CLEVELAND, Ohio – When the weather turns colder in Northeast Ohio, nothing warms up a weekend breakfast or brunch quite like pancakes.
Pillowy and fluffy, they’re like a buttery down comforter (enveloped in a maple duvet) for your insides. Paired with your favorite cuppa Joe or glass of milk, they’re the quintessential morning comfort food.
Everyone has their favorite place to land when it comes to breakfast or brunch and, more often than not, those places that serve pancakes are serving them up right.
Which of Greater Cleveland’s pancake shops are the best? Cleveland.com has partnered with Yelp Cleveland to find the best pancake shops in Northeast Ohio, by county, according to their reviewers.
Methodology:
This is an all-time list of the best pancake shops in the Greater Cleveland area, according to Yelp Cleveland.
To come up with this list, Yelp Cleveland identified businesses in the pancake shop category and then ranked those spots using a number of factors including the total volume and ratings of reviews.
This list looked at businesses in the following counties: Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage and Summit. If a local chain appeared on the list more than once, we only included the highest-rated location.
We worked directly with Yelp Cleveland on this list to reflect accurate data. Want to see your favorite spot make the list next time? Pen your first review and apply for the Yelp Elite Squad today: yelp.com/elite.
Here are the results broken down by county:
CUYAHOGA
No. 1
Inn On Coventry
Lemon ricotta pancakes from Inn On Coventry
– Photo courtesy of Sonali P., via Yelp
2785 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland, 216-371-1811
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Great place for breakfast! Lemon ricotta pancakes. You only need 1. You are welcome! Service was outstanding. Just a great little hidden gem!” – Susie M.
No. 2
Borderline Cafe
Pancakes from Borderline Cafe
– Photo courtesy of Rob W., via Yelp
18510 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-777-4711
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “One of my favorite breakfast places in Lakewood/Cleveland! I always go for the breakfast tacos and a side of cheesy home fries. The pancakes are always delicious (chocolate chip are especially)…” – Julie K.
No. 3
Juneberry Table
Ohio Spelt Pancakes – sorghum butter, whipped cream, local blueberries, lemon, pure ohio maple syrup from Juneberry Table located at 3900 Lorain Ave., in Cleveland
– Photo by Yadi Rodriguez, cleveland.com
3900 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-331-0338
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Hands down, one of the best new restaurants in Cleveland; you must absolutely come here and have a meal…Buttermilk lemon pancakes with blueberries – just incredible!…” – Priya B.
No. 4
Annie B & Earl’s
Pancakes from Annie B & Earl’s
– Photo courtesy of Bob M., via Yelp
4017 Saint Clair Ave., Cleveland, 216-361-9160
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Highly recommend the pancakes! Better than your average pancake house!” – Greg D.
No. 5
Scratch
Pancakes from Scratch
– Photo courtesy of Jemellee S., via YelpYelp
6595 Brecksville Rd., Ste. 1, Independence, 216-312-2190
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “…Simple, clean and fresh decor. Staff super friendly and quick. We split the pumpkin pancake and an omelet. Both good choices delicious and filling…” – M. U.
No. 6
Sabor Miami Cafe & Gallery
Sabor Miami Cafe & Gallery
– Photo courtesy of Lin H., via YelpYelp
4848 Broadview Rd., Cleveland, 440-714-0202
Yelp rating: 5 stars
Sample review: “…Pancakes are bomb; my friends got the Key West pancakes and the cinnamon roll pancakes, which were amazing…” – Stephanie B.
No. 7
Cafe Miami
Cafe Miami
– Photo courtesy of Alan S., via YelpYelp
4517 State Rd., Cleveland, 216-661-3739
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “I love Cafe Miami, the food is wonderful and the breakfast special is so cheap you really could eat there every day. The pancakes are the absolute best pancakes I’ve ever had in my life (sorry mom) I recommend Cafe Miami to everyone!!!” – Dee T.
