Outstanding Breakfasts in Cary for Happy Tummies

1240 NW Maynard Rd, Cary

(919) 460-8158

Just so fresh and amazing! I absolutely loved the sandwich, salad, and cinnamon rolls at Great Harvest Bread Co in Cary. Our family is a big fan of this bakery, especially for their sweet treats. My favorite muffin is the chocolate strawberry, but I also love the blueberry muffins and salted caramel cookies. The kids are obsessed with the big cinnamon buns. If you're not in the mood for sweets, their sandwiches are just as good. The fresh bread with tasty ingredients makes all the difference, and my personal favorite is the Baja turkey sandwich. I stopped by the bakery to get a treat for a friend and asked a man exiting what he recommended. His response was, "Everything." I picked up a cinnamon roll, and the aroma was incredible. Both my friend and my teacher enjoyed it tremendously—definitely better than an apple for the teacher! This quaint little place is perfect when you're in the area looking for a quick bite. I got the turkey sandwich, and it was delicious! The ingredients were fresh, and the bread was soft, moist, and flavorful. They even offered me a sample, and I chose the blueberry muffin, which made the perfect little dessert. While there, I also picked up a couple of soup packets—cute options for quick, small food gifts. The girl taking orders was very pleasant, and the overall experience was delightful. Nice place, and I will definitely come again.

1225 NW Maynard Rd, Cary

(919) 481-9300

Brigs at the Crossing is a fantastic spot for a hearty breakfast or brunch in Cary. I've visited with my family on a couple of Sundays, arriving close to closing time, and each experience has been wonderful. Despite how busy they get, our food always comes out quickly and tastes great. Whether you're ordering breakfast or lunch, the quality is consistently high. The service stands out as well. The servers are attentive, ensuring our drinks are always topped up—I'm fond of their hot cocoa, which comes with a refill. It's clear they have a lot of regulars, and many servers seem to know them by name. The cozy atmosphere, with plenty of condiments and jam available at each table, adds to the charm. Brigs is also quite affordable, which is rare for the quality they deliver. It's popular, especially on Sundays when a nearby church service ends around 1:30 pm, so I recommend arriving a bit earlier to avoid the rush. My favorite visit was on a Friday morning, where despite a few minor misses with the food, the overall experience was still enjoyable. The kitchen is fast, and the servers are efficient, getting everyone in and out without making you feel rushed. Even if there's a wait, particularly for larger parties, a group of four or less will likely be seated quickly. Brigs is a local gem that maintains its high standards, making it well worth a visit.

6490 Tryon Rd, Cary

(919) 781-4810

I absolutely love Chanticleer Cafe & Bakery! The place is super cute, and the service is wonderful. The food options are amazing. We tried the watermelon salad and the croissant chicken salad sandwich, and they were both so good. The croissants are delicious, and the coffee is really fresh, with a dark roast option that I really enjoyed. There are so many bakery options, and everything is delicious. It's my new favorite place! I highly recommend their gluten-free cherry walnut cookie and their sandwiches. They are very allergy-conscious and always accommodating with dietary restrictions. It's a fun gathering place with great food and coffee. I love going here with friends for a coffee and pastry. My favorite treat is the chocolate walnut cookie, which is packed with walnuts and a chewy chocolate cookie goodness. It's gluten-free too, which is a nice bonus. Many items change seasonally, and I've had excellent mini coffeecakes, scones, and muffins in various flavors. The plain croissants are my favorite in town. I often grab a sandwich or salad to go for later. The quiche is incredible, with fluffy eggs and a flaky crust. Today's quiche had big chunks of ham, and it was delicious. I'll definitely be getting quiche again! The only downside is that it's a popular spot, so parking and finding a table can be tricky at times. However, they do have outdoor seating, which makes it easier when the weather is nice. This place has become our favorite bakery and coffee shop in the triangle, a real ritual for us. Their egg white and English muffin is amazing, and the quiche artichoke is out of this world. From an earlier visit, I have to mention the chocolate peppermint scone. Yes, please! It's a cool place, conveniently located next to one of the best kids' playgrounds in the area. The coffee and americanos are really good too. I've been here a couple of times, and it just keeps getting better.

1325 Bradford View Dr Ste. 110, Cary

(919) 655-8005

First Watch in Cary is a solid spot for breakfast with a welcoming vibe and friendly service. Despite encountering a few minor issues, I had an overall pleasant experience. The eggs were a bit runnier than I'd hoped, and the breakfast potatoes were a little undercooked for most of us, though one order came out perfectly crispy. The Million Dollar Breakfast Sandwich was tasty, albeit smaller than I expected for the price. I must commend our server, Emily, for her helpfulness and kindness throughout our visit. She truly made the experience enjoyable. The smoked salmon eggs benedict and salted caramel iced coffee were delightful, complemented by another fried egg dish and a pot of good coffee. Although the place can get a bit crowded and loud, it's certainly a step up from fast food options for a quick breakfast or brunch. For a fun addition to your meal, don't forget to order a Mimosa—it truly elevates the brunch experience! Despite some small hiccups, I'm glad First Watch is in the area and plan on returning.

