When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Elly's Brunch & Cafe (Phoenix)
Why Elly's Brunch & Cafe (Phoenix) is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Elly's Brunch & Cafe in Phoenix, Arizona, offers a vibrant and inviting atmosphere that makes it an excellent destination for friends to gather and enjoy quality brunch together. Open daily from early morning to mid-afternoon, the café caters to early risers and leisurely brunch-goers alike with hours from 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM. What sets Elly's apart is its dedication to reinventing the classic American pancake house experience with a focus on homemade quality brunch food prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu ranges from farm-fresh eggs and signature omelettes to unique specialties like skirt steak and eggs or chilaquiles verdes, catering to a variety of tastes including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Highlights include their generous portions, specialty coffee, fresh juices, and daily baked goods made from scratch. Whether you prefer traditional favorites like biscuits and gravy or want to try something a bit different like their berry mascarpone crepes, Elly's offers a diverse and satisfying menu. Their commitment to quality and cozy, friendly environment makes it a perfect spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a comforting meal. Ample seating, outdoor options, and accessibility features add to the convenience and appeal for group gatherings.
Here's what people think of Elly's Brunch & Cafe (Phoenix)
As of recent, Elly's Brunch & Cafe (Phoenix) holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1846 reviews.
User reviews for Elly's Brunch & Cafe in Phoenix reflect a generally positive experience with some criticism. Many reviewers praise the generous portion sizes, the variety and quality of the menu, and the overall atmosphere, highlighting the café's great coffee and fresh ingredients. Positive feedback frequently notes the friendly and family-owned vibe, the diverse options catering to various dietary needs, and the consistent preparation of tasty breakfast and brunch dishes, making it a repeat favorite for many. However, some negative reviews mention issues such as inconsistent food temperature and quality, with reports of dishes arriving lukewarm or not meeting expectations in presentation and taste. There have been complaints about less attentive or unfriendly service, as well as unexpected fees like a 3% credit card surcharge that some customers found off-putting. Despite these concerns, the café maintains a solid 4.3-star rating from over 1,800 reviews, indicating that most customers enjoy their visits and find it worth returning to. In conclusion, the reviews suggest that while there are occasional service and food quality hiccups, Elly's Brunch & Cafe is widely appreciated for its hearty portions, fresh ingredients, and welcoming ambiance that make it a popular brunch spot in Phoenix.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Miguel S.
Enjoyed our experience here for brunch. It is a big place. Lots of seating inside and some seating outside. Get there before 11 for a decent chance to grab a seat fast. But generally, they’re moving pretty quickly and there’s a lot of servers. We had a very nice server who was quite attentive and kind. The food was all very good here, and would definitely return. However, the drinks were a little lackluster and took extra time to arrive to the table. We really enjoyed the atmosphere in this place, it’s a great place to people watch and just soak in some good family brunch vibes
Janelle
Baked Apple Pancake that serve up to 6 people depending on size ordered… say less! Uptown has been growing on me lately and this week while shopping nearby we stopped in to give Elly’s a try. I knew I’d love it instantly with the cute vibe, happy waitress and the things I saw on their menu. I think I won the breakfast lottery. Of course they have your typical waffles, eggs and bacon, but when you see the baked pancakes, chilaquiles verde, and six types of egg Benedict you have to branch out; at least I do! Service was amazing. Water was brought to us and other drink orders taken while we looked over the menu. We all opted for water except for one green goodness juice. Quickly our table knew we were ordering a small baked apple pancake to share, biscuits and gravy, a breakfast sandwich and country fried steak. Most of our food came out quickly, but the pancake does take up to 40 minutes to come out depending on size etc. it does clearly state on the menu and we were told by the waitress as well. Time went by pretty quick while we chatted and enjoyed our other items. The gravy on the biscuits and country fried steak was so full of flavor and so good! Biscuits felt light and soft. The sandwich had so much egg and bacon. Delicious! When the pancake arrived we all about drooled! It smelled and looked amazing! It looked more like a pie with its fluffiness. Syrup and butter were brought out, but we didn’t even use it. The flavor was perfect and spoke for itself without all the junk added. That first bite was heaven. Make sure to let it cool a little because it was hot. Even with the two of us sharing the small we had to take so much of it home. We were so full. Prices were fair, location was clean and parking pretty easy to find. This is a must stop if in the area!
