I have spent many hungover mornings here. Cleveland's is THE place to go for breakfast.
The menu is your basic breakfast menu. From pancakes to Greek omelets, ham and cheese omelets, eggs and toast, breakfast sandwiches on English muffins and their famous American fries. Their sandwich muffins are crispy yet pillowy soft. Their coffee gives you an immediate jolt.
I know what you're thinking. It sounds like any ordinary diner. But you must try it. The place is legendary. The lines around the block prove it. That is the one negative thing. It's so popular you usually end up waiting 15-30 minutes. But completely worth it. Madisonians know their food.
It's also incredibly cheap. You can a bagel and coffee for under $2. Most of the sandwiches are about $3. I've never paid more than $6. And I'm always so pleased with my meal and the service that I leave a tip that's about the same as my whole meal.
The diner opened the 1920s under Orlando Cleveland. Born and raised in the area Telly + Nico Fatsis took over several years ago and gave it a bit of a Greek flair. Both of them are usually behind the counter on any given day.
Cleveland's is a legend in Madison. You can't go wrong.
Open:
Tuesday - Friday: 6am - 2pm
Saturday: 7am - 2pm
Sunday: 8am - 2pm