December 1, 2024

Perfect Breakfasts in Phoenix at Great Prices

Learn about Phoenix's cozy breakfast spots where you can enjoy mouth-watering pancakes and custom-made omelets that start your day with a smile.

Richard Gargan
Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
Arizona
Perfect Breakfasts in Phoenix at Great Prices
Editor's Note: Brunch Expert is supported by our readers. We sometimes earn commissions when you click through to restaurants or affiliate links.

Wake up in Phoenix and get ready to munch on some of the best breakfasts around! In this sunny city, you can find cozy spots with a warm, friendly mood where chefs whip up tasty dishes just for you. Enjoy custom-made pancakes or spicy scrambled eggs while soaking in the delicious flavors of the Southwest.

Original Breakfast House

13623 N 32nd St, Phoenix

(602) 482-2328

Reviewed by:

Aj Mix

Who says breakfast food can’t be creative and taste amazing? The Original Breakfast House truly takes breakfast to an exciting new level. Blending traditional dishes with a twist of creative flavors, they execute culinary artistry that’s hard to find elsewhere. The wacky decor makes for a fun and inviting atmosphere, but the real star is the incredible food. Trust me, a trip to the OBH is a must. You might face a little wait, but it's absolutely worth it. I decided to order breakfast this morning based on high recommendations, and I'm so glad I did. Despite a long line outside for pickup, my wait was minimal. The food was excellent all around, with generous portions that hit the spot. Their orange juice is 100% natural, and I particularly enjoyed the chilaquiles and the Popeye’s omelette. Everyone in our group loved their meals and took leftovers home. It was a busy Sunday morning, but we only waited about 20 minutes. Remember, it’s a cash-only restaurant. The atmosphere is super fun and comforting, almost making you feel like you’ve escaped to Hawaii, even with the Phoenix heat. Despite waiting nearly an hour for a table on a Saturday morning, it was worth every minute. The coffee was fantastic, although some dishes like the grits and sausage gravy could use a bit more flavor. The service was terrific and incredibly friendly, making for a wonderful experience. Those cinnamon rolls in the case looked inviting, and I'm already thinking about trying something different next time.

The Original Rainbow Donuts

15834 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix

(602) 867-9502

Reviewed by:

Yily Curtis

I swung by The Original Rainbow Donuts for breakfast and decided to grab a dozen to try out. While there's often not much difference in taste from one donut place to another, these donuts were surprisingly delightful. Living in Paradise Peak West, our community has a tradition of getting donuts from Rainbow Donuts for our Coffee & Donuts event. It all started with just a few of us, but word soon spread about how fantastic these donuts are, and now we’re buying over six dozen each time! The variety is impressive, with people frequently asking me to make sure their favorites are included. From Apple Fritters to Raspberry Jellies, each donut is fresh and delicious. The employees are always professional and patient as I make my selections, and they never show any frustration. Whenever I’m behind the wheel working with a driving app, I often pick up these donuts, and it’s always a pleasant experience. Even though I can't eat them myself due to gluten allergies, the friendly staff makes the visit worthwhile, often offering a donut to my son for free. Their vast selection of specialty donuts with unique toppings is tempting, and the Café Sud Au drink with its rich spices like orange zest and maybe vanilla is a caffeine delight! The place is efficient—I’m in and out quickly, or I can choose to sit down and enjoy the morning at their clean tables. For anyone looking for the best donuts in Phoenix, you can't go wrong with Rainbow Donuts. The family atmosphere and exceptional staff make it a must-visit!

First Watch

9645 N Black Cyn Hwy, Phoenix

(602) 943-3232

Reviewed by:

Jessie Ababi

I had a fantastic breakfast experience at First Watch in Phoenix. I ordered the biscuits and gravy with a side egg and a bottomless cup of coffee. The coffee kept flowing, and my server, Analece, was excellent. She was attentive without being intrusive, checking in at just the right times. The atmosphere here is perfect for casual dining, and the creative menu design, resembling an old newspaper, stood out to me as someone who appreciates good graphic design. I visited with my boyfriend, and we both really enjoyed our meals. I tried the hacienda hash and the million dollar bacon, both of which were delicious, while he had the BLT Benedict and two pancakes. He mentioned wanting a bit more hollandaise sauce, but still found it tasty. The place was clean and well-maintained. We did have to wait a short while to be seated and to find parking, especially on a busy Saturday morning, but it was worth it. There's plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors. Overall, I highly recommend First Watch to anyone in Phoenix looking for a great breakfast spot. The food was fantastic, and I look forward to trying more items on their menu next time I visit.

