Popular Birmingham Breakfast Spots With Tasty Meals

2913 18th St S, Birmingham

(205) 877-8797

Salem's Diner in Birmingham is a small gem with an amazing vibe. The staff is incredibly sweet, making my husband and me feel like regulars from the moment we walked in. The owner personally introduced himself and even remembered our names when we left, which added such a personal touch. The Philly-chicken was superb, and the onion rings were delightful. My husband also enjoyed his meal. It's a small hole-in-the-wall spot, but the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, reminiscent of visiting a beloved grandmother's house. The southern hospitality here is top-notch, making the overall experience relaxed and inviting. Despite a few minor issues, like the biscuit tasting microwaved and a not-so-clean table, the food from the grill was excellent, especially the hashbrowns and perfectly cooked eggs. The bacon was a bit too well-done for my taste, but if you like it well done, no need to ask for it that way. Friendly staff made up for any small flaws. Salem's Diner isn't just about the food; it's about the people and the warm, local vibe. If you're in Birmingham, this is a must-try diner. We’ll definitely be back, and if we lived here, it would be a regular spot for us. Highly recommended!

180 Inverness Plaza, Birmingham

(205) 719-2563

Metro Diner in Birmingham was exactly what we needed on our road trip. The atmosphere was inviting, and the customer service was exceptional. We were served by Argo, who made our experience even better with outstanding service, and Nya was also fantastic, personable, and kind. I ordered the chicken and waffles, and I now understand why they're a local favorite. The crispy chicken paired perfectly with the slightly sweet waffles, creating a delicious blend of flavors. My husband enjoyed the fruit waffle, which was superb. The diner itself is clean and contemporary, with speedy service. Jennifer took great care of us, ensuring our requests were met, like crispy bacon, and everything came out in no time. We started with generous mimosas, setting a pleasant tone for the meal. The menu is well-written and descriptive, making it easy to choose dishes that truly satisfy. The food portions were generous, which was just what we needed for a quick stop. We'll definitely be returning every time we're passing through Birmingham. It's a new favorite for us!

1926 29th Ave S, Homewood

(205) 666-7099

Big Bad Breakfast in Birmingham is an exceptional spot for a morning meal. From the moment I walked in, the staff was attentive and warm, ensuring a pleasant experience. Mya provided amazing service, checking in on us often, and offering great recommendations. The red-eye gravy was a standout for me—rich, savory, and perfectly seasoned, paired wonderfully with fluffy biscuits or grits. I also enjoyed the chicken and waffles with local honey, and the homemade biscuits with various jams, especially the peach jam, which was incredible. Though I haven’t tried the morning cocktails, the fresh-squeezed OJ is the best I've ever had. The spicy bacon was another highlight, and Autumn made the visit even more enjoyable with her lovely demeanor. Big Bad Breakfast is a bit of a splurge, but the quality of food and service makes it worth it. I had the "Redneck" breakfast, and my wife tried the avocado toast—both were fantastic. Plan to arrive early or expect a short wait, as it's a popular spot. This place truly stands out as one of the neatest breakfast destinations I’ve visited.

4012 24th St N, Birmingham

(205) 983-7932

What a solid southern spot! Each person we interacted with was very friendly and kind. The food was amazing! I stopped in Birmingham from out of state, coming all the way from Kentucky. I arrived with friends, and the welcoming atmosphere was immediately noticeable. The restaurant is bustling, and yes, you might have to wait a bit outside, but they really move quickly to get you seated. The casual vibe of this soul food restaurant is perfect, and they make you feel right at home. The food was served buffet-style, and every item was a hit. The greens, yams, and mac and cheese were incredibly good! My family couldn't stop talking about how much they enjoyed everything. If I find myself in the Birmingham area again, I’ll definitely be stopping by for another hearty breakfast. The walk from the Flying J truck stop was well worth it. This place is definitely a game changer, and I highly recommend it to anyone craving some genuine southern comfort food.

