May 26, 2025

Awesome Breakfasts in Buffalo to Kick Off Your Day

Read about Buffalo's upbeat breakfast grills where golden-brown pancakes and fluffy whipped eggs make mornings bright and delicious for everyone. Discover the special meals that turn breakfast into a tasty adventure!

Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
New York
Editor's Note: Brunch Expert is supported by our readers. We sometimes earn commissions when you click through to restaurants or affiliate links.

Wake up in Buffalo and start your day with the best breakfasts around! Bite into fluffy pancakes and scrambled eggs cooked in time-honored styles that make you feel right at home. These cozy spots offer whipped dishes like creamy omelets and tasty waffles that will make your morning special.

Sophia's Restaurant

715 Military Rd, Buffalo

(716) 248-1235

Reviewed by:

Hilary Пчеличките

I found this place while searching for breakfast spots in Buffalo, and I'm so glad I did. The food was excellent—it came out quickly and tasted delicious. The service was fantastic—fast, efficient, thorough, pleasant, and welcoming. I have nothing negative to say. We're likely to return during our stay because we're eager to try the waffles! This was our first time at the new location, and I'm already a huge fan. We arrived around 9 a.m. as a group of three and waited about 20-25 minutes, which wasn’t bad for a Saturday morning. The food was worth it—great breakfast sandwich, delicious eggs benedict, and a tasty omelette. The home fries were tasty, and I'm especially fond of the homemade bread. The Bloody Mary was delicious, and the atmosphere was great. The new location is nicely decorated, and the staff is incredibly friendly. If we lived in Buffalo, we'd definitely become regulars. We really enjoyed our breakfast here. The staff was friendly, and the cocktails were tasty—the Bloody Mary was nourishing, and the mimosa was great, too! I had the eggs Florentine and could barely finish it, while my husband loved the Buffalo omelette, especially the fresh breakfast potatoes. The homemade toast with honey was a highlight, thanks to our server's recommendation. Overall, we had a fantastic experience and highly recommend this place! Thank you!

Café On The Avenue

1240 Hertel Ave, Buffalo

(716) 877-2233

Reviewed by:

Guerline Katakam

Café On The Avenue might just be my favorite diner in Buffalo. We arrived around 2:15 pm, close to their 3 pm closing time, and the place was pretty empty, which made it feel cozy and intimate. They focus on breakfast and lunch, and all their food is made on the premises, including some tasty little donut bits they offer as appetizers. The staff, who I think might be the owners, were incredibly friendly and accommodating. The atmosphere is just right—comfortable and inviting without feeling run-down. Inside is cooler, and they play background classic rock music that doesn’t interrupt your conversation. My mom ordered a tuna melt and loved it, and I went with the veggie skillet featuring pepper jack cheese, which was excellent. They even offer several kinds of cheese, and they’re open to customizing menu items, which I appreciated. They try to align their specials with local events, like having Italian sausage during the Italian festival. One of the best parts is the pricing—our bill came to just over $25, making it around $30 with tip for both of us. That’s a great deal considering the quality of the food and the charming atmosphere. While it's a bit out of my usual area, I definitely plan to make an effort to return. This morning's visit was delightful! The service was great, and the food was amazing. My husband enjoyed banana pecan pancakes, and I had French Toast with blueberries, both of which were delicious. Our server was genuinely engaging, which added to the pleasant experience. Highly recommend this place for breakfast or brunch!

The Healing Grounds Café

220 Grant St, Buffalo

(716) 427-4999

Reviewed by:

Jennifer Santiago

We went to The Healing Grounds Café on a Sunday morning, and it was a fantastic experience. We ordered two lattes and two sandwiches, and everything is made fresh to order. You can watch them preparing your food behind the counter, so if it's busy, just be ready for a bit of a wait. The pesto breakfast sandwich was delicious, and the coffee was above average, which I enjoyed a lot. We were there for breakfast, looking for a new coffee spot, and the food did not disappoint. We had the French toast and the breakfast sandwich, and both were incredible. I'd highly recommend trying them. I had an iced latte with maple spice flavor, and my partner had a cold brew with coconut flavor. Both coffee drinks were great—not too sweet and not bitter. The café offers lots of tables and comfortable seating options, and the chill music is at just the right volume. There's free water, street parking, and very friendly employees. This place is in a textured part of the west side, which adds to its charm. The food is healthy and delicious, and the drinks are crafted with care. Plus, the proprietor is friendly and welcoming. It's unfortunate that vandals don't respect local businesses, but I truly hope this café sticks around for a long time. It has great vibes, and if you love coffee and a delightful café experience, this place is a must-visit. From the excellent coffee to the amazing food and friendly service, it hits all the right notes. I can't wait to return and explore more of their menu! Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

