We knew we’d arrived at The Breakfast Club when we glimpsed the queue snaking out of the door. It was half term after all, and with its cheerful decor and enticing, family- friendly menu, it was bound to be popular choice at lunchtime.
Whether you want pancakes, buttermilk chicken, wraps, a cheese burger or Mexican eggs, whatever time of day, you can enjoy The Breakfast Club’s Californian vibe, generous portions and friendly staff.
A perfect nod then to the 80s Brat Pack film.
Headed up by the wonderful Lucie Wyatt, one of Oxford’s best front of house’s, she’s amenable, unflappable and highly efficient. She makes it look easy even when her customers are vying to get to the front of the queue.
Situated at the top of The Westgate, The Breakfast Club’s light, bright, interior is crammed with posters, cactuses, banquettes, tables of packed teenage girls, couples, small children and tourists; all are welcome and equally relaxed in its upbeat vibe.
It’s a fun place.
The menu matches. All your dream dishes. No fuss, no pretence. The problem is deciding.
So fresh juice or milkshake to kick things off, some seriously good coffee or a Bloody Mary? The lattes are beautiful to look at and strong.
So straight in, pancakes; one with berries and ice cream, the other with bacon and syrup. Huge fluffy piles of the things. Overly generous. The caramelised and banana with toffee ice cream was immense. It looked like a life raft. The kids clung on for dear life, dived in and ate as much as humanly possible.
How anyone can get through the 12 pancake challenge (12 pancakes in 12 minutes) being launched on Feb 24 is anyone’s guess, but with the profits going to an old people’s club, it’s a win win either way.
The nachos had to be seen to be believed, and apparently these were only a starter portion. I’d hate to see the main. £8 and piled high. And these are the real deal. The toppings were overly generous so that you are still scooping up sour cream, salsa, refried beans, guacamole and jalapeños until the last crisp, nacho has gone, all glued together with cheese.
Throw in some pulled pork for good measure (there’s also grilled chicken and jack fruit versions) and you can scarcely see to the other side of the table.
In terms of freshness, the large chunks of avocado spoke for themselves. They were delicious – my new go-to nachos venue.
Despite the volume of both customers and portions, the service was also wonderful, the staff here are a real credit.
And with the outdoor tables reminding us that come brighter climes you can also dine there al fresco, and The Breakfast Club becomes a highly attractive option.
But if you are thinking of venturing over there, just make sure you’re hungry because while you skip in, you will have to haul yourself out afterwards.
*The Breakfast Club ‘pancake specials’ run from Feb 24- March 1 and includes deep fried ice cream balls, savoury options include vegan sausage and mash or the ham and egg and chip versions and sweet – Lemon Meringue Mess and ‘All The Chocolate’ offers something for the sweet toothed.
The Breakfast Club, 303 The Westgate, Queen Street, Oxford. OX1 1PG
Opening Times: Sunday – Thursday 8am – 8pm, Friday – Saturday 8am – 11pm
