December 1, 2024

The Tastiest Breakfasts You Should Try in Philadelphia

Rise and shine at Philadelphia's joyful breakfast nooks, where you can enjoy chocolatey pancakes or carefully-prepared egg dishes that make every morning extra special and tasty.

Richard Gargan
Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
Pennsylvania
The Tastiest Breakfasts You Should Try in Philadelphia
Editor's Note: Brunch Expert is supported by our readers. We sometimes earn commissions when you click through to restaurants or affiliate links.

Breakfast time in Philadelphia is an exciting experience! You can try different cooking styles that have been loved for years. Enjoy the friendly mood of the places and taste carefully-prepared dishes that make your mornings special.

Cafe La Maude

816 N 4th St, Philadelphia

(267) 318-7869

Reviewed by:

Vicky Selvan

Cafe La Maude in Philly is a wonderful spot for breakfast and brunch. I really enjoy sitting outside because it gives a cozy vibe that I prefer over the indoors. The menu offers a great variety, and I've been eager to try different dishes for a while now. I visited on a busy Saturday and had to wait around 20 minutes for a table, but the service was quick and attentive, which made up for the wait. The waitress was friendly and courteous throughout our meal. I decided to try the Le Fou Sandwich, and it was a fantastic choice—a soft brioche bun filled with delicious steak. My friend opted for pancakes topped with strawberry cream, which I don't usually go for, but they were surprisingly tasty. The French toast here is a standout, thick and fluffy with a perfect caramelization, topped with fresh berries and powdered sugar. It's become a favorite of mine. The bustling atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a Parisian feel right in Philly. Despite being busy, the staff handles the rush well, and the experience is always worth the wait. Their lattes are smooth and a perfect complement to the meal. Cafe La Maude has become a favorite weekend spot for me, and I highly recommend giving it a try if you're in Philadelphia. The combination of a great menu, cozy atmosphere, and attentive service makes it a must-visit.

Sabrina's Cafe

1804 Callowhill St, Philadelphia

(215) 636-9061

Reviewed by:

Pablo Gory

Sabrina's Cafe is my go-to spot for breakfast and brunch in Philadelphia. I’m there with my dogs at least twice a week, and every visit is a treat. The food and coffee are consistently fantastic, and the staff is amazing. The service is always fast, and the servers check in at just the right times, so you never feel neglected or rushed. I’ve tried the avocado toast a couple of times, and while it might not blow your mind, it’s a solid choice—simple and satisfying with avocado spread, pickled onion, and a poached egg (I always order two extra). The toast could be toasted more thoroughly, but that’s a minor point. The addition of hand sanitizer at each table is a thoughtful touch that I appreciate. On weekends, it gets busy after 10 AM, but the team works hard to get everyone seated quickly. Even with the packed house, the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. The crew seems to genuinely enjoy working together, which makes for a pleasant dining experience. The menu is well-curated, offering a good mix of classic dishes and fun specials. The portion sizes can be large, especially the home fries on the side, but that’s a good problem to have. While the place can get loud, if you’re in the mood for a lively brunch spot, Sabrina’s is definitely for you. Clean, efficient, and always a pleasure, this cafe hits all the marks—and I’ll keep coming back for more.

Cafe Lift

1124 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia

(215) 922-3031

Reviewed by:

Lupe Upkins

I visited Cafe Lift in Philly for brunch with friends, and it was a fantastic experience! The place was bustling and lively, and although we had to wait about 15-20 minutes to be seated, the vibrant atmosphere made it enjoyable. I tried the shakshuka for the first time, and it was a delightful surprise—rich and light, perfectly portioned, and inspiring me to explore more unique brunch options. The presentation of both the food and drinks was impressive. While the service was a bit hard to get due to the crowd, the servers were friendly, and our food and drinks arrived together. The seasonal beverages like the hot cider and turmeric were quick to arrive and tasted wonderful. I also loved their dirty chai and breakfast burrito, which are now on my must-have list. It's a bit on the pricey side, but the quality and creativity make it worth it. I appreciated that I could swap the fried egg for a poached one on my avocado toast, which was perfectly executed on sourdough bread. While I wish they took reservations, the short wait was manageable, and overall, the service was excellent. Cafe Lift has quickly become one of my favorite brunch spots, and I highly recommend it. We'll definitely be back!