Twana Taylor
This was the was the most perfect place to celebrate my 45th BIRTHDAAAAAAAY♋️ I visited last year on my birthday (7~1~3) & it might become a tradition. The food *FABULOUS, the price is *WELL WORTH every cent & the staff/waitress (Christy) are *AWESOME + PATIENT. The portion sizes are massive (I'm not complaining at all)😋 I always have leftovers for dinner. It's a hidden jewel from the outside & once entering you'll be surprised how big it actually is‼️ YES, VEGETARIAN OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE💋
Ron Alfonso
Stumbled upon this place and definitely fell in love with it. Place was well spaced out, food tasted great and to my expectations. Will be back for more.
Danielle Flowers
The waitress was super friendly, kind and helpful. The food was delicious. There are so many choices on the menu. Most of the time I enjoy sitting outdoors. I like the sound of nature while eating.
How to reach Elly's Brunch & Cafe (Phoenix)
None
Website: None
Why Elly's Brunch & Cafe (Phoenix) may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Elly’s Brunch & Cafe in Phoenix with your friends? Elly’s offers the perfect blend of a warm, inviting atmosphere coupled with a menu that delights nearly every brunch lover. With its location in the lively Uptown Plaza, Phoenix, Elly’s serves as a local gem where friends and family can gather to enjoy more than just a meal—they share an experience. This family-owned cafe has been reinventing the classic American pancake house since 1997, and its high rating of 4.3 from over 1,800 reviews reflects a strong reputation for quality and consistency. The friendly and generally attentive service means you can relax and spend quality time without worrying about the details. Their extensive menu features a variety of well-prepared dishes, including signature omelets, specialty pancakes, and flavorful chilaquiles verdes, accommodating many dietary preferences like vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Whether you’re planning a casual morning meetup or a midday catch-up, Elly’s dynamic menu and cozy cafe ambience make it a natural rallying point for meaningful social moments and great food shared among friends.
What activities can I enjoy at Elly’s Brunch & Cafe for a group meetup? Beyond simply enjoying a delicious meal, Elly’s Brunch & Cafe offers a welcoming space ideal for catching up and spending meaningful time with your group. The cafe’s layout accommodates both small and larger gatherings, featuring quiet nooks as well as tables that encourage lively conversations. Guests can soak up the vibrant energy of the Uptown Plaza area before or after brunch, taking advantage of nearby shops or a casual stroll in the neighborhood. The menu itself invites a shared culinary experience: from the thick, buttery brioche French toast and baked apple pancakes to the savory skillet options like steak & wild mushroom, there’s plenty to share and savor together. Coffee enthusiasts in your group will appreciate the specialty coffee served alongside fresh juices, offering perfect pairings to fuel long conversations. For those with dietary restrictions, the cafe offers gluten-free and vegan dishes, ensuring everyone in your group feels included and catered to. Elly’s thus serves as not just a meal destination, but a social hub where food and fellowship intersect seamlessly.
Why is Elly’s perfect for a meetup with friends and family? Elly’s Brunch & Cafe balances great food with a friendly, family-oriented environment that makes everyone feel at home. Its family-owned nature since 1997 adds a personal touch that shines through in their commitment to cuisine made from scratch daily. From sauces to dressings to baked goods, everything is prepared fresh using quality ingredients sourced from local purveyors, emphasizing both taste and community support. The cafe is dog-friendly and wheelchair accessible, expanding its welcoming atmosphere to a broad spectrum of guests. Outdoor seating options allow for fresh air and sunshine, ideal for warmer Phoenix days, while free Wi-Fi and ample parking ease logistical concerns for group organizers. The blend of casual charm and attentive service makes it easy to relax and enjoy those special moments. Whether your group is there to celebrate a birthday, hold a family reunion, or simply reconnect with friends, Elly’s provides a dependable and cheerful setting that supports every occasion with style and comfort.
