Brilliant Breakfast Spots in Cincinnati Loved by Locals

Inside the Cincinnatian Hotel, 601 Vine St, Cincinnati

(513) 222-1915

During our stay at a nearby hotel, we decided to stop by The Kidd Coffee Co. for breakfast and I'm thrilled we did. The coffee was outstanding—some of the best I’ve had in Cincinnati, hands down. Whether you prefer it hot or cold, it outshines even popular chains like Starbucks. The baristas were quick, efficient, and attentive, ensuring our order was delivered promptly even during busy periods. They are knowledgeable and happy to guide anyone who's unsure about what to choose from the menu. The breakfast sandwiches were freshly prepared and exceeded my expectations in taste. Although the space is a bit minimalistic, it is functional and comfortable. I feel a few extra decorative touches could make it even more inviting, but it’s a minor point considering the quality of the coffee and food. For those staying at the Hilton, one major perk is that purchases here count towards Hilton Honors My Way hotel benefits if you charge them to your room. Just be sure to double-check your final bill, as we had to call back to have our credits applied. Overall, the experience was delightful, and I'd highly recommend The Kidd Coffee Co. for a great start to your day.

231 W 4th St, Cincinnati

(513) 333-0123

Caffè Barista & Deli is my go-to spot for a great meal in Cincinnati. This family-owned place feels inviting with the friendliest staff around. The food is consistently delicious, with daily specials and a variety of deli sandwiches made with Boar's Head meats. It's a treat for anyone, regardless of whether you're in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They offer an all-day breakfast menu along with a selection of pizzas, which adds to the variety. I had a chicken Philly cheesesteak that was both delicious and filling. Their prices are very affordable, considering the quality of the food. There's seating available with a few tables and chairs, plus a counter with stools, if you want to dine inside. They also carry six packs of beer, bottles of wine, and some convenience store snacks and pantry items, making it a convenient stop. Open six days a week until 6:00 pm, it’s a place I always enjoy visiting.

8355 Beechmont Ave, Cincinnati

(513) 386-7477

The Original Pancake House is a breakfast lover's dream come true. From the cozy atmosphere to the incredible menu, you feel right at home the moment you walk in. The pancakes are exceptional—fluffy, light, and perfectly golden. The Dutch Baby and Apple Pancake are must-tries, baked perfectly and packed with flavor. Portions are generous, and high-quality ingredients make every bite enjoyable. The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure your coffee is always topped up. Even when busy, the service is impressive. The menu caters to all cravings, from classic pancakes to savory omelets. My wife was thrilled with the giant veggie omelette and fresh-squeezed orange juice. We left with enough leftovers for the weekend, making the wait worthwhile. The large portion sizes, great presentation, and excellent flavors make it worth visiting. Joyce welcomed us with a warm smile, and our waitress, Valerie, was helpful and kind. We loved the Swedish pancakes and coffee. The aquarium adds a nice touch, providing interesting fish to watch while you dine. If you haven't been yet, you're missing out. I can't recommend it enough, and we will definitely return soon.

4154 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati

(513) 541-0847

My husband has been coming to Blue Jay Restaurant since he was a kid, and I finally got to experience it myself. I was really impressed! The pancakes were delicious, and the prices were incredible. Plus, our waitress was super pleasant. We will definitely be back! This place is my favorite not-so-hidden gem in Cincinnati. The service is always spot on, the people are friendly, and the food is exactly what you want from a diner with a small-town feel. Even though it gets busy on weekends, and the wait can be up to an hour, it's totally worth it. I recommend trying the home fries with gravy and cheese, and the biscuits and gravy are a must! I also took my two younger sisters here for brunch, and we all loved it. Despite being busy, the wait staff were super attentive and friendly. I enjoyed the history decorating the place, and the food was amazing. I got the Blue Jay breakfast, and everything from the eggs to the bacon to the home fries was cooked perfectly. The omelet was flavorful too. The portion sizes are great for the price, and the coffee is good. I can't wait to explore more of the menu! The food is fantastic, the chili beats any chain restaurant, and the desserts are made fresh in-house. We tried the carrot cake, and it was delicious. Our waitress, Jo, was outstanding. The diner may be outdated, but it's clean, and that's what matters. We will definitely be back!

