If you've ever driven to the coast from Eugene along Highway 126, you've probably noticed the old timey building on the side of the highway that looks like a gingerbread house and thought, "What is that place?" I've passed it a few times myself and thought, "I'm going to have to stop in there one of these days." Let me tell you, Old World Gingerbread Village is worth the visit, especially if you're looking for a classic breakfast, sweet stuffed French toast overflowing with toppings, or a great burger at lunch time.

Old World Gingerbread Village Near Mapleton, Oregon

You'll find Old World Gingerbread Village just two minutes down the highway from Mapleton. This charming little restaurant has been around since 1966 and is the epitome of a cozy, family-style restaurant. Walking inside is a bit like walking into grandma's house and being surrounded by the delicious smells of good home cooking.

The Quintessential Breakfast Spot, With A Twist

There's a lot of awesome food made with love at Old World Gingerbread Village, and if you want a tasty omelet or biscuits and gravy, this is your spot. This is also the spot for those with a sweet tooth looking for just the right thing to satisfy their cravings.

When you go inside during the breakfast rush, you're going to notice a lot of people with one of two things on their plate: a huge cinnamon roll or a huge plate of French toast drizzled in sauce that looks more like a gourmet dessert than breakfast. When you see table after table with the same thing, you know it's going to be good.

The cinnamon rolls are gooey creations baked to perfection, and are the kind of classic dish you'd expect from a cozy restaurant nestled in the trees that looks like a gingerbread house.

We definitely recommend the cinnamon roll if you're there early when they're fresh.

Our favorite thing to get during breakfast is the Gingerbread Stuffed French Toast, which is one of the dishes this place is known for. Not only is it a local favorite, but people stop in on their way to and from the coast just for this specialty.

This massive gingerbread batter fried French toast is topped with whipped cream and your choice of lemon curd (my favorite) or blackberry or strawberry sauce and filled with cream cheese filling. This is the stuff of legend.

It's delicious and the French toast alone is going to leave you wanting to come back every single time you're heading down Highway 126 to the coast.

Towering Burgers And Golden Fish And Chips

For those stopping by later in the day, the lunch menu doesn't disappoint.

The fish and chips are a crispy, golden delight, while the Mapleton Burger, with its tower of onion rings, bacon, and all the fixings, is a masterpiece in itself.

Don't forget to try the homemade clam chowder or one of the mouthwatering sandwiches for a midday pick-me-up.

Old World Gingerbread Village Information

• Location: 12300 Highway 126 in Mapleton, Oregon.

• Hours:
  • Thursday - Monday 10 AM - 6 PM
  • Closed Tuesday and Wednesday
• Get more information and updated hours on the Old World Gingerbread Village website.

Old World Gingerbread Village stands as a shining example of local businesses that we love in Oregon. If you’ve got a favorite spot or business in mind, don’t hesitate to nominate them—they might just be highlighted in an upcoming feature for That Oregon Life. Be sure to stay connected with That Oregon Life on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on the most remarkable destinations, attractions, and happenings in the Beaver State.