Excellent Breakfasts in Boston That Are So Good You Can't Miss Them

252 Commercial Street, Boston

(857) 277-0356

Best breakfast sandwich of my life. I’m not sure why Sunny Girl isn’t more well-known, but I kind of want to keep it lowkey and to myself. There’s a cute outdoor seating area and limited bar seating inside. It’s more of a grab-and-go spot with lots of pick-up and delivery orders. I highly recommend the Sunny Girl sandwich—the English muffin is to die for. The coffee is standard, but the happiness post-Sunny Girl is immeasurable. The breakfast sandwiches here are really tasty! They come out relatively quickly, so I waited by the window (there’s outdoor seating too). The interior is cute, and I loved my breakfast grilled cheese. I’d definitely come back. The sandwiches are a tad on the smaller side, but still pretty filling. I heard they have great freshly squeezed juices too! It’s a popular spot on Sunday mornings. Their English muffins are sooo good—I think they’re homemade, very fresh, soft, and flavorful. I ordered the OG and the Lox. Highly recommend coming here. The breakfast sandwiches are amazing, oozing with warm egg, served on homemade, soft English muffins. Loved the simple OG, just the right patty size to start the day. The Sunny Girl was also great and a little heartier with bacon and smashed avocado. I’d totally come here weekly if I lived nearby. 5 stars!

55 Temple Pl, Boston

(617) 779-0062

Cafe Bonjour serves one of the best brunches I've had in Boston. Despite being a small, cozy spot, it's very popular, so it's wise to arrive early. I visited on a chilly, rainy Sunday around 10 a.m. and waited about 20 minutes to get in. The line moved quickly, and the wait was definitely worth it for the outstanding food. The seating process is organized by party size; smaller groups or solo diners at the bar get in faster, which worked out perfectly for me. Once inside, I was impressed with how efficiently the staff managed the busy environment. My coffee was served within 5 minutes, and the food arrived around 15 minutes after ordering. The food here is exceptional. I highly recommend trying the Eggs Norwegian, but the Mediterranean Crepe is another tasty option. The portions are generous, and the flavors are spot on. The prices are fair, and the quality and service truly hit the mark. Though the restaurant's small size causes some wait time, they're actively addressing this with outdoor seating options. Overall, it's a gem for brunch lovers. The signature blueberry bowl was absolutely delicious, and the freshly squeezed taste of the orange juice was a nice touch. The house omelette with breakfast potatoes was fantastic, too. The location is clean and well-kept. Though tables are close together, I found a tall table in the back, which offered a bit more privacy. The service was great, and everyone was really nice. If you pass by on a Sunday morning, you'll likely see a long line. However, don't let that deter you. Orders are processed quickly, and you won't feel rushed to finish your meal. If I find myself in Boston again, I'll definitely be back.

162 Salem St, Boston

(617) 241-0202

I found this little gem in the Little Italy section of Boston. It doesn't look like much from the outside, but the food inside is outstanding. Watching Theo cook on the grill is like witnessing magic. The menu offers great selections for breakfast, all prepared to order, hot and fresh. The portions are generous, and the prices are fantastic for Boston. The place is small and cramped, but it feels extremely welcoming and like home. Make sure to bring cash, as they don't take credit cards, and arrive early because the line forms quickly. I had the special with two eggs, bacon, potatoes, and toast, alongside a cup of coffee. The coffee was great with plenty of refills. My total was just over $15, which is very reasonable. I waited in line for about 30 minutes, thinking that if there's a line, it has to be good—and it was dang good. Inside, it's tight and close, but you get to make friends in line and while eating. The food was excellent, and the service was fast and friendly. Theo's is a definite stop if you're in the area! It offers a cozy environment with a mix of traditional American breakfast and Brazilian options. Theo's homemade hot sauce is a must-try. Keep in mind it's cash only, which was a bit inconvenient since I had to find a nearby store to withdraw money. But overall, I love this place, with its great atmosphere and friendly staff. Highly recommend it!

455 E 1st St, South Boston

(617) 765-8654

My Diner in Boston is a gem for breakfast lovers! The location might be a bit tucked away on the second floor, but once you're there, the experience is worth it. The staff is incredibly friendly and made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. The menu offers something for everyone, and the food is just fantastic. I tried the Belgian waffles, while my group raved about their omelettes. Even the vegan options, like the tofu scramble and blueberry pancakes, were impressive. The atmosphere is relaxed and spacious with no long waits, making it a perfect spot for locals and visitors alike. It's easy to see why people keep coming back. I'll definitely visit again on my next trip to Boston.

