Melissa's on Banff Ave has been the breakfast institution in Banff for long enough that the lineup outside on a summer morning has become part of the experience rather than a deterrent. The portions are large enough to be a genuine competitive advantage.
The eggs Benedict comes in a serving size that reflects the caloric demands of a mountain town rather than the portion logic of a city brunch spot. The pancakes are properly thick. The hashbrowns are crispy without being worked over. The menu has not changed substantially in decades, which is either a problem or the point.
Arrive before 8am on a weekend to avoid the worst of the lineup. Lunch is quieter and underrated. The dinner service is less known and worth considering if breakfast is your reason to come but not your only meal.
Specials, hidden gems, and seasonal guides. No spam.