Most Enjoyable Breakfast Spots in Alexandria With Friendly Faces

8723 Cooper Rd b, Alexandria

(571) 554-1096

Grandma's Famous Cafe is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Alexandria. The moment you walk in, you feel the cozy, welcoming vibe. The bilingual staff is incredibly kind, friendly, and helpful, making the experience even more enjoyable. The food is delicious, with a wide range of options made to order. I particularly loved the pupusas and the fajita wrap, which were both outstanding. The place is clean, and the service from the two young ladies is efficient and attentive. Whether you're dining solo or with a friend, the atmosphere is just right. This cafe, located off Rt 1, is definitely going to be my new go-to breakfast place. If you're in the area, you should definitely stop by and check it out!

1018 King St, Alexandria

(703) 549-3717

King Street Cafe in Alexandria has quickly become one of my go-to spots for breakfast. The cozy atmosphere and the warm welcome from the staff make it feel like you're dining in a friend's home. Their breakfast sandwiches are fresh and not greasy, and the egg sandwiches strike the perfect balance—not overwhelmingly eggy. The prices are reasonable, as I got two breakfast sandwiches and a drink for under $20, and the quality is impressive. The owner and staff truly engage with their patrons, showing genuine care in the preparation and service. Their turkey club sub is a standout, and the King Street sandwich is fantastic. The food is consistently ready on time and stays warm, which is a big plus. While the ambiance isn't anything fancy, the quality and taste of the food are worth a visit. I'd definitely come back for the King Street sandwich and the warm, inviting service.

4543 Duke St, Alexandria

(571) 312-2496

On Saturday morning, I stopped by Cortado Café Alexandria for breakfast and was met with a bustling scene. It's a tiny spot with limited tables, but the vibe is cozy and welcoming. Despite the wait for food and coffee, it was worth it. The Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon was delicious, and the lavender lemonade tea was a standout. Though it's a bit pricier, it's perfect for an occasional treat. The pastries were great, and the menu had plenty of options. The staff members I encountered, two wonderful women, were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making the experience even better. The only downside was that, given its small size, some patrons tend to linger, making seating scarce. There is, however, a large parking lot which makes visiting easy. The ambiance is pleasant, and while the tables are small, they offer comfortable seating, just not ideal for studying. Overall, it's a clean and charming café with a homey feel and positive energy. I'll definitely be back for more of that delicious coffee and welcoming atmosphere.

205 E Howell Ave, Alexandria

(703) 717-9151

Del Ray Café has quickly become my go-to spot for breakfast in Alexandria. The place exudes a cute and relaxing vibe, perfect for starting the day. The staff is incredibly kind and efficient, always serving with a smile. I had a veggie omelette with slices of French baguette, and everything tasted fantastic. I also tried the pancakes, which were so good I forgot to take a picture! The homey atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a place I want to return to again and again. Elvin, my server, was polite and attentive, although it would be great if he offered coffee options alongside water choices. I appreciated his reminder about the buckwheat pancakes being gluten-free and how he suggested pairing them with whipped butter and pure maple syrup for extra flavor. Overall, Del Ray Café feels like a hidden gem in the area, with its great location and cozy, French-inspired café and menu. On a previous visit with my dad, the standouts were the chicken salad on toasted country bread and the SOS Chopped Beef in Gravy. The atmosphere is friendly, and the service is top-notch. For anyone in the area, this café is a must-try for breakfast, and I'm excited to explore their dinner menu soon. You won't be disappointed!

222 N Lee St, Alexandria

(703) 684-0372

Jack's Place in Alexandria is a charming local eatery that's perfect for breakfast or a casual meal. This mom-and-pop diner, owned by a friendly husband and wife team, seats about 11 people and has been a staple for over 40 years. The House omelettes were delicious, and the buttermilk pancake was a must-try. I was pleasantly surprised by the veggie panini, which included cheese, avocado, and likely a meatless patty, all at a reasonable price. The bagel with cream cheese was satisfying, and the coffee was great. It's a cozy spot with beautifully presented meals, making it a must-visit for breakfast or brunch in Old Town Alexandria. The food is delicious and offers great value. Highly recommended, and the sticker/sign adds a nice touch!

