Everyone loves brunch. Not only does it offer fluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, and endless coffee refills, but it’s also a socially acceptable excuse for day drinking!
That’s why for a last-minute get-together with college pals, we decided on brunch in Markham.
Sadly, while the catch-up was a blast, the brunch spot left much to be desired—bland food, too-strong cocktails, and painfully slow service.
Determined to find better options, we turned to our local friends and coworkers—all certified brunch aficionados—for solid recos. Armed with insider tips, we went on a life-and-death mission to uncover the top brunch spots in Markham.
Now, you and your squad can kiss bland brunches goodbye with our curated list of the city’s best morning eats!
Alchemy Coffee
Website: alchemyco.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/alchemy.ca
Address: 4361 Hwy 7 Unit 1, Unionville
Hours: Mon – Sun: 8 AM – 4 PM
Contact: (905) 604-6622
Alchemy Coffee is a labor of love by brothers Edward and Ken, who traded their corporate gigs for the pursuit of coffee and culinary greatness. Since 2016, it has become a popular spot for brunch aficionados, offering brunch bites seven days a week.
Let’s talk about the classics—their waffles and chicken are absolute must-tries. Expect crispy, lightly breaded waffles paired with flavorful, juicy dark meat chicken—a match made in brunch heaven.
For those seeking healthier options, opt for their smoked salmon salad, spinach pasta, and kale salad.
Not to be outdone, Alchemy’s shrimp benny with shrimp cake, duck, and waffles with duck confit offer unique twists on beloved favorites.
And of course, brunch is not brunch without coffee. From classic flat whites, cappuccinos, and affogatos to inventive hojicha and matcha lattes, you’re in for a caffeine-induced treat!
Pro Tip:
A word to the wise: Alchemy’s cozy confines fill up fast, so arrive early to snag a seat and savor every scrumptious brunch bite. Lucky for those who live near Richmond, they have another outpost there!
NextDoor Restaurant
Website: nextdoorrestaurant.com
Instagram: instagram.com/nextdoorrestaurant
Address: 139 Main St Unionville
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Saturday: 8 AM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM – 10 PM
Contact: (905) 604-6983
NextDoor Restaurant offers a modern twist on Canadian cuisine, sourcing the freshest ingredients from our vast Canadian landscape. The intimate yet modern interior sets the stage for romantic breakfast dates and lively family gatherings alike.
Brunch enthusiasts, rejoice! NextDoor serves up innovative dishes like duck confit pancakes and okonomiyaki cheeseburgers.
Planning to splurge? Try their epic brunch towers featuring mouthwatering delights like Malaysian scrambled eggs and double-smoked bacon.
And we just love their Insta-worthy white chocolate French toast—this sweet-on-sweet treat offers deep-fried toast stuffed with white chocolate and topped with granola, strawberries, cotton candy, and a white popsicle.
Wash it all down with craft beers and modern classic cocktails, or explore their extensive wine program. We suggest trying their gin fizz—a lemony adult egg cream, complete with cream, lemon, lime, and a hint of vanilla.
If it’s sunny outside, bask in the sunshine on their pretty, spacious patio.
Pro Tip:
For those planning an event, NextDoor now offers everything from individually bagged meals to a fully immersive culinary experience with its mobile food trailer. Whatever your occasion or budget, they’ll curate the perfect catering experience for you!
Starving Artist Waffles & Espresso
Website: starvingartist.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/starving4waffles
Address: 5762 Hwy 7 Unit 3
Hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 4 PM
Sat – Sun: 9 AM – 6 PM
Contact: (905) 554-6388
Starving Artist Waffles & Espresso is the ultimate spot for all-day brunch and waffle lovers, dishing out childhood favorites and inventive creations. We also love their beautifully lit space adorned with local art.
From their classic waffles to the mouthwatering waffle bacon, each dish promises a burst of flavor and creativity. Try their signature waffles, topped with fruit toppings like blueberries, strawberries, and bananas.
Another must-try is their waffle benny—two mini waffles topped with perfectly poached eggs, caramelized bacon, and hollandaise sauce, all garnished with fresh chives.
Other options include smoked salmon with mixed greens, fruit salad, potato salad, and maple beans.
And for those craving a decadent dessert, their caramel pecan and waffle s’more waffles are sure to hit the spot.
To kick off your day on the right note, pair your meal with a comforting hot chocolate, refreshing smoothie, or crisp cold beer.
