If you’re heading out for a day of brewery and winery visits in the Traverse City area, you need to start with something that satisfies your stomach. Luckily, there are plenty of great breakfast options in the area to help you fill up.

From omelets to Benedicts, pastries to crepes, here are six of our favorite breakfast spots in Traverse City.

The Towne Plaza

The Towne Plaza won our hearts on our first visit when we ordered the Tenderloin Benedict and Chicken Benedict. The tenderloin from the Tenderloin Benedict was cooked to perfection and melted in our mouths. The chicken rested atop a crispy potato cake like a monument to hens of yesteryear. Both were topped with perfectly poached eggs and smothered in a smoked fontina cream.

We can’t wait to try the rest of their breakfast menu.

Blue Heron 2

Following the original Blue Heron in Cadillac, Blue Heron 2 is a tiny breakfast and lunch spot that bakes their own bread. The menu is small and varies seasonally. Our Breakfast Quesadilla, loaded with chorizo, was a unique way to start the day. Be sure to order a slice of grilled sourdough with your breakfast and don’t forget the jam!

Patisserie Amie

Quaint and charming, Patisserie Amie is a must-try for breakfast if you’re visiting Traverse City. If you’re dining on the weekend, expect a wait. It will be worth it.

A highlight of our last visit was a Nutella & Banana Crepe. In addition to killer crepes, you’ll find omelets, waffles, sandwiches and much more. Bon appetite!

The Omelette Shoppe

Captain Obvious alert: The Omelette Shoppe is the quintessential Traverse City breakfast spot. The original location on Cass Street has been serving egg lovers since 1975.

When it comes time to order, the name of the restaurant says it all. However, we will tell you that their cinnamon swirl bread is a must.

Ham Bonz

Ham Bonz is Traverse City’s best kept secret. Their food is so good, we could include them on Traverse City breakfast and lunch lists without thinking twice.

For breakfast, try their Biscuits & Gravy (among the best we’ve ever had) or go big with their Hog Wild specialty, consisting of diced ham, bacon, and sausage over potatoes, topped with cheese, gravy and eggs.

Plan a trip back for lunch to tackle their famous Pit Ham Sandwich, made with ham that’s smoked on-site by mastermind Bo Uzzle.

The Cottage

If you’re looking for a nice breakfast spot outside of downtown Traverse City, we recommend The Cottage on Munson Ave. Formerly known as the Cottage Café in its previous home a few blocks west, The Cottage serves up some tasty breakfast options in a no-frills atmosphere.