First Watch

3215 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix

(602) 955-3447

Reviewed by:

Kareem Ferebee

My first time at First Watch in Phoenix was amazing! From the moment I stepped in, I had a good feeling about the place. The food exceeded my expectations—especially the blueberry lemon cornbread, which was absolutely divine. Our breakfast dishes were fresh and tasty, and the fresh juice options added a nice touch. Service was quick and super friendly, with everything made exactly how we wanted it. First Watch offers great traditional breakfasts like french toast, pancakes, and bacon and eggs. I usually go for the healthier choices, like egg-white omelets, turkey sausage, and multigrain pancakes. Then I enjoy a mimosa or a spiked lemonade on the side. We were seated promptly, ordered, and had our food within 15 minutes. The cheesy grits I got on the side were delicious. I visited the restaurant for breakfast with my daughter. She convinced me to try the lemon ricotta pancakes, and they were amazing! I paired them with a side of perfectly cooked eggs over medium. She had the steel cut oatmeal and loved it. Our server was delightful, very attentive, and friendly. I highly recommend First Watch for a great breakfast experience.

First Watch

61 W Thomas Rd, Phoenix

(602) 265-2092

Reviewed by:

Mirnag Carter

First Watch in Phoenix is a fantastic breakfast and brunch spot. The food is consistently delicious and well-prepared, though they keep the seasoning mild to appeal to a broad audience. The menu offers a wide range of outstanding choices, ensuring there's something interesting for everyone to try. The Chicken-changa and Lemon Ricotta pancakes were hits, and my girlfriend really enjoyed her Eggs Benedict Florentine. The wait staff are friendly and efficient, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere that makes this place ideal for bringing family, whether for breakfast or lunch. The space is bright and cozy, making it perfect for a casual meal. They serve exceptional coffee, which pairs well with any dish on the menu. The commitment to quality ingredients is evident, with fresh produce and farm-fresh items that elevate the dining experience. Overall, First Watch is a standout choice in Phoenix, perfect for locals and visitors alike. While seating can sometimes take a moment due to staffing, the service is generally attentive. On rare occasions, there might be a delay, but it doesn’t overshadow the consistently excellent food. It's the go-to spot for us before or after appointments, and it never fails to offer a delightful meal.

Matt's Big Breakfast

825 N 1st St, Phoenix

(602) 254-1074

Reviewed by:

Crystel Pitchford

Matt's Big Breakfast is a fantastic spot in Phoenix that quickly became a family favorite for us. The food is made from scratch with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, which really sets it apart. We loved it so much that we came back twice, and their hot sauce was so good that we ended up buying two bottles to take home. Every dish we tried was flavorful, with nice thick bread and good coffee to match. The service was excellent, with multiple servers checking in on us to make sure everything was just right. Even though the restaurant is somewhat small, the efficient cooking staff keeps everything moving, so the wait time is quite reasonable. The atmosphere has a lively buzz to it, which might be a bit loud for some, but it contributes to the overall busy vibe of the place. Even on a busy Saturday morning, we had only a short wait, thanks to the quick preparation of the food. Though my traditional breakfast of fried eggs, hash browns, and sausage was top-notch, the pancakes weren't as fluffy as I like. However, no one can beat my favorite pancakes from Moore’s Family Restaurant in Ogden, Utah. The pastrami hash was different from corned beef hash, but I enjoyed it. Prices are fair, and the portions are generous, so you feel like you’re getting good value. The classic breakfast, especially the thick-cut bacon, was delicious, and the Monday special huevos rancheros came with possibly the best hash browns I've ever had. Overall, Matt's Big Breakfast is a cool spot with big portions and friendly service, definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a hearty breakfast in Phoenix.

Luci's at the Orchard

7100 N 12th St Building Two, Phoenix

(602) 633-2442

Reviewed by:

Francisco Pablo

I love heading to Luci's at the Orchard for breakfast, especially for a girls' lunch or a bridal/baby shower. The outdoor patio is beautiful, filled with lush trees and pretty seating, and it’s always a joy to see cute dogs around. Watching kids and pets play in the fountain during summer adds to the fun vibe. The service here is consistently quick and efficient. Having frequented the place for breakfast and lunch at least ten times, it's a definite 10 out of 10 for me. Their rewards program through the Toast app is excellent, offering good discounts. While checking out, I always find myself browsing the cute trinkets and books, like the adorable "You're My Favorite Person" by the door. The Luci candles are fantastic, and although some gifts are on the pricier side, their uniqueness justifies it. As for the food, I've never been disappointed. The French Toast, Turkey Lurkey sandwich, Lox and bagels, and the pumpkin muffin with cream cheese are all favorites. A friend recommended the biscuits and gravy, and it was spot on—delicious gravy that I could have just by itself. The homemade potatoes are also a winner. The funky monkey French toast and traditional breakfast are also worth mentioning, as everyone in my group cleared their plates. Though lines can be long, indicating its popularity, the wait is worth it. The staff is always nice and professional. My protein smoothie and Spaniard omelette were perfect, and the potatoes were cooked to perfection. With plenty of parking and a splash pad plus a free little library for kids, it's a fantastic spot for meeting friends for breakfast or brunch while kids play. Overall, Luci’s is a super cute spot with a big selection of food and drinks. Though the food might be just okay for some, the baked treats are tasty. I'm looking forward to visiting again!

