The Roost

Located in the heart of Lawrence, Kansas, The Roost is a beloved breakfast and brunch destination that invites guests to indulge in a diverse and thoughtfully crafted menu. Whether you’re craving a robust cup of coffee to start your day or a comforting plateful of classic American breakfast fare, The Roost hits each mark with flavor, warmth, and care. Situated on vibrant Massachusetts Street, this cozy coffee shop and brunch restaurant perfectly balances a laid-back yet lively atmosphere, making it the ideal spot for casual weekend gatherings or a quiet morning solo.

The Roost's menu boasts an impressive variety that caters to all palates, but its standout dishes are what keep locals and visitors coming back. Imagine sinking your teeth into the Roost Breakfast Sandwich — a harmonious blend of freshly baked bread enveloping perfectly cooked eggs and savory meat—while sipping on their signature Breve Latte or a warming Golden Milk Latte. For those who love traditional favorites, the Traditional Benny and the homemade Biscuits & Gravy deliver that comforting, indulgent experience, rich with buttery hollandaise and creamy sausage gravy made fresh daily.

If you lean toward heartier plates that are both filling and full of character, the Campfire Breakfast offers a rustic, soulful combination of two eggs, cornbread, pinto beans, roasted tomatoes, and avocado, evoking a sense of a cozy morning by the fire. The Potato Pancakes, served with a side of sour cream, are golden, crisp, and utterly addictive, often complimented adoringly by patrons just like Alex Bellavia, who raves about their light crunch paired deliciously with maple pecan bacon. For a playful twist on a classic, savor the Thick-Sliced & Spiced French Toast, perfectly caramelized with just the right balance of sweetness and spice.

The Roost doesn’t just excel in its entrees but also offers a selection of fresh, vibrant salads like the refreshing Spinach Salad with baby spinach, toasted walnuts, blue cheese, and seasonal fruit, a wonderful lighter option that pairs beautifully with their aromatic specialty coffee. And speaking of coffee, guests often find themselves raving about the baristas — Tatum, Taylor, and Sue — who expertly tailor each cup, crafting the perfect brew for early risers and caffeine aficionados alike.

What truly sets The Roost apart is not just the food or drink, but the inviting atmosphere and exceptional hospitality. Customers consistently praise the attentive and kindhearted service—Stephanie and Madison B have become local celebrities in their own right for making guests feel cherished without ever interrupting the flow of conversation. The buzz of a busy brunch crowd blends with the gentle hum of morning conversation, creating a warm, community vibe well-loved by locals and visitors.

W Michael Plattner perfectly sums up the experience: “My wife and I haven’t had a bad breakfast at The Roost with so many options it’s truly impressive that the cooks keep pumping out the best breakfast options in town. Great atmosphere makes this another Lawrence MUST go.” M Bru also highlights the welcoming energy despite a bustling crowd, praising the in-house salsa as a flavorful bonus that lingers long after the meal.

Whether you’re seeking a comforting start to your day with classic eggs benedict and biscuits and gravy, or you want to sip on a perfectly crafted Chai Latte while people-watching on Massachusetts Street, The Roost delivers an authentically satisfying dining experience. This is more than just a brunch spot—it’s a community cornerstone where the love of food, coffee, and genuine hospitality come together as seamlessly as their famous potato cakes and maple pecan bacon.