Best Brunch Spots Near Candlewood Lake
From lakeside patios to cozy diners, here are our favorite places for a weekend brunch around Candlewood Lake.
Greater Danbury has no shortage of great breakfast and brunch options, but the towns around Candlewood Lake — New Fairfield, Sherman, Brookfield, and Danbury — have some hidden gems that are worth the drive.
1. Candlewood Cove Restaurant — New Fairfield
If you want water views with your eggs Benedict, Candlewood Cove is the spot. Their seasonal patio overlooks the lake, and the weekend brunch menu features local farm eggs and housemade pastries. Get there before 10 AM on Saturdays or expect a wait.
2. Federal Road Diner — Brookfield
A Route 7 institution. The Federal Road Diner does breakfast right: oversized portions, fresh-squeezed OJ, and pancakes the size of your head. It is cash-friendly, counter-seat-available, no-pretense dining at its best.
3. Elmer's Diner — Danbury
The granddaddy of Danbury diners, Elmer's has been flipping pancakes since 1960. The homestyle cooking is consistently solid, the coffee is always hot, and the prices have barely moved in a decade. A true local institution.
Tips for Lakeside Brunching
- Summer weekends get packed — arrive before 9:30 AM
- Most spots are cash-preferred but accept cards
- Pair your brunch with a walk at Squantz Pond State Park