Nicest Breakfasts in Cleveland That Brighten Mornings
Don't miss the best breakfast spots in Cleveland, where humble little places serve up berry-fresh dishes and carefully-prepared meals that make mornings extra special. Whether it's fluffy pancakes or tasty omelets, each.

Start your day with the best breakfasts in Cleveland! Try the delicious dishes cooked in different styles, from crispy bacon and fluffy pancakes to creamy omelets. Enjoy these tasty meals in cozy and friendly places where food is carefully prepared just for you.
The Cleveland Bagel Company
4201 Detroit Ave, Cleveland
(216) 600-5652
Chris Villalobos
I can't recommend Cleveland Bagel highly enough! Their bagels are simply the best in the world. I always get the egg and cheese on a cranberry bagel, and it's an unbeatable combination. The cranberry bagel is perfectly chewy with just the right hint of sweetness, and the egg and cheese are always fresh and delicious. Every bite is a delight. If you're a bagel lover, you owe it to yourself to try Cleveland Bagel. You have to check this place out - their bagels are amazing, and they don't skimp on the shmear! My favorite combo is an everything bagel toasted with the thyme black pepper horseradish shmear. Their sandwiches look great, so I'm planning to try one next time. On Sunday morning, there were quite a few people here—a bit off the beaten path from the city center, near Lake Erie. I took two bagels (poppy seed and 'everything') with egg and tomato, although you could choose from many flavors and decide on toasted or normal versions. The staff is nice and focused. The Cleveland Bagel Company is worth a try. Great bagels! They are definitely super tasty and delicious. I love their everything bagels with their Brie honey walnut filling; it's so different from anything I've tried and simply delicious! The only thing is that they don’t have indoor or outdoor seating, which would be a nice addition, but their bagels are really good!
Gabe's Family Restaurant
2044 Broadview Rd, Cleveland
(216) 741-4466
Tim Peirr
Gabe's Family Restaurant is a fantastic breakfast spot in Cleveland. The prices are great, and the food is excellent. I couldn't resist the steak and eggs, and I'm glad I didn't. For just $9.99, you get a big portion of steak, two eggs, breakfast potatoes, and toast, which is an amazing deal. Ever since Steve's Diner closed, I've been coming here, and it's become my new favorite spot. The food is delicious, and they are very kid-friendly, even providing crayons and coloring pages to keep the little ones entertained. The kids' meals are generously sized, and the breakfast portions are large and satisfying. The atmosphere is casual and homey, and even though it was busy, we were seated quickly. The service is quick, attentive, and genuinely friendly—something many restaurants could learn from. The food tastes as if it’s home-cooked, offering great value. Now I understand why there's often a line; at 10 am on a Monday, we waited about 10 to 15 minutes, and it was well worth it. I'll definitely be taking my family here regularly. The employees are amazing, and I really love Gabe's.
West Side Market Café
1979 W 25th St, Cleveland
(216) 579-6800
Noel Kassab
Wow. Just wow. On my first visit to Cleveland, I was on the hunt for a brunch spot before heading to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and West Side Market Café did not disappoint. This place, along with the market next door, was amazing. From Great Lakes beer to real kielbasa sausage, the flavors were spot on. The service was impressively fast and personable, adding to the overall experience. We had a short wait for our table, which was perfect for exploring the market and scouting dessert options. Located in a cozy corner of the West Side Market, the café was bustling but well-organized. They took our phone number and called us when our table was ready, a thoughtful touch that allowed us to make the most of our time. The waitstaff was experienced, quick, and attentive. I loved the suggestion of adding Baileys to my coffee. Our plates were perfectly portioned, and the rosemary toast from the market was a highlight—so fresh and flavorful. The café is nestled in the heart of Ohio City, making it an ideal spot for breakfast, lunch, or both. The fresh, high-quality food is surprisingly affordable. Although it can get busy, the atmosphere remains cozy and inviting. I’d highly recommend trying their daily soups. They've never let me down. Popping in for lunch, I noticed the place was packed, but leaving our number allowed us to enjoy the market while waiting. Once seated, the food was fresh and delicious. I joined the ranks of patrons enjoying a Bloody Mary and was not disappointed. The energy in the café was lively and enjoyable, with friendly and efficient service. It was crowded and noisy in a way that made the place feel alive, and everyone seemed to be having a great time. It was a truly enjoyable experience, and I can't wait to return.
