Awesome Breakfasts in Athens Everyone Enjoys

2467 Jefferson Rd, Athens

(706) 850-0844

I recently visited Cantaritos Cafe for breakfast in Athens and had an amazing experience. I ordered the Cubano, which was packed with meat and incredibly satisfying. It was enough food for two meals or to share with someone else. Upon sitting down, we were greeted with a delicious pasta soup, perfect for the cool fall afternoon. The prices were reasonable considering the generous portions. This restaurant is a hidden gem, tucked away in a strip mall, but definitely worth the stop. I found it through a Google search, and I’m so glad I did. The fresh Latin food showcases favorites from various cuisines. I tried some a la carte items: an Arepa with cheese, egg, avocado, and ham with avocado sauce; a Salvadoran Pupusa with red sauce; and a special off-menu empanada stuffed with sweet rice in a cinnamon pastry. Each dish was outstanding. The waitress was fantastic, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu, making our experience even better. Cantaritos is a positive asset to the Homewood Shopping Center in Athens, GA, and offers good parking. It’s a place I plan to return to soon. If you haven’t been yet, make it a priority! They serve the best authentic Venezuelan food in town, and I’ve never been disappointed with anything I’ve tried. For those who might not be adventurous eaters, they have great staples like shrimp tacos and a Cali burrito. But as a true foodie, I’m hooked on their offerings and visit every couple of weeks. Their Birria is excellent, possibly the best in town, and the soup appetizer is a savory change from the usual chips and dip. I can't wait to go back to try more!

815 W Broad St B, Athens

(706) 353-0005

I had a fantastic breakfast experience at Ideal Bagel Co in Athens. The "Dottie" bagel was a delightful surprise, packed with pastrami, egg, and gooey melted cheese. The interesting topping of poppy seeds, sesame, dried garlic, and caraway added a nice touch—although a friendly heads-up for anyone who might not be a fan of caraway. Ideal Bagel shines brightly with its amazing selection. My top pick is the salt bagel with sun-dried tomato cream cheese; it's simply delicious. The variety of bagel sandwiches is impressive, and there are plenty of bagel options to suit any craving. The seating area is cozy, both indoors and outdoors, though parking can be a bit tricky during busy morning hours. In a town with very few good bagel spots, Ideal Bagel is unmatched. They serve some of the best bagels I've had in the southeast. The wide range of spreads is a highlight—I especially enjoy the everything bagel with herb spread and smoked salmon. Service here is consistently fast and pleasant, which makes each visit enjoyable. Trying the bacon, egg, and cheese on a garlic bagel was a new and tasty experience for me, earning a solid 10/10. My husband, a northerner, tried the everything bagel with lox and was genuinely impressed by its quality. We're definitely planning to return for another breakfast date. While parking is limited, it's manageable if you arrive early or choose to walk. Ideal Bagel Co is truly the best bagel spot in Athens, hands down.

1390 Prince Ave, Athens

(706) 363-7211

This morning, I had an appointment at Piedmont Cardiology, and being someone who struggles with early mornings, I knew a good cup of coffee was just what I needed. Conveniently, there's a little gem of a coffee shop right across from the hospital—Sips Espresso Cafe. As soon as I walked in, the young man at the counter was super helpful, walking me through the menu. Not being a coffee expert, I appreciated his assistance and ended up choosing a medium latte with sugar-free vanilla syrup. Many places I've been to often run out of this flavor, so I was thrilled to find it available here. The display of in-house baked goods was tempting, and I was torn between all the delicious options. With a recommendation for the zucchini bread being popular, I took his advice but also picked up a lemon blackberry scone to enjoy on the spot, plus another scone and a slice of zucchini bread to take home. I sat on their lovely covered patio, soaking up the morning sun. The coffee was just right, and the scone was scrumptious. Though I don't get to this area often, Sips has definitely become a favorite spot for me. I willingly drive 20 minutes from the east side just for their amazing coffee, and it's always worth it. I love that they get into the spirit with themed drinks for the seasons, and all the employees are consistently friendly and helpful. I enjoy trying out new coffee creations, and Sips always has something fresh to offer. Despite its small size, Sips Espresso Cafe provides a fantastic experience, with both indoor and outdoor seating and free WiFi. Their extensive menu covers everything from coffee, teas, and chai to frosty drinks and smoothies, along with a great variety of baked goods. For anyone in Athens, or just passing through, I highly recommend stopping by Sips!

