June 6, 2025

Charleston's Finest Breakfasts Worth Checking Out

Take in the welcoming charm of Charleston with breakfasts that warm your heart, featuring sunny-side-up eggs and berry-fresh pancakes. Enjoy hand-crafted meals that make mornings special and feel right at home.

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

Begin your day in Charleston by savoring the best breakfast the city has to offer! You can enjoy expertly-made cooking styles in cozy places that make you feel right at home. Each hand-crafted dish is made with care, giving you delicious flavors to start your day.

Little Line Kitchen & Provisions

176 Line St, Charleston

(843) 640-3057

Reviewed by:

Ubaldo Herrera Arredondo

Little Line Kitchen & Provisions is a fantastic neighborhood spot for breakfast in Charleston. Even during a rainy day, their delivery service through Uber Eats was on point. It's impressive how they wait to prepare the food until closer to the pickup time. It's details like these that make this place a community staple. The food is amazing, with perfect freshness, portion size, and flavor. They offer a variety of vegetarian options, which is always a plus. While the indoor seating is limited, and the outdoor area might not be the most comfortable on a hot day, the delicious food makes it worth it. I tried the brekkle burger with parmesan fries, and it was delicious, filling, and affordable. The friendly service, quick food delivery, and the convenience of having pitchers of water on the table really stood out. This is a must-stop spot for breakfast. Despite minor issues with parking and seating, you'll figure it out and enjoy a relaxed, delightful meal. Great spot, great food, and great people!

Daps Breakfast & Imbibe

280 Ashley Ave, Charleston

(843) 718-1098

Reviewed by:

Dima Dodd

I visited Daps Breakfast & Imbibe for breakfast in Charleston, and I was thoroughly impressed. Walking in, the place gives off a hipster vibe with its trendy and healthy menu options. I chose the breakfast plate with sausage and herbed toast, and it was fantastic. The eggs were cooked perfectly over medium, and the hash browns were delicious. The herbed toast, with its fried bread taste, was wonderful. While parking can be a bit tricky on the narrow streets, it's worth the effort. What really surprised me was the mushroom toast, which turned out to be my favorite. It featured big chunks of mushrooms with an easy egg on top, microgreens, and thick crispy toast. It was unexpectedly better than I hoped for. The outdoor seating area is charming with its greenery wall, though it's small with seats for about 12 people. We arrived around 1 pm on a Sunday and found seats at the bar, which was perfect. I couldn't resist trying the fruity pebble pancake, and my friend had a breakfast sandwich that was great with chips and perfect toast. We both loved the food and found the atmosphere super cute. Despite the popularity of carry-out orders, sitting down to eat is definitely worth it. I also had their burger, and it was both great and unique. Portions here are generous, and the atmosphere is inviting. The staff was extremely friendly, service was quick, and parking was easy. Overall, I had a fantastic meal and would highly recommend adding Daps to your list of must-visit places in Charleston.

Millers All Day

120 King St, Charleston

(843) 501-7342

Reviewed by:

Erin Thone

Millers All Day in Charleston exceeded all my expectations for breakfast! The place has a vibrant atmosphere, and the bar was a great spot to hang out while waiting for our table. The wait staff were attentive and helpful, ensuring we felt well looked after. I was particularly impressed with the chicken sandwich, which was perfectly prepared with a crispy crust and a moist interior. The addition of perfectly cooked bacon took it to another level. We also tried the classic breakfast, which was a delicious experience, especially the eggs that were cooked to perfection. The bustling vibe didn’t take away from the excellent service we received, and the drinks were definitely worth the wait, thanks to the talented bartender. My wife and I finally got a chance to try Millers, and it was worth every moment. The breakfast filled us up for the day ahead, and we couldn’t have asked for better service. If you’re planning to visit on a weekend, I’d recommend getting there early as it gets quite busy, though we were lucky to visit on a weekday and were seated quickly despite the ongoing rush. We enjoyed our time at Millers so much that we plan to return on our next trip to Charleston. The first visit was seamless; we were quickly seated in a clean and inviting environment. Our server, Sarah, was friendly and knowledgeable, helping me choose between biscuits and gravy and the hot honey chicken BEC. She went with the hot honey chicken, and it was the best I’ve ever had. My wife’s Miller plate, with eggs, red grits, bacon, and a biscuit, was equally satisfying. We ended up coming back three days in a row for the consistently great food and service. The portions are generous, and everything on the menu is delicious, so you can’t go wrong with any choice. The restrooms were clean, and the restaurant was well-maintained, adding to the overall positive experience. Millers All Day has definitely earned a spot on our must-visit list in Charleston!