1605 King St, Alexandria

(571) 312-1909

Toastique in Alexandria is a fantastic spot for breakfast, especially if you're into smoothie bowls with fresh ingredients. I tried the dragon bowl and it was very good. The atmosphere is clean, relaxing, and minimal, which I loved. The quality and presentation of everything was top-notch, and they even had a clean bathroom with a purse hook! This place really stood out for its fresh and authentic vibe, making it a must-visit for those seeking plant-based options. Their non-dairy selections were spot-on. We started our day with fruit and juice, and you know the watermelon is the real deal when it has those nostalgic black seeds. My partner ordered the avocado smash with crab and a hard boiled egg, while I enjoyed the Tuscan Tuna with avocado smash. I was amazed that the tuna and dressings were dairy-free. The gourmet toast was flavorful and filling, and I can't wait to dine here again. Caren and her team made our experience warm and engaging. This location is the best, and the Toastique creators are amazing. It feels like an episode of Cheers because everyone knows my name and the food is always tasty and fresh. My family and colleagues love this place too, and we visit several times a week. It's excellent for açaí bowls and the juices are fresh and healthy. There's public parking on the street and plenty of seating inside. Toastique is a great choice for a healthy meal, especially if you don't want to eat too much before traveling. The fresh ingredients and amazing turmeric juice make it a standout spot.

215 S Union St, Alexandria

(571) 312-8010

My wife and I had a great time at Café du Soleil for breakfast. The atmosphere is unique and charming, with two separate seating areas and cozy corners perfect for getting some work done. We ordered a salmon sandwich and lemon loaf for me, and a quiche and dirty chai for my wife—everything was amazing. Despite our food allergies, the staff was accommodating and made us a delicious plate. The coffee was perfect too. The Nutella crepe with bananas was delicious, though the salmon lox crepe was a bit too mushy. The service was fast, and the spacious setup made it a comfortable spot to relax. We loved the peaceful vibe and helpful staff and wish we lived closer to visit more often. Highly recommend stopping by for a laid-back experience in Alexandria.

4630 King St Unit A3, Alexandria

(703) 789-9251

I visited Silver Diner around midnight and found it pleasantly unoccupied. I ordered the French Toast, and it was absolutely delicious, especially the banana version. The breakfast items were on point and arrived quickly, thanks to the attentive service from our server Anna, who was wonderful. The interior is inviting, with a great range of food options and friendly staff, making it a very family-friendly place. Danny, another server, was excellent at keeping us smiling. The music was amazing and really added to the 50s diner ambiance. I also tried the Reuben, which was decent for a newly added menu item, and my friends loved their Triple Pickle Chicken Sandwich, which was perfectly crispy and juicy. They really have a knack for getting the golden brown just right, as my toasted rye was perfect. Overall, Silver Diner is a fantastic place for breakfast with a real diner vibe.

4825 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria

(703) 751-5508

I stopped by Eisenhower Cafe for breakfast while waiting for my car to be repaired across the street. I ordered the Egg Breakfast, which comes with 2 eggs, your choice of meat, home fries, and toast. Since I avoid breakfast meat for health reasons, they kindly added a third egg instead. The meal was excellent—the home fries with onions were especially delicious. I paired it all with a cup of coffee. The staff at the cafe are incredibly friendly and accommodating. Every time I visit, they're always smiling and make me feel welcome. The prices are reasonable, which is a bonus. I've been working in the area for over two years, and it's comforting that they remember my order as soon as I walk in. If you find yourself nearby and need a quick, satisfying bite, this is the place to go. I've also tried their teriyaki chicken platter for lunch, and it was flavorful with just the right portion size. Overall, Eisenhower Cafe has earned a special place in my routine, and I truly enjoy my visits there.

277 S Washington St, Alexandria

(703) 664-0445

Mae's Market & Cafe in Alexandria is a gem for breakfast! From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by the vibrant pink espresso machine—which you simply can’t miss. The high ceilings and organized, colorful market area add to the charm. I love the classic cane back dining chairs, marble tabletops, and the lovely plants and flowers. The expansive windows let in plenty of light, creating a serene atmosphere. The food and coffee are amazing and appropriately priced for the location. I always budget for their avocado toast because it's that good! The cortado I had was perfect, and I took a moment to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The staff is incredibly friendly, which makes the experience even better. For brunch, the avocado toast and bulgogi sandwiches were delicious. The space is spacious with plenty of tables and seats. In my opinion, Mae's Market & Cafe is even better than Tatte. It’s a cute establishment with nice decorations, though I wish they offered larger coffee sizes. For about $45 for two coffees and two sandwiches, it's worth every penny. Love this place!

281 S Van Dorn St, Alexandria

(703) 566-2866

Van Dorn Diner is one of my go-to breakfast spots in Alexandria, and for good reason! The staff is always so friendly and welcoming, making every visit feel special. My absolute favorite is the Oreo waffle, and I love my turkey bacon extra crispy—don’t judge the picture! The pancakes and French toast are delicious too. This place is a true diner experience, with consistently great food and pleasant servers. Melvin, our server, always makes us feel at home. If you’re in the Alexandria area and looking for a spot to eat, definitely stop by. The 1950s-style atmosphere is laid back and charming, and the prices are just right for the quality. Whether you’re after a classic club sandwich or a hearty breakfast, you won’t be disappointed. I visit at least once a month, and it’s always a treat. Highly recommended!