First Watch

3110 N Central Ave, Phoenix

(602) 248-3897

Reviewed by:

Taft Rodriguez

First Watch is still one of my favorite spots for breakfast in Phoenix. I love starting my day with their fresh and healthy options that leave me feeling great after every meal. My go-to dish is the BLT Eggs Benedict, which comes on chabbatta bread instead of the usual English muffin. The eggs are always poached perfectly, sitting on top of crispy bacon, tomato, and avocado, with a light, lemony hollandaise and a touch of arugula to finish it off. It comes with their tasty house potatoes for $13.99. My wife, who doesn’t like bacon, always goes for the Florentine, and she loves it. The decor has a rustic farmhouse vibe, and the service is consistently friendly and attentive. We had a fantastic first experience at First Watch. The food was amazing; the holey donuts literally melted in our mouths. I also tried the sunrise granola bowl, which I thoroughly enjoyed. My brother raved about the coffee, claiming it was the best he's ever had. Our waitress was outstanding and even made up for a minor order error by not charging us for it. I highly recommend First Watch at 3110 N Central Ave in Phoenix. The food is fresh and delicious, the service is exceptional, and the atmosphere is inviting, making it a perfect spot for a meal with family or friends. Plus, their commitment to the community is a great bonus. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast or a lighter lunch, you won’t be disappointed. It's always a good experience with excellent brunch food, great service, and perfectly brewed coffee.

U.S. Egg Breakfast, Lunch + Cocktails

2957 W Bell Rd, Phoenix

(602) 843-1249

Reviewed by:

Ashton Aquino

Had a fantastic breakfast with the family on Memorial Day at U.S. Egg Breakfast, Lunch + Cocktails in Phoenix. Walking in, we were seated immediately, which was a great start. I dove straight into the chicken fried steak, and it was exactly what I needed—crispy on the outside with just the right amount of sausage gravy. My girlfriend and I shared a biscuit and gravy and some pancakes, both of which were delicious. My dad went for the corned beef hash and loved it, while my aunt and uncle were very happy with their waffle, bacon, sausage, and eggs. Everything hit the spot, but let me tell you, the peanut butter lovers dessert is a must-try. It's a peanut butter sandwich, deep-fried in French toast batter with whipped cream, caramel, and ice cream—an incredible treat for about $6 after tax. The portions are generous, and the food consistently good. I also ordered the avocado and cheese omelette, which was very tasty, and the club sandwich with crispy fries did not disappoint. My wife's waffle arrived super quick, and my daughters enjoyed the Triple Play Jr breakfast. The steak and eggs my dad and I had were cooked perfectly to medium, which was impressive. The service was commendable, with Kari, the manager, being both friendly and professional. Our server was attentive, and while the hostess seemed a bit off, the overall experience was positive. I've been here about five times, and it never fails to deliver a good time. Just be aware that it can get busy, particularly on Sunday mornings. Still, I highly recommend this spot and always look forward to coming back—it's definitely one of my favorite breakfast places in Phoenix. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Breakfast Club

2 E Jefferson St #22-213, Phoenix

(602) 354-7284

Reviewed by:

Ethan Capi

The Breakfast Club is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Phoenix. The portion sizes are impressive, and there are plenty of seating options, both indoors and outdoors, to suit your preference. I loved the customization options available, which allowed me to get a chicken sausage sandwich and potatoes that were just perfect. My dining companion had a sandwich that was a bit greasy, but overall, the food was exactly what I wanted. We arrived with a hungry family after an early flight and were seated right away despite the busyness of the place. The downtown location made it a convenient choice, just a short walk from our hotel. My kids devoured their chocolate chip pancakes, eggs, and potatoes from the kids' menu, which speaks volumes. The staff was attentive and friendly, especially Brooklyn from WA, who was amazing in the heat with multiple tables to manage. She recommended the chicken fried steak, which exceeded expectations and was paired delightfully with fresh fruit. The biscuits and gravy had a crispy, flaky crust, topped with a delicious chorizo sausage gravy. The Island iced tea was refreshing with just the right amount of liquor. The atmosphere is bright and welcoming, thanks to the cheerful yellow decor, but do be prepared for a bit of a wait. Still, the food arrives quickly – ours took only about 15 minutes. An overall awesome breakfast experience, despite the surprising number of Padres fans in town.

