Comfort Food: Waffles and Pancakes

Check out the best comfort food West Michigan has to offer:

- Desserts
- Pizza
- Entrees
- Soups and Stews
- Mac 'n' cheese

Nothing says 'Good morning' like some carb-loaded pastries slathered in butter, syrup and powdered sugar. Whether you're just waking up, or trying to soak up the alcohol after a night at the bar, here are some must-try pancakes.

BELGIAN WAFFLES at UNCLE ERNIE'S PANCAKE HOUSE
A favorite breakfast spot among locals, Uncle Ernie's has been satiating its morning customers with homey goodness since 1959. The pancakes surely won't disappoint, but why not switch things up and try the Belgian waffles instead? Four kinds await your selection: plain, chocolate chip, pecan and banana nut.

Uncle Ernie's Pancake House 4005 Portage St., Kalamazoo

VICTORIA UPTON at WOLFGANG'S RESTAURANT
Feed a twofold craving for breakfast and dessert with this sweet drink-and-dine special. Hot coffee topped with whipped cream and cocoa dust mingles perfectly with fluffy tiramisu pancakes layered with mascarpone filling. It's a Hall of Fame favorite at this perpetually buzzing joint.

Wolfgang's Restaurant 1530 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids

PIGS IN A BLANKET at CORNERVIEW CAFÉ
If you're in the mood for sweet and savory in the same delicious mouthful, stop by this mom-and-pop diner and order the 'a.m.' version of Pigs in a Blanket: sausage links stuffed in between two warm pancakes. Now isn't that simpler than ordering both items separately?

Cornerview Café 643 N. Riverview Dr., Parchment

OTTO'S FAMILY FARM CHICKEN & WAFFLES at THE GREEN WELL
Southern comfort meets local pride in this filling dish. A cornmeal-crusted and pan-fried chicken breast is paired with a cornbread waffle, bourbon maple syrup and Michigan red bean sweet potato hash. Save your daytime appetite for this fare—it's available at dinnertime only.

The Green Well 924 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids

PANUKAKKU at MARIE CATRIB'S
The unusual name refers to Finnish pancakes, a slight variation of what you may expect. A crispy surface gives way to a soft, custard-like filling. Homemade jam and seasoned potatoes are served on the side. Panukakku may be lighter than its American counterpart, but no less gratifying.

Marie Catrib's 1001-1003 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids