Top 5 Cafes in Cedar Crest Perfect for a Relaxing Weekend Brunch
Weekend brunch isn’t just about the food—it’s about slowing down, enjoying the moment, and savoring the perfect mix of flavors and atmosphere. In Cedar Crest, New Mexico, brunch takes on a unique charm.
Nestled in a town known for its scenic mountain views and outdoor adventures, these cafés stand out for their cozy settings, locally-inspired menus, and small-town hospitality that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Whether you’re a local seeking a hidden gem or a visitor ready to refuel after a morning hike, Cedar Crest’s brunch spots offer something special. Let’s explore the standout cafés that make this mountain town a must-visit brunch destination!
1. Greenside Café: A Beloved Local Favorite
Greenside Café isn’t just a brunch spot—it’s a community staple. With its laid-back atmosphere, hearty menu, and welcoming vibe, this café has become a go-to for locals and visitors alike. With both indoor and outdoor seating, you can soak in the crisp mountain air while enjoying a delicious meal.
What’s on the Menu?
The menu features a variety of American and New Mexican favorites made from scratch. Popular dishes include the green chile chicken fried steak, Sangre De Cristo sandwich, and peanut noodles. For dessert, the chocolate molten cake comes highly recommended.
Why You’ll Love It
Greenside Café has been recognized for its excellent food and value. In 2009, Chef Wulf was honored with a “Hot Plate” award by Albuquerque The Magazine, signifying a restaurateur who’s going places.
The portions are generous, the service is friendly, and the coffee is strong. Everything on the menu is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, giving the food a homemade, comforting taste. Arriving early is a smart move since weekends can get busy. Pair your meal with a hot cup of their house-brewed coffee for the full Greenside experience.
2. Cabra Coffee: Specialty Brews and Light Brunch
For coffee lovers who take their brew seriously, Cabra Coffee is a dream come true. This cozy, intimate café focuses on high-quality, locally roasted coffee and simple but delicious breakfast bites. The interior is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for a quiet morning or a casual catch-up with a friend.
What’s on the Menu?
Cabra Coffee offers an irresistible lineup of breakfast burritos and freshly baked pastries, including their famous blueberry muffins and buttery scones. These treats pair perfectly with their specialty coffee drinks, making for a cozy and satisfying brunch.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a relaxed morning, this café delivers the perfect combination of comfort and flavor.
Why You’ll Love It
This café is all about the coffee. The baristas are passionate about their craft, and it shows in every sip. Seasonal specials rotate throughout the year, so there’s always something new to try. Whether you stick with a classic espresso or go for one of their creative lattes, this is the kind of place that turns coffee into an experience.
3. Yours, Mine & Ours: A Unique Brunch Experience
Stepping into Yours, Mine & Ours is like visiting a friend’s kitchen—warm, inviting, and filled with the aroma of home-cooked meals. This family-owned café welcomes every guest like a regular, creating a space that feels like home from the very first visit. The personal touches in the décor and the thoughtful menu make it stand out.
What’s on the Menu?
Brunch options range from gourmet omelets to hearty breakfast bowls, each made with care and packed with flavor. The menu also features fresh salads, sizzling steaks, flavorful enchiladas, and hearty tacos, offering something for every craving.
Their green chile stew is a must-try for those looking to enjoy a true taste of New Mexico. House-made pastries, including fluffy scones and buttery muffins, are baked fresh every morning, while rotating seasonal specials keep things exciting. The cinnamon roll French toast remains a fan favorite—one bite, and you’ll see why locals rave about it.
Why You’ll Love It
At Yours, Mine & Ours, everything feels personal. The owners pour their heart into creating a welcoming atmosphere, and their commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients shines through in every bite.
The café’s name reflects its mission—to bring people together through food and shared experiences. Checking the daily specials is a must—you never know what delicious creation might be on the menu!
4. Roots Farm Café: Farm-to-Table Goodness
If you appreciate fresh, organic ingredients, Roots Farm Café is a must-visit. This farm-to-table café celebrates seasonal produce, creating meals that are as wholesome as they are flavorful.
The rustic yet modern décor adds to the charm, making it a perfect brunch spot for those who love high-quality, thoughtfully prepared food. Located just 5 miles south of Cedar Crest in Tijeras, it’s a quick and scenic drive for a meal that’s worth the trip.
What’s on the Menu?
Signature dishes include garden-fresh salads, quiche, and hearty breakfast plates made with organic eggs and fresh herbs. The blueberry lemon scones are a favorite, flaky and bursting with natural sweetness. Many of the café’s herbs and greens are grown right on-site, making each dish as fresh as it gets.
Why You’ll Love It
Sustainability and fresh ingredients are at the heart of everything they do. The café sources much of its produce from nearby farms, ensuring that every bite is packed with nutrients and flavor. They also offer gluten-free options, making it a great spot for those with dietary preferences or restrictions. Arriving early ensures you get the first pick of their freshly baked goods, which tend to sell out quickly.
5. Lantern Ridge Farm Market & Nursery: A Brunch Spot with a Twist
Brunch in a farm market? Yes, please! Lantern Ridge Farm Market & Nursery offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience where great food meets a beautiful setting.
Surrounded by plants and flowers, this café creates a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Situated just 3 miles north of Cedar Crest in Sandia Park, it’s an easy stop for brunch and a unique shopping experience in one place.
What’s on the Menu?
The menu features a delicious mix of burritos, hearty sandwiches, and fresh fruit parfaits, perfect for a satisfying brunch.
Their pan-fried brie with pearls and hazelnuts is a standout, offering a rich and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. House-made baked goods, including muffins, are made from scratch and packed with warm spices, making them a must-try seasonal treat.
For the perfect drink pairing, the Cedar Crest Matcha adds a smooth, earthy flavor to your morning, blending beautifully with the cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Seasonal specials highlight the best produce available in the market, ensuring that every dish is made with the freshest ingredients.
Why You’ll Love It
This café combines dining with shopping, letting you browse fresh produce, groceries, and handmade goods after your meal. Many of the ingredients used in their dishes come straight from the market, so you can take home the same fresh flavors.
The beautiful plants, trees, and flowers create a relaxing atmosphere, making it more than just a café—it’s an experience. The nursery also offers gift ideas, gardening inspiration, and rotating food menus that keep things exciting. Plus, with tea parties, date nights, and other fun events, there’s always something new to enjoy.
Why Cedar Crest’s Cafes Deserve a Spot on Your Weekend List
Cedar Crest’s café scene offers more than just good food—it delivers memorable experiences. Each of these cafés has its own charm, whether it’s a farm-to-table approach, a cozy coffeehouse vibe, or a homey, family-run feel.
Brunch is the perfect excuse to slow down, enjoy great company, and savor delicious food.
Next time you’re in Cedar Crest, don’t just grab breakfast—make it a brunch to remember at one of these charming cafés. Who knows? You might just find your new favorite spot.