No. 8
Cleveland Vegan
Pumpkin pancakes with brown sugar butter from Cleveland Vegan
– Photo courtesy of Elizabeth B., via YelpYelp
17112 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-221-0201
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “I’m so in love with this restaurant! I love their caramel iced latte so much, the stacked club is probably the best sandwich I’ve ever had (get extra cheese on it). The strawberry cheesecake pancakes are amazing! – Jaden F.
No. 9
Northstar Cafe
Cloud Nine Pancakes from Northstar Cafe
– Photo courtesy of Northstar Cafe., via Yelpyelp
3380 Warrensville Center Rd., Shaker Heights, 216-848-1500
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “…Ricotta pancakes are amazing even later if you save some for lunch to reheat! Don’t miss this one!” – Ann L.
No. 10
Dolphin Restaurant
Pancakes from Dolphin Restaurant
– Photo courtesy of Denise R., via Yelpyelp
26091 Broadway Ave., Bedford, 440-252-5381
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “We loved our breakfast. Stalina was an outstanding waitress. Great omelets, amazing fluffy pancakes, sausage links and patties. Clean, comfortable with plenty of parking.” – Denyse L.
No. 11
Southside Diner
Reese’s Peanut Butter Pancakes from Southside Diner
– Photo courtesy of Daniel O., via Yelpyelp
10705 W. Pleasant Valley Rd., Parma, 440-842-6888
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Favorite breakfast diner! I have not had one bad thing from this restaurant. The pancakes are delicious! This place is usually pretty busy on weekend mornings but the service is good and the prices are fair.
No. 12
Grumpy’s Cafe
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes from Grumpy’s Cafe
– Photo courtesy of Helen S., via YelpYelp
2621 W 14th St., Cleveland, 216-241-5025
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “This was an artsy decorated place with fantastic food. We had biscuits and gravy, Eggs Benedict, blueberry pancakes, and a special of apple something pancakes. We all shared and loved every bite. The Eggs Benedict could have used a little more sauce but that didn’t stop us from eating them. The service was fantastic. Wish we lived closer so we could go back soon and often.” – Lisa G.
No. 13
Gene’s Place To Dine
Banana Caramel Pancakes from Gene’s Place To Dine
– Photo courtesy of Gene’s Place to Dine, via Yelpyelp
3730 Rocky River Dr., Cleveland, 216-252-1741
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Hands down 5 stars. Checks all the boxes, and does them all well – ambiance, service, menu selection, food prep, and price…Son opted for the “Frittata” – a veggie and cheese omelet. All ingredients tasted fresh, and portion size was generous. Came with the buttermilk pancakes. I had the “Pa Kettle” – 2 eggs, corned beef hash, and the pancakes. Again flavorful, and a nice portion. But the pancakes – WOW!! I’m not a fussy pancake eater, but these are worth traveling long distances for – texture and flavor like you’ve never enjoyed. Combine it all with a safe and comfortable, small-town dining atmosphere, a wonderful staff, and extremely affordable prices, and it’s no wonder they have survived as long as they have. Truly epic breakfast experience!” – Vince S.
No. 14
Jack’s Deli & Restaurant
Pancakes from Jack’s Deli & Restaurant
– Photo courtesy of Stephen H., via YelpYelp
14490 Cedar Rd., Cleveland, 216-586-5470
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “I really like a good deli… Jack’s is an old traditional establishment that knows how to make people happy with food. Their portions are big, and they have a menu that takes fifteen minutes to wade through. For me, it’s easy…My favorite go-to is the corned beef hash breakfast special…My kids are big fans of the pancakes and french toast.” – Chris K.