Three Little Birds Cafe

65 Windermere Blvd, Charleston

(843) 225-3065

Reviewed by:

Desh Jenks

I had a great breakfast experience at Three Little Birds Cafe in Charleston. Even though it was a busy morning, the host was fantastic—organized and kept us updated while getting everyone seated quickly. Our waitress was incredible too; she was patient and attentive, taking care to check on my allergies and ensuring my meal was prepared safely. I didn’t get to meet the owner or cook, but I was impressed with how they managed to accommodate my needs during such a busy time. It really showed me the good in people. The atmosphere of this place is a blast—fun artwork on the walls, bills delivered in children's books, and a quirky mix of dishware. It felt cozy and had a bit of a divey charm. I loved it so much that we went there twice during our trip! We enjoyed omelets, grits, and coffee, and they even offered us coffee to go. The food came out promptly, and everything tasted delicious. The whole setting was incredibly inviting, with options to sit outside and enjoy the vibe. I even ended up buying a T-shirt as a keepsake. While I noticed some flies around the window, it didn’t overshadow the good food and service we received. Overall, if you're looking for comfort food and great service, I'd highly recommend Three Little Birds Cafe. You won't be disappointed.

Early Bird Diner

1644 Savannah Hwy, Charleston

(843) 277-2353

Reviewed by:

Edwin Kassa

Out of all the places we’ve eaten in Charleston all week, this was hands down the best. The grits here were better than any I've had at fancy restaurants—super buttery, well-seasoned, yet simple. The shrimp were moist and perfectly cooked, and the pecan crust on the chicken was excellent. I got a big portion of white meat and a massive waffle for a great price. Despite its busy atmosphere, the diner has a nice low noise level, and the comfy little booths were surprisingly ergonomic. The server was fantastic and kept everything chill. Whoever's in the kitchen is doing something right, especially with the waffles. The cinnamon waffle batter was a delightful surprise, tasting like a homemade version of Cinnamon Toast Crunch with real ingredients and a perfect crisp. The biscuit was fluffier than I'm used to, but it was amazing. Everything was simple and great. I give this place a 10/10 and look forward to coming back. It's wonderfully unpretentious and perfect for those who love excellent diner food and big portions. My son’s pancakes were enormous—literally the size of the plate—and we had plenty to take home. The scratch-made biscuits and homemade sausage, which was crispy and flavorful, are also must-tries. Our waitress, despite being busy, was attentive and did a fantastic job. Finding parking was a bit tricky, but we managed with a full-sized Transit van. We stopped here on our way to a cruise, and the shrimp and grits were fantastic. Loved the fried chicken too. The diner is cute, and the service by Erin was excellent. You get great portions for the price.

Bear E Patch Cafe West

1980-A, 1980 Ashley River Rd, Charleston

(843) 766-6490

Reviewed by:

Tonya Painter

I've visited Bear E Patch Cafe West multiple times for breakfast, and I’ve had mostly great experiences with the food! There was one time I tried the French toast, and though it wasn’t my favorite, everything else has been fantastic. My first time there was a pleasant surprise when I stumbled upon this quaint cafe while looking for a breakfast spot in Charleston. The service was impressively fast, and the staff made the visit even better with their friendliness. We were seated immediately, and our food arrived in just 10 minutes despite the place being busy. The Lowcountry Harbour Sauté with raisin toast was truly one of the best dishes I’ve ever had. My wife ordered the heavenly hash skillet and loved every bite. The portions are generous, especially the omelets, which are packed with meat. Prices are a bit on the higher side, but the quality and portion size make it worth it. It feels like a cozy, local place where you can enjoy a hearty meal. I must mention the riverfront omelets, which were amazing! There was a minor hiccup with the overcooked raisin toast, but it was quickly resolved. The cookies-and-cream cookie was okay, although not as extraordinary as I anticipated. Nonetheless, the friendly environment and delicious food make Bear E Patch Cafe West a must-visit. I’ll definitely be back when I’m in the area. Great breakfast experience!

