Sweet Maple Cafe

This neighborhood institution has been around since 1999, and seems perpetually swamped at breakfast and lunch—for good reason. Outfitted with wooden chairs and checkered vinyl tablecloths, Sweet Maple Cafe feels like an old-timey diner so thick with nostalgia, you could peel it off the walls like paint. But the brunch staples, like egg scrambles and home fries with perfectly crisped edges or creamy cheddar grits and sweet biscuits, are as comforting and homey as the service and warm space. Whatever you order, make sure it involves table pancakes (you can get a half stack if you’re flying solo). They’re fluffy and tender, with the barest hint of a crust that holds up under any topping, even the ultra-sweet and thick cinnamon roll glaze. Just know that Sweet Maple Cafe is only open until 1:30pm and it can get packed on weekends, so head to University Village early and try and grab a seat on their large covered patio.