BreadHive Bakery & Cafe

402 Connecticut St, Buffalo

(716) 980-5623

Reviewed by:

Mitchell Rister

After years of my best friend urging me to visit BreadHive Bakery & Cafe for breakfast, I finally went and it did not disappoint. The breakfast sandwich I had was phenomenal, hands down the best I’ve ever tasted. The bread was delicious, and the egg and bacon were cooked perfectly with a hint of maple that tied everything together flawlessly. The staff was incredibly welcoming and accommodating, even as we arrived close to closing time. BreadHive is truly a Buffalo gem to cherish and protect, and I became instantly obsessed with it. I ordered the Björk sandwich, and it was fantastic. The vibe of the place was great, and if I lived nearby, this would be a regular spot for me. Their homemade pretzels exceeded my expectations, and although they were out of bagels since we came later in the day, everything else was amazing. The only minor issues were with seating and parking, but that didn't overshadow the experience. Solid breakfast sandwiches, delicious cookies, and very sweet customer service made this a memorable visit. All their bread looked amazing, and I really enjoyed the pretzel.

Nick's Place

504 Amherst St, Buffalo

(716) 871-1772

Reviewed by:

Deasia Yedlapati

After visiting Niagara Falls, we stopped at Nick's Place for breakfast on our way to the airport, and it was incredible! I ordered an omelet with skillet fries and toast, and everything was delicious. The omelet was made with real cheese, not the fake kind, which I really appreciated. It was spicy, so if you're not into spicy food, you might want to ask for a milder version. The skillet fries were perfect—tender inside and crunchy outside. There were a lot of locals eating there, which is always a good sign. The service was friendly and courteous, making the experience even better. A cup of coffee that never seemed to end was the perfect complement to the meal. The portions were huge; honestly, the $14 breakfast felt like it could feed two people! The atmosphere had that classic diner feel, even though the layout wasn't typical, which made me feel comfortable and at home. Nick's Place is hands down one of the best restaurants I've tried. If you're looking for a great breakfast spot, this is it. I highly recommend stopping by.

Public Espresso

391 Washington St, Buffalo

(716) 367-9971

Reviewed by:

Talia Dominguez

As a flight attendant, I find myself in Buffalo every so often, and Public Espresso has become a must-visit for me each trip. The customer service is consistently excellent, and even though it can get busy, I love the vibrant atmosphere. The coffee is always fresh and top-notch. I haven't tried the food yet, but the menu options, including those delicious-looking pastries and donuts, are definitely tempting. On one visit, I ordered a sausage, egg, and cheese sandwich along with an iced Moka and a pumpkin spice cruller – all of which were fantastic. The variety on the menu caters to all dietary preferences, and everything can be customized to your liking. I appreciate the friendly and inviting staff who are efficient even during busy times, like on a Saturday morning. The space is clean, bright, and has plenty of seating options, from cozy sofas to large tables, which makes it an inviting place to hang out, perhaps with a board game in tow. While they don't have their own parking, there's a large public lot just a short walk away, making it convenient. Overall, Public Espresso is a great spot, and I can see it becoming a regular stop for breakfast whenever I'm in town.

Swan Street Diner

700 Swan St, Buffalo

(716) 768-1823

Reviewed by:

Cristiano S Mejia Velazquez

We stopped by the Swan Street Diner for a late breakfast on Columbus Day Monday and had a great experience. The diner itself is a beautifully restored vintage spot, really giving off that classic Americana vibe. It's a bit small, so be prepared to wait if you catch them during a busy time, but trust me, it's worth it. The staff was friendly, and the service was on point. I went for the Corned Beef Hash with sunny side up eggs and sourdough bread—super tasty. My sons ordered the fried chicken on a bun and said it was one of the best chicken dishes they've had. My wife loved her biscuits and gravy, and I have to say, the homemade raspberry jam was fantastic on the sourdough. The place was clean, including the washrooms, which is always a plus. Although we waited about 20 minutes for a table, the food came quickly once we were seated. Everything was spot on with our orders. On a previous visit, my wife had an omelet, and when she requested crispy bacon, that's exactly what she got. My BLT came with plenty of extra bacon, just as I like it. And while they didn't have gravy for fries, the sausage gravy was a solid alternative. Overall, the Swan Street Diner offers great food and an authentic diner atmosphere. It's definitely a place to visit if you're in Buffalo. We’re looking forward to stopping by again. Five stars, no doubt. It made our morning fantastic with house hash, French toast, bacon, sausage, coffee, and pancakes—all delicious. It's a genuine slice of America, and we're grateful for the experience.