135 Cherokee Rd, Winterville

(706) 742-7590

Breakfast at Little City Diner in Athens was a fantastic experience. The burger was absolutely amazing with tender, flavorful meat and toppings that complemented it perfectly. The fried potatoes were crispy and seasoned just right, though the buttermilk-based ranch wasn’t my favorite. Still, the overall food quality was excellent. Compared to Mama's Boy, Little City Diner is a clear winner, offering always fresh food and a friendly atmosphere filled with quirky folk art and charming chicken paintings. During my visit, I opted for the Scrambler Special, which was satisfying and delicious. My partner tried the Quiche, which was well-portioned and equally tasty. The courteous and friendly staff, especially Ellie at the front, made the experience even better. The vibe is wonderful, with a neighborly buzz and engaging conversations both inside and outside. The ingredients are fresh, and every meal we have here is consistently well-prepared. Plus, if you ride your bike there, you get a 10% discount, which is a unique perk. We will definitely keep coming back to this delightful spot in Winterville.

1074 Baxter St, Athens

(706) 850-8150

Visiting The Farm Cart for breakfast in Athens can feel a bit overwhelming on weekends because it gets so busy, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth it. The food there is both delicious and fresh, with the side of potatoes ranking as my absolute favorite. I prefer coming on weekdays for a slower-paced, more enjoyable meal. But honestly, it’s worth the trip anytime. In my opinion, it’s the best breakfast spot in Athens. The variety of biscuit sandwiches and beverages means there are endless combinations to explore. You absolutely need to try the cold brew coffee! I’d been meaning to visit since last year and finally made it during the first game of the season. The cashier was incredibly nice and patient as I took my time deciding. What truly amazed me was the vegan sausage patty—I couldn’t believe how good it was! I returned a few weeks ago for a vegan sausage biscuit, and it was just as impressive. Thankfully, it’s not on my regular commute, or I’d find myself there multiple times a week. The first time I ate there, it was early on a Saturday morning at 8:20 a.m. We were the first customers, and within 30 minutes, the place filled up. My wife had the Fire Bird, and I enjoyed the Gravy Train. Both dishes were delicious, and we paired them with an Irish Coffee, which was also excellent. My son loved his biscuit with blueberry jam. The service was outstanding and very friendly. We will definitely be returning.

723 Boulevard, Athens

(706) 548-3412

Biscuit Basket Athens is a delightful spot for a hearty breakfast in Athens. I tried the bacon cheese biscuit, steak biscuit, and grits, and each dish hit the mark. The biscuits are substantial in size, loaded with lots of bacon, while the steak matches the biscuit in size and flavor. The grits taste like they’ve been simmering for hours, which is just how I like them! Though it's a gas station breakfast and lunch joint, these women really know how to whip up some delicious Southern comfort food. Thank you, ladies! This place has become a staple in Athens for a reason. They also serve a surprisingly good lunch, and while I miss Ronnie B's, the Basket satisfies any biscuit craving I have. Each breakfast experience here has been fantastic, and the staff is always welcoming. I tried their fish meal for the first time yesterday, and it was absolutely amazing. On my visit, the lady preparing our plates seemed a bit rushed, which led to an order mix-up; we got three sides for the price of four. The pork chops were on the dry side, needing a bit of BBQ sauce for moisture, and the chicken biscuit wasn’t the star of the show. However, the squash casserole was a standout, and the cashier at the front desk was super friendly. Overall, Biscuit Basket Athens offers a satisfying breakfast and warm, Southern hospitality.

237 Prince Ave, Athens

Hendershot's in Athens is truly a standout spot for breakfast and beyond. While I usually go for chargrilled oysters, the server convinced me to try their raw ones, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed them. My girls and I also tried the shrimp & grits and fried rice—both were absolutely delicious, though the shrimp and grits portion was a bit small. The atmosphere is fantastic, filled with amazing artwork and music. They offer a great variety of entertainment that caters to many tastes. The sound quality is top-notch, unlike what some reviews have claimed. The staff is knowledgeable and adds to the welcoming vibe, although the baristas can sometimes seem a bit aloof. One downside is the price of a coffee refill at $3, which is higher than expected. Despite this, Hendershot's remains a favorite for its unique charm, delicious coffee, and a great selection of drinks, including the new Athletic Brewing Company's "Free Wave" Hazy IPA. Overall, even with a few minor issues, Hendershot's delivers a great experience, and I'm always eager to return, especially when there's music involved. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique and enjoyable time!