44 Canal Center Plaza #401, Alexandria

(571) 344-9100

I had a wonderful experience at Jula's on the Potomac for breakfast. The staff was very friendly and helpful, making us feel right at home. The food was lovely, especially the homemade biscuit with gravy or honey butter, which I highly recommend trying. I'd happily order it as a meal next time. The homemade key lime pie was absolutely delicious. Most of our group didn't enjoy the potato side, with one person noting they weren't cooked through, so I took off a star for that. However, the rest of the food received a round of thumbs up from everyone. The pricing felt fair considering the fantastic view and overall dining experience. It's perfect for a special brunch during a vacation, though it's not the place for frugal dining. Enjoyed a delightful Sunday brunch with the best view of the water, and the fall décor added a nice touch. The Brunch Burger with brown sugar and peppercorn bacon was amazing. I'll definitely return in the future. The atmosphere was great overall, although the dining room was a bit warm for my taste. The location was a bit tricky to find, as my Google maps led me to the railroad tracks nearby, but with some direction and asking, I located it eventually. While the food was good, we did receive it at room temperature, which was a bit surprising for dine-in. I assume they might have been short-staffed. All staff members were polite and cheerful, but our server didn't check on us often enough or fulfill requests in a timely manner. Despite this, the pleasant interaction with hostesses and the owner made up for it somewhat. I would definitely return to Jula's on the Potomac, hoping the issues we encountered were just due to a busy day and understaffing. From the moment we arrived, everything was top-notch. We managed to get a last-minute reservation and opted to sit outside, and the views were simply amazing. Tony, our server, was fantastic and shared some interesting history about the restaurant, adding to the great energy. The food and drinks were excellent, and the restaurant itself was beautifully decorated and very clean. If you get the chance to sit outside on a beautiful day, it's even better! Can't wait to come back.

1508 Mt Vernon Ave #1718, Alexandria

(703) 436-0025

While visiting Alexandria, I noticed Junction Bakery & Bistro and decided to give it a try for breakfast. The experience overall was fair, with some standout moments. The fries I ordered were super fresh and hot, and the lemon drop martini was solid. The Hazelnut muffin was decent as well. Service was okay, though it felt like it could have been better; the staff seemed a bit out of it, and I had to ask for silverware and directions on where to grab a drink, which was unusual. On a brighter note, the portions were sizable and fresh. The shrimp tacos were packed with flavor, and I'd definitely recommend trying them. The sides are generous, perfect for sharing. Also, don't miss out on their bakery side for some sweets. I enjoyed dining here. The Junction Breakfast with scrambled eggs and bacon was delicious, and the chocolate croissant was massive and tasty. The iced coffees had a good balance, letting the coffee flavor shine through without being overly sweet. The staff was kind, smiling, and accommodating, adding to the cool vibe. The food and drinks are delicious, and the recent expansion is visually pleasing, though the prices are steep. The pot roast was delightful, but the $26 price tag felt high. Despite these issues, I appreciated the overall concept and layout, though the cost might not be fully justified. Nonetheless, I will definitely consider coming back for the flavorful offerings and pleasant atmosphere.

6306 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria

(703) 256-3318

Barnside Diner in Alexandria is my go-to spot for breakfast. It feels just like the diners I grew up with on the East Coast. The food is consistently good, and the portions are generous. The staff is both quick and friendly, which adds to the experience. While the coffee is your typical diner brew, it does the job, though I do wish they offered espresso options. During my visit, I had the Humpty Dumpty omelet with wheat toast, and my husband chose the Big 3 Breakfast. Both meals hit the spot and were really filling. It can get busy, so plan to come early to avoid long waits. We were there on a weekday morning and had no problems with parking or waiting for a table. We’ll definitely be back—I've even started bringing my friends here weekly. The pancakes are a standout, and everything about the breakfast is great. If you're okay with diner prices, this place is worth a visit. The food and service make it a worthwhile stop.