Metro Diner

1808 Sam Rittenberg Blvd Suite 1, Charleston

(843) 894-0202

Reviewed by:

Zari Joseph

First time trying Metro Diner for breakfast in Charleston, and it was absolutely amazing! From start to finish, everything was exceptional—from the customer service to the quality of the food. Our waitress, Kat, truly stood out, ensuring our experience was nothing short of extraordinary. I felt so welcomed and the atmosphere was cheerful, with a great staff and happy patrons all around. The food was delicious—so much so that I almost licked my plate! I had the steak tips with mushrooms and gravy, paired with perfectly steamed green beans. It was cooked just right and incredibly tasty. My wife opted for the chicken teriyaki over rice; while it was decent, it didn’t quite steal the show. The overall dining experience was fantastic, with fast and friendly service and a nice, clean atmosphere. Metro Diner offers a wide variety of choices, making it a place I’d visit again and again.

The Daily Cafe - King St

652 B King St, Charleston

(843) 628-7049

Reviewed by:

Jaimee Carranza

The Daily Cafe on King St in Charleston is definitely my go-to spot for breakfast. The staff, from the amazing general manager Mark to head chef Mark, always make my visits enjoyable with their outstanding service. The food here never disappoints, it's consistently delicious every time I come in. I highly recommend dining here - you won't be disappointed. Some of my favorites are the breakfast sandwich, BLT, chocolate chip cookie, and the avocado toast. These are a must-try! We did have to wait a bit when we came on a Saturday for brunch since it's a counter-service restaurant with limited seating, but it's worth it. If you hang out long enough, you'll find a seat. We ordered the stacked avocado toast and the yogurt bowl, both fresh and tasty. The avocado toast had a lot happening but it worked well, and the yogurt bowl was satisfying without being overly sweet. The service here is friendly and quick, and the ambiance is cozy with cool decor. It may feel a bit constrained during busy times, but it's not a huge deal. Overall, I love coming here, visiting about twice a week. The breakfast burrito with bacon is amazing, and they have great coffee, teas, and smoothies. It's also a great spot for lunch. I've also enjoyed the feta toast and the benefits of the Blackbird app for discounts. The Daily is not your average coffee shop – it's vibe, the coffee, and the food are all out of this world. I recently had an iced caramel latte, smoothie, and the breakfast pita, all of which were fantastic. The breakfast pita, in particular, was hearty, healthy, and delicious. 10/10!

60 Bull Cafe

60 Bull St, Charleston

(843) 718-3145

Reviewed by:

Nimar Herr

We had a birthday party for 19 people at 60 Bull Cafe and it was fantastic! We brought a Peninsula Grill Coconut Cake, and with the candles, it turned out amazing. Justin and his staff were wonderful, ensuring everything went smoothly. The food was delicious—everyone loved it! They were also accommodating, allowing us to bring in 9 bottles of wine with a reasonable corkage fee. We ended up buying some of their wine too because the selection was excellent. Most of our guests live nearby and appreciate having such a quality spot like Bull Street Cafe in the neighborhood. We're lucky to have it so close. Cate, Holly, and another server whose name escapes me were all fantastic. Handling a party of our size, especially on a Friday evening, was impressive, but Justin made it look easy. It was a fun and enjoyable evening. Rose was a standout; she provided top-notch service, checking on my meal frequently even though the place was busy. She deserves a raise! I tried the duck BLT, which was packed with duck and had a nice tang from the fried green tomato. Highly recommend it. Justin and Rosie brought great vibes, making the breakfast experience exceptional. The food was amazing, especially the chicken salad sandwich, and the mimosas and coffee were top-notch. If you're looking for a chill, fun breakfast that won't break the bank, this is the place to go. It's easily one of the best breakfast spots in downtown Charleston.

