I’m just not a morning person. If I had my way, my day would start around a civilized time, say, 10 a.m., instead of the horrible 6 a.m. I’m forced to endure to have little things like a job. Well, life can force me to get up early, but it can’t force me to eat early.

Breakfast has never and will never be my favorite meal of the day (unless I’m having it for dinner). Instead, I’m a big fan of brunch and eateries that cater to brunch-y folk like me. To me, there’s nothing better than being able to get a great sandwich with pancakes on the side, or  a killer omelet and the soup d’jour. Fab-o!

The loss of Caffe Posto late last year really made me realize how important it is to spend dollars locally and keep them in our own economy. While franchises are often locally owned as well, their menu can lack the creativity and flair that independent business owners use at their discretion. I’m keeping that in mind these days when I’m treating my kids to brunch after doctor appointments, church, or just because.

When I’m choosing a brunch spot, the big thing I tend to look for is variety. I want someplace that serves more than just bacon and eggs, and a chef who believes there’s more to lunch than chicken salad or turkey and swiss. Recently, we covered where to get the best sandwiches in Wichita. If you’re wanting to make sure whoever’s joining you can get breakfast as well, however, consider the following places.

Sugar Sisters: Wow! The muffins are amazing, and if you ask for one “to go,” they package it up so pretty that it almost feels like a little present later when you unwrap it. It’s a full-service bakery, selling wedding cakes, tempting scones and other treats, so feel free to drool over the goodies while your meal is being made. For breakfast, try the quiche; light, flaky, and not running with grease like so many are. For something more substantial, I suggest the “KT Cristo” sandwich: sourdough dipped in a savory egg batter and toasted, topped with herb cheese spread, roma tomatoes, honey mustard, Swiss cheese and a dash of powdered sugar. With reasonable prices and friendly service, it’s a new gem in the ICT treasure chest.

The Good Egg: When this restaurant first opened, I rejoiced that there was a tasty place to get food that was appealing to both me (an omnivore) and the increasing numbers of my friends who were vegetarians. I’m still besotted with Egg-Straordinary Mushroom Caps. All those mushrooms, all that cheese. The Good Egg still remains a great place to grab a quick meal when I’m on the east side of town and just can’t stomach fast food or the idea of a sandwich.

Livingston’s Diner: This restaurant is an oldie but goodie with three east side locations. The actual “Livingston’s” has two locations, one on Webb and one on Woodlawn, while “Jeanne’s Diner” (with the same menu) is at Oliver and Douglas near Watermark Books. Bet you didn’t know it was there! This little family-owned chain is only open from 6am-2pm, and that is its only flaw. They serve a full breakfast and standard sandwich fare. Now, usually I go for variety and something with a little more interest. At Livingston’s or Jeanne’s, though, the quality is so good that I just shut up and eat my food, even if it’s a normally boring three-cheese omlet with hash browns or B.L.T. and fries. Sometimes, familiarity is comforting. It’s definitely kid-friendly, so if you’ve got smaller children, don’t worry if they’re a little loud or messy on occasion. (Editor’s note: The Woodlawn Livingston’s location was just sold to Riverside Cafe owner Paul Cohlmia; in March, it will reopen as Riverside Too and offer the same menu as Riverside Cafe.)

Riverside Café: A west side “greasy spoon” that makes some great brunch specials. I confess, what originally drew me into this café was the exterior paint job. Coincidentally, I had just painted my house something very similar that year, and was pleased to see that honey-and-butter combination being used by someone else. After chowing down on fried pickles and a Philly cheese omelet with home fries, however, I swore I’d eat there again. I’ve heard great things about their chicken-fried steak, but haven’t been brave enough to try one yet. It’s definitely on my “to-do” list, but I may have to get a buddy to help split one with me if the rumors about the size of that meal are true! Any takers?

All these restaurants stand out not only for their delicious dishes, but also for friendly wait staff, helpful websites, owners and managers who will take time to answer questions, and also their overall pleasant atmosphere. I can eat anywhere, and I can cook brunch at home for next to nothing compared to the cost of taking a large family out. Getting exceptional service and being made to feel welcome is something that sticks with me long after the memory of the food itself is gone, and I really appreciate that inviting feeling.

Where do you head for brunch when you roll out of bed late on a weekend? When you have to take an important client somewhere? When you’re trying to impress a family member? Tell us!

Related posts:

1. [eat] Lunch with Liz: Lawrence Edition
2. [eat] Lunch with Liz: College Hill Deli
3. [eat] Wichita’s Best Sandwich Shops
4. [eat] Lunch with Liz: The Beacon
5. [eat] Dolci & Joe’s