Excellent Breakfast Spots in Chattanooga To Start Your Day Right
Discover the tastiest breakfasts in Chattanooga, where eager cooks serve up soft pancakes and cheesy, melted sandwiches. These special spots make every morning meal a delightful start to your day!

Breakfast time in Chattanooga is fun and delicious! Try the made-to-order cooking styles where chefs prepare your food just the way you like it. You can enjoy melted dishes like cheesy omelets and gooey pancakes that are sure to make you smile.
The Exchange
1409 Market St, Chattanooga
Joselyn Moran
During my stay at the Kinley Hotel in Chattanooga, I had a lovely breakfast at The Exchange. The atmosphere was chill and hip, making it a great place to start the day. I enjoyed the breakfast bowl and fresh squeezed orange juice, and the cappuccinos were just right. The breakfast bowl could use a bit more egg, but that's just a personal preference. The night before, I tried a Negroni made by Olivia, and it was fantastic. The friendly service and convenient location in the hotel added to the experience. It's a perfect spot for a morning coffee or breakfast before heading out to explore the area. Overall, The Exchange made my stay in Chattanooga even more enjoyable.
Bluegrass Grill
55 E Main St #101, Chattanooga
(423) 752-4020
Alvaro Silva
Bluegrass Grill is a super cute breakfast spot that I absolutely loved! The food was delicious, but the service really stole the show. With four hungry kids in tow, the staff went above and beyond by bringing over little toys and some fruit to keep them entertained while we waited. The biscuit and home fries were awesome, though the cinnamon roll French toast didn't quite meet my expectations. Parking can be a bit tricky in this area since it costs, but with a bit of patience, you can find a free spot on the road. Our waiter was speedy and friendly, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. The menu offers individual items, allowing you to pick exactly what you want. A unique highlight was the Bacon Flight—such a great concept! The blitzes were another fantastic addition to the menu. My partner loved the biscuits and gravy, which included whole wheat flour. The club sandwich was delicious, and I appreciated the option to order a half or whole portion. We shared the cinnamon bun French toast with bacon sprinkles, which was decadent and very yummy. I enjoyed the Joan Marie Special omelette filled with fresh veggies and herbed cream cheese, while my partner was impressed with the eggs Benedict and its thick ham and biscuit. My only small complaint would be that the coffee was a bit weak. Be prepared to wait on weekends because this place gets busy. My roommate and I visited for a late brunch on a Saturday and were seated quickly, with food coming out fast. The outdoor seating is a nice touch, and the freshly squeezed orange juice was a hit. Overall, Bluegrass Grill offers excellent Southern comfort food in a cozy atmosphere with outstanding service. We'll definitely be back! 🤗
Honey Seed
1705 Market St Suite 105, Chattanooga
(423) 521-7333
Jan Priest
Honey Seed is a true gem in our cozy neighborhood! The fresh, handmade bagels are a standout – crisp on the outside and perfectly chewy inside. I loved every bite. The tater tots were crispy, golden, and utterly addictive, making for the perfect side. The first visit here left me with no complaints. The service was friendly, and the atmosphere was warm and pleasing. Food presentation was inviting, and everything tasted amazing. The Breakfast Pizza with the Honey Everything Crust was a delightful combination of flavors that came together perfectly. I'm usually all about the pizza toppings, but I found myself savoring the crust, too. I stopped in the other day for a meal and tried the wood-fired pizza, doing half-and-half with Nashville Hot Chicken and BBQ Chicken. The crust was perfectly crispy, with the spicy Nashville hot nicely balancing the smoky BBQ. Both halves were delicious, and I couldn't pick a favorite. The chicken and waffles were also fabulous. Light, fluffy waffles paired with crispy, tender fried chicken, all brought together with a drizzle of syrup. The vibe at Honey Seed was warm and welcoming, thanks to the great staff. It's a spot I'd wholeheartedly recommend for comfort food done right. My first trip won't be my last, for sure. The breakfast sandwich with fried chicken, egg, and cheese on a Montreal Style everything bagel was possibly the best I've ever had. My server at the bar was helpful and friendly, which is everything you could want. My only small gripe was the $3.95 charge for a can of diet coke, so I'll stick with water next time.