6909 Metro Park Dr Suite 150, Alexandria

(571) 255-8200

KitchenCray in Alexandria is a fantastic spot for breakfast, and I can't emphasize enough how worth it this place is. From the moment we stepped in, the atmosphere was welcoming and vibrant, setting the tone for a great meal. The bartender stood out with her incredible knowledge of the menu; she made me an amazing drink with Ciroc apple vodka that I loved. The food was the star of the show. I ordered the fried catfish with crab and cheddar grits, which were absolutely delicious and perfectly cooked. I also got a taste of the blackened salmon with mashed potatoes and spinach—definitely a dish I'd consider for next time. My husband was thrilled with his shrimp and grits with sausage. I usually don't care much for grits, but theirs were exceptional. We tried a bit of everything—chicken and shrimp deviled eggs, lamb chops, a cheeseburger, and mac & cheese. Each dish was delightful. Although the place is not big, the vibe is fantastic, and the staff is attentive and friendly. There was great music, and a photographer even went around capturing moments. Although the meals took some time to arrive, it was well worth the wait. The bar manager also assisted us, ensuring that any concerns were addressed promptly. Before we left, we were pleasantly surprised with complimentary tequila shots for completing a review, which was a nice touch. Overall, it was a wonderful first-time experience, and we will definitely be back. If you're in Alexandria, stopping by KitchenCray is a must.

3864 Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria

(703) 836-8851

Simply put, this place has the best chicken and waffles ever. I’ve tried them all over the East Coast, but this spot stands out. The food is cooked fresh, and the service is amazing. It truly feels like a hidden gem. The restaurant is simple and small, and it feels a bit tight inside, but for the price, it’s a fantastic alternative to most breakfast places. The waffles could be a bit thicker for my liking, but the staff is extremely nice, which enhances the experience. I went for breakfast, and while the food was sweeter than I anticipated, it was still enjoyable. It's a great spot for a small meal and a coffee, or even a morning date. I highly recommend visiting when it’s warm to take advantage of the outdoor seating since the inside is a bit limited. This is definitely a neighborhood staple. The food is always fresh and fast, and the servers are really sweet and manage the place well. I love stopping by for their waffles, especially with all the fresh fruit. Plus, they have beef bacon, which is a nice touch.

1743 King St, Alexandria

(703) 664-0043

Great diner experience! This place is everything you'd expect from an old-fashioned diner, and they just don't make them like this anymore. I've only tried the breakfast meals, and they were delicious—exactly what you'd want from a good diner! I'll definitely be back on another visit, and if I were a local, I would totally be a regular. It's an easy walk from the metro rail and bus station, which makes it even more of a gem because diners like this are hard to find in such convenient locations. The atmosphere is very original, bright, clean, and it has a nostalgic feel. We stopped by for the chicken fried steak, and you know how everyone has their own take on it? Well, Bob & Edith's has a great version with a thicker gravy and slightly heavier breading on the steak. A good combo with attentive service to boot. Sure, it's a diner, so don't expect an unforgettable gourmet meal. We did the "Famous" Chicken Fried Steak with two eggs and potatoes, and it was the perfect comfort food after a long day of sightseeing. The server was nice and attentive, which added to the experience. The place could use a bit of updating, but being a 50s style diner is part of its charm. It’s exactly like other Bob & Edith’s locations, like revisiting an old friend in a new city. The Happy Hour specials during the week from 1-6PM are hard to beat; try the Waffle, Two Eggs, and Sausage deal. Whether you're a visitor or a local, this spot is worth the stop.

3425-A Richmond Hwy, Alexandria

(703) 519-4220

I had breakfast at the IHOP in Alexandria and was really pleased with my experience. The food was tasty, and the service was friendly, making for a positive dining experience. The restaurant was clean and well-organized, which is a big plus for me. The space was surprisingly large and not cramped, unlike other IHOP locations I've visited. While I was disappointed about the charge for my child's meal since I expected it to be free, the server explained that the policy had changed. It would be helpful if the information were posted more clearly. Despite that, I was overall happy with the visit and would consider returning.

1800C Diagonal Rd, Alexandria

(571) 312-4096

For Five Coffee Alexandria is a fantastic spot for breakfast, and I genuinely don't understand why it only has 4.0 stars. The food is amazing, and while it might be a bit pricey for breakfast ($45 for two people), the quality and taste make it well worth it. They have a great selection of bakery items that are made fresh and in-house, which really adds to the experience. If you're in Old Alexandria, this place is a must-try. If you're looking for cheap food, this might not be your spot, but if you want good-tasting food, look no further. The coffee is fantastic as well! The only downside was that the barista/cashier wasn't very friendly and seemed bothered by questions. However, it's still a great place for a quick lunch or coffee break. I went with friends, and the food was delicious, except for the BLT where the bacon was soggy. I found myself appreciating the coffee and pastries even more. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, perfect for relaxing or getting some work done. They have a great music selection that adds to the pleasant vibe. For Five Coffee Roasters is a gem for coffee lovers. Highly recommend it if you're in the area!