229 North St, Boston

(617) 720-2010

North Street Grille in Boston's North End is a fantastic breakfast spot that's definitely worth the visit. It's popular for a reason, and the hour-long wait is a testament to how great it is. The hostess was kind, keeping everything running smoothly even with the crowd. The food was absolutely delicious, with portions large enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites. We started with complimentary banana bread, which was a delightful touch. My family and I were all satisfied with our meals. I had an egg, bacon, and cheddar cheese sandwich that was perfect. The farmer sausage was tasty, served as a patty, and the pancakes were amazing. The fruit bowl portions are huge, and the 2 eggs served felt more like 4! Skipping the toast and home fries turned out to be a smart decision since I couldn't finish everything. The drinks are like desserts, making the whole breakfast experience even better. Our server, Steven, was incredibly patient and attentive, especially with our large group. This cozy spot is very close to several tourist attractions, including the aquarium, which we visited afterward. Reservations are a must on weekends due to its popularity. If you're planning to go, definitely ask for the banana bread appetizer—it's delicious. North Street Grille may be small, but the service is top-notch. I highly recommend visiting for a comforting breakfast and great food. Make a reservation if you want to avoid the wait. It's a hidden gem in the city that shouldn't be missed.

131 Clarendon St, Boston

(617) 437-7700

Flour Bakery + Cafe is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Boston. It's clean and airy with high ceilings, which I really appreciate, and it's open early, making it super convenient for morning commuters like me. The matcha latte was a bit weak, but the yogurt parfait was solid! The staff here are incredibly friendly, and the pricing is reasonable. I've got to rave about their homemade lemonade—it's the best I've ever tasted, with just the right amount of sweetness. If you're like me and prefer desserts that aren't overly sugary, this is definitely the place for you. The avocado toast was delicious, and my friend enjoyed the baked French toast so much that I tried it myself the next day. Both times, the food was tasty, though it's a bit on the expensive side. We've visited the Clarendon St location multiple times and have been consistently impressed with the food and service. There are plenty of options to satisfy both sweet and savory cravings. The espresso drinks were spot on, and there's ample seating both indoors and out. It's a great alternative to Tatte when you're in Boston.

20 Custom House St, Boston

(617) 261-4727

My family and I stopped by Bean & Leaf Cafe for breakfast during our visit to Boston, and it was such a delightful experience! We had read positive reviews and liked the look of their menu, so we decided to give it a try. My sister and I ordered the Breakfast Sandwich with egg, bacon, cheese, and avocado on whole grain bread, while my niece opted for the ham and cheese omelet, which was served with toast and delicious breakfast potatoes. The food was freshly made and absolutely delicious—definitely the best breakfast we had on our trip! Even though we couldn’t return the next day as the cafe is closed on weekends, we had such a positive experience that I wanted to mention it. The cafe is small, so it might get a bit crowded, but it’s perfect for both breakfast and lunch. The staff was attentive and helpful, which made our visit even more pleasant. They offer a good variety of options, including vegetarian-friendly dishes. Their menu features sandwiches, plates, salads, and wraps, all at budget-friendly prices. The service was quick, and they accept credit cards for payment, which was convenient. Despite the limited seating, we truly enjoyed our time there and would definitely come back when in Boston again. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend stopping by for breakfast!

35 Stanhope St, Boston

(617) 231-9562

Everything at The Friendly Toast was amazing! We had a fantastic breakfast with Chicken and Waffles, Breakfast Burrito, Lemonade Mango, and a Tropical Mimosa Flight—all delicious. The food was incredible, and the vibes were fun with friendly service. This diner stands out as the best I've been to in the USA. The owners have really nailed that traditional diner feel, even down to the music and classic coffee options, which I appreciate. I hope they make it to New Zealand someday because they bring such genuine craft and passion to what they do. My Salmon Toast breakfast was exceptional, rich with flavor and goodness. The staff was attentive, making sure everything was perfect without hovering too much. It's a chill place, ideal for a casual morning meal. I grabbed breakfast with friends and tried the Hash Quiche; the portion size was just right, and it tasted great. While the place was busy, it's busy for a good reason—everything is delicious. A friend recommended it to me, and though it was a bit of a walk from the hotel, the meal was worth it. There was a wait, but I spent time at the downstairs bar where Nicole took care of me. Her charming hospitality made the wait pleasant. She suggested the tater tots and the meat lover's omelette. The tots, even lukewarm, were amazing, and the in-house marble rye was exceptional. I'd definitely come back if I were in town again. If you're nearby, make sure to check it out!