301 E 4th St, Cincinnati

(513) 655-6707

I had an incredible breakfast experience at Wild Eggs in Cincinnati. Stephanie was our server this morning, and she was wonderful, treating us like family and ensuring our meal was perfect. The food was outstanding—I've never had a breakfast quite like it. The chorizo biscuits and gravy are still on my mind, and the breakfast burrito was delicious and filling without being too greasy. My family also enjoyed the French toast and the steak n eggs benny, both of which were well-prepared with quality ingredients. The mixed drinks were amazing too, making the whole experience even better. The prices are reasonable, especially for the amount and quality of food served. The atmosphere is a bit dated, but that doesn't detract from the overall experience. The restaurant is clean, and despite being a brunch spot, it wasn't too loud, which was a pleasant surprise. The staff's friendliness really stood out, with Stephanie and manager Mariah both ensuring we were well taken care of. We travel out of our way to come to this location because the food and drinks are top-tier. I can't recommend this place enough; it's a must-try if you're in the area. 10/10 will always recommend!

11301 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati

(513) 489-6849

First Watch in Cincinnati is a fantastic spot for a brunch meeting. The food and atmosphere are top-notch, and even though it was lively around 9 am, it didn't feel overcrowded. The staff were friendly and respectful of our meeting, though they could have been more attentive; we ran out of coffee and it took a while to get a refill. Still, the overall experience was excellent. The food was flavorful, with decent portion sizes, and the prices matched the quality and ambiance. I would definitely recommend this place and am looking forward to trying more items from their menu. I appreciate that they have plenty of space, making it a great choice for corporate breakfast meetings. They stick to the standard breakfast offerings, which means you know what to expect, and I wasn't disappointed. Their plating is lovely, but they did miss the mark with a tough piece of brisket that lacked flavor. Nonetheless, breakfast was marvelous at the Montgomery Rd location, with fast and friendly service. The Million Dollar Bacon was a highlight, and the Breakfast Quesadilla was enjoyable. Though First Watch can be a bit fancy for my usual breakfast tastes, the server was great and pointed out a standard breakfast option that's easy to miss: a satisfying combo of eggs, breakfast meat, potatoes, and toast, found on the top right of the menu. My wife loves their juice bar, which didn't disappoint, and the complimentary gluten-free toast is a nice touch.

9856 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati

(513) 791-1900

Toast & Berry is an absolute gem for breakfast in Cincinnati. The wait staff was amazing and extremely accommodating, even when we were the last customers there. They never rushed us, giving undivided attention until we left. I truly appreciated the portion sizes and quality of the food. Since I wasn't too hungry, I ordered from the kids menu, and the waitress made sure I got the best options available. The drinks were amazing too. This quaint spot is now my new favorite brunch place. I went back the following day, unable to resist the incredible cinnamon roll French toasts. The staff was wonderful, ensuring a pleasant experience every time. While the drinks like the mimosa and latte were just okay, the actual food was a solid 5 stars. The Nashville hot chicken was pretty good, though the accompaniments lacked flavor, and the BLT&E was decent but could use a bit more taste. However, the cappuccino was really good. Overall, I highly recommend Toast & Berry. Try it out—you won't regret it! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! A++.

8118 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati

(513) 891-0088

Sure! Here's a concise and positive review in the first person: Tried First Watch for breakfast in Cincinnati and loved it so much that I came back the next day! Even though it was extremely busy, they ran like a well-oiled machine, and we were seated within 10 minutes both times. Our server was friendly and attentive, and the food was delicious. On my first visit, I ordered the Tropical Sunrise juice, which was a perfect blend of mango, pineapple, strawberry, and lime. The Hacienda Hash was also a winner, with a nice serving size. The noise level was a bit high since it was completely full at noon, but it wasn't too bad. Parking was a little tight in the strip mall, but manageable. The menu is great, and I can't wait to try more items. Their blueberry muffin was the best I've ever had! The French toast with blueberry compote was phenomenal, and the hot cocoa was rich and creamy. I also loved the million-dollar bacon. Mikayla, our waitress, took great care of us, and the food came out quickly despite the busy atmosphere. Plus, the Pokémon drawings on their chalkboard were a delightful touch. If you're in the area, I highly recommend First Watch. Our family thoroughly enjoyed it!