Maple Street Biscuit Company

1739 Maybank Hwy Suite U, Charleston

(843) 203-3889

Reviewed by:

Bader Martinez

Maple Street Biscuit Company in Charleston has truly become one of my favorite breakfast spots. The staff is terrific—polite, friendly, and always ready to help, making the atmosphere warm and welcoming. The food is absolutely delicious. The biscuits are dense and chewy with a perfectly crispy top crust, which is a delight in every bite. My personal favorites include the Risky Biscuits (Biscuits & Gravy), Biscuit French Toast, The Farmer, and The Sticky Maple. The B² Jam, a delightful mix of strawberry and blueberry with a syrupy consistency, should not be missed. The fried chicken on the biscuit sandwiches is perfectly crispy on the outside and seasoned just right. We've been twice this past week alone because we genuinely enjoy the food and experience. The seating has a charming, family-style setup that feels very Charleston, and it's lovely to see everyone enjoying their meals together. I will definitely be back for more of their amazing breakfast offerings!

The Junction Kitchen & Provisions

4438 Spruill Ave, North Charleston

(843) 745-9189

Reviewed by:

Jordan Roche

During our trip to Charleston for my birthday celebration, we made an impromptu visit to The Junction Kitchen & Provisions after being enticed by their online menu. Despite not having planned to visit, we were pleasantly surprised. We faced a minor setback when we learned they were out of chicken at 2 PM, which meant readjusting our pre-decided orders. However, Lauralee, our server, was fantastic and made the experience enjoyable. Opting for shrimp and grits instead turned out to be a good choice, and my friend’s avocado toast was delicious too. We shared some interesting sides like shroom bacon and coffee-rubbed bacon, which added to the enjoyment of our meal. Although there was a 20-minute wait to get seated and our food took a while to arrive, the service was impressive, and the atmosphere made the wait worthwhile. Even though the temperature of my meal wasn't perfect, the flavors were excellent. The coffee bar was super cute and offered some great selections, which enhanced our brunch experience. The mimosas were delightful, making it easy to consider a return visit. All in all, The Junction offered a great mix of good food and friendly service, making it a memorable part of our Charleston trip.

Toast! All Day

453 King St, Charleston

(843) 793-0364

Reviewed by:

Sunil Jyothi

During our visit to Toast! All Day for a Friday morning brunch, the place was bustling and clearly in the midst of an unexpected rush. Despite being seemingly understaffed, the staff remained friendly and ensured our orders were correct, even if service was on the slower side. The food had its highs and lows. The fried oyster Benedict was a tasty and interesting choice, and the kid's pancake was a hit. The pig candy was also enjoyable. However, there were some inconsistencies, like some items not being as hot as others on the same plate, and my crab cakes were tasty but had a few shell pieces. The omelet was good, though not outstanding, and the beignets offered a sweet finish. Unfortunately, the fried pork chop was dry and overcooked. On a brighter note, the seating was prompt, and the drinks at dinner were delightful—my wife enjoyed a glass of Sam Adams October Fest, while I had an Angel’s Envy. Sharing the wood-fired margarita pizza was a treat. Breakfast during our girls' trip was memorable, though, thanks to our amazing server, Kate, and her trainee. The food was fantastic, with eggs Benedict, avocado toast, and pancakes standing out. The service was exceptional, earning a full five stars. I'm looking forward to another visit to see if the potential can be fully realized. Thank you, Kate!

Ruby Sunshine

835 Savannah Hwy, Charleston

(843) 380-5100

Reviewed by:

Bythella Lopez

Ruby Sunshine for breakfast in Charleston is a gem worth visiting. Tucked away from the bustling city center, it offers a delightful brunch experience. I indulged in the berry pancakes paired with a Lavender Paloma. The pancakes were perfectly fluffy with a crispy edge, complemented by fresh blackberries and blueberries and a fantastic sweet cream sauce. My friends enjoyed the Southern Breakfast with standout fried green tomatoes, and the beignets were a hit—they were hot, sweet, and utterly delicious. The drinks were refreshing and the service was excellent. Despite a couple of minor issues, like the catfish being fried a bit too hard, the overall experience was fantastic. We also tried the Pig Candy Bacon Bites, Chicken St. Charles Benedict, Eggs Cochon Benedict, and an egg white omelet with spinach, mushrooms, onions, and Swiss—all delicious. Pro tip: arrive before church lets out to avoid the rush. The combination of great food and a wonderful staff at Ruby Sunshine made for a fantastic brunch outing. Highly recommended!

