Waffles, coffee, and community at Leavenworth's newest café

With its unique spin on breakfast, Leavenworth Coffee & Waffles adds something new to the local food scene. Whether you are looking for a hearty brunch, a sweet treat, or just a quality cup of coffee, this new café offers a warm welcome—and a fresh take on a timeless classic. Photo credit: Roselyn Robison

A new breakfast spot in town is making waves with a creative take on a timeless classic. Located on the corner of US 2 and Evans Street, Leavenworth Coffee & Waffles draws in locals and tourists alike with its commitment to local flavor and its creative take on breakfast. 

The café specializes in both sweet and savory stuffed waffles– including everything from bacon, egg, and cheese to the waffle s’more– served alongside locally roasted coffee. 

The idea came from Nick Pankow, who opened Leavenworth Coffee & Waffles in December of last year after taking over Leavenworth Coffee Roasters in 2021. 

The freshly updated space features open restaurant seating near large windows that have become Leavenworth Coffee & Waffles' trademark, allowing customers a clear view of Leavenworth’s downtown bustle.

"My wife and I moved to Leavenworth in ‘21 when we took over Leavenworth Coffee Roasters, that’s in this building,” Pankow said. “Through that journey, we met the owners of Sandy’s. I was able to form that bond to be able to take over this space when they [retired].” 

Pankow and his family have steadily grown their roasting business through subscriptions and retail partnerships. When the Sandy’s Waffle Haus location became available, expanding into food service felt like a natural next step. 

While the businesses operate separately, Leavenworth Coffee & Waffles proudly features coffee from the Roasters on its menu. But make no mistake– the waffles are the main attraction. 

The menu includes traditional Belgian waffles and more adventurous combinations. Stuffed waffle offerings range from savory selections like pizza or bacon-stuffed waffles to sweet options such as fruit, chocolate, and– fittingly for Leavenworth’s Bavarian theme– apple strudel. 

"I ordered the strawberry, banana, and Nutella waffle,” explained Xareny Guzman, a CHS sophomore and Leavenworth Coffee & Waffles customer. “It was the right amount of sweetness. They’re doing it right.” 

Customers opting for more traditional fare can choose to order from the “Unwaffle” menu, which includes breakfast selections like your choice of eggs and meat paired with either toast or hashbrowns. A “Kids Belgian” featuring a half-portion waffle makes the restaurant family friendly. 

The freshly updated space features open restaurant seating near large windows that have become Leavenworth Coffee & Waffles' trademark, allowing customers a clear view of Leavenworth’s downtown bustle. Orders are placed at the coffee bar, and guests can choose to dine in or take their meals to go. 

The presentation is thoughtful, the coffee is high-end, and the service is prompt. The price point is reasonable for Leavenworth, especially given the quality of ingredients and the care put into each dish. 

Pankow also hinted at new menu changes coming, like a French Toast Waffle made with local bread from the Bavarian Bakery. 

If you go: 

Leavenworth Coffee & Waffles 

894 US-2 (corner of US-2 and Evans Street) 

Open daily, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (food available starting at 8 a.m.)