393 N Finley St Studio C, Athens

(706) 353-0029

Big City Bread Café really came through for my fiancé and me when we needed a last-minute venue for our wedding rehearsal dinner. We were left in a bind when another place canceled on us just a month before our big weekend. Despite not being locals, the team at Big City Bread was fantastic to work with. They were incredibly communicative and kind, giving us the freedom to use their beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces. The food was a hit with everyone, and they easily accommodated our guests' various allergies and dietary preferences. We even had some leftovers to enjoy throughout our wedding weekend, which was a nice bonus. The quiche was melt-in-your-mouth good, and the biscuits were definitely a 10/10. My only small wish was for coffee to be served in a large mug instead of a to-go cup. The restaurant offers both cozy indoor and shaded outdoor seating, perfect for brunch. The Old Bay Fried Potatoes and creamy grits were delicious, and the eggs were cooked perfectly. While I wasn't the biggest fan of the biscuit, the BLT was fresh and flavorful. I also have to mention the super yummy tomato/mozzarella/basil toasted sandwich and outstanding tomato basil soup. They offer a variety of fun drinks, both alcoholic and caffeinated. If you're looking for a great spot for a special private event or just a casual dining experience, I highly recommend Big City Bread Café.

1850 Epps Bridge Pkwy, Athens

(706) 850-7164

The Flying Biscuit Cafe in Athens was a delightful breakfast experience. It was my first visit, and everything from the service to the food exceeded my expectations. The fried green tomato BLT was out of this world, and I can't recommend it enough. The potatoes are a must-try as well. It's the perfect spot for a great breakfast or brunch, whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying a meal on your own. Our server, Stephanie, was exceptional and truly made the visit enjoyable. Her friendly demeanor and excellent service stood out. The restaurant itself is nice and spacious, making for a pleasant atmosphere. The servings were generous, and I left feeling satisfied but not overly full. While the host didn't leave a strong impression, the rest of the experience more than made up for it. This location stands out as the best Flying Biscuit in Georgia. The cooks and management deserve compliments for their work. Overall, this is a top-notch place for breakfast, and I'll definitely be back.

2343 W Broad St, Athens

(706) 850-0297

Cafe Racer is an awesome spot for breakfast in Athens! The portion sizes are generous for the price, and the food is delicious. I ordered the Mile High burrito for $12, and it was so big that I had to take half of it home. My friend got the Tater Boy biscuit with bacon, and it was also impressive. The service was excellent; the staff was really friendly and attentive. Our coffee was delayed by about 10 minutes, but they made up for it by giving us free doughnut holes, which was a nice touch. The lemon poppyseed and pumpkin spice flavors were fantastic. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the music was on point with a great 80s playlist. The Halloween setup adds a fun vibe to the place, especially at night. While I wasn't impressed with their Pumpkin Spice Latte, mainly because of the syrup, everything else made up for it. If you're looking for a great Pumpkin Spice Latte, I'd suggest heading to Condor Chocolates Downtown. Cafe Racer excels with their Fried Chicken Sandwich and Fries—simply the best in town. The chicken is juicy and perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior that's hard to beat. The fries are the crispiest I've had, making the combo unbeatable. If you're a chicken sandwich enthusiast, don't miss out on this gem. Overall, the food and service at Cafe Racer are top-notch.

590 N Milledge Ave, Athens

(706) 354-8688

Donderos' Kitchen is truly a standout spot for breakfast in Athens. The cafe has a fresh approach, paying its baristas double the Georgia minimum wage, so tipping isn't necessary. The walls are adorned with local art, and they emphasize using reusable cups. There's even a discount if you walk, bike, or take the bus to get there, which I really appreciated. It was a bit warm inside when I visited in late August, but that didn't overshadow the overall experience. We wanted something different from the usual fast-food chain for lunch and were pleasantly surprised by the unique menu and well-prepared dishes. Ordering is straightforward: you place your order at the counter, and the staff, who are friendly and welcoming, bring it to your table. My wife enjoyed a chicken salad sandwich with iced tea, while I savored the Bahn Mi, a delicious coffee, and a raspberry jam bar. Their house coffee is excellent, and the pastries are a nice addition. Parking can be a bit tricky during busy times, but you can find spots off the main road. The atmosphere is perfect for relaxing or getting some work done with tasty food options available. We also tried the vegan pumpkin bread, which was perfectly moist and delicious for just $2.25. The gluten-free grit bowl needed a little more flavor, but the fried tomatoes, goat cheese, and red pepper sauce added a nice touch. Adding a fried egg for $1 made it more satisfying. The blueberry french toast special was sweet, and while it wasn't a full meal on its own, the side of potatoes helped. The DK scramble on flatbread was delicious, although I would have liked more eggs. We ordered the quiche special for the whole table, but it turned out to be only a quarter of a quiche, which wasn't clear in the pricing, so it felt a bit overpriced at $5. As a teacher, I got a free coffee, and they offer discounts for teachers, police officers, firefighters, and others, so it's worth checking their website for deals. The cafe itself is charming with wooden tables and chairs, art for sale, and cute decorations. One major plus was there was no wait for brunch on a Saturday morning. We were all satisfied with our meals, though some portions were on the small side, which is why I'd rate it 4 stars. Overall, it's a great place to enjoy a mindful dining experience with a unique vibe.