What food options make Elly’s stand out for group dining? The menu at Elly’s Brunch & Cafe is designed to satisfy a wide range of tastes, making it particularly suited to groups with diverse preferences. Signature dishes include a variety of specialty pancakes—like the baked apple pancake and bacon waffle—which combine unique flavors with comforting presentation. For those favoring something heartier, omelets, skillets, and frittatas come packed with fresh, farm-quality eggs and a variety of fillings, such as veggie, meat lover’s, or southwest spicy options. The menu also offers Tex-Mex flair with plates like chilaquiles verdes and the Cristo sandwich, delivering a distinctive regional twist to classic breakfast fare. This variety means no one has to settle for less, and sharing plates among a group encourages culinary exploration. The care put into homemade bread, biscuits with jelly, and freshly made corned beef hash exemplifies the attention to detail behind each dish. Plus, boosting any meal with sides like seasonal fruit, sliced tomato, or avocado allows each guest to customize their plate perfectly. Together, all these options create a diverse and satisfying dining experience ideal for groups looking to enjoy a memorable brunch.
How does Elly’s accommodate special diets and group needs? Elly’s Brunch & Cafe is notably inclusive, offering vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options that allow guests with dietary restrictions to participate fully in a group meal without compromise. While not a dedicated gluten-free kitchen, the staff has shown willingness to accommodate requests for minimizing cross-contamination, such as preparing eggs in separate pans. The menu clearly marks these options, providing transparency and ease for diners navigating special diets. Their openness to diverse dietary needs ensures that no one feels excluded, a crucial factor for group meetups where people often have differing food preferences or requirements. Additionally, they accept a variety of payment methods and offer amenities like highchairs for families with young children, a practical consideration for family-friendly gatherings. The availability of outdoor seating accommodates groups wanting more space or a more relaxed vibe, while free Wi-Fi keeps everyone connected. These thoughtful provisions demonstrate Elly’s commitment to making gatherings smooth and enjoyable for all attendees.
What should you expect about service and atmosphere when visiting with your group? Generally, Elly’s Brunch & Cafe is praised for providing good service with friendly staff, ranging from polite and unobtrusive to highly enthusiastic, which contributes positively to the group dining experience. However, some reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in service warmth or food temperature, so groups might want to visit earlier in the day when the kitchen is freshest and staff are most energetic. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, with most seats offering comfortable surroundings that facilitate conversations. The location in a bustling plaza provides an energetic backdrop, adding to the appeal for people who enjoy a bit of urban ambiance during their gatherings. While some diners have pointed out small imperfections like dish temperature or minor food preparation issues, the overall consensus highlights the restaurant’s ability to foster memorable occasions with its combination of good food, friendly service, and great company. For groups, the vibe is ideal: casual enough to feel comfortable, but upbeat enough to keep energy lively and fun.
What else makes Elly’s Brunch & Cafe a great meetup choice? Beyond the food and ambiance, practical considerations enhance Elly’s appeal for group meetups. The cafe is open daily from early morning until mid-afternoon, offering a broad window for breakfast, brunch, or even a late lunch gathering. Free off-street parking and easy access make arriving with a group hassle-free. The restaurant’s proximity to Uptown Plaza allows guests to extend their meetup by exploring local shops or taking a walk nearby, turning a simple meal into a full social outing. Their willingness to do takeout and delivery expands options for groups who want to enjoy Elly’s quality food even when meeting elsewhere. Gift cards and catering services are also available, facilitating special occasions or larger group events. These extra amenities underscore Elly’s focus on customer convenience and satisfaction, elevating it beyond the typical brunch spot to a versatile venue for social connecting.
In conclusion, Elly’s Brunch & Cafe in Phoenix offers a compelling reasons to rally friends and loved ones around its tables. With a thoughtfully crafted menu suitable for many dietary needs, friendly service, and a warm, easygoing environment within a vibrant neighborhood, it stands out as a dependable and enjoyable place for group meetups. Whether you come for the freshly baked pancakes, customizable omelets, or just the welcoming vibe, Elly’s encourages making memories over great food and good company.