Kenny's
1251 Market St, Chattanooga
(423) 498-5888
Melissa Kohagen
During our Labor Day weekend in Chattanooga, we had the pleasure of dining at many places, but Kenny's truly stood out as one of the best experiences. Although the noise level inside was a bit high due to the busy atmosphere and the acoustics of the old building, the food and service more than made up for it. For those who prefer a quieter setting, there's the option of outdoor seating. Our server was incredibly friendly and attentive, checking in with us regularly, sometimes with just a quick eye contact as she passed by. The food was absolutely delicious. We tried the fresh veggie market melt, which was like a work of art with summer squash and sweet corn. The biscuit and gravy was a buttery, flavorful twist on a Southern classic, leaving us wanting more. The two eggs with chorizo hash was a revelation and is definitely something I’ll order again. On another visit for a quick breakfast, I enjoyed a simple but satisfying meal of coffee and avocado toast. The place filled up quickly, but the service remained prompt and friendly. While the music was a bit loud, and the open space did lead to a rather noisy atmosphere, the food and overall ambiance were delightful. In another visit, my wife and I enjoyed a late breakfast—the brisket burrito for me and a croque madame for her. Both dishes were packed with flavor and very filling. The service was excellent, adding to our positive experience. Overall, despite the noise, Kenny's offers great food and friendly service, making it a top choice for breakfast in Chattanooga.
Milk & Honey
135 N Market St, Chattanooga
(423) 521-3123
Ali Macon
During a business trip to Chattanooga, I decided to kick off my day with breakfast at a charming spot called Milk & Honey. The coffee was just what I needed—strong and delightful. While the chai latte was a bit too sweet for my taste, the rest of the breakfast experience more than made up for it. The Roasted Mushroom Omelette was absolutely delicious, bursting with flavor, and the Nova Lox Bagel my husband ordered was equally satisfying with its fresh smoked salmon. The service was top-notch, thanks to Hannah, our attentive server who provided excellent recommendations. We sampled a few more dishes, like the turkey and brie sandwich and the fried chicken sandwich. While the turkey and brie's bread was a bit dense, the flavors were interesting. The fried chicken sandwich wasn't quite as crispy as I'd hoped, but the arugula salad was fresh with a tasty dressing. I loved the atmosphere—clean, bright, and welcoming. The Valencia OJ and lavender honey latte were standout drinks, and the rose waffles with home fries plus a side of fried chicken were a definite 10/10. The hodgepodge hash is something I would recommend trying. Milk & Honey is a spot I find myself returning to, especially to explore more of their breakfast offerings. It's a perfect weekday treat, though prepare for potential waits on weekends. Highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a satisfying breakfast in Chattanooga! The staff truly make the experience special.
First Watch
300 Cherokee Blvd. Suite 130, Chattanooga
(423) 763-1800
Pamela Mensah
This place is absolutely superb, don't miss out! From the moment you're greeted at the door, to the clean and friendly atmosphere, to the delicious food—everything was outstanding. It's surprisingly affordable, too! Our server, April, was friendly and attentive, ensuring a delightful experience. Every dish we ordered was tasty, with fresh and high-quality ingredients. I highly recommend this spot for breakfast, brunch, or lunch any day and hope to be back soon. What a gem to have found! If I lived nearby, I'd go here two or three times a week. Excellent service, clean establishment, spotless bathrooms, and great food—I can't say enough. The hash and roasted tomatoes made me fall in love with food all over again. The parking lot is small, but you have to try this place out. Go early as there might be a wait outside, but it's worth it. The portions are generous; I ate half before snapping a picture. Stopped here for breakfast and was thoroughly impressed. I'll definitely be back. The food quality and presentation are on point; everything looked as delightful as any photo. Every bite was delicious. Although our drinks weren't refilled as promptly, they were quite busy, so it's understandable. Overall, an excellent experience. The coffee is superb. We tried the million dollar bacon, Carnitas Breakfast Quesadilla, Strawberry Tres Leches French Toast, Blueberry Lemon Cornbread, Honey Caramel Crunch Iced Coffee, and Mint Mocha Iced Coffee. We love visiting this location for fast, friendly service and delicious food.
