I was warmly welcomed in to the cafe and had a wonderful chat with the owner! I can in a stranger and left as a friend. My breakfast was great and the coffee flowed freely. I liked everything about my visit from the music to the food. I will definitely be back!

I stopped by Great Lakes Café for the first time today and had a fantastic experience! I ordered a turkey sausage croissant with egg and cheese to go, and let me just say — it was delicious! The croissant was huge, buttery, and flaky, and the portion was definitely a great value for the price. What really stood out, though, was the amazing customer service. Cindy, who took my order (and who I later found out is the owner!), was incredibly friendly and welcoming. She asked if it was my first time visiting, gave great menu recommendations, and even shared that she’s been running this location for 31 years — a true testament to quality and consistency. This place is a hidden gem with great food, warm hospitality, and a cozy vibe. You can dine in or take your order to go like I did, but either way, you’re in for a treat. I’ll definitely be back!

If any spot deserves to be called a Gary landmark, it’s Great Lakes Café. The food is classic, hearty, and always cooked with care — from breakfast staples to their incredible lunch specials. The place has that welcoming, old-school neighborhood feel that reminds you what community dining is all about. Beyond the food, what really makes it special are the people. The staff — including some of the most charming and beautiful Greek women you’ll ever meet — treat everyone like family. Their hospitality gives the café its heart and soul.

Incredible family owned restaurant. Stopped by on a road trip and we are so glad we bypassed the chain restaurants. The atmosphere is fun and quirky. The food is good. I enjoyed the house dressing and my daughter loved the pancakes. The best part is the family who owns and operates it!! Such nice and welcoming people. 😀

Great Lakes Diner is a true gem for anyone who appreciates hearty food served with a warm smile. From the moment you walk in, the friendly staff makes you feel right at home. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, their welcoming attitude sets a tone of comfort and care that's hard to find elsewhere. The breakfast here is exceptional — perfectly cooked eggs, crispy bacon, golden hash browns, and fluffy pancakes that hit the spot every time. It's clear the kitchen takes pride in getting the classics just right. The coffee is always hot and fresh, making it the perfect start to any day. A standout on the menu, surprisingly, is their split pea soup. Rich, savory, and packed with flavor, it tastes like something lovingly made in a home kitchen. The texture is just right — thick but not heavy — and it's seasoned beautifully. It’s the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out. Great Lakes Diner combines great food, genuine hospitality, and cozy charm in a way that keeps you coming back. Whether you're stopping in for a quick bite or lingering over coffee, it’s the kind of place that quickly feels like a favorite.

On our way through town and stopped for a quick lunch. They were very hospitable and I highly recommend the patty melt.

We were passing through and found this place to stop. The breakfast was very good and its really cool looking inside. The people there were so nice and gave us some places to try and advice for our Chicago visit.