Brunch N

1301 Vine St, Philadelphia

(267) 861-0281

Reviewed by:

Brad Hileman

Brunch N in Philly truly impressed me! My server, Lexie, was attentive and friendly, making sure everything was just right. The entire staff exuded positivity, contributing to a top-notch dining experience. The food was absolutely delicious, offering a wide range of flavorful options for any palate. The chicken was crispy and tender, the French toast was perfectly fluffy, and the savory sides were spot on. The place had a relaxing, homey vibe that made the visit even more enjoyable. On another visit, Jay was our waitress, and she was equally wonderful—very informative and pleasant, guiding us through the menu with great insights. I tried the hazelnut pancakes and shrimp and grits, both of which were amazing. The presentation, wait time, and food temperature were all perfect. The place itself is charming, with a diner-like atmosphere where you can catch a glimpse of the kitchen. It's a lively spot with a friendly vibe, ideal for a Sunday morning brunch. Overall, Brunch N is a fantastic spot with excellent food and service. Highly recommended!

Coffeeland

1401 W Erie Ave, Philadelphia

(215) 227-0514

Reviewed by:

Charles Santa

Coffeeland is my go-to spot for breakfast in Philadelphia. The service here is top-notch; our server was efficient, polite, and checked on us regularly. The food came out exactly as ordered and was excellent. I asked for well-done bacon and home fries, and they nailed it. This place opens at a convenient time, and it's always clean and fast. I absolutely love their breakfast sandwiches, especially the beef bacon, egg, and cheese. I usually have to get two of them because they're that good. Pairing them with a side of cheese grits, which are always thick and perfectly cheesy, just makes my morning. What makes Coffeeland stand out is the sense of community; it feels like a classic neighborhood breakfast spot with local folks. They offer pork, turkey, and beef bacon, so there's something for everyone. Plus, the food is consistently great and affordable. It's no-frills, but that's part of its charm—just remember to bring cash. Overall, excellent food, excellent service, and reasonable prices make Coffeeland the only place I'll eat breakfast.

OWL Breakfast & Lunch

1424 Cecil B. Moore Ave, Philadelphia

(215) 232-2326

Reviewed by:

Carmelo Alonso

I visited OWL Breakfast & Lunch and it was a 10/10 experience! The food was absolutely amazing, with a great selection for brunch. The staff was friendly and welcoming; I was greeted as soon as I walked in and seated right away. Rhonda, our server, was attentive and so friendly, making the visit even more enjoyable. The bathrooms were clean, which is always a plus. The shrimp and grits stood out as exceptional, truly deserving of ten stars instead of just five. The prices were affordable, making it an excellent choice for anyone in the area. If you’re near Temple University, this hidden gem is a must-visit. I'll definitely be returning and recommending it to all my friends!

Sun Happy Breakfast

2851 N 22nd St, Philadelphia

(215) 223-2382

Reviewed by:

Frank Roddy

Sun Happy Breakfast in North Philadelphia has become my go-to spot for breakfast, and I couldn't be happier. The prices are affordable, and the portions are generous, making it a great value for money. The food is consistently good, whether dining in or taking out. I appreciate the decent service, and the place is always clean. While the prices can vary slightly, the quality and taste of the food make it worth it. Despite some fluctuations in pricing, this place is a reliable and satisfying choice for breakfast.

Lee's Breakfast

3152 N Broad St, Philadelphia

(215) 227-1000

Reviewed by:

Leydi Chen-Li

Lee's Breakfast in Philadelphia offers one of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had. I ordered the grits, hash, eggs, pork sausage, and toast with butter and jelly, along with some salt and pepper. The food was delicious, especially the breakfast entrees. While there’s no dine-in option, they make up for it with their fast service and friendly staff. The coffee was satisfying, and the prices are great. Although the toast was a bit cold and the eggs could have been cooked a little longer, these are small issues compared to the overall quality. The location isn’t the best as parking is tough, and North Philly can feel unsafe at times, but it’s well-trafficked due to its proximity to Temple Dental School. Plus, there’s an ATM inside, which can be handy. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a visit. Five stars!

E-Z Brunch

1540 Pratt St, Philadelphia

(215) 533-2151

Reviewed by:

Brandy Marmolejo

E-Z Brunch is my go-to spot for breakfast in Philadelphia, and I absolutely love it! The food here is consistently amazing, and the steak and eggs are a standout for me with tender steak and perfectly seasoned everything. The staff really makes this place special; they're always fast and friendly, which is refreshing in the morning. Veronica is always smiling and welcoming, and Brandy is incredible at her job—quick and efficient. Melissa has been there forever, and she seems to know every customer and their order by heart. Even though prices have gone up a bit, it’s understandable given the economy. The warm greeting from the waitresses when I walk in and their kind words as I leave always brighten my day. I’ve been stopping by on my way to work for the past two years, and they never fail to put a smile on my face. This place always cheers me up, and I can't wait to go back!