Pro Tip:
Looking to indulge in a hearty waffle meal? Don’t miss Starving Artist’s popular ‘Starving 4 Waffles’ option, featuring four mini waffles loaded with your choice of delectable toppings.
Cafe N’ One
Website: cafenone.com
Instagram: instagram.com/cafenone_
Address: 8366 Woodbine Ave
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 8 PM
Contact: (905) 604-8511
Cafe N’ One isn’t your average eatery—it’s a trifecta of café, restaurant, and dessert haven. Since 2019, this Japanese fusion gem has been wowing diners with its unique brunch concept.
They have an Instagram-worthy space that effortlessly blends hip style with tropical and modern elements. With smooth wooden accents and floor-to-ceiling windows, it’s the perfect backdrop for catching up with friends over a leisurely meal.
Their menu is also a fusion lover’s dream, featuring Japanese-inspired pasta, specialty croissant sandwiches, and more.
Don’t miss their Karaage Croffle—a mouthwatering combo of buttery croffles and crispy Japanese fried chicken, drizzled with maple syrup and spicy mayo.
For your caffeine fix, go for their luscious Black Sesame Latte—it has a smooth, milky texture and subtle nutty flavor.
And for something a bit more adventurous, dive into their Japanese-inspired cocktails, like their gorgeous-looking Fujiyama Blue. It’s a concoction that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Pro Tip:
Before you go, cap off your brunch meal with their creme brulee souffle—a heavenly stack of fluffy pancakes topped with rich vanilla custard and a crunchy caramel crust. It’s the ultimate sweet ending to a fantastic meal at Cafe N’ One!
Smash Kitchen and Bar
Website: smashkitchen.com
Instagram: instagram.com/smashkitchen
Address: 4261 Hwy 7, Unionville
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 10 M – 10 PM
Contact: (905) 940-2000
Smash Kitchen and Bar is brunch heaven, serving up inventive twists on classic comfort dishes every weekend. From generous breakfast plates to hearty burgers and massive toasts, this spot ensures you’ll leave feeling fully satisfied.
Their seafood cakes are a must-try—a dense and indulgent fare packed with blue crab and tiger shrimp, drizzled with rich horseradish aioli. Their BBQ Brisket Hash will also satisfy those savory cravings.
And for a sweet finish, dive into their whimsical, deconstructed Carrot Cake served with cashew brittle and crème anglaise—a dessert dream come true!
Don’t forget to sip on one of their signature drinks like their refreshing strawberry and mint mojito to wash down your brunch feast.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during the warmer months, their enclosed patio is the perfect spot to soak up the sun while indulging in a hearty brunch.
Pro Tip:
If you’re ordering for a group, you can’t go wrong with Smash Kitchen’s huge Southern Platter. It features yummy buttermilk fried chicken, BBQ pork back ribs, BBQ beef croquettes, L.A. mac and cheese, and chicken gravy!
Platform Espresso Bar
Website: facebook.com/platform.espresso.bar
Instagram: instagram.com/platform.espresso
Address: 4450 Hwy 7, Unionville
Hours: Mon, Wed – Sun: 9 AM – 4 PM
Contact: (905) 604-9110
Platform Espresso Bar is the perfect spot for a cozy brunch getaway, offering a mix of caffeine and comfort food. With its charming blue and white train station mural, this cafe is a breath of fresh air from the daily grind.
Start your day off right with one of their robust espressos, guaranteed to give you the boost you need to tackle whatever comes your way.
And while you’re there, don’t miss out on their mouthwatering brunch options. Have your pick from classic avocado toast with scrambled eggs to their specialty Platform Garden, packed with mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, bocconcini, and more.
Asian-inspired brunch options are also available such as their flame-seared smoked salmon, creamy avocado, and wasabi mayo on buttered toast.
As an espresso bar, the real star of the show is their drinks, of course! Sip on local and international roasts, or indulge in one of their specialty drinks like the Hojicha Latte or Blue Rose.
Pro Tip:
Keep an eye out for Platform Espresso Bar’s seasonal offerings, like the peppermint mocha or torched ube, for a deliciously festive twist on your brunch experience!
Symposium Cafe Restaurant
Website: symposiumcafe.com/locations/markham-restaurants
Instagram: instagram.com/symposium.cafe
Address: 9990 Kennedy Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 8 AM – 11 PM
Contact: (905) 927-9779
Symposium Cafe Restaurant dates back to 1996, and it’s still one of the best brunch spots around. The ambiance is unique and inviting, with trademark stone art walls and Renaissance-inspired frescoes setting the stage for any occasion.