Big Bad Breakfast-Charleston

456 Meeting St, Charleston

(843) 459-1800

Reviewed by:

Ann Al Akash

During our recent trip to Charleston, we decided to try Big Bad Breakfast on our second morning in town, and it was a fantastic choice. Our server, Hayley, was incredibly nice and energetic, making our morning start on a positive note. I ordered the French toast with bacon, and it was a delightful experience. The French toast was simply amazing, and the bacon was cooked to my liking—slightly flimsy, just the way I prefer it. Additionally, I tried a biscuit with a side of gravy, and it was the perfect combination. The biscuit was soft and fluffy, while the gravy was seasoned just right. I was disappointed that we didn’t have the chance to visit again before leaving, but it is definitely on our list for our next trip. The atmosphere was casual and welcoming, with a peaceful outdoor patio where we enjoyed our meal. The staff, including the hostess, was quick and friendly, and our food and drinks arrived promptly. We also tried the shrimp and grits and the fried oyster scramble, both of which were flavorful and well-seasoned. The fried oysters were particularly noteworthy, with a satisfying breading and no “cheap” taste. While the portion sizes were slightly smaller than expected for the price, the overall experience was still very enjoyable. Parking was mostly street-based and a bit limited, but it didn’t detract from the visit. Our breakfast at Big Bad Breakfast turned out to be a spur-of-the-moment decision that we were really happy with, and I look forward to returning in the future.

Ruby Sunshine

171 E Bay St, Charleston

(843) 350-3600

Reviewed by:

Fabiola Karas

The food at Ruby Sunshine in Charleston is fantastic! I particularly loved the sugar cane butter. I had a delicious portobello, spinach, and goat cheese omelette, which came with a refreshing side salad dressed in champagne vinaigrette—so tasty! My husband enjoyed his omelette with grits and a biscuit. Our server, Brandie, provided excellent service, making our visit even more pleasant. While taking a break from life on the road, I decided to visit downtown for brunch, and I’m so glad I did. I was fortunate to have Nikki as my server. She was incredibly helpful in picking out drinks and offered great recommendations, all with a wonderful spirit. Nikki’s attentiveness was much appreciated, as she checked in on us several times to ensure we were well taken care of. The overall experience, with good food, lively music, and a welcoming atmosphere, was perfect. Downtown Charleston has so much to offer, with its vibrant shopping scene and friendly people. I will definitely be returning to Ruby Sunshine to enjoy more of their breakfast offerings and the delightful ambiance. If you're in the area, it's a spot worth visiting!

Toast! All Day

155 Meeting St, Charleston

(843) 225-8922

Reviewed by:

Hawa Clark

First time coming to Toast! All Day in Charleston, and I'm already planning my next visit! The servers were friendly and attentive, really making us feel right at home. The food? Absolutely amazing. If you're a fan of Bloody Marys, you're in for a treat—they make their own Charleston mix, and it's phenomenal. My husband ordered the fried oyster Benedict, and though I'm usually not a fan of eggs Benedict, I found myself loving it. I went for the avocado toast and was equally impressed. I've seen Toast! All Day locations across Georgia and South Carolina and finally got to try it—totally worth it. The southern palettes were delicious and seemed to be made with love. Initially, I tried the New Orleans Beignets, while my partner had the Southern Fried Chicken Sandwich. Both were incredibly satisfying. Our waitress was wonderful, even sharing some tips on exploring Charleston. We ended up eating here three times during our trip because it was that good, definitely outshining other breakfast spots we tried. Service was fast and friendly each time, and we felt like part of the Toast! All Day family. We wanted to buy a shirt, and the staff made sure to have some available for us the next day—talk about going the extra mile. While the servers were sweet, they weren't the quickest, but they ensured we had everything we needed. The only thing I'd skip next time is the pork rinds and pimento dip—too basic for the price. But the bacon was delicious, portions were huge, and it was all a great bang for your buck. The home fries, steak, and eggs were all cooked perfectly. Overall, it's a classic breakfast spot with fantastic food and ambiance. If I could give it 10 stars, I would. Can't wait to come back the next time I'm in Charleston!

