Best Breakfast Restaurants in the US: Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day, and finding the perfect spot to enjoy a morning meal can elevate your entire travel experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the best breakfast restaurants in the US, from cozy diners to upscale cafes, ensuring you start your day right wherever your travels take you.
Table of Contents
1. The Original Pancake House, Portland, Oregon
The Original Pancake House is a beloved institution known for its exceptional breakfast offerings. Founded in 1953, this iconic restaurant has become a staple for locals and tourists.
Must-Try Dishes
- Apple Pancake: A large, fluffy pancake filled with sautéed apples and cinnamon sugar.
- Dutch Baby: A light and airy pancake served with lemon, butter, and powdered sugar.
- Buttermilk Pancakes: Classic pancakes made with a secret recipe that has been passed down through generations.
Atmosphere
The Original Pancake House offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families and solo travelers alike. The rustic décor and friendly staff make for a delightful dining experience.
2. Blue Heaven, Key West, Florida
Blue Heaven is a quirky, laid-back restaurant located in the heart of Key West. Known for its eclectic ambiance and delicious breakfast menu, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to the area.
Must-Try Dishes
- Lobster Benedict: Freshly caught lobster served on a toasted English muffin with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce.
- Banana Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes filled with ripe bananas and topped with whipped cream.
- Rooster Special: A hearty breakfast plate featuring eggs, bacon, sausage, and home fries.
Atmosphere
Blue Heaven’s open-air seating, colorful décor, and live chickens roaming the property create a unique and unforgettable dining experience. The laid-back vibe is perfect for a leisurely breakfast.
3. Brennan’s, New Orleans, Louisiana
Brennan’s is a historic restaurant located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Renowned for its elegant setting and innovative breakfast dishes, Brennan’s offers a luxurious start to your day.
Must-Try Dishes
- Eggs Hussarde: Poached eggs served on house-made English muffins with Canadian bacon, hollandaise, and marchand de vin sauce.
- Bananas Foster: A classic New Orleans dessert turned breakfast dish, featuring bananas sautéed in butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and rum, served over vanilla ice cream.
- Turtle Soup: A rich and savory soup made with snapping turtle meat, vegetables, and sherry.
Atmosphere
Brennan’s offers a sophisticated dining experience with its elegant décor, attentive service, and charming courtyard. It’s the perfect spot for a special breakfast or brunch.
4. Huckleberry, Santa Monica, California
Huckleberry is a popular bakery and café in Santa Monica, known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and delicious breakfast options.
Must-Try Dishes
- Green Eggs and Ham: House-made English muffins topped with prosciutto, arugula, pesto, and poached eggs.
- Quinoa Breakfast Bowl: A healthy and flavorful bowl featuring quinoa, seasonal vegetables, avocado, and a poached egg.
- Maple-Bacon Biscuit: A sweet and savory biscuit filled with crispy bacon and topped with maple glaze.
Atmosphere
Huckleberry offers a bright and airy dining space with a casual yet stylish vibe. The friendly staff and cozy setting make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
5. Russ & Daughters Café, New York City, New York
Russ & Daughters Café is a beloved New York City institution, known for its Jewish-American cuisine and exceptional breakfast menu.
Must-Try Dishes
- Bagel and Lox: A classic combination of hand-rolled bagels, smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and onions.
- Latkes: Crispy potato pancakes served with sour cream and applesauce.
- Eggs with Nova Scotia Salmon: Scrambled eggs mixed with smoked salmon and served with a bagel and cream cheese.
Atmosphere
The café offers a charming, old-world ambiance with its vintage décor and friendly service. It’s a great place to experience a taste of New York City’s culinary heritage.
6. Mother’s Bistro & Bar, Portland, Oregon
Mother’s Bistro & Bar is a cozy restaurant in downtown Portland, that offers comfort food made from scratch. It’s a favorite spot for a hearty and satisfying breakfast.
Must-Try Dishes
- Mother’s Meatloaf Hash: A delicious hash made with house-made meatloaf, potatoes, onions, and topped with poached eggs.
- Biscuits and Gravy: Fluffy biscuits smothered in rich sausage gravy.
- Wild Salmon Hash: Fresh wild salmon mixed with potatoes, and onions, and topped with poached eggs.
Atmosphere
Mother’s Bistro & Bar features a warm and inviting atmosphere, with vintage décor and a homey feel. It’s the perfect place for a comforting and delicious breakfast.
7. The Bongo Room, Chicago, Illinois
The Bongo Room is a trendy breakfast and brunch spot in Chicago, known for its creative and indulgent dishes.
Must-Try Dishes
- White Chocolate Pretzel Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes topped with white chocolate sauce, caramel, and crushed pretzels.
- Breakfast Burrito: A hearty burrito filled with eggs, chorizo, and black beans, and topped with salsa and avocado.
- Chocolate Tower French Toast: Thick slices of French toast layered with chocolate and topped with whipped cream.
Atmosphere
The Bongo Room offers a modern and stylish dining space, with a lively atmosphere and friendly staff. It’s a great spot for a fun and indulgent breakfast.
8. Fable, San Francisco, California
Fable is a charming restaurant in San Francisco’s Castro district, known for its farm-to-table breakfast dishes and beautiful garden patio.
Must-Try Dishes
- Dungeness Crab Benedict: Fresh crab served on an English muffin with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce.
- Lemon Ricotta Pancakes: Light and fluffy pancakes with a hint of lemon, served with fresh berries and maple syrup.
- Shakshuka: A flavorful dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce, served with crusty bread.
Atmosphere
Fable’s garden patio offers a serene and picturesque setting for breakfast, with lush greenery and comfortable seating. The indoor dining space is equally inviting, with a cozy and stylish ambiance.
9. The Breakfast Klub, Houston, Texas
The Breakfast Klub is a popular breakfast spot in Houston, known for its Southern-inspired dishes and friendly atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes
- Wings and Waffles: Crispy fried chicken wings served with a fluffy Belgian waffle.
- Catfish and Grits: Southern-style catfish served with creamy grits.
- Pork Chops and Eggs: Juicy pork chops served with eggs, toast, and home fries.
Atmosphere
The Breakfast Klub offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere, colorful décor, and a bustling vibe. It’s a great place to enjoy a hearty and satisfying breakfast.
10. Tupelo Honey, Asheville, North Carolina
Tupelo Honey is a beloved restaurant in Asheville, offering Southern comfort food with a modern twist. It’s a must-visit spot for breakfast lovers.
Must-Try Dishes
- Fried Chicken and Biscuits: Crispy fried chicken served on fluffy biscuits with honey and house-made pickles.
- Sweet Potato Pancakes: Delicious pancakes made with sweet potatoes and topped with pecan butter and spiced pecans.
- Shrimp and Grits: A flavorful dish of shrimp sautéed with onions, and peppers, and served over creamy grits.
Atmosphere
Tupelo Honey offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with rustic décor and a friendly staff. The cozy setting and delicious food make it a favorite among locals and visitors.
Conclusion: Best Breakfast Restaurants in the US
Exploring the best breakfast restaurants in the US is a delightful journey, offering a taste of the diverse culinary traditions across the country. Whether you’re enjoying classic pancakes in Portland, savoring a lobster benedict in Key West, or indulging in Southern comfort food in Asheville, these restaurants ensure a memorable start to your day. So, the next time you’re planning a trip, be sure to add these breakfast spots to your itinerary for an unforgettable dining experience.