Breakfast. It’s the most important meal of the day. And judging by Columbia’s breakfast scene, there are a variety of delicious options. Columbia delivers on breakfast goodness. Whether you’re craving bacon and eggs in a classic diner booth or a pistachio-filled pastry that would make any French pastry chef do a double-take, here’s your flavor guide to starting the day right in COMO.
Delysium
A Sweet Awakening
Suppose your morning starts with a craving for something flaky, rich, and slightly unexpected. If so, head to Delysium. Since opening in August 2024, this boutique bakery has brought international flair to Columbia’s pastry scene, blending Colombian heritage with French technique.
“We wanted to bring unique, high-quality pastries to the heart of Missouri,” says owner and baker Marcela Isaza. Among the showstoppers is the Pistachio New York Roll, a round croissant filled with pistachio pastry cream and topped with pistachio ganache. It’s buttery, nutty, and almost too beautiful to eat.
Equally mouthwatering is the Tres Leches Cinnamon Roll, which swaps traditional dough for croissant dough and adds a layer of tres leches cream.
“We love seeing Missourians enjoy Pandebono, too,” Isaza adds, referring to the traditional Colombian cheese bread now quickly becoming a fan favorite.
A Delysium regular put it best: “This is by far my favorite place in Columbia.”
SAGE
Where Breakfast Becomes an Experience
Opened in February 2024, Sage has quickly become the darling of Columbia’s culinary scene. Sage was created by owner and culinary director Kaitlyn Schlacks.
“My vision has always been to create an experience, something thoughtful, beautiful, and grounded in detail,” Schlacks explains. That detail shows up in every corner of the café, from the minimalist, sophisticated interiors to the Egg & Brisket Bowl, a locally sourced masterpiece that layers tender brisket with crispy potatoes, soft scrambled eggs, and sautéed vegetables.
“Each component is simple but thoughtfully prepared,” she says. “The result is a dish that’s rich, balanced, and deeply satisfying.”
But let’s not forget the pastries. Inspired by classic French technique and crafted with real French butter, Sage’s in-house pastries often sell out before lunch.
“Watching our pastry program evolve has been one of the most rewarding parts of Sage,” Schlacks adds. “It’s beautiful, seasonally inspired work.”
Beet Box
Whimsy Meets Flavor
Tucked into Columbia’s eclectic Arcade District, Beet Box brings a modern, Middle Eastern-inspired twist to the breakfast scene.
“We wanted to offer casual, thoughtful food that felt unique,” says co-founder Amanda Elliott. Mission accomplished.
Among its top sellers is the Black Garlic Biscuit, a salty-sweet-spicy umami combination that reinvents the breakfast sandwich, which includes a fried egg and sausage. The playful pastry offerings, especially the homemade pop tarts, have become legendary.
“They’re rooted in childlike whimsy,” Elliott explains. If you’re a ‘90s kid, you can’t beat a homemade flaky pop tart. With rotating flavors like Strawberry Peach and Cherry Rhubarb, these nostalgic treats sell out fast.
Don’t miss the Tahini Caramel Latte, a current seasonal drink that somehow feels both comforting and completely original. And if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the Donut of the Month, a rotating flavor brainstormed by their baker and kitchen manager over a shared love of creativity.
The Classic Diners
Columbia knows how to do breakfast the old-school way. If you’re in the mood for a warm mug of coffee and a side of small talk, there’s no better place to begin than at Broadway Diner. Nestled downtown, this retro gem offers greasy spoon charm and unforgettable menu staples. Longtime regular Jothi, known to friends as Joe, swears by Matt’s Dilemma, a towering plate of hash browns, eggs, and cheese that he and his 17-year-old kiddo both devour.
Nearby, Ernie’s Café & Steak House, a local institution since 1934, continues to deliver. Known for its hearty omelets and fluffy pancakes, Ernie’s is the type of place where art and neon colors create a cozy, vintage atmosphere. Meanwhile, out west on the edge of town, Perche Creek Yacht Club Café puts a whimsical spin on the diner aesthetic. With a nautical theme and hearty breakfast plates, it’s a favorite for both locals and travelers needing a hearty meal.
Columbia’s Crowd Favorites
Ask around, and you’ll hear familiar names echoing through Columbia’s neighborhoods. For Sara Harrison, breakfast begins and ends with the lemon honey cream cheese bagel from Goldie’s Bagels. “It’s my top recommendation. I fell in love with it,” she says without hesitation.
Cafe Berlin also garners passionate fanfare. Melodi Brant recommends the Pulled Pork Hash, a savory, stick-to-your-ribs kind of plate, while Kale Monk prefers the Anonymous Tacos, which balance spice, crunch, and a sense of breakfast adventure.
Rocheport General Store, just a scenic drive from downtown, offers a weekend breakfast experience that locals rave about. Ashley Minor calls it a “hidden gem” that’s worth the detour.
On the north side of town, Big Mama’s Café continues to make waves with Southern-style breakfasts and soul food flavors.
And finally, there’s The Old Neighborhood Café, where Adonica Coleman swears by the make-your-own scramble. “You pick your ingredients, and they nail it every time. It’s delicious.”
Don’t Forget the Sweets
Your breakfast journey isn’t complete without a stop for something sugary. Whether it’s to-go or your main dish (no judgment here), Columbia’s sweet side is just as strong.
Eat. Crepe. Love. at Acola Coffee offers thin, buttery crepes — ideal for a light, elegant breakfast, or mid-morning treat. Try the Monkey Love, dusted with powdered sugar and layered with Nutella and strawberries.
At Sage, try a flaky chocolate croissant or an almond tea cake. (You can thank us later.)
Final Bite
Columbia’s breakfast scene is classic, flavorful, and slightly unexpected. Whether you’re grabbing a bagel on your way to work, sharing pancakes in a vinyl booth, or slowly savoring a pastry with perfectly steamed coffee, there’s something for everyone.
Have a favorite local breakfast spot or a must-order dish? Let us know and join the conversation! #COMOBreakfastClub.