1135 Vine St, Cincinnati

(513) 396-5800

I had breakfast at Taste of Belgium in Over The Rhine, Cincinnati, and overall, it was a decent experience. The service was good, and although the beer list was nice, some selections were sold out. One highlight for me was definitely the fries, which were fantastic. I ordered the chicken and waffles, and the fried chicken was incredibly flavorful. However, the waffles were a bit dry and not as enjoyable as I’d hoped. My boyfriend tried the breakfast burrito made with a crepe, and he really enjoyed it, noting it was quite tasty. I chose this place expecting a true taste of Belgian cuisine because I've been to Belgium before. While the food was good in terms of service, presentation, and portions, I did find the menu to be quite Americanized. I was craving some Belgian staples like mussels and fries, but these were only available at dinner, which wasn't clearly communicated on their website. We also tried the mussels gratin, which was cooked perfectly, and the pretzels with cheese. The pretzels were more like glorified garlic knots, but the cheese sauce was delicious. My husband had a meatball sandwich, which had plenty of bread but minimal meatballs. The beer selection was good, but they lacked some traditional Belgian options like Kreik or Mort Subite. Overall, while there were some menu disappointments, the experience was enjoyable enough that I’d like to return for dinner when I’m back in the city. I hope they consider adding more traditional Belgian items to their daytime menu or allow ordering from the dinner menu. Though I ordered some items for delivery like the banana Nutella crepe and s'mores waffle, they didn’t meet my expectations, but perhaps dining in would offer a better experience.

16 West Freedom Way, Cincinnati

(513) 396-5800

After a long day at the zoo with only a pumpkin muffin to tide us over, my daughter and I were absolutely starving when we arrived at Taste of Belgium - The Banks, and it did not disappoint. Our server, Journey, was incredibly kind, friendly, and helpful, making our first visit a fantastic experience. We started with the beer cheese and pretzels, which were superb. For our main meal, we both went for their famous Liege waffles. I opted for the "Over the Top" waffle, while my daughter chose the bananas and Nutella version. Both were delicious and quite filling. I was thrilled that someone recommended this place to us! The restaurant's decor is charming, and its location beside the Ohio River is a real bonus. While the chicken and waffles are their signature dish and certainly tasty, I wasn't as impressed with the Belgium burger. Nonetheless, I did enjoy the bacon burger with its phenomenal house spread on a brioche bun. I highly recommend trying it! Overall, the food and atmosphere were excellent. The staff were courteous and attentive, making sure we were promptly seated and well looked after. I'll definitely be returning to give the chicken and waffles another try. Whether you're stopping in before a concert at the Brady Center or just looking for a great meal, Taste of Belgium - The Banks is a wonderful spot to check out.

345 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati

(513) 281-4965

Proud Rooster Restaurant is a delightful spot for breakfast in Cincinnati that truly captures the essence of a classic diner. The cozy and nostalgic ambiance takes you straight back to the 70s, with friendly service and prices that won't break the bank. I absolutely enjoyed the French Toast, Cheese Omelette, and a side of Spicy Goetta. The Goetta has a kick that really enhances the meal. Just remember, it's cash only, so come prepared. On my first visit to this blue-collar gem, I opted for the Western omelet, bacon, and fried potatoes with onions. It might not be the healthiest choice, but it was definitely tasty and affordable. Plus, I found convenient parking right across the street for just $2.50 for two hours. Having lived in Cincy for three years, I have to say this is the best diner breakfast I’ve had. The pancakes were just perfect. The downside, though, is the lack of meat alternatives to pork, which would be a nice addition. Also, I learned the hard way to visit earlier since they can run out of menu items later in the day. Despite that, it's a charming place that I wish I'd discovered sooner. I'll definitely be coming back for more.