1931 11th Ave S, Birmingham

(205) 933-8837

The Original Pancake House is nestled in a beautiful part of historical Birmingham, and it's always buzzing with activity whenever I visit. The staff works hard to provide excellent service, and this time Chris, our server, truly impressed us. He was attentive and made sure we had a fantastic breakfast experience. Although the prices are a bit higher than other breakfast spots, the quality justifies the cost. Everyone's food was delicious and served piping hot. The bacon, in particular, stood out with its thick-cut, perfectly crispy goodness—definitely worth ordering a second helping. The French toast was a family favorite, disappearing from the plates almost instantly. Chris managed to steer me away from the Swedish crepes, but I ended up trying the peach crepes, which were incredible. They've now become my new go-to, and I can't wait to come back to explore more of their menu. Parking can be a bit tricky, as the back lot requires validation, but the staff was helpful in getting it sorted out for us. It's a bustling place, so expect a bit of a wait for a table, but it's worth it for the fresh, delicious food. Overall, The Original Pancake House is a delightful breakfast destination with great food and a quirky, engaging staff. I'm sure I'll be returning soon to enjoy more of their tasty offerings.

5361 US-280, Birmingham

(205) 490-7568

Big Bad Breakfast is hands down one of my favorite spots to grab breakfast in Birmingham. I had the Creole omelette with andouille sausage and shrimp, accompanied by a side of hash browns, and it was absolutely delicious! The omelette was perfectly cooked, and the flavors were spot on. The staff were friendly and attentive, which made the experience even better. The atmosphere is welcoming and comfortable, making it a great place to start the day. We also tried the Biscuits and Gravy, Waffles, and Vietnamese coffee, and everything was phenomenal. The Biscuits and Gravy were hearty, the Waffles were light and fluffy, and the coffee was bold and rich. The fresh-squeezed orange juice was a refreshing start to the morning. Even though the place was busy, we only waited about 15 minutes for a table on a Saturday and managed to snag seats at the counter. The food came out quickly, which was impressive given the crowd. The Big Bad Skillet, flapjacks, and Breakfast Dude cocktail were all fantastic. The biscuit was excellent too, though the gravy could have used a bit more sausage flavor. Overall, Big Bad Breakfast delivers an amazing breakfast experience. I highly recommend trying out their jellies, jams, and sausages—you won't be disappointed. I can't wait to go back and explore the drink menu next time. For breakfast lovers, this place is a must-visit!

2050 Gadsden Hwy Suite 100, Birmingham

(205) 598-1848

The Metro Diner is an amazing traditional restaurant. The first visit was a real treat—everything from the food to the service and atmosphere was on point. Melissa, our server, had a wonderful smile and her attentiveness made the experience even better. The shrimp and grits are a must-try with perfectly cooked shrimp and an incredibly delicious sauce. The staff is super sweet, and the manager greeted me with a warm welcome. There’s a great variety of options, and breakfast is served all day. You definitely get your money’s worth. Plus, the mimosa was just perfect. This will not be my last visit—10/10 highly recommended!

4741 Chace Cir #105, Hoover

(205) 982-8477

First Watch in Birmingham is a delightful spot for breakfast or brunch that stands out from the crowd. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, reminiscent of a classic western-style brunch spot. Despite the busyness, we were seated quickly and started our meal off with some great coffee while perusing the menu. The food is a step up from your typical breakfast chain. I ordered the Traditional Omelet, which was packed with flavor and paired perfectly with multi-grain toast and crispy fried potatoes. My wife tried the blueberry muffin, and she was thoroughly impressed. One of the standout drinks was the lavender sea salt lemonade, which was unique and refreshing, though it might not be for everyone due to its sweetness. Service was efficient and friendly, thanks to our server, Grace, who made sure our experience was pleasant. Though on a previous visit, service was a bit rushed, this time around, everything was smooth and enjoyable. The French toast, topped with fresh bananas, strawberries, kiwi, and blueberry jam, is definitely worth trying if you’re a fan of sweet breakfast options. Overall, First Watch is a great place to start your day, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a tasty, satisfying breakfast experience. It's definitely on my list of places to revisit.