No. 15
Big Al’s Diner
Chocolate chip pancakes from Big Al’s Diner
– Photo courtesy of Angelo C., via Yelpyelp
12600 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, 216-791-8550
Yelp rating: 3 stars
Sample review: “This vintage neighborhood gem has been a fixture on Larchmere for over 25 years and continues to serve great food at reasonable prices…I got coffee and the #8 without meat: two eggs and a chocolate chip pancake…The pancake was a sizable and satisfyingly delicious treat loaded with chocolate morsels! The eggs were cooked perfectly and seasoned just right. At Big Al’s, you get quality and generous portions wrapped in a layer of great service. What more could you ask for?” – Angelo C.
GEAUGA
No. 1
The Sleepy Rooster
Rooster cakes – 3 pancakes with cheddar cheese and spiced apples from The Sleepy Rooster located at 5210 Chillicothe Rd., Suite B, in Chagrin Falls
– Photo by Paris Wolfe, cleveland.com
5210 Chillicothe Rd., Chagrin Falls, 440-557-5212
Yelp rating: 5 stars
Sample review: “This breakfast spot lives up to its billing. Great staff who are extra friendly and treat you like family…Food is great – a simple kid’s menu for the wee ones. Their kid’s pancake (shaped like Mickey Mouse) comes with their in-house sauce and syrup and sweetened yogurt…” – Noah F.
LAKE
No. 1
Peties Family Restaurant
Chocolate Chip Pancakes from Peties Family Restaurant
– Photo courtesy of Frank Z., via YelpYelp
30150 Lake Shore Blvd., Willowick, 440-943-5900
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Fantastic service!!! …I had the pancakes combo both days – blueberry-banana-granola the first day and cinnamon swirl the second day. Both excellent!! The combo adds scrambled eggs and bacon. The portions are huge – couldn’t finish it either morning…” – Marsha S.
No. 2
Kleifelds Restaurant
Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes with a side of bacon from Kleifelds Restaurant
– Photo courtesy of Andrew G., via YelpYelp
4048 Erie St., Willoughby, 440-942-7646
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “LOVE this place! The K burger is delish and the cinnamon roll pancake is to die for! – Nikki L.
LORAIN
No. 1
The Feve
Almond Brie Pancakes from The Feve
– Photo courtesy of Evan C., via YelpYelp
30 S Main St., Oberlin, 440-774-1978
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “…I come here at least once a month. It is consistently awesome. The brunch menu rotates so it is different every month but always has a sweet pancake and usually a savory pancake. You can always get a “basic” breakfast, but they have much more!” – Rachel R.
MEDINA
No. 1
Valley Cafe
Blueberry Pancake from Valley Cafe
– Photo courtesy of Kim K., via YelpYelp
101 High St., Wadsworth, 330-331-7555
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Rock-solid stuff for breakfast or lunch. Located in the heart of the Wadsworth town square, Valley Cafe offers great food, excellent service, and puts you right in the middle of a variety of potential stops for a fun afternoon…We often come during lunchtime, but I still order breakfast…Our kids enjoy the pancakes which, as Buddy the Elf would say, are ginormous! You can add chocolate chips, blueberries, or bananas…They have inside booths, bar seating, and outdoor tables for nice days. The service is welcoming and usually fairly quick.” – Doug C.
No. 2
Knotts Family Diner
Pancakes from Knotts Family Diner
– Photo courtesy of Betty W., via YelpYelp
6699 Center Rd., Valley City, 330-483-2008
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Really good breakfast!!! It’s a little place, and nothing fancy, but the food is good. I got a special called Knott’s 2×4 – 2 eggs, 2 slices of bacon, 2 sausage (links or patties) and 2 pancakes. I ordered the cinnamon roll pancakes. They were AMAZING!!! So good, that my husband ordered some for himself! The bacon was perfectly good and amazing as well!!…” – Leslie A.
