Food, family, and community are the main ingredients at Brother Juniper’s in Memphis. This celebrated breakfast and brunch spot serves much more than meals; it feeds the soul.
The name originates from Brother Juniper, a compassionate cook for St. Francis of Assisi. Though the Brothers were poor, Brother Juniper always prepared delicious and nutritious meals. Today, this welcoming restaurant on Walker Ave. pays homage to the tradition of preparing handcrafted food by using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The first Brother Juniper’s was actually a coffee house in San Francisco in the 1960s that opened as an outreach for the homeless. As the years passed, other restaurants opened across the country, though today, Memphis is the only remaining Brother Juniper’s.
In 1999, Jonathan and Pauline Koplin came to Memphis to take over Brother Juniper’s College Inn. This family-owned establishment has created a welcoming atmosphere, embracing the local community and visitors alike.
Located conveniently within a short drive from iconic Memphis landmarks, breakfast or brunch at Brother Juniper’s is the perfect way to start the day before a visit to the Memphis Botanic Garden. It’s also an ideal starting point for travelers headed to Shelby Farms Park for the day.
Vibe
Large windows on the modest building that houses Brother Juniper’s provide a clear view into the restaurant’s cozy setting. A carefully landscaped flagstone path leads to the front door, where visitors are readily welcomed into the diner-esque style space.
Inside, there’s a neighborly feel throughout the restaurant. Large wooden countertops are accented by warm ceiling treatments. Additionally, white subway tiles provide an elegant retro hint near the entrance while cement floors lend a rustic feel. Local artwork is frequently featured prominently throughout the restaurant.
Seating options include hopping on a stool at one of the immense lunch counters, square tables that can easily be placed to accommodate larger groups, and picnic tables on the bright window-facing inside patio. These dining spaces combine comfort with functionality, making it perfect for families, couples, or solo diners.
The overall vibe is friendly and relaxed, with enticing aromas of breakfast dishes wafting through the air. The staff at Brother Juniper’s accentuates the welcome-to-the-neighborhood feel, complementing the restaurant’s commitment to building community.
Brother Juniper’s: Menu & Drinks
The breakfast menu is spectacular, making it a go-to before visiting the Memphis Museum of Science & History. No wonder their website offers an option to join the waitlist, as you better believe local diners and visitors are lining up for the experience.
Among their most beloved offerings is the San Diegan, a robust open-face omelette crowned with home fries, sausage, green onions, tomatoes, and a decadent layer of melted cheese. Balanced with a side of toast or grits, this hearty plate reflects the restaurant's commitment to serving up creative, satisfying flavors.
Additionally, the restaurant is known for its Garden & Lamb Omelet, prepared with gyro meat, feta, mozzarella, spinach, tomatoes, and green onions. Equally, the Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are among the fan favorites.
With an array of breakfast items, the most difficult thing to starting your day will be to choose one of the delectable plates.
Brother Juniper’s earns widespread praise for its coffee bar among the breakfast beverages. Their Juniper Latte and Cafe Mocha are particularly indulgent, topped with luscious whipped cream. What a way to greet the morning!
In addition to building community within, Brother Juniper’s prides itself on its ongoing outreach. The restaurant shines a Community Spotlight on local charitable organizations each month. Similarly, for over 25 years, Brother Juniper’s has opened on Christmas Day for an annual dinner so that customers, neighbors, and the homeless can share in the holiday spirit. Brother Juniper would be proud.
Brother Juniper's is a delightful spot to relax and enjoy the city's culinary offerings for anyone planning a Memphis vacation filled with warm hospitality and great food.
