Brunch Near Upper Arlington on a Slow Sunday Morning
Brunch Near Upper Arlington on a Slow Sunday Morning
Where to eat a leisurely late breakfast in and around Upper Arlington, from classic diners on Lane Avenue to Columbus favorites a short drive away.
Classic Comfort on Lane Avenue
Start your Sunday on Lane Avenue, the main artery running through Upper Arlington. The Original Pancake House, near the intersection with Northwest Boulevard, opens at 7 a.m. and draws a steady crowd by 9. Expect fluffy pancakes, thick-cut bacon, and endless coffee refills in a bright, family-friendly room. Prices are moderate—most plates fall between $10 and $15—and the portions are generous. There is a small parking lot, but street parking on side streets like Coventry Road is usually easier. If you want a no-fuss, hearty breakfast that will keep you full through lunch, this is a solid choice.
Just a few blocks east, First Watch on Lane Avenue offers a more modern take on brunch. The menu leans toward fresh ingredients: avocado toast, quinoa bowls, and made-to-order omelets. It is open from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and by 10 a.m. on Sunday there is often a 15- to 20-minute wait. The dining room is airy and the service is efficient, making it a good option if you are dining with a mix of preferences—there are vegetarian and gluten-free choices. Prices are slightly higher than the pancake house, with most dishes in the $12–$16 range. I would book First Watch if you want a lighter, more contemporary meal.
Local Favorites Just Outside the Suburb
For a taste of Columbus's renowned brunch scene, head 10 minutes east to the Short North Arts District. Here, The Pearl offers a refined Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The menu features dishes like short rib hash and lemon ricotta pancakes, with prices in the $15–$22 range. The atmosphere is lively, so it is best for groups or couples who do not mind a bit of noise. Reservations are recommended, especially after 11 a.m. Parking in the Short North can be challenging; consider using a ride-share or parking in the nearby North Market garage. The Pearl is my pick for a special-occasion brunch.
If you prefer something more casual, Katalina's in Harrison West is a 15-minute drive from Upper Arlington. This tiny cafe is famous for its pancake balls—stuffed with Nutella, dulce de leche, or pumpkin—and creative sandwiches. There is often a line out the door by 9:30 a.m., but it moves quickly. Seating is limited indoors, with a few picnic tables outside. Prices are reasonable, with most items under $12. Note that Katalina's is closed on Sundays, so plan this for a Saturday instead. For Sunday, consider Third & Hollywood in Grandview, which serves brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Dishes range from $14 to $20, and the cozy dining room fills up fast.
Ethnic and Alternative Brunch Options
If you are craving something beyond eggs and pancakes, try the Sunday dim sum at Sunflower Chinese Restaurant on Bethel Road, about a 12-minute drive northwest of Upper Arlington. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., carts circle the dining room offering steamed buns, dumplings, and other small plates. It is a fun, communal experience for families or groups. Most plates are $3–$6, so you can sample widely without spending much. The restaurant is large, but it still gets busy after 11 a.m.; arrive early to avoid the rush. This is a great choice if you want a brunch that feels like an event.
For a plant-based brunch, head to Northstar Cafe in Clintonville, a 20-minute drive north. Their Sunday brunch menu includes vegan and vegetarian options like the sweet potato hash and the popular Northstar burger. The bright, airy space and focus on organic ingredients make it a favorite among health-conscious diners. Expect to pay around $12–$16 per dish. There is typically a wait of 10–15 minutes by 10 a.m., but the line moves steadily. If you are staying in Upper Arlington and want a relaxed, nutritious start to the day, Northstar is worth the short drive. Alternatively, The Ohio Deli & Restaurant on Kenny Road offers a classic diner experience with generous omelets and bottomless coffee for under $10.
Making a Morning of It
After brunch, take a stroll through Upper Arlington's neighborhoods. The Scioto Country Club area and the streets around Lane Avenue are pleasant for a walk, with tree-lined sidewalks and well-kept gardens. If the weather is nice, head to the Griggs Reservoir Park on the Scioto River, about a 5-minute drive from Lane Avenue. The park has walking trails and picnic areas, perfect for burning off those pancakes. For a cultural stop, the Upper Arlington Public Library on Tremont Road is open on Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m., offering a quiet space to read or browse.
When planning your Sunday brunch, keep in mind that most restaurants in Upper Arlington are busiest between 10 a.m. and noon. Arriving before 9:30 a.m. or after 1 p.m. can mean shorter waits. Many places do not take reservations for brunch, so it is best to have a backup option. If you are staying at a hotel in Upper Arlington, ask the front desk for their current recommendations—they often know which spots have the shortest lines. And remember, Sunday brunch in Columbus is a popular ritual, so a little planning goes a long way.
Before you book
What people ask before booking Upper Arlington.
Most open at 7 a.m. (like The Original Pancake House) or 8 a.m. (like First Watch). Places in Columbus, such as The Pearl, typically start brunch at 10 a.m. It's best to check individual websites for exact hours.
Many casual spots don't take reservations, but popular places like The Pearl in the Short North recommend them. For others, arrive early or be prepared for a wait, especially between 10 a.m. and noon.
Expect to pay $10–$15 per person at diners like The Original Pancake House, and $12–$20 at more modern cafes like First Watch or Third & Hollywood. Dim sum at Sunflower is around $3–$6 per plate.
Yes, First Watch offers vegetarian and gluten-free choices, and Northstar Cafe in Clintonville has a dedicated plant-based menu. Katalina's also has vegetarian-friendly dishes, but note it's closed on Sundays.
The Short North is about a 10-minute drive east. Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. Consider using a ride-share or parking in the North Market garage for easier access.
Take a walk through the neighborhood streets, visit Griggs Reservoir Park for outdoor activities, or stop by the Upper Arlington Public Library (open Sundays 1–5 p.m.). The Scioto Country Club area is also pleasant for a stroll.
Most brunch spots close by 2 or 3 p.m. For later options, consider The Pearl, which serves until 3 p.m., or Third & Hollywood, open until 2 p.m. Regular lunch menus may be available after that.
The Original Pancake House is very family-friendly with a casual atmosphere and kid-friendly menu. Sunflower's dim sum is also fun for kids, offering small plates to share. Both have ample seating and are accustomed to groups.