8851 Macon Hwy Suite 403, Athens

(706) 850-8550

Delicious. Mama's Boy at The Falls of Oconee is a true Athens staple for breakfast. I'm not easily impressed when it comes to brunch, but this place surprised me in the best way. Choosing what to eat was tough, but I decided on the sausage grit bowl, and the flavor was spot on. Being gluten-free, I appreciated that they let me swap the biscuit for fruit. Pricing was very reasonable, which is always a plus. It's important to know that this is a counter service restaurant, so be ready to order when you walk in. We arrived at 9 a.m. on a Saturday and had no problem walking in, ordering, and finding a seat without a wait. I've seen reviews mentioning long lines, so I recommend going early. The coffee was fantastic, and it was so hot I had to wait a bit before drinking it, but it was worth it. We sampled the French toast as a starter (highly recommend), and my husband chose the Truckstop Benedict, while I enjoyed the Veggie bowl with home fries. We also tried the sweet tea fried chicken, which was the highlight for me. The eggs benedict and chicken were also standouts, although the potatoes were just okay. Next time, I'll definitely try the grits. Service was great, and I loved that they offered to-go cups for coffee. We got there even before opening, and there was already a line of people waiting. Once the doors opened, everyone rushed in, yet our food came out impressively quick—within ten minutes. All in all, I had a wonderful experience with delicious food and efficient service. Even though it's counter service where you grab your own coffee and they still expect a tip, the quality of the experience more than made up for it. Mama's Boy remains a favorite Athens breakfast spot for me.

197 Oak St, Athens

(706) 548-6249

Mama's Boy Restaurant in Athens is hands-down one of my favorite spots for breakfast. The food is consistently tasty, and their salmon biscuit is a standout with its crisp salmon meat. I appreciate the kids menu, which even comes with real Crayola crayons to keep the little ones entertained. While they do ask for a tip before seating you, it's a minor drawback in an otherwise great experience. The front service model lets you order and pay before sitting down, but this doesn't impact the quality of service. The staff is attentive, often checking in to make sure everything is perfect. Their banana bread with poppy seed butter is almost a must-have for me each visit. Eggs are cooked to order, and if they're not perfect, they're happy to whip up a new batch. The coffee is from Jittery Joe's and complements the meal perfectly. I also have to mention their BLT — it's simple but executed so well. Parking can be a challenge with limited spaces in front, but there's more parking at the rear with a three-hour limit, mainly for the trails. When it comes to food, I went for the Vegetable and Egg Scrambler with cheese grits and biscuit, and it arrived promptly after ordering. My wife tried the Georgia Peach French Toast, and the only hiccup was the cold peaches. Despite that, every dish was enjoyable. The staff is not just friendly but genuinely helpful, often going out of their way to make sure you have everything you need. I drove an hour from Atlanta and can confidently say Mama's Boy lives up to the hype. From delicious food to great service, it's a quaint Athens staple perfect for brunch.

229 E Broad St, Athens

(706) 850-2988

My daughter and I visited The Place in Athens while checking out the University of Georgia from Waco, TX, and we were genuinely impressed. The atmosphere was welcoming, with exposed brick, dim lighting, and cool artwork that created a comfortable and visually pleasing environment. The wait to be seated was minimal, thanks to their efficient waitlist system, and the service was excellent throughout our visit. The breakfast was spot-on, and I highly recommend stopping by for a meal. I kept my order simple with salmon and a salad, but everything on the menu looked delicious. The attentive staff made our experience even better. We started with appetizers, including Fried Veggies and Bruschetta, which were both outstanding. For mains, I’d recommend the fried chicken, Gouda cheese grits, onion rings, and ranch sauce. The chicken and waffles with candied bacon, shrimp and grits, and the chicken sandwich with fries were also impressive. The fried pork chop with sides like cheese grits, onion rings, and creole corn was tasty, though the corn wasn’t my favorite. While the drinks were a bit disappointing in terms of quantity, everything else more than made up for it. The large television might seem out of place, but it’s a great feature for catching a game in this college football town. Overall, The Place has a lot to offer, especially in its charming downtown Athens location. Highly recommend giving it a try for a delightful meal in a great setting.

