It's the most important meal of the day, and it's by far the easiest one for me to prepare at home! But some mornings, I just don't want to mess up my own kitchen. Whenever that's the case, I head out of the house to enjoy a locally-prepared chef's favorite! (pictured above: Press Waffle Co)

I love that I don’t have to travel beyond The Woodlands area to find some of the best restaurants around, serving everything from house-made biscuits to huevos rancheros.

The best breakfast places:

• Can easily accommodate many parties at once. Because who wants to wait in a long line to be seated for breakfast?
• Have both sweet and savory items on the menu
• Have large windows or patio seating so you can watch the world outside springing to life
• Won't break the bank (because otherwise, just cook up your own breakfast at home., right?)
• Have delicious food (no brainer!)

Levure Bakery & Patisserie

26400 Kuykendahl Rd, Ste a160, 77375

Don't let the name fool you. Levure is more than just baked goods (although that IS where they shine). At this chic, boutique-ish restaurant, you'll get to order French favorites that is sure to impress your out-of-town guests - like Quiche Lorraine, pull-apart croissant biscuit and gravy, and Smoked Salmon Tartine ( toasted sourdough bread, goat cream cheese, cold smoked salmon, salad, and caviar), seasonal fresh fruit, and then, of course, an assortment of pastries.

Levure is located in the Village of Creekside Park, and their hours of operation are 8am - 3pm every day. The restaurant is quaint and modern. If I've had a tough morning of homeshcooling, I like running away to Levure (ALONE!) to enjoy coffee and a giant cinnamon roll! 

Toasted Yolk Cafe

207 East Shore Dr, Suite 100, 77380 

If you want a hearty, indulgent breakfast that pulls all the stops, look no further than Toasted Yolk Cafe. Of this list, it's my own personal favorite for bringing my entire family of 6 on a Sunday, and when me and my best friend grab a bite throughout the week, there's no discussion. This is where we go. The Woodlands location is at 207 E Shore Dr, Ste 100 near Grogans Mill and Woodlands Pkwy, and there's also a location in Spring off the Grand Parkway.

If you think ordering appetizers at a breakfast spot is a waste of time, you're wrong! The “CHURRO STYLE” donuts served with warm caramel dipping sauce are sinfully good. For the main meal, try out the shrimp & grits (because how can you NOT when it's on the menu?), a four-egg omelette, or French Toast. For lighter favorites, the egg breakfast and avocado toast are both winners.

Black Walnut Cafe

9000 New Trails Dr, 77381

Black Walnut Cafe serves breakfast on weekdays through 11am and weekend brunch until 4pm. They're a best pick for meeting up with friends and colleagues, because you order separately at the counter and pick up your food (or they bring to your table), so there's no confusion about who's picking up the check. The restaurant is large, somewhat dim with a cozy vibe, with several seating rooms to choose from. During the daytime, I like sitting in the front room right next to a window, because my selfies come out well-lit! And that's the real reason!

Order benedicts, unique breakfast plates like chorizo breakfast tacos with house potatoes, pancakes, French toast and more. My best pick? The chicken and waffles. To be honest, they're hit or miss (sometimes the chicken seems slightly overdone), but when they're cooked to perfection, this meal is divine! And luckily, this dish is also on the lunch/dinner menu, so I can order it whenever I choose.

Let's be honest, the beverages here are what really sets Black Walnut breakfasts apart. Order orange juice the kiddos, but for YOU, there's a great drink menu with everything from frozen coffee drinks to bloody marys, cucumber mint margaritas, handcrafted cocktails, and boozy milkshakes! Who's up for getting tipsy?

Press Waffle Company

26435 Kuykendahl Rd, Ste 850, 77375

We love Press because all the waffle options we've tried are delicious, and the menu is uncluttered, easy to decipher, and not overwhelming. The cafe is small, and not the best option for large families or groups, but this restaurant made the cut because the waffles are easy to order to-go and they are just as delicious at home. Plus, they're a lovely date spot for just the two of you! 

Press serves LIege waffles which are brioche style dough loaded up with caramelized clusters of belgian pearl sugar which results in crunchy moist, buttery, flavorful, delightfulness. I love the options for different types of toppings, and it's hard to resist the "House" waffle! It's topped with freshly cut strawberries, cookie butter, Nutella, and whipped cream.  My first time eating here, I was doubtful that the waffle was going to fill me up (I generally have a decent-sized appetite). Well, I was not disappointed. The waffles are just large enough to satisfy me without making me feel disappointed in myself for overeating (come on, don't act like I'm the only one who does that!)

Fielding's Wood Grill

1699 Research Forest Dr, 77380

The unlikeliest breakfast place turns out to be one of the best brunch spots around! Located on Research Forest Dr, Fielding's offers beautiful brunch favorites with time-honored recipes every Saturday and Sunday from 9am - 3pm. To give you an idea, here's the description of the English breakfast: Garlic sausage, bacon, baked black beans, breakfast potatoes, seared tomato, two eggs your way, English muffin. Is your mouth watering yet?

Fielding's is on the smaller side, and there' not a lot of 'empty space" in this restaurant. Don't get me wrong; there's no discomfort.  I LOVE the vibe here. The setting really feels like you're dining in an upscale exotic restaurant in the English countryside (although apparently a lot of their entrees are French-inspired). 

The Wheel Kitchen

25510 Zion Lutheran Cemetary Rd, 77375
This place is a whole vibe. It’s quaint, and I just love coming here with my honey for  quiet morning conversation. The quality of the food is amazing – everything is SO fresh! It’s just a few minutes outside of The Woodlands, but sitting here feels like I’m in some countryside bed & breakfast. Simple is best here! The Sweetie Croissant with carrot orange marmalade, apple, bacon, and cheddar is heavenly!

Sweet Paris Creperie and Cafe

9595 Six Pines Dr, Ste 450, 77380

We never knew we needed more crepes in our lives until we happened upon Sweet Paris. Located in Market street with indoor and patio seating, Sweet Paris offers both sweet and savory crepes along with gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. The crepes are delicate, filling, and scrumptious! If you're up for something different, you can also order waffles, a couple of different types of paninis, or a salad.