Their menu is as diverse as it gets, with options ranging from breakfast classics to hearty burgers, steaks, pasta, and seafood dishes.
For those nursing a hangover, their delectable Symposium Burger hits the spot, served on a toasted Kaiser roll with all the fixings.
And Symposium knows how to satisfy a sweet tooth. Their East Meets West dessert is a must-try, with French vanilla ice cream, strawberries, chocolate ice cream, bananas, and chocolate syrup topped with whipped cream!
Don’t forget about their fully licensed bar service, offering everything from quality Canadian wines to fruity cocktails.
When patio season rolls around, their spacious outdoor dining area is the place to be for hanging out, with its colorful umbrellas and lush greenery.
Pro Tip:
For budget-friendly promos at Symposium, keep an eye out for special daily deals. Examples include Early Bird Breakfast Special or Happy Hour Wine and Beer Specials with Appetizer Deals, Martini & Mussels Nights, and Kids Eat Free Sundays!
Olde Village Bistro
Website: newoldevillagebistro.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/oldevillagebistro
Address: 4430 Hwy 7, Unionville
Hours:
- Monday: 6 AM – 3:30 PM
- Tue – Wed: 6 AM – 8 PM
- Fri – Sat: 6 AM – 9 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (905) 477-3805
Markham’s Olde Village Bistro is a cozy, no-frills brunch spot serving up affordable breakfast classics with a twist.
Their all-day breakfast includes fluffy omelets, hearty home fries with shallots, and crispy bacon that’s smoked to perfection. We recommend their chef specials like Mesquite-smoked top sirloin, hot roast beef, and mashed potatoes.
Vegetarians won’t be disappointed either, with a wide range of options from veggie-packed omelets to satisfying plant-based sandwiches.
And when it comes to portions, they certainly don’t skimp—be prepared for plates that are as generous as they are delicious.
While finding parking might be a bit of a challenge, the hunt is well worth it once you step inside.
And if you’re planning an event, their catering services offer everything like sandwiches, quiches, and pasta platters, ensuring that your guests leave happy and satisfied.
Pro Tip:
For those who love special deals, try Olde Village Bistro’s daily sandwich combo. It typically features mouthwatering options like the Monte Cristo or Tuna Melt on an English muffin, served with your choice of fries or soup and a refreshing drink.
Sisters & Co.
Website: sistersco.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/sistersandco_restaurant
Address: 7725 Birchmount Rd Unit 18
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 8:30 AM – 3 PM
- Sat – Sun: 8 AM – 3:30 PM
Contact: (365) 899-0361
Sisters & Co. was founded by three best friends with a shared love for Markham and good food. This spot seamlessly blends classic brunch dishes with lovely Asian-inspired creations.
Walking into Sisters & Co feels like stepping into a stylish oasis, with its chic white and emerald green decor accented by soft pink and grey tones.
But the real deal happens on your plate.
For a brunch with a Korean twist, try the Bulgogi Beef Benedict—perfectly poached eggs, creamy hollandaise, and tender bulgogi beef on a toasted English muffin.
Or opt for the Japanese-inspired Chicken Katsu Cub Sandwich, featuring crispy panko-fried chicken stacked with bacon, lettuce, and garlic aioli on toasted milk bread.
And if you’re torn between savory and sweet, go for their fluffy waffles topped with maple syrup, gravy, and perfectly seasoned fried chicken.
Since you only live once, don’t forget to gulp it all down with their refreshing Pineapple Melon Ball cocktail.
Pro Tip:
Just a heads up—weekends at Sisters & Co. can get very, very busy since it’s walk-in only. We recommend arriving early to avoid a long wait.
Cora Breakfast and Lunch
Website: chezcora.com/en/breakfast-lunch-restaurants/cora-unionville-markham/
Instagram: instagram.com/corarestaurants
Address: 3760 Hwy 7
Hours:
- Mon – Sat: 6 AM – 3 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM – 3 PM
Contact: (905) 489-2446
Cora Breakfast and Lunch is a breakfast gastronomy adventure that’s been serving up morning magic for over half a century! Started by the legendary Cora herself, this spot has blossomed into a breakfast empire, thanks to her passion for food.
Now, under the helm of her youngest son, Nicholas Tsouflidis, the Cora legacy lives on, delivering tasty, colorful dishes that are as nutritious as they are eye-catching.
Plus, the family-friendly atmosphere makes it a hit with locals, and it’s not hard to see why.