Elly's Brunch & Cafe (Phoenix)

100 E Camelback Rd SUITE 166, Phoenix

(602) 603-9600

Reviewed by:

Tim Scott

I had a great experience at Elly's Brunch & Cafe in Phoenix. The serving sizes were surprisingly large, but the flavors were spot on. I went there with a party of three on a Saturday morning, and even though the place was packed, we were seated almost immediately. We chose to sit outside, enjoying the heat, and our server was super attentive from the start. She even gave us some great recommendations, which we appreciated. The food was delicious—fluffy pancakes, perfectly cooked steak and eggs, a tasty omelet, and really good French toast. The matcha latte was enjoyable, though the Bellini was just okay. Despite this, our overall meal was satisfying. Our server made the experience even better with her friendly demeanor and efficient service, brightening our day with a brief conversation. I've also ordered takeout from here occasionally. While the food is generally good, there's an upcharge for almost everything. One time, I paid extra for avocado on a breakfast sandwich and was disappointed with its quality. However, the dine-in experience was fantastic, and I would definitely recommend it as a great brunch spot.

5 & Diner

5220 N 16th St, Phoenix

(602) 264-5220

Reviewed by:

Gerardo White

Best breakfast I've had in AZ since moving back from California! My husband took me to 5 & Diner after raving about their Chicken Fried Steak, and it was worth the drive from Tempe. I ordered the Country Breakfast for $15, which included perfectly cooked hash browns, scrambled eggs, and two moist biscuits with delicious gravy. The sausage links were flavorful and juicy, a perfect addition to the meal. I also tried my husband's Chicken Fried Steak and I get why he loves it—I'm not usually a fan, but I'd definitely consider ordering it next time. His meal, also $15, came with eggs, hash browns, and a choice of toast, pancake, or biscuit. He went for the pancakes and added two more, and they did not disappoint. Rich, but not overly sweet, they tasted like true buttermilk pancakes. The total came to $42 before tip, which included iced tea. Totally worth it! The 50’s diner decor adds to the charm, and the service is friendly and efficient. They’re open 24 hours with a tempting lunch and dinner menu, though I'll find it hard to skip breakfast on our next visit. We've found our favorite breakfast spot in Phoenix!

Denny's

3315 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale

(480) 946-4754

Reviewed by:

Cris Elmore

The breakfast experience at Denny's in Phoenix was the best my family has ever had! A huge shoutout to the manager, Brian, who went above and beyond to ensure we were well taken care of after a previous mishap. Our breakfast was perfect and delicious, making our son—and us—very happy. The restaurant was spotless, our waitress friendly, and the food exceptional. Parking was a breeze with plenty of spots, and we had no wait time even on a Friday night. The bacon avocado burger is a must-try. The staff treated us with understanding and made us feel at home with their welcoming attitudes. Service was incredibly fast, which was impressive for such a busy day. Nick was fantastic at getting our order right and keeping our drinks refilled. Manager Terry stopped by to chat and brought great energy to our experience. This Denny's location keeps getting better, and we appreciate Brian and the team for making our visit memorable.

Waffle House

3363 E University Dr, Phoenix

(602) 426-1481

Reviewed by:

Cheryl Scruggs

It's been years since we've gone to a Waffle House, so I didn't know what to expect. But let me tell you, I left as a fan! The food was great, classic comfort dishes that definitely hit the spot. Sandra, our server, was fantastic. She took care of our table with such grace, checking on us often and keeping our drinks filled. We came in during the wee hours, around 3am, and Sandra's positive attitude made the experience enjoyable. Despite being one of the few staff on duty, she managed to serve everyone with a smile and kindness. It's clear she has excellent customer service skills. The restaurant even went all out for Valentine's Day, which added a fun, romantic touch to our meal. It was quite impressive to see the effort they put into decorating the place. If you're looking for a place with friendly service and delicious food, this Waffle House should be on your list. And if you happen to visit, make sure to tip Sandra—she's amazing! Overall, a solid 5/5 stars for the welcoming atmosphere and the staff's dedication.

