"There’s diner DNA in the bones of Day Maker, a breakfast, brunch, and lunch spot built in the shell of a former IHOP near Zilker Park. But this isn't just a pancake house revival. With its Southern and Southwestern touches—earthy tones, woven textiles, and a menu that sneaks in chorizo and queso where you least expect them—it feels like a daytime restaurant that grew up bouncing between New Mexico and New Orleans. photo credit: Richard Casteel photo credit: Richard Casteel photo credit: Richard Casteel photo credit: Richard Casteel It’s always busy here, no matter when you show up. Add yourself to the online waitlist before heading out, or get ready to face a multi-hour wait on the weekends. Once you’re in, you’ll realize why everyone was willing to doomscroll on their phones near the entryway for so long—this is a classic diner done different. Pancakes get topped with churro dust and horchata butter, huevos rancheros arrive on a crispy tostada, and even a classic eggs benedict gets served over masa cakes and topped with spicy chorizo. It all works to varying degrees, but even when things fall a little short, Day Maker is still a fun way to kick off an afternoon at Zilker or enjoy a lazy hangover Sunday brunch. photo credit: Richard Casteel Food Rundown photo credit: Richard Casteel Churro Pancakes These make us realize that the best part of the churro is not, in fact, the dust, but the crunchy treat itself. While these pancakes don’t have the same crispy satisfaction of the street snack—and have a slightly metallic taste—they’re a satisfying start to the morning. photo credit: Richard Casteel Huevos Rancheros Tostada Everything you know and love about huevos rancheros gets piled onto a crispy tostada. This is a great plate. Make sure to try it with the housemade hot sauce that packs a bright, fiery punch. photo credit: Richard Casteel Chorizo Benny In a fun spin on classic eggs benedict, english muffins get subbed for masa cakes. They’re a little denser than we’d like, but everything else in this dish is great—from the spicy chorizo and perfectly poached eggs to the fluffy avocado mousse and chipotle hollandaise." - Nicolai McCrary
