Best Breakfast Spot

Ahh, The Nucleus (405 Water St., Eau Claire). With to-die-for french toast, omelets, and even steak-and-eggs on the menu every day and lemon ricotta pancakes on the weekends, this destination is always worthwhile (even if getting to your table might require a quick jaunt through a maze of hallways). For a more traditional breakfast, Chippewa Valley voters enjoy Altoona Family Restaurant (2000 N. Hillcrest Parkway, Altoona); it’s got that family-style feel, complete with a scrumptious kids menu. Randy’s Family Restaurant (1132 W. MacArthur Ave., Eau Claire) is always hoppin’ on weekends, and greets guests with a bit of warm vanilla pudding to get their appetites going. –Lauren Fisher