1104 Ledsome Ln Ste 101, Cary

(919) 322-4344

Had a very good experience at First Watch in Cary for breakfast. The food was great, and the service was good, thanks to Jose. I tried grits for the first time, and they were definitely tasty with the butter. The biscuits and gravy were alright, though the gravy was a bit peppery for my taste. The Million $ Breakfast Sammy was a delicious sandwich from the specials menu. The honey bacon Brussels hash was amazing with great flavor and a good portion size. The salted caramel donuts were to die for, and the Purple Haze drink was extremely refreshing. We went for brunch, and the food quantity was satisfying. Although the potatoes were a little salty and the veggie burger patty wasn't great, the overall service was fantastic. It's a popular spot, so it fills up quickly. I also had a "Traditional Breakfast" which was really yummy. Our waiter was very kind and gave us excellent menu recommendations, including the Tomato and Basil Soup, which I really liked. The pancakes and bacon were delicious, and there are lots of other options to explore. The wait staff was attentive, and the coffee, priced at $3.79, deserves a mention. Don't miss trying a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice for less. The atmosphere has a nice mix of age and gender, and it's a comfortable space located conveniently near two Marriott-branded hotels. Would definitely recommend this place and look forward to going back.

1103 Parkside Main St, Cary

(919) 234-6890

The Flying Biscuit Cafe in Cary has some excellent breakfast foods! I tried the Stuffed French Toast Breakfast and the FL Sunshine Waffle Breakfast, and both were fantastic. The food just melts in your mouth, especially the grits. While the eggs were good but not extraordinary, and the sausages a bit disappointing, the main dishes were incredible. I also have to mention that the stuffed French toast is like a dream on a plate. The cafe offers several pork-free breakfast options, which I loved. Our server, Sarah, was outstanding, handling a busy crowd efficiently and with good cheer. It's impressive how our waiter managed all of our orders perfectly without writing anything down. It truly made for the best restaurant experience I've ever had. For anyone visiting the area, this place is a must-try. The steak and eggs were cooked perfectly, and the biscuits were unforgettable. Overall, The Flying Biscuit Cafe is a gem, and I will definitely return whenever I'm around.

220 W Chatham St, Cary

(919) 650-3117

The atmosphere at La Farm Bakery is warm and inviting, making it a delightful spot for breakfast. The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, always ready to help with a smile. The coffee is excellent—both the cortado and latte were perfect, providing a great start to the day. The food is delicious, and while some pastries might vary in freshness, the overall experience is enjoyable. This place has turned us into fans, and we look forward to returning for more. Highly recommend it for a cozy morning meal!

2050 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary

(919) 851-9050

New York Bagel & Deli in Cary is a great spot to grab an authentic NY/NJ bagel, much like the ones you'd find at a local deli. While the bagels aren’t mind-blowing, they are genuinely good and hit the spot. Admittedly, they are a bit on the pricey side. I’ve heard their Philly cheesesteak is worth trying too, which I’m looking forward to on my next visit. The sandwiches, especially the Reuben and the ones on Kaiser rolls, are outstanding and the customer service matches that quality. Although I didn’t have room for dessert, there were plenty of tempting options available. The service is friendly and courteous, and the atmosphere is both comfortable and relaxing. Having grown up in NY, I can confidently say that this place outshines some bagel spots in NYC and Long Island. The experience isn't exactly like home—witnessing someone eat a BEC with a fork is a bit different, and the rolls aren’t quite traditional. Nonetheless, I was not disappointed and will definitely be returning.

4248 NW Cary Pkwy, Cary

(919) 657-0657

I was hungry and passing by, looking for something quick that wasn't fast food, and La Farm Bakery did the trick. The drip coffee was excellent, and I got a tomato and egg scramble with a side salad that was honestly delicious. The bakery was much bigger than I expected, and it took a lot of motivation to hold off on ordering a few sweet treats because everything looked so good! There's a nice selection of breads and pastries. The quiche was fluffy, though it was obviously made on a sheet tray because there was parchment paper left on it. The egg sandwich and fruit were tasty. The location and decoration are cozy and have that charming French countryside vibe. It's an excellent place! We went for a quick brunch, and the experience was terrific. There's something for everyone and it's reasonably priced, though it can be a bit crowded and hard to find parking. Other than that, it was amazing. I stopped in for breakfast and some pastries, and the experience was unique and tasty with friendly staff. I had a great time! I also ordered a Benedict and really enjoyed it. I'm definitely looking forward to coming here again!