Their menu is so extensive, from classic bacon and eggs to their ‘Ben and Dictine’ selections.
We also love their ‘Crêpomelettes’, with their signature chorizo and goat cheese crêpomelette as our fave. It’s a mouthwatering crêpe stuffed with chorizo meat, earthy goat cheese, and more, topped with hollandaise sauce.
For those bringing their young ones, they’ve got special treats on hand, like cute painting kits to keep them entertained.
Pro Tip:
Just a friendly warning—weekends at Cora Breakfast and Lunch can get busy so better arrive early to snag a brunch spot!
Woodstone Eatery
Website: woodstoneeatery.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/woodstoneeatery
Address: 10 Apple Creek Blvd
Hours: Mon – Sun: 8:30 AM – 9 PM
Contact: (905) 474-1228
Woodstone Eatery is like a culinary passport to Asia, offering modern twists on classic Hong Kong brunch dishes. Tucked away in a cute bistro setting, this gem stands out with its unique Macanese specialties and Hong Kong-style fast food fare.
We like its bright and contemporary space, complete with mini plexiglass partitions that add a modern touch.
As for the menu, their Hainan Chicken on Rice is a definite winner. Tender chicken served on lightly seasoned rice with a side of sweet chili sauce and green onion ginger—talk about a thumbs-up dish!
Another crowd-pleaser is the Cheesy BBQ Pork Rice with Fried Egg. The generous portion size and flavorful tomato-like sauce covering the rice and meat make for a satisfying meal.
Service is quick and straightforward, with minimal wait times, and the cozy seating arrangement adds to the bustling atmosphere.
They also offer wheelchair-accessible facilities and a kid-friendly environment, which frankly ticks all the boxes for a memorable brunch outing.
Pro Tip:
Good news, fellow brunch addicts—you can upgrade your meal at Woodstone Eatery with a cold drink for just a dollar ninety-five!
A Corner Cafe
Yelp: yelp.ca/biz/a-corner-cafe-markham
Instagram: instagram.com/acornercafe
Address: 4981 Hwy 7 UNIT 11, Unionville
Hours: Mon – Sun: 9 AM – 8 PM
Contact: (289) 800-0154
A Corner Cafe serves a fusion of classic and Asian-inspired brunch dishes that will leave you craving more. The venue has high ceilings, ample natural light from huge windows, and a sleek minimalist décor that we love.
Unlike other brunch joints, they offer board and card games, making it the perfect spot to enjoy some fun with friends while waiting for your food. Cards Against Humanity, anyone?
Food-wise, their Piggy Benny and Chicken ‘n Waffle dishes are absolute winners, guaranteed to fuel you up for the day ahead.
For a Japanese twist, don’t miss out on their Matcha and Red Bean Waffle, or indulge your sweet tooth with their heavenly Blueberry Pancakes.
Wash it all down with one of their Asian-inspired drinks, like the Taro Milk Freeze or Pandan Kumquat Lemonade.
Last but not least, for coffee lovers, sample their Vietnamese Latte or Matcha Affogato.
Pro Tip:
Don’t leave without trying A Corner Cafe’s refreshing avocado juice—it’s the perfect healthy complement to your meal and will leave you feeling revitalized.
Sunset Grill
Website: sunsetgrill.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/sunsetgrill
Address: 9730 Markham Rd
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 7 AM – 3:30 PM
- Sat – Sun: 7 AM – 4 PM
Contact: (905) 209-8866
Sunset Grill is like that cozy diner you stumble upon and instantly fall in love with. Since 1985, when founder Angelo Christou opened its doors, this place has been serving up fresh and tasty brunches to its loyal customers.
Every menu item is cooked fresh to order using healthy methods—think flat top grills and no deep frying allowed!
Whether you’re craving their famous bacon and eggs for breakfast or their mouthwatering Sunset Burgers for lunch, you can count on quality ingredients and delicious flavors.
One thing that caught our attention was their Pancake Tuesday deal—$1 for regular pancakes with no limit. In fact, some customers even brought their own containers to take pancakes home!
And for those with dietary restrictions, they’ve got you covered with vegan options like their tasty vegan hash.
As a bonus, who doesn’t love fresh orange juice and free refills on coffee? It’s the little touches like these that make Sunset Grill feel like home.
Pro Tip:
Don’t skimp on Sunset Grill’s pancake toppings. Whether you’re a fan of dark chocolate chips, fresh berries, or maple syrup, they’ve got all the fixings to take your brunch to the next level.