Sunnyside Breakfast

7706 Ogontz Ave, Philadelphia

(215) 224-2339

Reviewed by:

Abdulazeez Cruz

Sunnyside, located off Ogontz Ave in Philadelphia, has become my go-to breakfast spot before my morning haircuts, and it consistently delivers a great experience. The menu offers a fantastic variety that caters to any craving, but my favorite is the turkey bacon sandwich on a long roll. It's so delicious that I've recommended it to friends, and they've become fans too! Their home fries are exceptional as well—crispy and perfectly seasoned, making them a must-have. What truly sets Sunnyside apart, aside from the tasty food, is the diverse and friendly staff. They always make me feel welcome, contributing to the overall great vibe of the place. While it can get busy during peak times, ordering ahead by phone or online about 30 minutes in advance solves the wait issue. It's definitely worth it! Sunnyside is undoubtedly one of the best breakfast spots in Philly. Whether it’s the Philly steak omelette with hash browns or a simple cup of coffee, every visit is satisfying. Can't wait for my next meal there!

Point Breakfast Restaurant

1438 Point Breeze Ave, Philadelphia

(215) 551-7170

Reviewed by:

Donnie Aguilar Solano

Point Breakfast Restaurant in South Philly is my go-to spot for breakfast. Their turkey bacon, egg, and cheese on a small croissant is simply delicious. The breakfast platters are reasonably priced, and the service is consistently quick and friendly. I come here three or four times a week, and the staff always remembers my usual order, which makes the experience even better. If you're looking for excellent taste and efficient service, this is the place to be.

J Breakfast

6227 Lancaster Ave, Philadelphia

(215) 877-7997

Reviewed by:

Sidinei Villa

I recently moved to the area and finally had the chance to try J Breakfast, and I'm so glad I did. The service was fantastic, with the wait staff being attentive and friendly without being intrusive. The atmosphere was busy but pleasantly quiet, which added to the overall experience. The food was truly the highlight—everything was fresh, cooked perfectly, and served quickly. It's clear they know what they're doing in the kitchen. The grits were creamy and smooth, just the way I like them. Even the small details were spot on. Each trip there has been consistently great, and it’s quickly become my favorite breakfast spot. I can’t recommend J Breakfast enough and will definitely be back next time I’m in Philadelphia.

Tate's Good Food Restaurant

8419 Torresdale Ave, Philadelphia

(215) 332-4774

Reviewed by:

Deana Madariaga

I found this place while searching for breakfast spots nearby on Google, and I'm so glad I decided to try it. Being pregnant, I had a serious craving for cheesy grits, and this restaurant hit the spot. Walking in, I immediately felt at home, just like being back in Delaware. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and everyone there was genuinely nice and welcoming. Our food arrived quickly, and everything was delicious. The server was incredibly understanding of my pregnancy cravings—you know, those quirky ones like ice and cinnamon—and didn't judge at all. The pancakes were definitely the highlight of the meal. It's a quaint little diner in NE Philadelphia with good food, great prices, and excellent service. For two people, our total was just $30, which is a great deal. I can honestly say I wish I could eat here every day. The positive energy and the quality of the food make it a lovely place to dine. Thanks for a wonderful experience, and I’ll definitely be coming back!

Triple Joy

2301 N 29th St, Philadelphia

(215) 227-8888

Reviewed by:

La Suzuki

Triple Joy for breakfast in Philadelphia has become my go-to spot whenever I'm in the city. I've been there twice over a weekend and have been consistently impressed by the friendly and professional staff. Despite being busy, the restaurant is very organized, and my food was served quickly on both visits. Their breakfast offerings are delicious and fresh. The home fries are superb, and the Belgian waffles are a must-try. I also enjoyed the fried eggs, whole wheat toast, turkey sausage, and turkey bacon. For a perfect start to the day, don't miss out on their tea. It's a bit on the pricey side for a neighborhood eatery, but the quality of food and service makes it worth every penny. Whenever I'm in Philly, I'll definitely be visiting this place again.

Kingstone Restaurant - Breakfast & Lunch

2250 N 29th St, Philadelphia

(215) 236-9955

Reviewed by:

Alba Ines Chun

Having lived in this neighborhood my entire life, I've always been impressed by Kingstone Restaurant - Breakfast & Lunch. This place has been a consistent staple since my youth. The breakfast here is exactly what you want – perfectly cooked and seasoned just right. Sometimes, the portions are so generous that I can't finish the entire platter. While the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood might not appeal to everyone, there's no denying the quality of the food here. I usually order through DoorDash when I'm off work, and my food always arrives fast and hot. It's easily the best breakfast I've had in a long time. The grits, corned beef, and pancakes are must-tries, though the salmon cakes were decent but still worth a shot. I remember delivering to this spot once, and the delicious aroma hit me as soon as I walked in. While waiting for the paperwork, I decided to grab a breakfast platter with two eggs, scrapple, wheat toast, and grits, which also came with a drink. It was priced fairly and definitely hit the spot. Just thinking about it makes me wish it was on my route today!

