Tuck into a good breakfast before taking on any adventure on the Sunshine Coast. No matter where you're headed—whether it's in town or on the trail—you're never far from a delicious, hearty breakfast that will start you off on the right foot.
Here, breakfast joints are unpretentious, down-home, and darn-good. Far from the classic greasy spoon, most spots put their own unique spin on the first meal of the day—from casual restaurants that elevate farm-fresh ingredients to local bakeries that nod to time-honoured food traditions to 50s-style diners that go big on portions and decor.
So make room and dig into a meal worthy of your next coastal adventure. Read on for details on a few breakfast spots to get you started.
Magpie's Diner, Powell River
Tucked away in the Cranberry Lake area of Powell River, Magpie's Diner is your classic neighborhood diner. It's painted a cheerful yellow and features a long bar with counter stools where you can grab a quick bite to eat solo. Open wood shelves house all manner of quirky items, from books to vintage teapots, and tables with mismatched chairs are scattered throughout. Staying true to its diner roots, you can expect big portions in classic dishes like their big breakfast option, which comes with double the eggs, toast, and bacon. For a cultural twist, opt for the Ukrainian, a pierogi platter that comes piled high with eggs, bacon, sausage and toast, or the perennial Mexican favourite: huevos rancheros. The breakfast runs all day and while Magpie's fills up fast, rest assured the line goes quick.
The Mad Hen, Gibsons
The Mad Hen is a bright and fun breakfast spot that brings the classic 50s-style diner into the 21st century with modern takes on old favourites, like poutine breakfast bowls and avocado toast. References to the beloved CBC show The Beachcomber, which was filmed on the Sunshine Coast, are sprinkled into the menu as themed omelettes (Relic's Meathead, anyone?). But there are options for vegetarians, too. The Rise n' Shine omelette is chock full of vegetables while lighter options like the avocado toast and avocado bennie both come with a fresh side salad. The restaurant's neon lights, Andy Warhol-esque prints of famed celebs, and endless coffee will jolt your senses awake from the moment you sit down. You'll find The Mad Hen located on Gower Point Road, just mere steps from the heart of Gibsons Landing.
Julie's Airport Cafe, Powell River
Julie's Airport Cafe is located just outside of downtown Powell River near the airport, but that makes it no less deserving of a trek. This popular fave is a well-kept secret among locals for a reason: the cafe is decked out in cool plane memorabilia, including model planes that hang from the ceiling and aviation photos on the walls, and serves an all-day breakfast worthy of any hungry pilot. Bring your favourite wingman and fuel up for the day with whipped cream-loaded pancakes and crepes, stuffed omelettes, and loaded bennies. And if you happen to be flying, it makes a perfect pre- or post-flight airport stop.
Basted Baker, Sechelt
This casual-but-always bustling Sechelt spot takes Southern favourites—think biscuits and gravy—and turns them into seriously delicious breakfast bennies. Stuffed between two, flaky, pull-apart biscuits are perfectly poached eggs smothered in a hollandaise gravy. You can choose from vegetable options, like fried tomatoes, or more meat-centric choices, like pulled pork (a.k.a. "The Hogster"). Brunch bowls offer a lighter touch with no less flavour, while just-baked pastries and freshly roasted Beachcomber Coffee make a sweet morning pairing. In need of a post-meal stretch? Basted Baker is located along Cowrie Street in downtown Sechelt, minutes from beach walks and local trails. We suggest sauntering over to the Sechelt Marsh to look for eagles and herons quietly hanging out in the grasses. Or if you're looking for a hike worthy of your breakfast, head up to Tetrahedron Provincial Park and climb your way to Mt. Edwards cabin.
The Gumboot Restaurant, Roberts Creek
The Gumboot is a long-standing institution in Roberts Creek. There's the cafe, great for a quick pastry and coffee or a leisurely light brunch, and the restaurant, which serves up heartier options next door. Choose from a breakfast tostada, which comes with pinto beans, sharp cheddar, pineapple salsa, and chipotle mayo, or a healthy-sized platter of eggs, potatoes, and toast. Whatever you're craving first thing in the morning, the Gumboot's take on breakfast doesn't skimp on flavour. And if the weather is nice, we suggest taking your meal outside and eating on the restaurant's adjoining patio or garden courtyard. Post-brunch, wander through the heart of the "Creek," or down to the Roberts Creek mandala and breakwater.
Edie Rae's, Powell River
This casual, no-nonsense neighbourhood joint nails the classic breakfast menu. Edie Rae's serves up everything from omelettes and hearty farmer's-style plates to bennies and hashes. Sweet tooth? There's an entire section devoted to pancakes and french toast. Choose from a buttermilk pancake of your serving size (one or two?) or Texas-style toast dipped in a cinnamon batter and served with butter and maple syrup. You can find Edie Rae's located downstairs in the Old Courthouse Inn in the heart of Powell River.
Tip: ask about purchasing a jar of the restaurant's blackberry jam to take home with you. Powell River is home to the Blackberry Festival each year, which celebrates the bounty of this humble and delicious berry, found in backyards and bushes all across the Coast.
Dive into the Sunshine Coast's coffee scene, or find other places to eat on the Sunshine Coast.