Maple Street Biscuit Company
407 Broad St, Chattanooga
(423) 362-5380
Jenny Smith
I really enjoyed my visit to Maple Street Biscuit Company in Chattanooga for breakfast. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the staff is welcoming and friendly. The cashier was hilarious, and I loved the movie theme used for ordering. My chicken biscuit was fantastic—perfectly cooked chicken with syrup that had a nice little kick to it. It’s conveniently located near my hotel, making it an easy walk. The gentleman taking orders was extremely nice, making us feel right at home. The food is both great and reasonably priced. I ordered two tacos for $9 and couldn't finish the second one, while the kids' waffles were plentiful with fresh strawberries that they loved. Our total was just about $40 after tax. They don't do digital tips on the receipt, so be sure to have some cash to tip. We dined outside on a cozy patio, which was perfect for breakfast. If I'm ever back in Chattanooga, I'll definitely stop by again. Iced Caramel Mocha Latte was divine, and the biscuits and gravy didn’t disappoint. My husband tried the Sticky Maple, which was packed with flavor. We arrived 20 minutes before closing, as suggested by a friend, and I’m glad we did. The Five and Dime breakfast sandwich with sausage-filled gravy is a must-try for excellent southern cooking!
Ruby Sunshine
405 Market St, Chattanooga
(423) 840-8600
Wilmer Steffek
If you're looking for a savory southern breakfast, Ruby Sunshine in Chattanooga is your place. My wife and I visited during a busy brunch time around 11 am. The hostess initially told us there could be a 20-minute wait for a table, which we were fine with. To our delight, we received a text in just 10 minutes letting us know our table was ready. The food was the highlight of our visit. We tried a variety of dishes—eggs Benedict, catfish and grits, and a vanilla cream latte. Everything was delicious. I especially enjoyed the biscuits and gravy, with the gravy tasting homemade and full of flavor. My wife's French toast bites were toasted perfectly and topped with cream cheese icing that added just the right touch of sweetness. The atmosphere was friendly, and the service was great overall, though our server took a bit long to bring the bill. It wasn't a problem since we weren't in a rush. The manager made sure to check on every table to ensure everyone was having a good experience. Ruby Sunshine offers some fantastic adult beverages with locally crafted cocktails that are packed with flavor. Their menu items are unique and fairly priced. While the food might not be what you'd find at a high-end, five-star restaurant, it certainly won't disappoint you. Overall, this is the place to go for brunch in Chattanooga. The food will definitely put a smile on your face and fill your belly. I'll definitely be going back and highly recommend it.
City Cafe Diner
7641 Lee Hwy, Chattanooga
(423) 485-8222
Ricardo Cudini
City Cafe Diner in Chattanooga is a fantastic spot for breakfast. I had the Fried Catfish dinner, and it was absolutely delicious. Our server, Maria, was sweet and attentive, taking great care of us. My partner enjoyed the Reuben with pastrami and corned beef, while my kids loved the fried chicken and fries and the breakfast deluxe. The food was fantastic, came out quickly, and the decor was really neat. The diner has a huge selection of cakes for dessert, but we were too full to try any. I'll definitely be back to give them a go. The garlic bread and marinara sauce were top-notch, and the fries had a great flavor and crisp. The catfish was quite decent too. If I'm ever in the area again, I'd stop by for sure. I also went for breakfast with my husband for our anniversary. We love finding hidden gems, and this place had that vibe. The food was fast and delicious, and our server was polite and attentive. We'll be returning later today to grab a piece of cake to go—they looked incredible. City Cafe Diner is a great value for the money, offering enjoyable comfort food with so many choices from Italian to American breakfast and more. The tables are well spaced for any size party, and the servers are always ready to meet your needs.