1714 Washington St, Boston

(617) 267-9393

Mike's City Diner is a fantastic little spot for breakfast in Boston. It's a cool hole-in-the-wall place that was even featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. When we arrived, we were pleasantly surprised by the minimal wait time. We sat at the bar and were immediately impressed by the prompt service and friendly staff, who kept their cool despite being busy. Watching the chefs work seamlessly in the kitchen was a real treat. The food was absolutely delicious. The homemade corned beef hash is a standout; it's probably the best I've ever had. They also serve grits, which are my favorite, and they're done right here. The portions were generous, and I ended up taking some home because I just couldn't finish it all in one sitting. Overall, our experience at Mike's was excellent from start to finish. If you're in the area, you should definitely swing by for some great grub. I'm sure you'll enjoy it as much as we did!

1508 Tremont St, Boston

(617) 516-8913

I came to Milkweed for breakfast on a Friday morning and had a great experience overall. The service was fantastic, and the employees, including the owner, were incredibly friendly, making me feel right at home. While some of the prices were a bit steep, like the $15 scrambled egg plate and $18 Dutch baby pancake, the food was fresh and delicious. The Dutch baby was a bit overpowered by the lemon ricotta and blueberry compote, but those flavors were spot on. What truly makes Milkweed stand out is its charming atmosphere. The restaurant is cute with a chic interior and has a lovely patio for outdoor seating. It’s located near a park, which makes it a pleasant spot to enjoy your meal, especially when the sun is out. And being close to Brigham and Women’s Hospital, it’s convenient for a meal before or after a visit. Though I preferred their dinner offerings, having tried breakfast, lunch, and dinner here, the food never disappoints. The vegan options impressed even the pickiest eater in our family. It's one of my favorite places to visit in Boston, and I would definitely return for another meal.

12 Channel St, Boston

(617) 423-1110

Pete's Dockside is a quality little diner that I stumbled upon for breakfast in Boston. It’s a real gem for those who appreciate good value and great-tasting meals. Although the location is a bit tricky due to ongoing construction and the industrial dockside setting, it adds a unique charm to the experience. The breakfast options were excellent for the price. My $10 breakfast burrito, while a bit on the bland side, was still a worthwhile meal for the cost. The burrito could have used a little more seasoning, but overall it was filling and satisfying. I didn’t get a chance to try the pizza, but they looked quite tempting. The diner itself had a clean atmosphere, and while the inside had a noticeable odor, eating outside was a pleasant alternative. The staff was friendly, and despite the 15-minute wait for my order, the food was served fairly quickly considering the laid-back vibe of the place. Overall, Pete's Dockside offers a good value with decent food. I wouldn't necessarily make a special trip just for this diner, but if I’m in the area, I'd definitely consider stopping by again.

80 W Broadway, Boston

(617) 268-6189

Stepping into Mul's Diner for breakfast felt like a warm embrace. The service was outstanding; our server, Vicky, truly went above and beyond to make my girlfriend and me feel at home, treating us like regulars from the moment we walked in. Her attention to detail and friendly demeanor transformed our meal into something special. The staff clearly love what they do, creating an atmosphere that's both friendly and welcoming. The decor at Mul's Diner captures the essence of a classic diner vibe. It's simple and functional, with its beautiful bar and cozy seating contributing to a nostalgic and inviting atmosphere. While it might not be a design marvel, everything is well-maintained and thoughtfully arranged. Now, the food – it was nothing short of amazing. We both ordered eggs, bacon, and pancakes, and I couldn't resist trying the "pancake taco," a unique dish that combines the breakfast classics in an innovative way. Everything was cooked to perfection and tasted extraordinary. Mul's has mastered the art of turning simple dishes into memorable culinary delights. Reflecting on my visit, Mul's Diner is truly a standout spot in Boston. From the exceptional service to the delicious food, it's a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you're a local or just passing through, I highly recommend stopping by for a meal that feels like home. Final Verdict: "Amazing" – Mul's Diner: Where exceptional service and extraordinary pancakes make you feel right at home. Enjoy the homemade muffins, and if you have kids with allergies, they accommodate brilliantly. This place fulfilled my craving for both pancakes and eggs wonderfully. A definite 10/10 experience!