PORTAGE
No. 1
Over Easy At The Depot
Trio of pancakes from Over Easy At The Depot
– Photo courtesy of Sheena W., via YelpYelp
152 Franklin Ave., Kent, 330-678-8800
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Absolutely hands down, the best breakfast/brunch spot in Kent, if not Portage County! The creative choices for breakfast, which include Elk Hash, Breakfast Tacos, Chicken and Waffles, weekly specials and more are truly fantastic. Let’s not forget their amazing pancakes. Try the pancake flight! S’more, blueberry with fluff and apple are just a few of the amazing choices. Be prepared to get this with another person. The pancakes are HUGE! This is my go-to place for now on!” – Peter C.
SUMMIT
No. 1
Garretts Mill Diner
Blueberry pancakes from Garretts Mill Diner
– Photo courtesy of Missy G., via YelpYelp
4226 Hudson Dr., Stow, 330-926-1344
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Service was extremely friendly and fast. Food was amazing! When they say the best pancakes they aren’t lying! These were by far the lightest and best-tasting pancakes I have ever had and I don’t take my food reviews lightly. If your’e looking for a wonderful local, family diner then Garrett’s Mill is your gem of a find! You won’t be sorry and no doubt you will be back…” – Ben C.
No. 2
Fresh Start Diner
A Giant Roll-Up pancake stuffed with ice cream from Fresh Start Diner
– Photo courtesy of Beverly W., via YelpYelp
9810 Ravenna Rd., Twinsburg, 330-425-2888
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “It makes me happy. The food is the bomb! The staff is very friendly and the service is quick and quality. The giant roll-up pancake is to die for! I highly recommend it!” – Jared D.
No. 3
The Blue Door Cafe & Bakery
Peach Pancakes from The Blue Door Cafe & Bakery
– Photo courtesy of Matt N., via Yelp
2785 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland, 216-371-1811
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Never have we EVER had a bad meal at Blue Door! Food is truly amazing, best lattes, staff and service. Would recommend it to anyone! Just recently had the apple pancakes and we are dying to go back before they are off the menu! Absolutely amazing!! It is not something I would normally get but the waiter sold it!!! He was a true salesman and it did not disappoint!!! SO GOOD!” – Nicole D.
No. 4
Wally Waffle
Pancake from Wally Waffle
– Photo courtesy of Chad D., via YelpYelp
100 North Ave., Tallmadge, 330-633-7400
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “My favorite go-to breakfast spot! The menu is simple and not overwhelming but also has a nice assortment of breakfast sweets, including my personal favorite, chocolate chip pancakes. Although recently I’m super into the chicken and waffles. The food never disappoints…” – Jessica F.
No. 5
Flury’s Cafe
Pecan pancakes from Flury’s Cafe
– Photo courtesy of Maddie T., via YelpYelp
2202 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-1315
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Get the pancakes!! It’s small but you can walk around downtown and they will text when your table is ready. Wish they were open more hours and on Sundays.” – Cristin H.
No. 6
The Enchanted Cafe
The Enchanted Cafe
– Photo courtesy of Lisa C., via YelpYelp
559 Norton Ave., Barberton, 330-753-5837
Yelp rating: 5 stars
Sample review: “I always order crispy bacon and it still comes out floppy. This place made crispy bacon that really was crispy! The mystic potatoes were amazing, and, my granddaughter said the pancakes were amazing too. Although it was our first visit, they treated us like regulars! Great service and food!” – Crystal L.
No. 7
A Walk in the Park Café
A Walk in the Park Café
– Photo courtesy of Kathy M., via YelpYelp
1491 Aster Ave., Akron, 330-536-9255
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “What a gem! … You go inside and step into a magical fairyland, unlike any other diner-ish place I’ve ever been to, that’s for sure! …They had a good selection of breakfast items and substitutions/a notes section on everything, which was so nice. I chose a bread/meat/egg meal but was able to substitute it for a blueberry pancake, hashbrowns, and grits. All of which were tasty! The pancake was flavorful and the hash browns were super crispy. The service was very friendly as well and the prices were super reasonable. I will be back! :)” – Katie H.
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