Madrez Cafè

Madrez Cafè is a small, easy-to-miss breakfast-and-lunch spot tucked into a Flagstaff shopping plaza on East Route 66 — the kind of place regulars know about and everyone else stumbles into by accident. With a 4.6 rating across nearly 900 Google reviews, it's earned a loyal following for scratch-made plates and a laid-back, order-at-the-counter setup where you can watch your food cooked at the bar or grab a table.

What to order

Chilaquiles are the clear favorite here — the chorizo version comes with a real kick, and the carnitas take gets consistent praise for its crispy sautéed chips and well-balanced heat. Waffles are another standout, whether topped with fresh fruit and yogurt or made savory with bacon and fried eggs. Reviewers also call out the pickled onions and the unique artwork on the walls, which gives the small space a bit of local character.

Good to know

• Hours: 7:00 AM–3:00 PM Sunday through Wednesday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM Thursday through Saturday
• Location: 1420 E Route 66 #105, in a Flagstaff shopping plaza
• Service: order at the counter, first-come-first-served seating

It's not a polished sit-down experience — service can run quiet and a few visitors have found portions on the smaller side — but for a solid breakfast on the way through Flagstaff, about 80 miles south of the South Rim, it's worth the stop.