If you are looking for a place that pairs a high-energy morning buzz with the comfort of a home-cooked meal, Sunrise Skillet on South Reynolds Road delivers exactly what the name promises.
Since opening in 2015, owner Jennifer Hessling has turned this corner of Toledo into a community hub where the coffee is hot, the mugs are a cheerful, bright yellow, and the atmosphere is designed to make you smile. We recently stopped in during the lunch rush to see how this local favorite handles a hungry family.
Florida roots, Toledo heart
The “Sunrise” in the name is a nod to Hessling’s original home in Daytona Beach, Florida, but the restaurant’s soul is pure Toledo. The vibe is energetic and homey. Even at lunchtime, when the noise level picks up with conversation, the environment remains comfortable.
The staff is a major part of the “feel like a regular” aesthetic. Many of the servers have been with the restaurant for over five years, and that experience shows. Despite the demands of the lunch crowd, our wait staff was attentive and personal. “We’ve worked hard to create a warm, welcoming, and family-oriented atmosphere where everyone feels like a regular,” Hessling said, “even on their first visit.”
The “greatest ever” waffle
While the restaurant is named for its signature skillets—hearty bowls filled with crispy potatoes, fresh vegetables, and eggs cooked to order—the griddle items are the secret stars for the younger crowd.
The food is excellent and surprisingly inexpensive for the quality provided. We tried the caramel pecan waffle, topped with candied pecans and whipped cream. It was an immediate hit; my son declared it the “greatest ever.” For families with picky eaters, the kitchen is famously flexible. Beyond the standard kids’ menu, younger guests will likely be interested in the chocolate chip pancakes or the build-their-own breakfast plates with eggs and bacon.
Growing with the community
One of the most impressive aspects of Sunrise Skillet is its commitment to the 419. The restaurant has built deep roots through partnerships with the Toledo Area Food Bank, the Toledo Police Museum and Acoustics for Autism. They also work closely with local addiction recovery groups, proving that they are more than just a place to grab a bite.
That success is leading to a local expansion. While the Reynolds Road location is the original, they have expanded into Maumee and parents in Perrysburg will be happy to know that a third location is slated to open soon at Country Charm Plaza on West South Boundary.
Planning your visit
Sunrise Skillet operates on “diner time,” serving from 7am to 2pm daily. If you are bringing young children and want to avoid the peak weekend rush, Hessling recommends arriving before 10am or after 1pm. Even during the busy stretches, however, the wait rarely exceeds 20 minutes. Just enough time to appreciate those yellow mugs and get ready for a bright start to your day.
Sunrise Skillet
1837 S. Reynolds Rd., Toledo
567-315-8866
facebook.com/SunriseSkillet
Hours:
Monday–Sunday, 7 am–2 pm