2820 NC-55, Cary

(919) 362-8034

We just love Biscuitville on NC-55 for breakfast in Cary. The place is always clean, with a beautiful dining area and spotless restrooms. Their biscuits are hands-down the best you'll find anywhere. The staff is incredibly friendly, and the service is quick. Every time we eat there, the food is piping hot when handed to us. If you love a good country ham biscuit, this is the place to go. As the grandson of a former pig farmer, I can confidently say that Biscuitville's country ham biscuit rivals those from my childhood. It's impressive to see biscuits made on-site, with an employee cutting them out of dough behind a glass wall. I didn't have high expectations for quality, but it exceeded them. The biscuits are fantastic! The hash browns are perfectly greasy and delicious, just as you'd expect. They also use paper to wrap and bag the food, which is a nice touch. While I might not visit frequently, I'll definitely be back occasionally. The staff makes an effort to get to know their customers, providing a level of service that's hard to find these days. It's a great breakfast spot whether you're in a rush or have time to sit and enjoy your meal.

315 Crossroads Blvd, Cary

(919) 900-7155

We love eating at Starry Night Coffee & Crepes! Ever since it changed owners, the place has become even better. The new Starry Night mural and starry wall add a nice touch to the ambiance, and the service is friendlier than ever. The crepes are delicious, with perfectly prepared ingredients and lots of options to choose from. My favorite is the Cinnamon Bun crepe, while my husband enjoys the sausage, egg, and cheese crepe. Their coffee is always great too, with various flavor choices and non-dairy milk options. They also feature a seasonal menu with special crepes and drinks, providing something for everyone. I tried the Caramel Apple Cider, which was a fantastic choice. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot to enjoy good food, coffee, and conversations. Whether you're in the mood for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even an early dinner, Starry Night is definitely worth a visit. It's a cute and Instagram-worthy spot with friendly service and a welcoming vibe.

1209 Parkside Main St, Cary

(919) 650-1047

Walking into Cinnaholic is like stepping into a bakery paradise. The incredible smells alone are worth the visit. The way they display their selections is truly artful—pictures don't do it justice. The staff here are friendly and professional, which makes the experience even better. I went for the Old Skool cinnamon roll with vanilla frosting, and it was both delicious and reasonably priced. We originally went in just to have a look but ended up leaving with some amazing desserts. The lady serving us was delightful and even offered us a free sample. Everything tasted superb, and I'm already planning my next visit. Plus, everything is vegan, which is fantastic since it's usually tough to find such tasty vegan desserts when I'm craving something sweet. I tried the Cookie Monster roll, and it was sugary perfection. The birthday cake icing with snickerdoodle cookie crumbles was awesome too. The rolls are sweet but not overly so; the icing complements rather than overpowers the other flavors. These cinnamon rolls are so good I had to stop myself from devouring them all at once. The customer service is excellent, and these treats are addictively delicious! I can definitely see myself coming back frequently—whether it's weekly or daily, who knows! I highly recommend this place.

301 S Academy St, Cary

(919) 804-1400

Peck & Plume in Cary is a fantastic spot for breakfast. I tried the fried green tomatoes on wheat toast with basil aioli, and it was absolutely amazing. The bartender was friendly and offered some great recommendations, which added to the experience. I highly recommend making a reservation, especially if you plan on going on a Sunday morning. The place was almost empty when we visited, but the smaller menu offers great dishes. We enjoyed the chicken & the egg, granola & yogurt, and a delicious frittata with chicken sausages, potatoes, and wheat bread. The coffee, orange juice, and cappuccino were all delightful. The ambiance is really nice with varied atmospheres, and our waiter was attentive and friendly throughout our visit. Being a first-time customer, I was impressed with how smooth everything was. We were seated promptly thanks to our reservation. The atmosphere is a bit upscale, which I appreciated, and the Shrimp and Grits I had were delicious. My wife loved her Steak and Eggs, and my daughter couldn't get enough of the Warm Stone Fruit Preserve. The only downside was the kids' meal price, which seemed a bit high for a basic meal, but overall, it was a minor issue. We also visited for a late brunch and tried the salad with salmon – I highly recommend it. My husband enjoyed his eggs, bacon, and potatoes. The relaxed atmosphere allowed us to enjoy several cups of delicious coffee before finishing our meal. Our server was wonderful and really made the experience special. I will definitely be visiting again!