5479 US-280 Ste. 128, Birmingham

(205) 874-9607

I visited First Watch for breakfast in Birmingham on a busy Sunday, and despite a 30-minute wait due to staffing challenges, it was totally worth it. The food was delicious, and I'm already planning my next visit. I had the honey, bacon, Brussels sprout bowl with two eggs and a lemon lavender drink, while my husband enjoyed the traditional eggs Benedict with the kale lemon cucumber drink. Both dishes were fantastic! The artisan toast I ordered on the side was excellent too. This place offers clean eating with specialty refreshers, making it perfect for any occasion. Our server Max was outstanding, friendly, and efficient, adding to the great experience. We loved his attentive service and the positive atmosphere created by the staff singing along with the music. Everything was fresh and well-prepared, making it a top choice for me. I even went back twice in four days, and I'm excited to try more items from their menu. First Watch is now at the top of my list, and I can't recommend it enough!

5243 US-280, Birmingham

(205) 628-9200

I've visited three Ruby Sunshine locations now, and each time the food and service have been consistently wonderful! On my most recent trip to the Birmingham location, I tried a seasonal dish—the Hot Honey Chicken and Sprouts over Gouda grits—and it was an absolute pleasure. Manny, our server, was fantastic, which is just what I've come to expect from this local chain. Bravo to Ruby Sunshine for their continuous excellence! The service was fast and friendly, and honestly, I'd return for that alone. Katie, another server, was so sweet. As for the food, the bacon was your typical diner fare, but the grits and breakfast potatoes were pretty good. The biscuit and pancakes were really good. The pancakes, with their crispy edges and fluffy centers, were my favorite—so good! However, the omelet didn't meet my expectations. It lacked flavor and was a bit overcooked, leaving the eggs rubbery. I also tried the mimosa flight. The blueberry lavender and watermelon pomegranate flavors stood out, while the others just tasted like sparkling wine. The restaurant has a typical diner atmosphere with a bar, and while it's clean, you can tell it's been well-used and loved. It's definitely a decent choice for breakfast if you're in town and on the go. During my first visit, I found the beignets good, though the biscuit and gravy were just okay. My wife's omelet wasn't great, as the ham tasted off. Some of the plastic glasses had large cracks and could use replacing. Overall, I enjoyed my Migas and half and half tea, my son liked his 3 pigs omelet and breakfast potatoes, and my husband liked the southern breakfast platter, peaches and cream French toast, and coffee. One small gripe: I prefer when the baby changing table is in an individual stall, as it's currently out in the open in the bathroom. Despite these minor issues, Ruby Sunshine remains a great breakfast spot I would recommend to anyone.

2320 2nd Ave N, Birmingham

(205) 974-3600

During our visit from Canada, we stumbled upon Frothy Monkey for breakfast in Birmingham and found the comfort we needed. Our server, Tyler, was outstanding, and the food portions were just right, aligning perfectly with what we're used to back home. After experiencing overly large meals in the South, this was a refreshing change. The inclusive atmosphere, highlighted by a pride flag, made us feel welcome, which was a relief given some of the uncomfortable experiences we've had in other parts of the South as a same-sex interracial couple. Frothy Monkey is a perfect spot to unwind and relax. It was my first time in Birmingham, and it was an incredible way to start the day. They offer both vegan and meat options, catering to diverse tastes. My husband loved the house-made Bloody Mary, while I thoroughly enjoyed a golden monkey latte with oat milk. The BE hive bowl was an outstanding vegan choice, and my husband couldn't stop praising the chorizo biscuits and gravy. We enjoyed our meal outside on a beautiful fall morning. For my birthday, the staff went above and beyond with their kindness and attentiveness. The gouda grits were my favorite, and the Lavender Old Fashioned was a delightful drink. Our morning stop for breakfast turned into a memorable experience. The coffee, especially their dark roast, impressed even my wife, who usually avoids it. I went for the French toast with caramelized peaches, accompanied by eggs and sausage - it was excellent. My wife had biscuits with chorizo gravy and a perfectly cooked egg, which she loved. We ended up taking a bag of coffee home, and although the hoodies are a bit pricey, we're considering getting one next time. We'll definitely return whenever we're in town. Count on it!