Five Points Bakery

44 Brayton St, Buffalo

(716) 884-8888

Reviewed by:

Thomas Ivancardonagomez

Five Points Bakery in Buffalo is a fantastic spot for breakfast. The warm ambiance makes it the perfect place to hang out or grab a cup of coffee and a book. The cozy vibe is apparent in every corner, and the eclectic mix of furniture, plants, and artwork adds to the charm. The food is outstanding, with highlights like the smoked salmon toast featuring fresh salmon, capers, and homemade bread. I also highly recommend the apple cinnamon bread pudding and the sourdough croissant. On my visit, I tried the special French Toast Breakfast Sandwich and the Butterfly Ube drink with marshmallow cold foam, while my partner enjoyed the Chili Crisp egg salad & toast special and Cherry Limeade. Everything was delicious. The on-site garden with fig trees used in their baked goods is a unique touch and adds freshness to their offerings. The service is friendly and welcoming, making our first visit memorable. The host was attentive, and the clean tables and lovely light enhanced the experience. Even the dishware was fun and unique. Overall, it was a great experience, and I will definitely add this bakery to my must-visit list whenever I’m in Buffalo.

Caffe Aroma

957 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo

(716) 884-4522

Reviewed by:

nan Blair

Caffe Aroma has been a staple in my life for the past 20 years, and I'm glad it hasn't changed much. It brings back fond memories from the 2010s when I used to visit after soccer games. The new owner, who's been a familiar face for years, is incredibly dedicated, and her love for the place is evident in both the decor and the service. The staff is consistently friendly and attentive. The coffee here is strong and perfect for those who like a good kick. It's also the best spot in the city for people watching and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Elmwood Village. The art on display adds a magical touch to the whole experience. I can't say enough about the fantastic staff—they're always welcoming and ready to help with recommendations. There are plenty of options to choose from on the menu, and both indoor and outdoor seating are charming. My caramel cremosa was a sweet pick-me-up, and my friends loved their coffee drinks. While the coffee might be on the lighter side, it's smooth and drinkable. The cinnamon water is a unique treat, and the hot chocolate presentation is delightful, though a little heavy on the whipped cream. The seating can be a bit cramped, but it still feels cozy. Overall, Caffe Aroma is a gem in Elmwood Village. It's blessed with a wonderful vibe, and I highly recommend stopping by. 10 out of 10!

Bertha's Diner

1430 Hertel Ave, Buffalo

(716) 836-3100

Reviewed by:

Armando Usbeck

Bertha's Diner is absolutely amazing for breakfast. The place was packed, but the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. Even though there was a bit of a wait, it was understandable given how many people were there, and the food was definitely worth it. The ladies running the diner were friendly and on top of everything. I ordered the eggs benedict, and while the eggs were cooked just right, I felt the dish could have used a bit more flavor. However, the standout was the waffle. It was airy on the inside with a perfect crunch on the outside and paired excellently with homestyle fries, which were the best I've had. The smell when you walk in is delightful, much nicer than many diners I've been to. It's good to note that they only take cash and Venmo, so plan accordingly. Overall, this place has great service, delicious food, and a very homey vibe at a reasonable price.

Helen's Kitchen

4187 Transit Rd, Williamsville

(716) 633-8129

Reviewed by:

Randall Villanueva

At Helen's Kitchen, I found a great spot for a quick breakfast or lunch. The food was good, and the staff was fantastic. The best part was the nostalgic trip down memory lane, as it's an old "Your Host" diner! They've preserved the style and grace of a wonderful era. The food was tasty, and the prices were decent, though I wasn't a fan of the morning potatoes as they were a bit hard. On our first visit, everything was absolutely fantastic. Our server was extremely hardworking, and the food came out quickly, with perfect portion sizes and great prices. The atmosphere felt just right for an old diner, and we will definitely be back!

Owl Eyes Cafe

162 Allen St, Buffalo

(716) 303-9570

Reviewed by:

Mary Williams

I've been coming to Owl Eyes Cafe for breakfast on Wednesdays when I work downtown, and it's always a highlight. The scrambowl was a favorite of mine, offering the perfect mix of eggs, peppers, onions, bacon, potatoes, and cheese—hearty and satisfying. Although there was a slight dip in quality once, I understand that the portions had been overly generous before. Still, I love the cafe's charm and the consistently good coffee. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly staff who make every visit pleasant. There's a great selection of vegetarian and vegan options, and the sandwiches are always hearty and fresh. The Tuscan chicken sandwich with Greek tortellini pasta salad was particularly delicious and so filling I couldn’t finish it all. The cafe also offers a lovely range of coffee syrup options and revolving specials. It's a cozy spot, perfect for a relaxing breakfast or an enjoyable lunch break. I'm happy I've found such a gem in the area, and I'll definitely keep coming back. Plus, there's free ice water in the back, which is a nice touch. If you’re in town, stopping by Owl Eyes Cafe is a must!

