Nestled in the heart of Anacortes, Calico Cupboard is more than a café—it’s a beloved culinary haven for locals and travelers alike. The ambiance is a blend of rustic charm and inviting warmth, making every visit feel like a return to comfort and tradition.
With its roots deep in the Pacific Northwest, Calico Cupboard has woven itself into the fabric of the community, drawing people with the irresistible aromas of fresh-baked goods, hearty breakfasts, and wholesome lunches.
Its menu reflects a commitment to quality, sustainability, and the timeless art of homemade cooking.
The story of Calico Cupboard is as rich and layered as the pastries in its bakery case. Since opening its doors decades ago, the bakery-café has become a destination for those seeking food made with intention and care.
Every dish tells a story, from locally-sourced ingredients to recipes passed down through generations. Whether you’re starting your day with a plate of fluffy pancakes or pausing for a leisurely lunch, the menu offers something for every palate.
The commitment to service, healthy options, and old-fashioned goodness is evident in every detail, making Calico Cupboard a treasured institution in Anacortes.
Breakfast Favorites
The breakfast menu at Calico Cupboard is a celebration of morning comfort and culinary craftsmanship. Early risers and brunch enthusiasts find themselves greeted by a wealth of choices, each prepared with the freshest ingredients and a touch of local flair.
From classic egg dishes to inventive vegetarian options, breakfast here is an experience worth savoring.
Signature offerings include fluffy buttermilk pancakes, hearty scrambles, and the ever-popular Eggs Benedict. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, with house-made breads and preserves adding a special touch to every plate.
The kitchen takes pride in using organic eggs and locally-sourced produce whenever possible, ensuring that every meal is both nourishing and flavorful.
For those seeking lighter fare, Calico Cupboard offers granola parfaits, steel-cut oats, and fresh fruit bowls. The bakery’s famous cinnamon rolls, served warm and drizzled with icing, are a must-try indulgence that keeps guests returning.
The variety ensures that whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or health-conscious, you’ll find a breakfast to match your mood.
- Organic Eggs: Used in all egg dishes for superior taste and nutrition
- Homemade Breads: Freshly baked daily, served with most breakfast plates
- Vegetarian Options: Scrambles, omelets, and skillet dishes cater to every preference
“Breakfast at Calico Cupboard feels like a warm hug on a chilly Anacortes morning.”
Bakery Delights
At the heart of Calico Cupboard lies its renowned bakery, which has earned a loyal following thanks to its irresistible selection of fresh-baked pastries, breads, and desserts. The aroma alone draws visitors in, while the display case tempts with an ever-changing assortment of treats.
The bakery prides itself on scratch-made recipes, using real butter, pure cane sugar, and unbleached flours. From flaky croissants to decadent carrot cake, every item is crafted with care and attention to detail.
Seasonal specialties, such as berry scones in the summer or pumpkin bread in the fall, keep the menu vibrant and reflective of the Pacific Northwest’s bounty.
Signature Pastries
One of the highlights is the legendary cinnamon roll—a pillowy swirl of dough, fragrant with cinnamon and topped with a generous layer of icing. The bakery also offers muffins, coffee cakes, and cookies that pair perfectly with a morning cup of locally-roasted coffee.
Gluten-free and vegan options are available, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Bakery Item | Features | Dietary Options |
Cinnamon Rolls | Soft, gooey, topped with vanilla icing | Traditional & Vegan |
Fruit Scones | Loaded with seasonal berries | Gluten-Free Available |
Carrot Cake | Moist, spiced, with cream cheese frosting | Vegetarian |
Honey Wheat Bread | Hearty, made with local honey | Vegan |
Freshness is the cornerstone of the bakery’s philosophy. Guests can even purchase loaves of bread to take home, making it easy to enjoy Calico Cupboard’s baking beyond the café itself.
Hearty Lunch Offerings
Lunch at Calico Cupboard is an invitation to slow down and savor homestyle flavors with a Pacific Northwest twist. The midday menu is robust and diverse, featuring everything from comforting soups and sandwiches to vibrant salads and savory quiches.
Sandwiches are a highlight, stacked high with premium ingredients and served on the bakery’s signature breads. Choices range from classic turkey and avocado to inventive vegetarian combinations featuring roasted vegetables and house-made hummus.
Each sandwich is accompanied by your choice of salad or cup of soup, ensuring a satisfying and balanced meal.
The café’s homemade soups are a customer favorite, changing daily to reflect seasonal ingredients. Favorites include hearty chicken noodle, creamy tomato basil, and vegetarian chili.
Salads are equally impressive, brimming with fresh greens, local produce, and house-made dressings.
- Sandwiches: Made with house-baked breads and local produce
- Soups: Rotating selection, always made from scratch
- Salads: Fresh, customizable, with protein add-ons available
- Quiches: Rich, savory, and baked fresh every morning
“Every lunch at Calico Cupboard is like a taste of home, no matter where you’re from.”
Vegetarian and Vegan Choices
A commitment to inclusivity is evident in Calico Cupboard’s extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan menu options. The kitchen goes beyond simply accommodating dietary needs, delivering inventive dishes that are as hearty and satisfying as their traditional counterparts.
Vegetarian scrambles and omelets are loaded with seasonal vegetables, herbs, and cheeses. Vegan pancakes and tofu scrambles ensure plant-based eaters never feel left out at breakfast.
For lunch, the menu features roasted vegetable sandwiches, vibrant grain bowls, and salads bursting with texture and flavor.