4381 Reading Rd, Cincinnati

(513) 242-3521

Sugar n' Spice Restaurant in Cincinnati is a breakfast gem! The food is spectacular, and the staff is enthusiastic. From the moment I walked in, they made me feel like a regular, even though it was my first visit. Dee, our waitress, was stupendous! The atmosphere is bright, cheerful, and whimsical. I loved the rubber ducks given to each guest—it’s such a delightful touch. This establishment is definitely worth going out of your way to visit; you won’t be disappointed. The restaurant offers vegetarian options, which was perfect for me. The food was very good, homestyle breakfast, and the entire place had a fun color scheme that felt both welcoming and homely. It got a little busy at times, which I take as a good sign. Our little girl adored the ducks and the crayons for kids, and we, as a family, looooved it. The design and decor of the place are so fun and unique, adding to the overall experience. Sugar n' Spice has been around since 1941, and for good reason. Excellent food, excellent service, and home cooking at its finest. My mom and I enjoyed the breakfast platter immensely. I definitely will be back. Highly recommend 🐤🐤🐤🐤🐤!

2692 Madison Rd, Cincinnati

(513) 531-7430

First Watch in Cincinnati is a solid choice for breakfast. It's a chain that usually delivers a great experience, and this location is no different. The food here is fresh and delicious, with something for everyone's taste. I tried the Sunny Seoul Hash, a seasonal special, and while it wasn't my favorite at first, the flavors really came together when I had the leftovers. My friend opted for the Bacado omelet, which is always a hit. The service was generally good, despite our server training a new staff member. It might've slowed things down a bit, but it was still a pleasant experience. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, though it can get pretty busy, especially on a Saturday afternoon. If you prefer a quieter experience, aim to go early. Parking can be a bit chaotic, but it's worth it for the meal you get. Overall, I would definitely recommend First Watch if you're searching for a dependable breakfast spot with quality food. I'll be back, hopefully when it's a little less crowded!

1535 Madison Rd, Cincinnati

(513) 221-0510

I visited 6 'N The Mornin' for breakfast in Cincinnati, and it was a great experience overall. Our server was attentive and made sure we were comfortable throughout the meal. I ordered over medium eggs, and even though they were fried hard, I still enjoyed them. The mimosas were fantastic, and both the hash bowl and French toast were really good. The potatoes were delicious, too. I appreciated having turkey sausage and turkey bacon as options, which not many places offer. I was there on a date, and we both enjoyed everything we tried. My favorite parts were the bacon and potatoes—they were cooked and seasoned well and kept me full for most of the day. The atmosphere was enjoyable, with a nice vibe and music. The building itself, an old bank, is pretty cool to sit in. The coffee was hot and fresh—just what I needed to start my day. I would definitely go back to 6 'N The Mornin', especially if you love a full breakfast like I do. It's worth a visit for the good food and great service.

3825 Edwards Rd, Cincinnati

(513) 396-5800

Delicious 😋! We kicked things off with the cheese croquettes, which are like Belgian-style mozzarella sticks but creamier. They came with a light, flaky crust and a tasty house-made marinara sauce. I had the breakfast burger with fries, featuring a waffle as the bun—need I say more? My daughter went for the breakfast plate with a dessert waffle and declared it the best waffle she's ever had! We’re definitely planning to return. They also offer homemade poptarts and other treats, which looked so tempting that I took pictures of them. The service was outstanding from start to finish. Whether he was the host or manager, the man who greeted us carried himself with such joy and pride. Our waiter was incredibly accommodating and patient, especially since we were first-time visitors just passing through. On top of that, Melody, our server, was fantastic. She knew the menu inside out and was so sweet and friendly, making our visit even better. The food here is amazing—cooked perfectly and presented beautifully. The vibe is fun and lively, with people constantly coming in. There’s a variety of seating options, including outdoor seats, which is a plus. They could use a couple more employees for running food and refilling drinks, as it gets quite busy, but overall it’s an excellent spot. It’s worth asking for the dessert options and flavors for lattes beyond the menu. We had breakfast here this morning and the portions were generous, with more food than most can finish. While prices are a bit above average for breakfast, the quality and experience make it worthwhile. We’re already looking forward to our next visit!

