You’re in Gurnee, surrounded by the buzz of Six Flags, the splash of Great Wolf Lodge, and the endless shopping at Gurnee Mills. But as you scan the dining options, something feels off. Everything looks like a chain. Where do the real locals go for breakfast?
Just a few minutes from all the action, tucked away on Riverside Drive, you’ll find Riverside Café. This is the kind of place where the staff knows regulars by name, the coffee is brewed with care, and the food is made fresh, not reheated. This is where Gurnee eats when they want a meal that feels like home.
Why Locals Love It (And Why You Will Too)
It’s the Anti-Chain Experience
No frozen pancakes or pre-scrambled eggs here. Riverside Café does breakfast the right way. Fresh, from-scratch, and full of flavor. Their menu is packed with hearty dishes like the Steak & Egg Skillet with tender sirloin and crispy potatoes, and Nutella Cheesecake French Toast, a sweet, indulgent must-try.
Colectivo Coffee, A Caffeinated Game-Changer
While other spots serve mass-produced coffee, Riverside Café partners with Milwaukee’s Colectivo Coffee for small-batch, direct-trade brews. Their lavender latte is a local obsession, but the classic drip is just as satisfying.
A Vibe That Feels Like Home
Walk in and you’ll see families lingering over pancakes, friends catching up over omelets, and solo diners sipping coffee at the counter. The owners greet regulars like old friends, and the space, recently expanded but still cozy, feels like a neighborhood secret.
What a great place for Breakfast in the area. The atmosphere is awesome as the service and the most important part is the excellent food they serve. For the Coffee lovers this is the place, they serve special coffee and offers a wide variety of coffee drinks. Definitely coming back again.
What to Order (Local-Approved Picks)
What to Order (Local-Approved Picks)
- For a Hearty Start: Carnitas Skillet (tender pork, eggs, and avocado)
- For Something Sweet: Banana Foster French Toast (caramelized bananas and pecans)
- For Coffee Lovers: Salted Caramel Latte (made with Colectivo espresso)
- For the Kids: Chocolate Chip Pancakes (always a hit)
Perfect for Tourists, Beloved by Locals
Whether you’re fueling up before a day at Six Flags, taking a break from Gurnee Mills, or just craving a great meal away from the crowds, Riverside Café is the spot. It’s close enough to the action to be convenient, but far enough from the tourist traps to feel like a real discovery.
- For a Hearty Start: Carnitas Skillet (tender pork, eggs, and avocado)
Make It Your Go-To
📍 401 N. Riverside Dr, Gurnee
Open daily at 7 AM