The Angry Waffle

1236 N 52nd St, Philadelphia

(215) 477-0808

Reviewed by:

Brenda Aris

I was in West Philly for work and needed a quick lunch to grab and go. I stumbled upon The Angry Waffle and was impressed by the convenient street parking right in front. I decided to try their burger, and it was absolutely delicious! I honestly wasn’t expecting much, but the flavors were fantastic. I went for the works with mayo, ketchup, mustard, and Cheddar. While it’s not a gourmet burger from a fine dining restaurant, it was surprisingly good and definitely worth the price. If you like your fries extra crispy, I recommend asking for them well-done. It was my first time trying this small local breakfast spot, so I ordered a platter with 2 eggs over easy, bacon, home fries, and toast, plus a hot tea. The total came to $8.50, which is a great deal for the amount of food you get. While some items like the bacon and home fries weren’t perfect, the overall experience was satisfying. One thing to note is that this place is CASH ONLY, so be prepared. I placed my order in person, and it got quite busy after I returned, so I would highly suggest calling ahead to avoid waiting in the crowd. Despite a few small hiccups, the food was good, and I'll definitely be back for more of that tasty burger.

Breakfast Time

5738 Old York Rd, Philadelphia

(215) 424-5180

Reviewed by:

Amany Melancon

Listen! The food at Breakfast Time in Philadelphia is so good. I haven't had any issues with the staff; the customer service is on point. I usually call in my orders, and the wait time is minimal. My go-to is the veggie omelet with cheddar cheese and home fries. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. It's all hits, no misses. Get there ASAP, and remember they close before 2 PM and are closed on Sundays. We were in Philadelphia for a few days and decided to try this place because it was nearby. I highly recommend it—the food is excellent, and it’s priced well. We tried the Belgian waffle, bacon egg and cheese sandwich, and home fries, and everything was fantastic. The people running the place are extremely friendly and welcoming. They really contributed to making our Philadelphia visit enjoyable. I come here sometimes, but there's an older lady at the front who's a bit rude when taking orders. It's not great dealing with her, so they might want to keep her in the back preparing food. Otherwise, the staff is friendly, and the omelets are excellent.

Sunrise Breakfast

1916 Washington Ln, Philadelphia

(215) 548-1109

Reviewed by:

Colter Payne

Sunrise Breakfast in Philadelphia exceeded my expectations with its welcoming atmosphere and great staff. The team there made us feel right at home with their friendly demeanor, which added a personal touch to our visit. The food was consistently fresh and tasty, reflecting their commitment to quality. Although the prices were a bit higher than I anticipated, the satisfying flavors and attentive service made it worthwhile. It felt like a place you’d want to visit time and again, knowing you’ll be greeted with a smile and enjoy a good meal. The experience was genuine, and I left with a positive impression that lingered long after breakfast was over.

IHOP

1320 Walnut St, Philadelphia

(215) 732-1726

Reviewed by:

Megan Cervantes

IHOP in Philadelphia turned out to be a great spot for breakfast. When I visited, I was impressed by the welcoming atmosphere, and the waitress we had was incredibly nice and attentive. She checked on us frequently, making sure everything was alright, which I appreciated. The highlight of my meal was the steak tips with mushrooms and onions. They were cooked a bit more than I prefer, but the flavors were fantastic. The sausage was also quite good. Although there were a few hiccups with our order—like the wrong kind of pancakes and eggs for my partner—the staff was accommodating. The waitress even gave us extra paper for playing hangman, which was a thoughtful touch. It’s a good idea to stick to breakfast items here, as those seemed to be the best. Despite a few small issues, I left feeling satisfied with the food and service. If you're in the area, the IHOP in Philadelphia is definitely worth a visit for a comforting breakfast experience.

Eat-In & Take-Out Pancake Café Breakfast & Lunch

3149 N 22nd St, Philadelphia

(215) 229-2100

Reviewed by:

Lillian Ollenburg Katravas

I had to come to Google to share my love for Eat-In & Take-Out Pancake Café in Philadelphia. This breakfast spot is a hidden gem! While the exterior and interior aren't much to look at, the food truly speaks for itself. I order breakfast from here almost daily, and they never disappoint. The food is consistently amazing, and even though the pancakes are on the smaller side, the taste makes up for it. The bacon is crispy and delicious, just the way I like it. There was a minor hiccup once with a missing item, but thankfully, it was no big deal since we live nearby. Although communication could have been smoother, the quality of the food keeps me coming back. The pricing is fair for the quality, and I've never experienced any issues with cleanliness. Despite not having a public restroom, the dine-in area is cozy, and I usually get my food to go anyway. Overall, if you're in the area and looking for a great breakfast spot, this place should be at the top of your list.

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