96 Peterborough St, Boston

(617) 262-7700

This place has serious culinary skills, especially with the unique addition of taro. It's just a short walk from my apartment, so I decided to give it a try. The menu definitely lived up to my expectations. The only downside is the cramped space, which feels a bit cluttered, so I’d give it 3 stars for atmosphere. Also, the trash can outside could use a good cleaning and a better location to get rid of that unpleasant smell. On the upside, the staff is amazing - friendly, helpful, and efficient. They really make the experience enjoyable, even though the smell kept us from sitting outdoors. The plants inside could use some attention too; they’d definitely benefit from a bit of water. It gets pretty busy on Friday afternoons, but the service, drinks, and food are great. I tried an ube milk tea with whole milk, which wasn’t the best choice for my stomach, but it was still good. I also had the classic cold cut banh mi, which was delicious. I’d love to come back and try more from the menu. It's a casual spot perfect for anyone in the area. It's also a great place to work and enjoy some tasty treats. The sugar-free ube latte is fantastic, and while the matcha is just okay, the sandwiches and crepes are great. The place is moderately quiet, making it a good spot to study or read. It was a bit humid inside without AC, though. I also tried a dragonfruit lemonade and a Vietnamese iced coffee. The coffee was good, but the lemonade was too sweet to finish.

147 Pearl St, Boston

(617) 542-1965

Scali Cafe is a quaint little spot with a warm, welcoming vibe, thanks to the genuinely nice staff and owners. It's a straightforward order-at-the-counter setup, which makes the experience quick and efficient. The portions here are quite generous, so much so that I couldn't finish all that was served. A heads-up: if you're ordering the potatoes, a half order will still be plenty! One thing to note is the use of plastic utensils and Styrofoam plates, which might end up in a landfill, and the steep steps leading to the entrance, which require caution. The owner, who took over from the original Italian owner about 12 years ago, is quite friendly, adding a nice personal touch to the place. While there might not be restrooms available, and the ordering process can be a bit confusing, the friendly staff more than makes up for it. The eggs were the standout - fluffy and delicious, the best I've had in a while. I ordered eggs, sausage, toast, and home fries, and everything was fantastic, with the home fries being particularly satisfying. The portions were great for the price, and the quality of food hasn't changed over the years – everything is consistently perfect. If you haven’t been to Scali Cafe in a while, it's time to drop by for breakfast or lunch. While takeout and delivery are options, I recommend visiting for a hearty breakfast. Just skip the French toast, as it wasn't to my taste, and stick to the breakfast sandwiches. The coffee is basic and the pricing is a bit quirky, but overall, the experience is still about the fantastic food and friendly service. Don't wait too long to make this a breakfast stop!

26 Temple Pl, Boston

(617) 292-2626

Café 26 is a charming little spot for breakfast in Boston that offers a full Halal menu. The location is perfect for a brunch stop while exploring Downtown. I ordered the breakfast burger and the Classic breakfast plate, both of which were very good and reasonably priced. The mocha latte was fantastic, although the iced latte was a bit light for my taste. The café staff was friendly, and even when we encountered an issue with the egg on a burger, it was resolved quickly without any complaints from the waitress or cook. While we were seated in a cramped corner by the stair railing and air conditioner, I appreciated not having to wait for a table during the morning rush. However, the service could use some improvement. It felt a bit rushed, and the menu didn't reflect what was available, leading to a few awkward exchanges. The handheld ordering system seemed cumbersome and may have contributed to our side of bacon being forgotten. Unfortunately, we also felt overlooked compared to other customers who were given more attention by the servers. Despite these hiccups, the food was generally good. The French toast was soft and chewy, though lacking the crisp edge I expected. While the experience wasn’t phenomenal, for those visiting, sticking to the breakfast basics might be the way to go. The waitress was nice, but the overall service left us feeling a bit unwelcome. With some adjustments, Café 26 could provide a more comfortable dining experience.