Mean Mug Coffeehouse Southside
114 W Main St, Chattanooga
(423) 825-4206
茉惟 Sondh
Mean Mug Coffeehouse Southside is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Chattanooga. It's a great place to settle in, get some work done, or dive into a good book. The food here is top-notch. I especially loved the peanut butter toast—it’s to die for! My white chocolate iced coffee was delicious, not too sweet, and perfectly balanced. The atmosphere is wonderful, with a super cute, modern urban decor. The sausage, egg, and cheese biscuit with bacon was delicious, and the cheesy grits were extra creamy and well-seasoned. Definitely try the strawberry jam; it tastes so fresh, just like it’s made in-house. The staff was very kind and helpful, making the experience even better. While the cold brew was too strong for my taste, and the matcha and pumpkin lattes weren't my favorite, the overall experience was still worth it. Even though the food took a little while due to how busy they were, the friendly service made up for it. The blueberry scone was good, and although my husband found "The Denny" average, I’d still recommend trying the breakfast biscuit. This place is a definite must-visit when passing through Chattanooga or if you're in town. Despite a few small hiccups, it’s a solid 5 out of 5 for the overall vibe and food quality. Plus, they have a changing table in the bathroom, which is a nice touch for families. Free street parking or paid gravel lot parking is available for convenience.
First Watch
5207 TN-153 Suite 101, Hixson
(423) 498-9955
Connie Reynolds
I had an awesome breakfast experience at First Watch in Chattanooga. The food was fantastic, and the service was excellent. I tried the pumpkin spice pancake, which was delicious, and the Classic Benedict, which had perfectly cooked eggs, savory ham, and rich hollandaise on crispy ciabatta. The fresh lemon-dressed greens added a nice touch, and the orange mimosa made with fresh juice was super refreshing. The variety on the menu is impressive, especially for those looking for healthy options. My wife had the Elevated egg sandwich, and she thought it was amazing, with a perfectly runny yolk. We also enjoyed the million-dollar potatoes, although they were a bit undercooked. Everything tasted fresh and full of flavor, and nothing seemed like it came from a can or was frozen. The biscuits and turkey gravy were excellent, with a crispy biscuit and gravy that had a bit of a kick to it. My only minor critiques would be the noise level in the restaurant and the price of the coffee, which was $3.89 for a black coffee. Despite that, the service was outstanding, with our server Olyvia being very knowledgeable and offering great menu suggestions. We were seated and served quickly, and all of the food was delicious. Even my husband, who usually isn't a fan of restaurant food, loved it. We live out of town but definitely hope to return whenever we can.
Bantam & Biddy
728 Market St Suite 112C, Chattanooga
(423) 498-4367
Santito Robinson
The food at Bantam & Biddy in Chattanooga is incredible, with 90% of it being gluten-free, which is both surprising and amazing! I felt super safe eating here and loved the well-done service. It was a 10/10 experience, and I would definitely go again. I got to try funnel cake and red velvet cupcake for the first time and was so pleased. The hospitality and service deserve five stars alone. We felt really welcomed, and even though there weren't specific vegan options on the menu, they worked with me to create a nice plate of sides. They even offered oat milk for one of the fried veggie dishes, which was great! The Brussels sprouts were the best I've ever had, making this a great place for gluten-free dining. I highly recommend supporting this friendly business. We were greeted with a smile and the menu was explained right when we walked in. The variety of gluten-free options was amazing and did not disappoint. Please come to Huntsville, AL! This place was heaven for someone with several food sensitivities like mine. They accommodated everything I wanted on the menu. I got pancakes, which are such a treat as I haven't been able to eat them in so long. Plus, Patty was the absolute best host, taking great care of us. If you're debating coming here, look no further—this is your place!
Adelle's Crêperie
400 E Main St, Chattanooga
(423) 531-2222
William Vasquuez
Adelle's Crêperie in Chattanooga is a fantastic spot for breakfast, and it's even dog-friendly! The waffle was absolutely perfect, and the Bee’s Knees crepe was spot on too, with plenty of whipped cream. The $3 mimosa was an added bonus. It's important to know that you order at the bar and then take your dishes to the wash bin after eating, though there could be more signs about this. My wife and I shared the Roma and the triple berry bliss crepes, and both were amazing. The staff were super nice and attentive, even in a relaxed, self-service setup. The atmosphere was open and airy, with a lovely lady playing piano during our visit. The patio is great, and the food is both delicious and generously portioned. I went with my family, and we were all impressed—especially by the freshly made crepes and an outstanding chai latte. The restaurant's eclectic decor and live jazz music add to the charm. It truly felt like a little piece of France. I highly recommend Adelle's for any crepe lover. Can't wait to return!
Big Bad Breakfast - Chattanooga
313 Manufacturers Rd UNIT 119, Chattanooga
(423) 287-5325
Tiasia Shust
Big Bad Breakfast in Chattanooga truly impressed me! We both ordered the Creole Omelet, which was absolutely delicious. The Crispy Hash Cakes were just as satisfying, and their homemade hot sauce added a perfect kick. Our server, Nicole, was outstanding, and the Area Manager, Chris, stopped by to check on us, making us feel really valued. We're definitely coming back soon! The atmosphere, service, and food were top-notch—10 out of 10! It was my first time at BBB, and I was blown away. I opted for the cathead chicken biscuit with bacon, gravy, and shredded cheddar cheese, and every bite was scrumptious. Their coffee was great, adding to the experience. Our server really went above and beyond. We loved it so much we took home some biscuits and a quart of their homemade blackberry jam. I can see many more visits in the future and wholeheartedly recommend it! Busy and fun, it's a great spot for brunch, somewhat similar to a First Watch. The place was clean, and the staff was friendly. Even though it was bustling, our server made sure we were well taken care of. We visited on a Sunday and had a 30-minute wait, but once seated, service was prompt. The food was good and served hot and fresh. While it didn’t blow us away, we’re excited to come back and explore more of the menu.
First Watch
1825 Gunbarrel Rd Suite 100, Chattanooga
(423) 362-5951
Joni Olawunmi
First Watch in Chattanooga is a top-notch breakfast spot with a delicious and healthy menu. This location has an interesting history, originally known as the Egg and I, until the owner passed away just two weeks after it opened. Despite this, the restaurant has thrived and continues to serve up amazing dishes. I've probably eaten at various First Watch locations over 100 times, and I've even tried the Egg and I in Vegas several times. During my recent visit, I enjoyed the lemon ricotta pancakes, chocolate chip pancakes, sunrise bowl, and plain pancakes. Everything was perfect, especially the holey donuts with jam. The service was what really stood out this time. Claire, my server, was exceptional. She greeted me warmly, seated me quickly, and had my drink to me in no time. Her positive attitude and genuine care for my dining experience made my visit memorable. The entire staff was great, but Claire really went above and beyond. I visit First Watch once a month because the food is consistently excellent, and this visit was no exception. The breakfast taco special and pancake were delicious, as always. Parking was a bit tight, but I got lucky with a spot. Overall, First Watch is not your typical breakfast spot; it offers unique menu options and yummy drinks. I'll definitely be back!
Puckett's Restaurant - Downtown Chattanooga
2 W Aquarium Way, Chattanooga
(423) 708-8505
Imanybelle Handy
During a recent visit to Chattanooga, we decided to try Puckett's Restaurant for breakfast, and it was a worthwhile choice! We were visiting from out of state and knew Puckett’s from their Franklin location, so we thought we’d see how the downtown Chattanooga spot compared. The atmosphere was just as inviting, with warm wood tables and a cozy, open layout filled with eclectic decor. It had that same welcoming, warehouse vibe that we love. For breakfast, I ordered the grilled chicken sandwich with a side of skillet mac 'n' cheese, while we started with the pimento cheese bites. Everything was delicious, and the mac 'n' cheese portion was impressively large. The blackberry sweet tea was a delightful, refreshing addition to the meal. The service was efficient, and although our waitress was very business-like, she did her job well. Our hostess was extremely friendly, which set a positive tone for our dining experience. We had to wait a bit for tea refills and for the check at the end, but it was understandable given the busy lunchtime crowd. Parking was a bit of a letdown since we had to pay $12, even on a Sunday when traffic was light. It would be helpful if they could validate parking for diners, especially those with disabilities. Despite these minor inconveniences, the food more than made up for it. The shrimp and grits were something I’d recommend, and the green beans were a surprising favorite for me. Overall, the experience at Puckett’s was great, and we were happy with our choice. It’s a solid spot for a hearty meal in a warm setting.