128 College Ave, Athens

(706) 543-1433

As a new grad student in Athens, discovering Walkers Coffee Shop & Pub was like finding a hidden gem. This place quickly became my go-to spot for studying and unwinding. I love their variety of drinks, especially the hard coffee, which I always introduce to friends and family visiting from out of town. The vibe at Walkers is fantastic – perfect for a relaxed hangout without the chaos. It's one of my favorite spots, especially in the winter when you can warm up with their delicious hot coffees or chocolates with a splash of booze. The atmosphere is friendly, and while it's busy during game days, it's never overwhelming, making it a perfect spot to catch up with friends. Their music selection and the games on TV add an extra layer of enjoyment. I appreciate the ID checks; it keeps the environment pleasant for everyone. Overall, Walkers Coffee Shop & Pub is a must-visit in Athens, GA, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable, inviting space.

1650 S Lumpkin St, Athens

(706) 850-3520

I had an amazing experience at J. Christopher's for breakfast in Athens. The moment I walked in, I felt welcomed by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff was friendly and attentive, making sure my coffee cup was always full and my order was taken care of without a hitch. The food was the highlight of my visit. It was fresh and delicious, especially J's classic pancakes, which were simply incredible. This place is now my favorite breakfast spot. Our server and host were fantastic, and even my dad, who usually swears by Waffle House, claimed it was the best breakfast he's ever had. We're definitely planning to return. I'm thrilled to have discovered this gem in the Athens area and highly recommend it to anyone nearby.

1180 Prince Ave Suite B, Athens

(706) 850-5656

I had a fantastic breakfast experience at The Flying Biscuit Cafe in Athens. The atmosphere was eclectic, adding a unique charm to the dining experience, and the service was attentive and friendly. My dish, the Hot-Lanta, was great, offering a delicious start to my day. The biscuits were the fluffiest I've ever tasted, and the salmon scrambled eggs were perfectly fluffy and creamy, bursting with flavor. The chicken sausage gravy was a standout, not greasy at all, and simply the best I've had. The cafe's express menu offers excellent quality food that's full of flavor and quite affordable, which is rare these days. Overall, it's definitely my favorite breakfast spot in Athens, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the area. Don't miss out on this wonderful place!

134 E Clayton St, Athens

(706) 549-0034

Pauley's for breakfast in Athens was a fantastic experience. The staff were incredibly friendly, making me feel welcome from the moment I walked in. The food was delicious, especially the savory crepes, which exceeded my expectations. The deviled eggs are a must-try, and the gumbo is exceptional as well. The atmosphere is very chill with a great vibe—open and welcoming. The menu offers so many choices, and the fun cocktails are a bonus. It's a cute spot that's perfect for brunch with friends, and it turns into a lively bar at night. I'm already looking forward to visiting again soon!

2375 W Broad St Suite B, Athens

(706) 850-1593

I had a pleasant breakfast experience at Another Broken Egg Cafe in Athens. Our server, Averi, was amazing and ensured that everything we ordered came out just right. The drinks were top-notch, and a manager even stopped by to check if everything was satisfactory, which was a nice touch. The brunch experience here is quite elevated. I did notice, however, that there weren't enough servers, which made service a bit slow despite arriving early when the restaurant wasn't busy. My gluten-free pancakes weren't mixed thoroughly, with some dry batter visible. Also, the blueberry pancakes lacked blueberries mixed into the batter, though they tasted good. The atmosphere was nice, but there were some cleanliness issues, especially around the high chairs and windows, which could use some attention. Despite the wait, the food was decent, with highlights like the excellent biscuit and gravy and a good cup of coffee. Overall, with some improvements in oversight and management, this place has the potential to offer an even better experience. While there were some hiccups, the food was fine, and I’ll consider giving it another try in the future.

130 Carlton St, Athens

(706) 542-6345

I always let the staff at Einstein Bros. Bagels recommend something for me, and they've never led me wrong. They're incredibly pleasant to be around, and the food is awesome! I highly recommend the Spicy Chicken and the Albuquerque Turkey sandwich—both are amazing! The folks working there are always so friendly, and the team of baristas manages to put a hug in every cup they serve. The location is super convenient for classes and is a great spot for a quick lunch. It's the perfect student recharge station. I don't often write reviews, but the staff here is just so nice. They make a point to remember your name if you visit a few times (they knew mine by my third visit) and always go out of their way to be pleasant and friendly. I work in a building nearby, so I drop by very regularly, and I've had nothing but positive encounters with everyone who works here. My coworkers say the same.