The Toasted Owl Cafe

The owl decor isn't subtle and neither is the crowd on a Saturday morning, but The Toasted Owl Cafe has earned its following in Flagstaff with a breakfast-and-lunch menu of updated American dishes and a genuinely fun, eclectic room. With a 4.4 rating from over 3,300 reviews, it's one of the more talked-about breakfast spots in town.

What to expect

Expect a wait on weekends — reviewers consistently mention lines out the door, especially for the popular items, and reservations are recommended if you don't want to stand in the cold. Once seated, service gets high marks for being attentive and friendly, and the eclectic owl-themed light fixtures and decor give the place a distinct, quirky personality rather than generic diner styling. There's a full bar if you want a bloody mary with your eggs, and a large patio for warmer days (though it's sometimes reserved for guests with pets, so ask when you check in).

Good to know

• Hours: 7 AM–2 PM Monday–Thursday, 7 AM–3 PM Friday–Sunday
• Price range: $$
• Parking: limited free parking nearby — expect to pay for a lot or curbside spot downtown

It's a solid stop for breakfast or lunch if you're passing through Flagstaff on the way to or from the South Rim, about 80 miles north — just build in time for the wait.