6 Great Places for Pancakes

Great pancakes are one of my family's favorite ways to start the day, especially on the weekends or on vacation. We've enjoyed pancakes as far afield as Amanjiwo near Borobudur, Indonesia, and as close as our own kitchen, but for this roundup we're including places we've either recently been to or that friends have vouched for.

1. Ballyfin, Ireland: Pancakes with Berries and Edible Flowers

Pancakes in the UK usually mean crepes, but at Ballyfin in Ireland, owned by a Chicago family, a the pancakes are the real (American) deal. They're souffle-like, and elevated with a topping of berries, fresh edible flowers from Ballyfin's garden, and maple syrup.

2. Gram Cafe Los Angeles: Souffle Pancakes

Speaking of ethereal pancakes, the Japanese souffle pancake sensation is alive and well at Gram Cafe in Los Angeles, where options range from strawberry mascarpone to matcha crème brûlée to mango pomelo.

3. Original Pancake House: Apple Pancake

The puffy, caramelized cinnamon apple pancake at the Original Pancake House is big enough to share (or get the junior version). And with restaurants in 29 states, this option is more accessible to many.

Apple Pancake, The Original Pancake House

4. Plow Restaurant, San Francisco: Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Lemon Curd

Lemon ricotta pancakes are a family favorite. Plow Restaurant in San Francisco makes an especially delicious version, although be sure to order extra lemon curd.

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Plow Restaurant, San Francisco

5. Yogurstory, Waikiki, Hawaii: Ube Pancakes

Ube, or purple yam, makes for a beautifully hued and delicious pancake, especially when topped by ube coconut sauce, as at Hawaii's Yogurstory near Waikiki.

6. The Nautilus Maldives: Ukrainian Syrniki

Go beyond American pancakes to try Ukrainian Syrniki for breakfast at The Nautilus Maldives. Made with a ricotta-like farmers cheese, they come topped with powdered sugar and berries and with a side of sour cream; we like adding a dollop of jam as well.