Mel's Diner, Waterloo
As a plant-based eater, finding breakfast or brunch options at restaurants can be a challenge. If I’m lucky, a place might offer a simple avocado toast and a fruit salad. Thankfully Mel’s Diner in Waterloo has an entire vegan menu!
I've been fortunate enough to visit Mel's several times, trying different menu items each time.
On one of my breakfast visits, I ordered the vegan pancakes with strawberries. The pancakes are huge. I’m still not sure why I decided to order two (lol!), but I was able to take the delicious leftovers home for later. The regular pancakes come with whipped cream but they didn’t have any vegan whipped cream so they gave me a small bowl of vegan vanilla ice cream.
Chai Vegan Milkshake
The vegan milkshakes are really good! They use vegan ice cream and blend it with almond milk.
The Vegan Lighter Side
So many home fries!!
The Diner Vibe
Mel's Diner has that classic, nostalgic diner feel— checkerboard floors, shiny chrome chairs, and walls packed with cool vintage posters and memorabilia.
My Experience
I have always found the staff at Mel’s Diner friendly and the service is quick. and efficient. While I do find the prices a bit high for some of the breakfast items, the variety, and convenience of having an entire dedicated vegan menu make it worthwhile.
Overall, I would absolutely recommend trying Mel's Diner if you are in or around Waterloo and looking for some fantastic vegan options for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Let me know, in the comments below, if you go and what your favourite dish is!
Address: 140 University Ave W (at University Shops Plaza), Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 6J3
Hours of Operation:
Sunday - Thursday: 7:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Friday & Saturday: 7:30 AM - Midnight
Website: melsdiner.ca