Denny's

2717 W Bell Rd, Phoenix

(602) 993-3263

Reviewed by:

Andrew Najera

I love starting my day with breakfast at Denny’s in Phoenix. While the service can be slow, especially on weekends, the experience is always worth it. Some staff members have been there for years and are incredibly sweet, and my kids absolutely love building their own breakfast. One standout server is Darren, who only works on weekends. His service is exceptional, with a beautiful smile and a kind demeanor that truly makes my day. It's no wonder my family has been coming to this Denny’s for decades, even though it's not the closest to our house. We’ve consistently had great service here over the years. I also want to give a special shout-out to Bree, whose charm and personality make her an invaluable asset to this location. Her work ethic is impressive, and we often request her section even if it means waiting a little longer. Maria was our server last time, and she treated us wonderfully. Her hospitality and attention to detail, like keeping our drinks filled and making sure we were comfortable, made us feel right at home. Thank you, Maria, for making this Denny’s our favorite spot! We’ll definitely be back.

Whataburger

4610 S 48th St, Phoenix

(602) 454-6453

Reviewed by:

Veroypablo Cromwell

I had a mixed experience with Whataburger for breakfast in Phoenix. On one hand, their breakfast burger meal was fantastic. The combination of ham, egg, hash brown, and meat patty was truly delicious, and the spicy ketchup added a nice kick. The cashier was friendly and welcoming, which was a great start to the day. However, there were a few hiccups with my order. Despite placing my order for pickup, I waited 15 minutes past the pickup time. They also missed some of the sauces I paid for. The fries were a bit off too; I ordered a medium and a large fry but ended up with two medium amounts. The hash browns weren’t as fresh and hot as I’d hoped. While they did apologize for the delays and offered free cookies, we returned to our hotel with cold food, and my son's order wasn't correct after the wait. The drive-thru service could use improvement. A minor issue over change left a sour note on what could have been a better visit. Overall, the breakfast food was tasty, but the service and order accuracy need attention.

Brunch Problems

2603 N Central Ave, Phoenix

(602) 248-3864

Reviewed by:

Joe Harvey

Brunch Problems turned out to be a memorable experience for all the wrong reasons. We visited on a Friday at noon, and the almost empty restaurant hinted at what was to come. Unfortunately, the food didn’t live up to our expectations. It took nearly 90 minutes to arrive, and when it did, it was a letdown. The toast was burnt, the shrimp was swimming in oil, and the dishes were decidedly bland. The service also left much to be desired. Our server, Mel, was not the most welcoming and seemed irritated by our inquiries about the delay. The wait for our to-go orders was equally long, leaving one of our party members without a meal before they had to leave. The atmosphere didn’t help improve things; the clogged restrooms and lack of cleanliness didn't make the experience any more pleasant. Despite these drawbacks, the vibe of the place had an intriguing downtown back alley feel, and the music from the kitchen added a unique touch. The prices felt steep for what was offered, especially with the surprise of an automatic 18% gratuity. However, I do appreciate Mel’s suggestion to direct our comments to management, which we took seriously. Overall, visiting Brunch Problems was indeed problematic, and I’d recommend considering other options for your brunch plans.

Brunch House

3340 W Southern Ave Suite 131, Phoenix

(602) 675-0735

Reviewed by:

Petr Manchester

I had a fun experience at Brunch House in Phoenix for breakfast. The vibe was lively, and it felt like a party with the music playing, which I enjoyed. The food was a pleasant surprise; the oxtail and grits were delicious, and the shrimp and grits my friend ordered were seasoned well. The peach cobbler drink was a tasty complement to my meal. Even though the food took a bit to arrive, it was hot and worth the wait. The owner, Donald, checked on us, which was a nice touch. While the atmosphere might be too loud for some, it added to the experience if you’re into a more energetic brunch setting. I found it a unique spot, especially if you enjoy a club-like brunch atmosphere.

Panera Bread

3400 E Sky Harbor Blvd, T3 Gate 7, Phoenix

(623) 289-6213

Reviewed by:

Tamika Lara

I had breakfast at Panera Bread in Terminal 3, between Gates E and F, and it was a great choice before my flight. The pricing for the meal offered good value for the money. While the restaurant's location was convenient for my boarding gate, the food quality was a letdown. I found mold on my bread and something odd floating in my broccoli and cheddar soup, which made me discard my meal. Despite this, the staff's service stood out. Eli, in particular, went above and beyond by offering me soup on a subsequent visit when I had initially missed out during their closing time on a previous trip. The team's friendliness and efficiency were commendable, even if my order size was mixed up. While the soup and mac & cheese were tasty and stayed hot even after my flight took off, I hope Panera Bread improves its food quality and handling. Until then, I advise diners to be cautious.

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