Callie's Hot Little Biscuit

188 Meeting St, Charleston

(843) 577-8900

Reviewed by:

Alina Martinez

During our vacation in Charleston, I made sure to visit Callie's Hot Little Biscuit, having seen it on TV so often. From the moment I walked into the location inside the Charleston Market, I felt welcomed and excited. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, offering great energy and smiles all around. It's rare to find such helpful people who are passionate about their food. I ordered a variety of mini biscuits, including the buttermilk, cheddar, and blackberry jam, and each one was delightful. They were fresh, buttery, and perfectly textured—exactly what I imagined a Southern biscuit should be. The blackberry jam added a sweet touch, while the cheddar biscuit brought a savory twist. As someone with dietary restrictions, I was thrilled to find gluten-free options available. The pimento cheese biscuit was a standout, with its delicate and buttery crumb, truly the best gluten-free biscuit I've ever tasted. The staff were knowledgeable about cross-contamination, which gave me confidence and peace of mind while indulging in this Southern experience. Overall, Callie's Hot Little Biscuit exceeded my expectations. Each visit offered something unique and delicious. The prices were reasonable, and the quality of food and service was top-notch. This has become a must-visit spot for any return trips to Charleston!

Callie's Hot Little Biscuit

476 1/2 King St, Charleston

(843) 737-5159

Reviewed by:

Maria Sabol

When visiting the South, trying biscuits is a must, and I decided to stop by Callie's Hot Little Biscuit for breakfast. Their location is a bit tricky to spot due to the small storefront and minimal signage, but once inside, the charm of this quaint spot shines through. The service was friendly and quick, which I appreciated. I was excited to try their hot honey biscuits, and although they were room temperature, the flavor was delightful. While the biscuit was a bit crumbly, the honey added a nice touch. The pimento spread was a standout, incredibly delicious and worth a mention. The variety they offer is impressive, although I stuck with the traditional options this time. The sausage, egg, and pimento cheese biscuit had great potential. The pimento cheese was excellent, but the sandwich could have been even better if it were warmer. Despite that, the portion size was generous for the price. Overall, there's definitely potential here, and I'd recommend trying some different flavors or requesting a bit more warmth in your order. Plus, you can support them by picking up their biscuit mix from Costco. If you're in the area, it's worth giving Callie's a chance, especially for the pimento cheese!

Rise and Shine Breakfast Place

4910 Ashley Phosphate Rd, North Charleston

(843) 974-3809

Reviewed by:

Leonard Avants

Rise and Shine Breakfast Place is a must-try spot for breakfast, brunch, or lunch in Charleston. Everything on the menu is delightful, but some of my favorites include the buttermilk pancakes, chilaquiles with steak, and huevos rancheros. After moving to South Carolina about six months ago, I've been on the lookout for a great sit-down restaurant, and I've finally found it here. The food is delicious and affordable with fantastic service. Margaret, our waitress, was terrific. The Bacon & Cheese Omelette was made to perfection with plenty of bacon, and the scrambled eggs with Biscuits & Gravy were done just right. Even the side of potatoes and pancakes were amazing. The coffee was hot and refilled as needed. The generous portion sizes meant there was extra to take home. I visit every Tuesday or Thursday, and the experience is always amazing. The food is consistently great, and the servers are pleasant and attentive. Some personal favorites are the breakfast sandwich, the cinnamon apple pancakes, and the french toast. This has become a regular stop for our family because the food is impeccable. It's a place where you know that no matter what you order, it will be delicious! They also offer a military discount, which is much appreciated. Overall, I highly recommend Rise and Shine Breakfast Place and will definitely continue to visit.

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