Tucked into the Buttes above Tempe, Market Cafe blends desert drama with relaxing lakeside views. You can sip coffee near a natural rock waterfall and watch sunlight ripple across a peaceful lake below.
With a 4.6 star reputation and friendly servers who remember the little details, breakfast feels like a mini getaway. If you crave scenery with your omelet, this spot delivers both the taste and the view.
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Waterfall Dining Experience
Settle into a booth with water whispering beside you, and you will instantly slow down. The waterfall inside Market Cafe is more than decor, it is the soundtrack to an easygoing breakfast.
Watch the ripples catch morning light while servers glide past with steaming plates and refills.
You get the rare blend of indoor comfort and nature’s calm, all without leaving Tempe. Sound and sight mingle with warm aromas of coffee and toast.
It feels like the desert brought its own spa to brunch.
If you love a meal that also resets your mood, this scene handles it. Come early, ask for a waterfall view, and breathe deeply between bites.
Panoramic Lake and Desert Views
Look beyond your plate and the lake stretches like polished glass. The Buttes rise behind it, stacked in warm terracotta layers, catching soft sunrise glow.
Even on a quick coffee break, the view makes you linger an extra minute.
Angles change as clouds drift, and the water mirrors every shift. You might spot joggers tracing the trail lines below while you plan your day.
It is the kind of scenery that makes even simple eggs feel special.
Snag a table with the widest sightline if you can. Photos never do it justice, but you will take them anyway.
When you leave, the desert’s calm seems to follow you back to the car.
Breakfast Buffet Highlights
The breakfast buffet rotates, but staples stay reliable. Think fluffy scrambled eggs, bacon with crisp edges, country potatoes, and fresh fruit bowls that actually look fresh.
Juice is included, which feels rare and appreciated when you are waking up slowly.
There are pastries that flake properly and a few hot items that rotate seasonally. Coffee service runs steady so your mug stays attentive.
If you want a simple start before a Tempe outing, this spread does the job.
Yes, the price sits higher than basic hotel fare, but the setting and service smooth it over. Take a lake facing seat and go back for seconds.
Balance the plate with fruit and a pastry for a satisfying morning.
Made to Order Omelets
Omelets are a favorite here, especially when the station is running. Pick peppers, onions, mushrooms, bacon, ham, and multiple cheeses, then watch the skillet work its magic.
The results land tender, with just enough browning to keep things savory.
Pair it with salsa or a splash of hot sauce for a little morning spark. If you go lighter, ask for extra veggies and skip the meat, still satisfying.
The servers happily bring more toast or jam when you nod.
Timing matters, so go earlier for the shortest line. The omelet station makes breakfast feel personal and relaxed.
Get coffee topped up, scan the lake, and dig into a custom plate.
Signature Coffee and Specialty Drinks
House coffee is straightforward, but the specialty drinks are where you perk up. A bold latte or mocha complements the buttery pastries and savory plates.
Ask your server for recommendations if you want something playful and strong.
The staff is attentive about refills, which keeps the conversation flowing. If you are taking your time by the waterfall, a second cup is a must.
Try mixing a sweet sip with the salted edges of bacon for perfect balance.
Prefer tea or a mocktail twist in the morning. They accommodate without fuss.
Sit back, watch servers navigate the rock lined dining room, and let the warm mug and lake view team up to wake you gently.
Weekend Bloody Mary Bar
Weekends feel extra festive with the Bloody Mary bar. Build your glass with celery, olives, pickles, and a rim that bites back with spice.
It is playful, customizable, and perfect for a leisurely brunch overlooking water and rock.
If you like heat, layer hot sauce and pepper. Prefer mild, keep it crisp with citrus and herbs.
The presentation makes it a conversation starter, and you will probably take a photo before sipping.
Pair it with huevos or a hearty omelet to keep pace. The bar’s energy nudges brunch into celebration mode, even on a quiet Saturday.
Grab a patio seat, clink glasses, and toast the view.
All American Breakfast Plate
Sometimes you want the classic lineup. Eggs your way, bacon or sausage, seasoned potatoes, toast, and a little fruit.
At Market Cafe, this plate arrives hot, balanced, and portioned right for a morning with plans ahead.
The potatoes pick up a gentle crisp that holds under ketchup or hot sauce. Toast gets buttered promptly, and the jams bring a nostalgic note.
You can keep it simple or add avocado for a richer bite.
Take a sip of bold coffee, then fork into yolk and potatoes. It is the comforting standard that never argues with your appetite.
With the lake view beside you, it somehow tastes even better.
Breakfast Tacos Worth Sharing
Breakfast tacos appear often on guest favorites. Expect fluffy eggs tucked into soft tortillas with chorizo or bacon, plus pico and a creamy finish.
Squeeze lime over the top and you will wonder why you did not order more.
They are easy to split, making them great for the table. Ask for salsa on the side to dial in your heat level.
The texture mix clicks, from warm tortilla to crisp edges of filling.
Pair tacos with fruit for brightness or potatoes if you want bigger fuel. A lake facing seat turns a quick bite into a mini vacation.
Order a second round if your table gets quiet, that is a good sign.
Pastries and Sweets Selection
Follow your nose to the pastry spread. Croissants flake when you break them, muffins carry real crumb, and danishes show bright fruit without being cloying.
If you want a sweet finish after eggs, you are covered.
On holidays, expect a few fun twists like themed mini tarts. The staff will suggest pairings if you ask, often steering you toward a latte or bold drip coffee.