SPoT Coffee Hertel

1406 Hertel Ave, Buffalo

(716) 551-6275

Reviewed by:

Jacob Duch

SPoT Coffee Hertel is a great spot for breakfast in Buffalo. Even though my order took longer than expected on a busy Saturday, I found the staff to be hardworking and dedicated despite being understaffed. The atmosphere is inviting, and the space is perfect for spending a morning, possibly working or just relaxing. The matcha, especially with brown sugar syrup and extra oat milk, was fantastic. I enjoyed the omelettes as well; they were some of the best I've ever had. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience, including the friendly staff and great food, makes it worth a visit. I'll definitely be back to try more.

SPoT Coffee

765 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo

(716) 332-4564

Reviewed by:

Nick Cajahyba

SPoT Coffee on Elmwood has become my go-to place for breakfast in Buffalo. The atmosphere is cute and cozy, with plenty of seating and lovely window spots that make it my favorite place to work and be productive. The service was decently speedy, and there was no rush to leave, which I appreciated. I tried the bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich on white focaccia bread, and it was amazing. The bread was fantastic, and it really made the sandwich stand out. The hot chocolate was decent, though it was more like chocolate milk until I added some complimentary cream, which improved it. While there might be other local shops with slightly better coffee, SPoT Coffee wins me over with its spacious and welcoming environment and the convenience of its location with a parking lot. The food and coffee are good, and I love the decorations in the shop. The pumpkin pie and the white chocolate pumpkin mocha, perfect for fall, were delightful treats. The only hiccup was the attitude of the person taking orders, who seemed a bit passive-aggressive, but the lady who made the drinks was super sweet and kind. Despite this minor issue, I'd totally recommend SPoT Coffee, maybe just at a different location with different staff. I stopped by in the afternoon while touring the city and ended up with a great cup of coffee, which was a pleasant surprise. Overall, it's a spot worth visiting.

SPoT Coffee

225 Delaware Ave, Buffalo

(716) 332-2299

Reviewed by:

Brendan Fratantonio

Walking into SPoT Coffee for the first time, I was a bit apprehensive seeing only a couple of people inside. However, I quickly realized that the folks across the street at the packed big "S" chain were missing out on something special. The service was great, the food was delicious, and the coffee was spot-on perfect! The person taking and making the orders was incredibly friendly and welcoming, which set the tone for my visit. My order came out quickly, and I was especially impressed with the Cinco shake. It was amazing, capturing the best of espresso with just the right blend of caramel – a real treat for someone like me who usually finds coffee too bitter. I also tried a red velvet muffin, and it was rich and delicious. I spent some time doing computer work and enjoyed a hot chocolate, appreciating the spacious atmosphere and good Wi-Fi. Near closing time on a weekday, it wasn’t crowded, which made it a perfect spot to drink my coffee and get some work done. The freshness of the sandwiches and bagels was notable, making this a great spot for breakfast or brunch. With its relaxed atmosphere and plenty of seating, I can’t imagine why anyone wouldn’t love this place. It was my first visit but definitely not my last!

Lake Effect Diner

3165 Main St, Buffalo

(716) 833-1952

Reviewed by:

Iva Montella

The Lake Effect Diner is a nostalgic airstream diner that delivered the best breakfast we've had in a long time. I enjoyed the souvlaki and eggs, while my husband had the corned beef hash and eggs. Everything tasted unique and homemade, including the multigrain toast, which was like bakery-fresh bread. The coffee was hot, strong, and rich – just the way we like it. Our waitress, Destiny, was perfect, making sure our order was right and checking in to see if we needed anything else. Although I would have liked a bit more decor for a more nostalgic vibe, I loved the cute pink yarn tied around the napkin and silverware. It was also great to see vegan options on the menu. I highly recommend visiting this retro diner; you won't be disappointed! It's always a great experience. Even when it's busy, the wait is never too long. Once, I ordered the lemon fish with fries and blue cheese, and my sister had a seafood patty sandwich with fries. Everything was perfectly cooked and delicious, especially the blue cheese, which might be homemade. They offer a wide variety of drinks too. If you want to experience an old-fashioned diner, this is the place to be. It's been around since the 1950s, and even Guy from the Food Network has visited. The portions are massive, the service is good, and although the bathroom could use a bit of a cleanup, it's not bad. Pay them a visit; you won't regret it. In the photos: Reuben, cheddar cheese omelette, and pancakes as a side. A beautiful and symbolic diner like something straight out of a classic American movie. The food is good, and the atmosphere brings out all those charming movie vibes. We couldn't wait to dive into the pancakes!