7157 Beechmont Ave, Cincinnati

(513) 232-9900

Big Apple Bagels in Cincinnati is a solid spot for a quick breakfast. They've got a wide range of menu items, including coffee and some tasty dessert options. I'm already looking forward to my next visit. The first time I stopped by, I had the southern sandwich on a blueberry bagel, which was delightful, and a cinnamon crumb cake muffin. The muffin was a bit stale, but I figure popping it in the microwave next time will do the trick. The bagels are genuinely good, which keeps me coming back. However, it’s clear that the place has seen better days. The cleanliness could use some improvement, as the floors, windows, and tables were less than pristine. There was also a random box in the seating area that seemed out of place. It'd be nice if these little details were taken care of. The staff could be more attentive; they sometimes made me feel like I was inconveniencing them when I asked questions. Also, some of them wore AirPods, which made communication a challenge at times. It would be better if they paid more attention to customers. Despite these issues, Big Apple Bagels has a great location and the potential to be fantastic again. With a bit more focus on cleanliness and customer service, it could really shine as a breakfast spot in Cincinnati.

3001 Gilbert Ave &, Buena Vista Pl, Cincinnati

(513) 714-8505

I visited J&W Breakfast in Cincinnati for a dinner that brought back so many great memories. I've been a regular there since before my twins were born in '93, and this visit was another satisfying experience. I ordered my go-to Steak burger and fries with mild sauce, which you can't get anywhere else, and they were hot and fresh as always. I decided to try the peach cobbler this time, and it was delicious, which isn't always the case with desserts at other places. The service was quick, allowing me to be in and out smoothly. Although I found it a bit pricey this time around, I'll probably skip dessert next time to save a bit. Their barbecue remains the best in the city, and you can't beat the prices for their tender barbecue chicken, fried fish, or fried chicken wings. Overall, I would definitely go back.

7108 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati

(513) 728-2170

Delicious Omelet and Tasty Treats Galore! Visited Perkins for breakfast in Cincinnati and had a fantastic experience. The omelet and potatoes I ordered were delicious, with perfect flavors and just the right portion size. The display of tasty treats was tempting, and it took a lot of willpower to resist ordering everything! The variety and quality were impressive, and I'm already planning to come back to try more. Overall, no complaints about my visit. The food was excellent, the service was friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere was inviting. If you're looking for tasty breakfast options and a tempting selection of treats, Perkins is the place to go.

9403 Civic Centre Blvd, West Chester Township

(513) 759-4300

Visiting The Original Pancake House in Cincinnati for the first time was a delightful experience. Despite being a bit short-staffed, the team was attentive and welcoming. I was impressed with how fresh and hot the food was, especially the Dutch Baby, which I tried for the first time. Our server was fantastic and explained how to enjoy it, providing plenty of butter and ensuring we had everything we needed. Even though the restaurant was bustling, the hostess managed her dual role of hosting and cashing out guests efficiently. We went late on a Sunday, so a bit of a wait was understandable. The food quality, particularly the Dutch Baby, was the highlight. If they can hire more staff, this place has the potential to be truly outstanding. Overall, it was a great breakfast experience, and I look forward to seeing how they grow.

1001 Gest St, Cincinnati

(513) 621-8494

I had breakfast at Frisch's Big Boy in Cincinnati, and overall, it was a positive experience. The atmosphere was welcoming right from the moment I walked in, which set a great tone for my meal. The staff was attentive and clearly working hard to ensure everyone was taken care of, which I really appreciated. The burger I ordered reminded me of the Big Mac from McDonald's, and it tasted great. Even though the buffet seemed to be lacking at times, with food taking a while to be replenished, the crew was doing their best given the circumstances. It seemed like they might have been a bit understaffed, but they handled the rush admirably. While there were some mixed experiences with orders and pricing from others, my visit was quite pleasant. The hardworking team and nice atmosphere made my breakfast enjoyable.