Day Maker lives up to its name — this vibrant half day cafe is proving to be a hard hitter in Austin's brunch scene. You won't have to wait until the weekend to try it either. Day Maker serves up tasty breakfast, brunch, and lunch seven days a week.
Brought to you by the team behind Jack Allen's and Salt Traders, this cafe brings serious local culinary chops. The all-star team is composed of owners Jack Gilmore and Tom Kamm, supported by Executive Chef Forrest Briwa, an Austin native that has honed his chops at both Jack Allen's and Salt Traders, Chief Culinary Officer Chris Ten Eyck with years of experience at Jack Allen's, Salt Traders, and Z'Tejas, and Beverage Director David Toby.
Day Maker took over the old IHOP next to Salt Traders and completely transformed the space. It’s now a fun, bright cafe with playful colors, vibrant murals by Team TRUTH, and a welcoming vibe from the staff. There’s a full-service cocktail bar for brunch-goers and a walk-up coffee counter for quick hits — perfect for post-run fuel or grabbing something before heading to Zilker Park.
Executive Chef Forrest Briwa has created an expansive menu, with something for every mood — from classic breakfast favorites to inventive Southern and Cajun twists on brunch staples. Whether you're craving Steak and Eggs, Huevos Rancheros, or something sweet, they’ve got you covered. The coffee and espresso? Delicious. They also serve fresh juices, mocktails, and mimosas, wine, beer, and cocktails for those looking to start their day with a little buzz.
Our waitress was wonderful, and was sure to be mindful of any food allergies or restrictions. Her personal recommendations were the Chorizo Benny, a southern twist on the classic Eggs Benedict, Chicken & Waffles, the Smashburger, and the Bread Pudding French Toast.
Ultimately, we ended up trying the Breakfast Fried Rice, the Classic Benny, the Lone Star Diner Hash, and the Hangover Enchilada. The Breakfast Fried Rice was savory with the bacon lardons giving it that breakfast feel. The Classic Benny was perfectly prepared, and the onion jam elevated it above just basic. The Lone Star Diner Hash was hearty and we kicked it up with their in-house hot sauce. The Hangover Enchilada was huge and filling, perfect for nursing any hangover wounds. We also shared decadent sweets from the starters menu: the Bread Pudding French Toast and the Maple Bacon Fritters, both which were easily the highlight of the meal. The Bread Pudding French Toast was topped with a rich vanilla mascarpone that was so rich and delicious. And the fritters popped and melted in your mouth, reminding me of something I would eat at the State Fair.
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From L to R: 1. Hangover Enchilada
2. The Classic Benny
3. Breakfast Fried Rice
4. Lone Star Diner Hash |
We washed it down with some espressos, breakfast shots, and boozy coffee. I have to say their bacon stands out - it is thick, crispy, and not oily and just oh so yummy. In fact, everything was very tasty!
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From L to R: 1. Cappuccino, Breakfast Shots and Still a Cowboy
2. Bread Pudding French Toast
3. Maple Bacon Fritters
4. Morning Wood Old Fashioned |
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Final Verdict: Whether you're brunching after Barton Springs or grabbing a midweek bite, Day Maker is a bright, welcoming spot that delivers great food and good vibes — every single day of the week.
Day Maker Half Day Cafe
1101 S Mopac
Open 7am-3pm, 7 days a week
@daymakeratx
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