Eggsperience Vasilis Main Street

1526 Main St, Buffalo

(716) 436-3533

Reviewed by:

Franscisco Patel

We had a fantastic breakfast at Eggsperience Vasilis Main Street before heading to the airport. The service was quick and efficient, with our orders taken promptly. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. Prices were more than fair, given the quality of the service and food. The menu includes some delightful Greek options, which is a nice touch. The staff was incredibly friendly, making us feel welcome. The decor and vibe are inviting, adding to the overall positive experience. The manager checked on us multiple times and was very personable. Our server was friendly and efficient. I had the black jack pancake meal, and those pancakes were some of the best I've had in a long time. My husband enjoyed an omelet with home fries, and the seasoning on the potatoes was excellent. I highly recommend this place to locals and visitors alike. The restaurant has lovely decor, a welcoming hostess, and adorable teapots for serving tea. We'll definitely return for breakfast whenever we're in the area. The owner ensures everyone is happy and well taken care of, and they even have a separate venue for private parties. It was truly a pleasant brunch experience with fresh and delicious food at fair prices.

The Original Pancake House

2075 Niagara Fls Blvd, Amherst

(716) 691-8219

Reviewed by:

Elisaver Akaraz

Such an awesome place! We stopped at The Original Pancake House while heading out of Niagara Falls, NY, and it did not disappoint. The parking lot was packed, which is always a good sign, and after finally getting in early enough, I could see why it's so popular. Our server was amazing and very attentive, offering great suggestions to make our meal even better. I had the French toast, and my husband went for the cowboy omelet. Everything was so good! Cheryl, our waitress, also recommended the Dutch Baby, which my partner thoroughly enjoyed. It was hands down the best spot for breakfast. The food was incredibly quick and delicious. I also tried the Big Apple Pancake, kielbasa, and an over-easy egg, and it was all absolutely scrumptious. All of the staff were friendly and attentive, making the experience even better. My only qualm is the absence of a breakfast bar, but that's just a minor thing. I'll definitely be back when I'm in the area. Highly recommend stopping by for a satisfying breakfast!

Denny's

2215 Delaware Ave, Buffalo

(716) 877-5398

Reviewed by:

Wassuu Otto

I had a breakfast at Denny's and it was a mixed experience. Alice, our waitress, was a highlight. She was friendly, attentive, and professional, making sure we felt relaxed and never rushed. It was a pleasant and relaxing experience thanks to her. The cashier, who might have been the manager, added a touch of humor to our visit with some jokes while we paid our bill. I ordered the 55+ Starter and coffee, which included scrambled eggs, toast, bacon, and hash browns. The food was tasty and more than I could finish. It may not be the best food you'll find in America, but if you're hungry, it hits the spot. For a chill vibe with decent food and mostly solid service, this Denny's does the job well, especially for a 2am visit. I really appreciated the great service and hospitality. However, there were some disappointments. I also ordered the berry stuffed french toast but received four slices of dry, flavorless french toast with none of the berries and cream I expected. The garnish was burnt hash browns. The eggs were undercooked and wet. Below is an image of my order, what I received, and my receipt with the date and time. Overall, breakfast was awesome and I loved it, despite the hiccups with the french toast.

LIVINGSTON'S BREAKFAST & MORE

279 North St, Buffalo

(716) 800-1794

Reviewed by:

Pedro Leka

Oh man! What a meal! Everything was perfect! The eggs with peppers and onions were top-notch—PHEW! I always order from Livingston’s Breakfast & More, and the food is always fresh and flavorful. I especially love how they package the fried foods; the catfish is always crispy and hot, just the way I like it. I did have a bit of a hiccup with my first pickup—you could say the GPS instructions were a bit of a puzzle, and the sign wasn't very visible. We had to call and get directions. When I finally got inside, it was a bit off-putting to hear the cook complaining about customers having trouble finding the place. It felt unprofessional, and it didn’t sit well with me. Despite this, the food’s quality definitely keeps me coming back, and it’s why I’m giving it 4 stars. If you’re ordering delivery, you won’t have any issues, and you’re in for a treat!

Get More Brunch Ideas

Discover new brunch secrets in our monthly newsletter: