter—double portions of sausage and bacon with eggs, grits, and sausage gravy with toast or a biscuit. Visitors enjoy the clean restaurant and friendly service.
37534 State Road 19, Umatilla
Breakfast Station
All aboard the full belly express at Breakfast Station, a regional chain serving Florida since 1995. The original location was a train-themed diner in Port Richey. The top five breakfasts are the depot breakfast, the station, Denver omelet, and the garden omelet.
One of the most unique breakfast items is the Train Wreck. It may not be the best-looking entrée, but it will fill a belly. The eye-catching plate is loaded with homemade sausage gravy atop a split biscuit, a pile of home fries with sauteed peppers and onions, garnished with two eggs any style—but we recommend over medium.
2229 Citrus Blvd, Leesburg