Maple Street Biscuit Company
2114 Gunbarrel Rd, Chattanooga
(423) 713-9368
Tristan Mireles
Maple Street Biscuit Company in Chattanooga is a fantastic spot for breakfast. The vibe here is cool and inviting, with plenty of seating for large groups, making it perfect for meeting up with friends or family. The menu offers fresh and unique flavor profiles that set it apart from typical breakfast joints. The fresh-squeezed orange juice is a standout and exceptionally delicious. The keto bowl is absolutely amazing, even without the bacon, and the biscuits are generally good with unique ingredients like spinach in the eggs adding a nice twist. While the place can get busy, the overall experience of enjoying fresh and flavorful breakfast items coupled with good coffee makes it a worthwhile visit.
City Cafe Diner
511 Broad St, Chattanooga
(423) 634-9191
Garrett Edwards
City Cafe Diner in Chattanooga is incredible for breakfast! The place has a great vibe, and the staff is outstanding. Rosie (or Alyssa) was such a fantastic server that I can't wait to come back and have her take care of us again. The Milky Way cake I had was the best I've ever tasted! It's so exciting to see City Cafe back in action; it's exactly what downtown Chattanooga needed. Jason was another amazing server, attentive and polite, making the experience even better. The food was delicious! The chicken pot pie was enormous and incredibly satisfying. Seriously, you should run, not walk, to check out the improved City Cafe. I love this place for its vast menu and 24-hour service, which make it stand out from other spots like Waffle House. I had mozzarella sticks and garlic cheese bread as appetizers, and they were excellent. The Four Bridges panini was awesome, though I'm eager to try more from the extensive menu. For dessert, the White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake is irresistible, and with so many cakes and cheesecakes, choosing just one is tough. If I could give more than five stars, I would. The prices are great, too. Don't miss the chance to try this place; you won't regret it. I'll definitely be back before my vacation ends. It's a bit tucked away, but once you find it, you'll be glad you did. With classic diner vibes and oldies on the jukebox, the experience is delightful. The waitress was incredibly experienced and quick, getting our orders perfect without writing anything down. The management is top-notch, and I already can't wait for my next visit. The tuna melt I ordered was very satisfying, too.
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
1110 Market St, Chattanooga
(423) 779-0400
Betzy Goodrich
Absolutely delighted with my experience at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar! From the moment I walked in, the warm, Southern hospitality made me feel right at home. The cozy and inviting atmosphere is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual lunch or a relaxed brunch. The Mac & Cheese waffle was incredible — crispy on the outside and perfectly cheesy inside. It's a creative twist on comfort food that I can't recommend enough. I also tried the margarita flight, and each drink was unique and refreshing, pairing wonderfully with my meal. Our server, Marianne, was attentive and made our dining experience even more enjoyable. Although the fried chicken was a bit dry, it didn't overshadow the overall fantastic food selection and ambiance. We sat outside and enjoyed the day, and the service was impeccable. This gem has quickly become one of my favorite spots. I'll definitely return whenever I'm in the area, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for delicious Southern cuisine with a modern twist!
Frothy Monkey
1400 Market St, Chattanooga
(423) 680-6343
Alex Aulakh
Frothy Monkey in Chattanooga is a charming spot for breakfast, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. The atmosphere is welcoming, with a spacious layout that hints at its historical roots. It’s just a great place to start your day or catch up with friends. The service was outstanding. Our server, Malcolm, was friendly and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed. It’s the kind of service that makes you feel valued as a guest. The coffee was a highlight for me—flavorful and just the right strength, setting a positive tone for the whole meal. For breakfast, I tried the Turkey with Swiss and avocado sandwich, while my partner opted for the burger. Both were delicious and made with fresh ingredients. Although the half salad felt a bit pricey, the overall quality of the food balanced it out. I’d love to return to try other dishes, as the menu seems versatile. While the Huevos Rolandos and Smoked Gouda grits didn’t quite hit the marks this time around, the experience as a whole was positive. The brewed coffee tied everything together, making the meal enjoyable. Frothy Monkey is definitely worth a visit for its fantastic setting and quality service.