Vegan and Vegetarian Highlights
- Vegan Pancakes: Fluffy and filling, made with plant-based ingredients
- Tofu Scramble: Protein-packed and seasoned with fresh herbs
- Grain Bowls: A blend of quinoa, roasted veggies, and house dressing
- Vegetarian Quiche: Made with organic eggs and local vegetables
Every plant-based option is crafted to deliver full flavor and satisfying portions, proving that vegetarian and vegan cuisine can be both nourishing and indulgent.
Dish | Vegetarian | Vegan | Gluten-Free |
Vegan Pancakes | ✔ | Optional | |
Vegetarian Quiche | ✔ | Optional | |
Grain Bowl | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Tofu Scramble | ✔ | ✔ | Optional |
“Calico Cupboard’s commitment to plant-based options means everyone can dine together, no matter their dietary preferences.”
Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Menu
Understanding the importance of dietary needs, Calico Cupboard has curated a thoughtful selection of gluten-free and allergy-friendly dishes. The kitchen takes care to prevent cross-contamination, offering peace of mind to guests with food sensitivities.
Gluten-free breads, muffins, and pancakes are prepared daily, ensuring no one misses out on the bakery’s celebrated offerings. The lunch menu includes gluten-free sandwich options, hearty soups, and salads made with naturally gluten-free ingredients.
Dairy-free and nut-free choices are clearly marked for easy selection.
- Gluten-Free Pancakes: Made with a blend of rice and almond flours
- Allergy-Friendly Cookies: Dairy-free, nut-free, and just as delicious
- Customizable Salads: Build your own to avoid allergens
- Dedicated Preparation Area: Minimizes risk of cross-contact
Tips for Allergy-Sensitive Diners
For those with severe allergies, it’s recommended to notify your server upon arrival. The staff is trained to answer questions and accommodate special requests, making dining both safe and enjoyable.
“We take food allergies seriously—everyone deserves to enjoy a delicious meal without worry.” – Calico Cupboard Chef
With an ever-expanding array of allergy-friendly options, Calico Cupboard remains a welcoming destination for all.
Beverage Selection
No meal at Calico Cupboard is complete without sampling the thoughtfully curated beverage menu. From locally roasted coffee to fresh-squeezed juices, the drink selection is designed to complement every dish and satisfy every preference.
Coffee lovers will appreciate the café’s partnership with regional roasters, offering freshly brewed blends and specialty espresso drinks. The tea menu features both classic and herbal selections, perfect for a relaxing break.
For a morning pick-me-up, house-made chai lattes and hot chocolate are comforting favorites.
- Locally Roasted Coffee: Available in a variety of blends
- Specialty Lattes: Includes options like vanilla, caramel, and mocha
- Herbal Teas: Caffeine-free choices for a soothing sip
- Fresh Juices: Orange, apple, and seasonal blends
Comparing Beverage Choices
Beverage | Hot | Cold | Decaf |
House Coffee | ✔ | ✔ | |
Espresso Drinks | ✔ | ✔ (Iced) | ✔ |
Herbal Tea | ✔ | Optional | ✔ |
Fresh Juice | ✔ | ✔ |
“Our beverage menu is crafted to warm your heart and quench your thirst, no matter the season.”
Kids’ Menu and Family Dining
Calico Cupboard is a family-friendly destination, offering a dedicated kids’ menu that appeals to younger guests while maintaining the same commitment to quality and freshness. The environment is welcoming for families, with high chairs and friendly service ensuring everyone feels at home.
The kids’ menu features favorites like grilled cheese, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and kid-sized portions of pancakes and eggs. Healthy sides, such as fresh fruit or carrot sticks, are included to encourage balanced eating.
Beverages like milk or apple juice complete the offerings, making it easy for families to enjoy a stress-free meal together.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Made with bakery bread and real cheddar
- Mini Pancakes: Served with real maple syrup and fresh fruit
- Scrambled Eggs: Cooked to order with a choice of toast or muffin
- Healthy Sides: Fruit, carrot sticks, or applesauce
Family dining at Calico Cupboard is about more than just food—it’s about creating memories and traditions that last a lifetime.
“We love seeing families gather around our tables—good food is meant to be shared.”
Seasonal Specials and Local Sourcing
Calico Cupboard’s menu is a living reflection of the seasons, evolving throughout the year to showcase the bounty of the Pacific Northwest. From juicy berries in summer to hearty root vegetables in winter, each season brings new inspiration to the kitchen.
The café partners with local farms and producers, sourcing organic eggs, dairy, meats, and produce whenever possible. This commitment to local sourcing not only supports the community but also ensures the freshest flavors in every bite.
Seasonal specials, such as Dungeness crab benedict or autumn harvest salads, are eagerly anticipated by regulars.
Local Partnerships
- Organic Eggs: Sourced from regional farms
- Dairy Products: Delivered fresh from local creameries
- Seasonal Produce: Sourced weekly from area growers
“Our menu changes with the seasons, so every visit brings something new to discover.”
By embracing the flavors of the region and celebrating local partnerships, Calico Cupboard delivers a dining experience that is both authentic and sustainable.
Conclusion
Stepping into Calico Cupboard in Anacortes is like entering a comforting embrace—a place where tradition, community, and culinary artistry harmoniously converge. The menu stands as a testament to the values that have guided the café for decades: quality ingredients, mindful sourcing, and a passion for homemade goodness.
From sunrise breakfasts to leisurely lunches, every meal is prepared with care, bringing together flavors that comfort and inspire.
Whether you’re a local seeking your favorite cinnamon roll, a visitor craving a hearty Pacific Northwest breakfast, or a family searching for allergy-friendly fare, Calico Cupboard welcomes you with open arms.
The diverse menu, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere ensure every guest feels at home—no matter their tastes or dietary needs. With each bite, you experience more than just a meal; you become part of a beloved tradition that continues to nourish the Anacortes community and beyond.