4133 White Oak Dr, Birmingham

(205) 286-2353

The Alabama Biscuit Co. in Cahaba Heights serves hands down the best latte and biscuit breakfast I've ever had. While road-tripping from Colorado, this meal has been the standout. Everything is made from scratch, bringing a modern, refreshing take on a southern classic. We enjoyed the biscuit and gravy, paired with over easy eggs, as well as the goat cheese, pecan, and honey biscuit, and the strawberry bis-cake. The biscuits, made from spelt flour, offer a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet toppings. The over easy eggs were garnished with fresh herbs, adding a light, refreshing taste. The cold brew was strong yet not overwhelming, complementing the meal perfectly. The shop has a calm and relaxing vibe, and the staff is pleasant and attentive. Our visit was wonderful, and I encourage everyone to support this local gem. The variety of biscuits and the freshness of the food is impressive. Their coffee, with different blends available, is great both hot and cold. It's a small, quaint local business worth supporting. The food was amazing. I had the avocado toast, my son enjoyed a croque madame, and my husband tried the bacon du jour. What truly impressed us was the service. When an elderly gentleman in a handicapped spot asked for help, the staff promptly came outside to take his order. Their service is truly on point.

3419 Colonnade Pkwy #100, Birmingham

(205) 438-6857

I had breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Cafe in Birmingham, and it was a fantastic experience! The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. The grits were absolutely amazing, and the biscuits with their special sauce were a highlight. Although my steak was overcooked, everything else made up for it. The service was top-notch, with our server being both friendly and efficient. We even sat at the bar for a change of pace, which added to the fun. We were in town from Georgia for a concert and decided to try this spot for my Bachelorette party breakfast. I'm so glad we did. It was worth it, and I can't wait to return. This place has become my go-to breakfast spot in Birmingham over the years, and it never disappoints. The staff is friendly, the food is excellent, and there's always enough to satisfy your hunger. The dreamy grits and biscuits with apple butter are favorites of mine. This cafe truly knows how to make breakfast memorable!

314 17th St N, Birmingham

(205) 254-9098

Decided to check out Nelson Brother's Cafe for breakfast on my day off while my vehicle was getting serviced nearby. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed by the super sweet lady who greeted me. The atmosphere was friendly, and it didn’t take long before I was diving into some hot, fresh, and delicious breakfast. I was so engrossed in the food that taking a picture completely slipped my mind! One of the highlights was being greeted by a charming 18-month-old girl, the fifth generation of restaurant owners. It added a delightful personal touch to the experience. We even got a free play on the juke box, which was a fun bonus. For breakfast, I had two bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches on toast. They were simply amazing. The pig ear and liver sandwiches on the menu caught my eye, offering a uniquely southern vibe. On another cold morning, when the fridge was nearly empty, I ordered breakfast through DoorDash, specifically because I wanted to try their salmon croquettes. The croquettes brought back memories of my Mom's cooking and were quite tasty, even if nothing can top Mom’s version. Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and I’m definitely planning to come back. Thank you to everyone at Nelson Brother’s Cafe for such a unique and enjoyable dining experience!

1017 Oxmoor Rd, Birmingham

(205) 890-7700

I had heard a lot about Ruby Sunshine before visiting, and it truly lived up to the buzz! The staff was friendly, knowledgeable about the menu, and offered some fantastic recommendations. Our waiter, with his glitter, cat ears, and quirky personality, really went above and beyond to accommodate our party. Even without the excellent food, the service alone deserves five stars; the hostess was also welcoming. We were in town for the jazz festival and needed a brunch spot that could cater to various dietary needs. With my multiple food allergies, I was impressed by how helpful and informative the staff was in guiding me through the allergen-friendly menu. The service was quick, and the food was delicious. I can't wait to return. After church, we decided to try Ruby’s and only waited 15 minutes before being seated in the main dining area. The location and ambiance are very charming, and we were lucky to find parking in the lot. The omelettes, biscuits, and grits were excellent. We will be back. Overall, Ruby Sunshine is super cute, and the food is good. I tried the French toast bites with hot honey fried chicken, which were delicious. The French toast was a bit like croutons, but adding some extra syrup fixed that. The outdoor covered patio with a big fireplace is adorable, and the staff was great. I'd love to see more vegetarian options, like BE-hive or impossible sausages, and more refreshing mocktails.