1121 Market Center Drive, Morrisville

(919) 465-1079

This has become my favorite breakfast spot in the area. It surpasses other breakfast chains in terms of quality, service, and taste. One of my all-time favorites here is the skinny omelette, which tastes great. Their seasonal special marshmallow waffle is amazing—I wish they would add it to the regular menu. The apple fritter pancakes are another must-try! My breakfast was delicious and hit the spot perfectly. My son enjoyed his biscuit and gravy, while my omelette was flavorful and filling. As a coffee lover, I appreciated the strong coffee they serve. We'll definitely be back! The service was excellent. While the crab cake Benedict Arnold and shrimp and grits were decent, the cinnamon roll pancakes stood out as outstanding. Overall, it's a great place to enjoy breakfast, and I highly recommend trying it out.

1301 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary

(919) 469-1835

Stopped in for a late breakfast at IHOP in Cary and had a great experience. Even though it was busy, the place had a calm atmosphere, perfect for starting the day. I don't usually drink coffee, but I decided to try it and was pleasantly surprised; it was good. I ordered the breakfast burrito with pancakes, which was more than enough food. The burrito was loaded with eggs, bacon, sausage, cheese, hash browns, and hollandaise sauce, which complemented the dish without being too strong. The pancakes were fluffy, and the syrup felt light and just right. My friend ordered the meat plate with pumpkin pancakes, and they loved the warm fall spices in them. They also requested their eggs scrambled well and were happy with how they turned out—soft and perfect. Valerie, our server, provided excellent service throughout. Despite it being the busy Sunday after-church rush, we were seated quickly, within just ten minutes, which was a pleasant surprise. We were there for the Sonic promotion, and between us, we tried the chicken sandwich and the eggs Benedict. Both dishes were really good; I especially enjoyed the eggs. The hash browns were okay, and the onion rings were fine, but the fried chicken on the sandwich stood out. IHOP remains my favorite breakfast spot, offering cozy comfort. The pancakes with peanut butter syrup are always a treat, and the ultimate omelette with all the add-ons never disappoints. While the service is generally good, there’s still room for improvement; sometimes, we have to look around for our waiter. We also tried the strawberry French toast, which was decent, but the hash browns could use some work—they’re reliably not great! Overall, though, this is the best IHOP I've been to in a while, with excellent service and delicious food. If only I could move this place closer to my home!

5055 Arco St, Cary

(984) 228-0300

La Farm Bakery at Whole Foods in Cary is a wonderful place for breakfast. The location is convenient, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. The menu is delicious, and I highly recommend trying the croque monsieur. It's a classic French sandwich made with ham, Gruyère cheese, and béchamel sauce, all on La Farm's freshly baked bread. It's grilled to perfection, with the cheese melted and bubbly. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea, and you're set for a great start to the day. La Farm also offers a variety of fresh baked goods and all-day breakfast options, making it a perfect spot for a quick bite or a treat. The fresh bread, spread, and hot beverages add to the positive experience, making it a place worth visiting.

302 Colonades Way #109, Cary

(919) 746-0888

Dining at Pineapple Sol was a delightful experience that left a lasting impression. The location at Waverly Place felt like a hidden gem, offering a cozy atmosphere with friendly and attentive staff. Trying the chicken and waffles was a highlight, with flavors that truly stood out. The coffee flight was a fun and unique touch, and I was pleasantly surprised by the lavender blend. What I appreciated most was the peaceful environment, allowing for an enjoyable meal without distraction. The overall experience was fantastic, and I'm already planning my next visit. Pineapple Sol is definitely a place worth returning to for a delicious breakfast or lunch.

4212 NW Cary Pkwy, Cary

(919) 463-5563

Bruegger's Bagels is a solid choice for breakfast, especially when you're in the mood for a quick, satisfying meal. I appreciate that they make their bagels the traditional way—kettle boiled and then baked on a stone hearth—which is a rare find these days. The bagels are fresh daily and that makes a big difference in taste and texture. The variety here is impressive. Whether you're looking for plain bagels, flavored ones, or even sandwiches and cream cheeses, there's something for everyone. The farmhouse sandwich I tried was good and the staff were friendly, which made the experience pleasant. It's conveniently located, and having an outdoor seating area is a nice touch, especially on a warm morning. While the eggs and bagels might have a bit of a mass-produced feel, similar to what you’d get at a large chain, the overall experience was still positive. I think with slightly fresher preparation, like cooking on a flattop grill, the sandwiches could really shine. Coming from New Jersey, my standards for bagels are high, but Bruegger's comes pretty close. If I'm nearby, it's definitely one of my go-to spots for breakfast.