A small plate is perfect to share across the table.
Take your time and choose intentionally. The sunlight near the windows makes these treats look even more tempting.
Snap a quick photo, then claim your favorite before it disappears.
Service That Shines
Reviews keep calling out the team by name, and it matches the vibe in person. Servers move with purpose while still catching the small details.
Refills arrive before you ask, and special requests land without a fuss.
Birthdays get noticed, split platters get handled calmly, and kids receive patient attention. It is the kind of service that turns a good meal into a repeat tradition.
When someone remembers your coffee preference, you feel at home.
Hospitality pairs naturally with the scenic setting. You are here for views and comfort, and the staff makes both shine.
Leave a kind word and a good tip, they have earned it.
Pricing and Value Tips
Yes, prices can sit higher than a basic diner. You are paying for the waterfall ambience, lake views, and attentive service.
To balance budget and treat, go for the buffet when hungry or share pastries with a strong coffee.
If parking fees apply during events, consider valet when rates match. Early weekday mornings are calmer and sometimes feel like extra value.
The views are included either way, and that is part of the return.
Watch for holiday spreads if you like celebratory brunches. Those fill up fast, so call ahead.
In the end, value here includes scenery and mood, not just the plate.
Best Times to Visit
Doors open early, which works beautifully with the desert sunrise. Arrive around 7 to enjoy soft light, quiet tables, and the waterfall mostly to yourself.
Weekdays are especially peaceful before mid morning meetings roll in.
Weekends bring the Bloody Mary bar and a lively scene, great for celebrations. If you want a view booth, request it kindly when you check in.
The staff does their best to accommodate without overpromising.
Holiday brunches book up quickly. Reserve early, and plan extra time for parking during spring training or big events nearby.
Either way, the view is worth the effort.
Kid Friendly Comforts
Bring the kids without stress. Staff sets up high chairs, offers kid friendly suggestions, and keeps an eye on quick refills.
Simple sides like fruit cups and toast help picky eaters settle in.
Choose a booth near the waterfall for a fun distraction. The soothing sound keeps everyone calm while you eat.
If sharing, breakfast tacos or pancakes divide easily and make the table feel playful.
Pack a small activity and you will stay ahead of the wiggles. The view helps, too, with boats and reflections to point out.
It is a rare combo, scenic and genuinely easy with family.
Accessibility and Seating
Seating mixes booths, tables, and patio spots, so you can match the mood. Pathways are wide enough for comfortable movement, and staff helps with seating as needed.
If you prefer quieter corners, mention it and they guide you thoughtfully.
For waterfall views, ask early and be flexible. Lake facing patio seats are popular when weather cooperates, especially during spring.
Indoors, the rock walls and windows create a dramatic but cozy feel.
You will find it easy to settle into your morning rhythm here. Whether you want bright sun or a shaded nook, there is a spot that fits.
Take a breath, then let breakfast unfold.
Parking and Arrival Pointers
Market Cafe sits inside the Marriott at The Buttes, so follow resort signage up the hill. Depending on events, parking may be paid, and valet can match the rate.
Give yourself a few extra minutes to stroll through the scenic pathways.
The short walk sets the tone, with desert landscaping and stone accents guiding you in. Arrive early during spring training or holidays to avoid backup.
The lobby route to the cafe is straightforward and clearly marked.
When you reach the host stand, ask about waterfall or lake views. Communication helps them seat you where you will be happiest.
Then relax, you made it to breakfast with a view.
What To Order First Time
First visit. Start with coffee and share a pastry to wake your taste buds.
Then choose either the omelet built your way or the All American plate for a reliable baseline.
If you prefer a little kick, breakfast tacos with salsa and lime shine. On weekends, add a Bloody Mary and linger for the view.
Ask your server for lake or waterfall seating, then settle in.
Leave room for a sweet bite at the end. A danish or mini tart pairs beautifully with a final sip.
You will walk out already planning visit number two.
Holidays and Special Occasions
Holiday brunches turn the cafe into a celebration zone. Expect elevated presentations, extra desserts, and a buzzy energy that suits family gatherings.
Reservations are smart, especially for Easter or Mother’s Day.
Prices can rise for special menus, so plan with that in mind. The upside is variety and the chance to make memories with a dramatic backdrop.
Staff handles large parties with practiced ease and warm smiles.
Bring a camera for the view and a bit of patience during peak seating. The waterfall helps everyone relax while waiting.
Once seated, clink glasses and enjoy the seasonal spread.
Local Feel, Resort Ease
This spot threads a nice needle, serving locals and travelers without losing its soul. You get resort ease, polished service, and a space shaped by Tempe’s desert character.
Rock walls, water, and wide views make it feel rooted in place.
It is perfect when hosting out of town guests who want a taste of Arizona scenery. Locals come for the calm and consistent breakfasts.
The mood encourages conversation that stretches longer than planned.
In a rush. They handle quick stops too.
But given the setting, you will probably slow down, breathe, and let the Buttes do their quiet work.
How To Reserve and Contact
Booking is simple. Call the resort line or visit the Marriott dining page for Market Cafe.
If you want waterfall or lake seating, note the request politely so the team can try accommodating.
Hours run mornings into early afternoon, with earlier openings on weekdays. Check for holiday adjustments and special menus.
If you are coordinating a group, confirm parking details and arrival plan.
Keep the number handy, +1 602-225-9000, and save the website link for updates. A quick call before you arrive can save waiting.
Then you are set for breakfast with a view.
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