2321 4th Ave N, Birmingham

(205) 254-9167

Fife's Restaurant & Diner offers one of the rare meat and two/three experiences left in Birmingham, and it always delivers when I'm craving the comfort food of my childhood. My favorite dish is the trout almondine, which comes with a massive piece of fish and generous servings of some of the best mac and cheese, collard greens, and iced tea in town. The fried green tomatoes are also a hit. I usually order takeout, and the carryout box is packed to the brim, often enough for two meals. If you're looking for good country cooking, quick service, and friendly people, Fife's has you covered. The atmosphere is warm and family-friendly, and the staff treats you like one of their own. The quality of the soul food is top-notch, from the smothered pork chops to the baked mac and cheese. Plus, they offer free refills on drinks when dining in, and the sweet tea is fantastic. I’ve heard they serve breakfast, which I’m tempted to try soon. Don't miss out on this downtown Birmingham gem!

2801 18th St S, Homewood

(205) 414-0999

If you're in Birmingham, you can't miss the Maple Street Biscuit Company in Homewood for breakfast. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with large tables perfect for sharing with friends or meeting new people. Ordering is easy with an order and pick-up window, and there's no long wait for food. The chicken and bacon maple biscuit sandwich I had was crispy and perfectly cooked, as were the smashed browns. Each bite was delicious, and I was pleasantly surprised by the quick service. The whole experience is fun. When you order, they ask what you're grateful for, and when my food was ready, they called out "landed safely," which made me smile. The coffee is self-serve, so you can make it just right. The environment is cozy, ideal for groups of any size, and while there's no table service, they provide real silverware and plates, which I appreciate. Our group tried a variety of dishes, like the sausage gravy and biscuits with eggs and the sticky maple biscuit, all of which were flavorful. The maple latte was sweetened just right, and the drip coffee was rich. I tried the Five & Dime, and though the chicken had a surprising kick, it was still enjoyable. The gravy and bacon were tasty, and the biscuit was spot-on. The Peach Berry Lemonade was refreshing, too. I also tried the breakfast tacos, filled with bacon, egg, cheese, sour cream, potatoes, and a side of rich salsa. My mom enjoyed the sausage egg and cheese version. The tortillas tasted homemade, adding to their appeal. The service was friendly and helpful, recommending the drip coffee which was a great suggestion. I’d love to return and explore more of the menu.

3103 Ensley 5 Points W Ave, Birmingham

(205) 781-7837

I had a fantastic breakfast experience at East of the Mississippi Diner in Birmingham. The customer service was excellent and really set the tone for a great start to the day. Our server was attentive and friendly, making sure we were well taken care of. It’s a charming hole-in-the-wall spot that serves up genuine southern food, which I loved. The pancakes were definitely the highlight of the meal—fluffy and delicious. As a vegetarian, I was pleasantly surprised by the variety and quality of options available. The grits were smooth and creamy, though I prefer more seasoning, but that’s easily adjustable to personal taste. My husband and I were impressed with how quickly our food arrived, even though the place was buzzing with activity. The drive-thru was equally busy, a clear sign that the food is a local favorite. I’d never seen a drive-thru breakfast spot before, so that was a fun first! I’ll be sure to stop by again when I’m in the area. It’s the kind of place that adds a bit of local flavor to your visit, and the staff and service definitely deserve an A+.

1291 Center Point Pkwy, Birmingham

(205) 460-8637

I absolutely love Parkway Griddle House for breakfast! This place is a true gem with an incredible 90s vibe that brings back a lot of nostalgia. It's become our favorite spot, and I'm so glad we found it. The food is straightforward yet delicious—my go-to is the sausage, egg, and cheese biscuit with cheese grits. They really don't hold back on the butter, and it's sooo good! Pair that with hot coffee and friendly service, and it’s a perfect start to the day. The cigarette smoke might be a turn-off for some, but if you're sentimental about the 90s, it adds to the experience with a bit of humor. Overall, it's always a pleasure coming here, and I enjoy every visit!