44 Charles St, Boston

(617) 720-1152

We chose The Paramount for breakfast because of its convenient location near Boston Common. The staff welcomed us warmly, and we quickly found a seat. It started quiet but filled up as we ate. I had the egg and cheese breakfast sandwich with bacon. The sandwich was alright, nothing memorable, but decent. The real highlight for me was the caramel & banana french toast. It had a great balance of sweetness, although my girlfriend thought it had too much caramel. If you’re not a caramel fan, that might not be for you. The Paramount is good for brunch if you're near Boston Common. The food is what you’d expect, not extraordinary but satisfying. I also tried a BLT and found it a bit soggy. Our drinks—a local lager and an agave mango peach spritz—were enjoyable. The standout dish was definitely the buffalo chicken wrap, which was delicious. While the sweet potato fries and salmon omelet were tasty, they were a bit too salty for my liking. However, the service was quick and the servers were amazing, which made the experience pleasant. Overall, The Paramount is a cute spot for all-day brunch with lots of options, especially if you ask for low salt to accommodate your preferences.

150 Huntington Ave #02115, Boston

(617) 267-6336

I had breakfast at Thornton's Boston Breakfast & Lunch Restaurant, and it was a pleasant experience overall. The service was exceptional, which definitely enhanced our visit. My husband enjoyed his Cafe Latte with almond milk, saying it was good, and the Greenery Eggs Benedict was both unexpected and delicious—not fancy, but made with great ingredients. The atmosphere was relaxed, with open doors letting in a nice breeze, creating the perfect setting for a casual meal. I appreciated the authentic touch in the mediterranean breakfast platter, which, as someone with a greek background, I found to be genuinely impressive. While there were a few small issues with portion sizes, specifically with the chicken sandwich and the bowl of chili, the overall taste and vibe of the place made up for it. Despite a tough cut of corned beef in the Reuben Sandwich and an underwhelming tuna melt, these didn’t overshadow the positive aspects of our visit. Thornton's offers an enjoyable mix of both expected and unique dishes, and I’m already looking forward to going back for another brunch. It's exactly what we were looking for in a casual diner.

178 Kneeland St, Boston

(617) 350-0028

South Street Diner is such a nice spot for breakfast in Boston. I stopped by with some work friends, and it really hit the spot for my diner cravings. There aren't many classic diners left, so finding this gem surrounded by highrises felt special. The atmosphere is lively and a bit loud, which adds to the authentic diner experience. The food was excellent, with plenty of options even for vegetarians. I tried the Lobster Benedict, and it was delicious. The portions are generous, and everything is freshly made to order, which is always a plus. The prices are reasonable too. The staff added to the charm; our waitress had a quintessential Boston vibe, complete with a thick accent. There was a bit of drama between the staff while we were there, but it was more amusing than bothersome. While not everything on the menu was perfect, the breakfast items truly stood out. The blueberry pancakes, french toast, and avocado benedict were all satisfying and kept us full for hours. The seating was a bit cramped, but if you love the bustling diner vibe, it’s just part of the experience. If you're ever in Boston and want a good late-night bite or a hearty breakfast, this is your place. Just be prepared for a line if you're going late at night. Highly recommend supporting this classic diner!

314 Shawmut Ave, Boston

(617) 482-1015

I had breakfast at South End Buttery in Boston and wanted to share my amazing experience! My boyfriend and I went for pancakes and a breakfast sandwich, and we were blown away. The chocolate chip pancakes were perfect, served with sunny side up eggs and delicious toast. The home fries, or breakfast potatoes, were just right. The service was fantastic, adding to the overall great experience. We also tried dinner there, and it was equally impressive. The Mezze with all three spreads, especially the whipped red pepper feta, was delightful. We loved the Crispy Calamari, Mussels, and the Fish & Chips with truffle fries. The drinks from the bar were tasty too. For dessert, we had the Affogato with pistachio ice cream, and it was incredible! The ice cream was creamy, and the cookies were a nice touch. The place itself is charming, located in a lovely neighborhood, and has a nice variety of pastries and bagels. Although we weren't fans of the breakfast burrito and smoked salmon bagel, I'd recommend trying a bagel with cream cheese, as it seemed to be quite popular. Overall, South End Buttery is fantastic for both breakfast and dinner. I highly recommend it to friends and anyone in the area. I'll definitely be coming back!

1024 Massachusetts Ave, Boston

(617) 442-5965

Great breakfast fare! I loved how flavorful the corned beef and hash browns were. While the booth upholstery was a bit worn, the gritty Boston setting added a cool vibe. The staff was incredibly friendly, and the service was excellent. Our waitress was just perfect. The location might have its issues, but once inside, the food and warm service make up for it. I had biscuits and gravy with an egg, which were quite good. It was a very pleasant breakfast experience, and I'm thrilled to find another spot in New England that serves grits. My only complaint is that the water tasted like it was from the tap. Overall, I would recommend this spot.