Gus's Old Brooklyn - Family Restaurant
4377 State Rd, Cleveland
(216) 661-5967
Miriam Attisha
Gus's Old Brooklyn Family Restaurant is a fantastic spot for breakfast. The waitress was incredibly nice, and there's lots of parking available across the street, which is always a plus. The menu was so tempting that I wanted to order everything. Although my steak was dry, the eggs and hash browns made up for it, and they promptly replaced the steak with a delicious chopped version. The fries were amazing, and the gyro was heavenly. This was our first visit while looking for a local breakfast spot, and it certainly did not disappoint. From the outside, it might not look like much, but inside, it’s clean, modern, and inviting. You seat yourself, so there's no waiting to be seated. The food was served quickly, and everything we ordered was great. The country fried steak was superb, the pancakes were fluffy, and the coffee was excellent. I was so eager to dive in that I forgot to take food pictures! The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, although the building isn’t ideal for those in wheelchairs due to a few steps at the entrance. The space is cozy, but the food comes out quickly and is delicious. The waitstaff is wonderful and attentive. Just a heads-up that the syrup bottles are very hot! The bathrooms are a bit tight, with the sink in a narrow hallway, adding a bit of quirky charm to the place. Overall, I highly recommend Gus's for a satisfying breakfast experience. We definitely plan on returning the next time we’re in town.
Canarys Family Restaurant
14810 Puritas Ave, Cleveland
(216) 671-8911
Jake Armas
Breakfast at Canarys Family Restaurant was pretty good! I ordered the French toast with strawberries and whipped cream, eggs with cheese and hash browns, steak and onions, and a cup of coffee. The food arrived hot and was prepared quickly, which was a big plus. The service was excellent, and the server Brenda, along with the rest of the staff, were very attentive and friendly. Although the food is good, it's not the kind that will blow you away, but it’s still satisfying with generous portions. The menu offers a wide variety of options, so there's something for everyone. Prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a filling meal without breaking the bank. The atmosphere is pleasant and comfortable, perfect for a laid-back breakfast. Even though I had to wait a bit for my waffle because the iron hadn't been turned on yet, Brenda made sure it was served perfectly once ready. All in all, Canarys is a great place to enjoy a solid breakfast with excellent service. Highly recommend it!
Grumpy's Cafe
2621 W 14th St, Cleveland
(216) 241-5025
Duane Vazquez
Grumpy's Cafe has become one of my favorite breakfast spots in Cleveland, and for good reason. The atmosphere is welcoming, and I'm thrilled they invited me back this year to display some of my art creations for sale. It's a place that truly supports the community by showcasing local artists, which I really appreciate. Their French toast is amazing, and you get the best diner-style experience here. We were told we'd wait about 30 minutes for a table but were pleasantly surprised to be seated in 20. The hostess and our waitress were both fantastic, which added to the experience. I started with a vanilla cafe latte, which was perfect as we waited for our food. We ordered the grumpy kids' meals for our three children, complete with Mickey Mouse-shaped pancakes, sausage or bacon, and eggs – they loved it! My husband went for the jambalaya omelet, and I'm glad he let me taste it. It was unique and incredibly delicious. I opted for the sausage gravy benedict, which lived up to its name and was absolutely delicious. Both dishes came with Cajun home fries, which were a hit. I also tried the skillet, which was superb. The breakfast potatoes were delicious, and they had several specials that caught my eye. The servers and staff were attentive and efficient, making our visit even better. It's a great place, and I'd rate it 10/10. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a warm, community-focused breakfast spot in Cleveland!
Diner On 55th
1328 E 55th St, Cleveland
(216) 417-8001
Diane Martin
Other restaurants: pay attention. This is how you serve a big salad—in a bowl that's big enough to toss the ingredients without making a mess. Diner On 55th is a standout spot for breakfast in Cleveland. The place is bright, clean, and instantly welcomes you with a friendly, homey vibe. It's clear that locals love it here, and it's easy to see why. I had the Cobb salad, which was delicious and filled with fresh ingredients. I skipped the blue cheese and dressing, but it was still fantastic. The sausage gravy on the biscuits was peppery but not overwhelming, and the biscuits struck the perfect balance of density and fluffiness. It’s everything you want in a comforting breakfast dish. I’ve been familiar with this restaurant for 30 years since my days in law enforcement, and the food has always been consistently good. I remember ordering the traditional breakfast with grits, potatoes, bacon, and eggs—always a solid choice. The diner atmosphere is charming, and it's definitely a place that even former Mayor Dennis Kucinich should try. The service is excellent; the staff is personable and efficient, making sure the food arrives quickly and hot. My breakfast experience was so good that I almost forgot to snap a picture before diving in! Not only is the food great, but the owner, Jim, is a gem with a heart as big as the building itself. This small diner is a community powerhouse. If you're looking for good food, great service, and a touch of nostalgia, Diner On 55th is the place to be. Thank you, Jim, for creating such a wonderful spot!
Addy's Diner
530 Euclid Ave, Cleveland
(216) 202-1368
Michael Sassanella
Addy's Diner is a wonderful authentic spot for breakfast in Cleveland with great prices and incredibly friendly staff. The atmosphere was pleasant, making my coffee-filled wait enjoyable despite the longer service time. The space itself is small and charming, giving off a cozy hidden gem vibe. I loved picking my own table, which was perfect since I was dining alone. The menu is simple, with enough choices to keep things interesting without being overwhelming. My server was sweet and attentive, ensuring my order was taken and served efficiently. Although my sunny-side-up eggs were slightly undercooked and the home fries a bit greasy, the delicious caraway seed rye bread more than made up for it. The location in a cute Victorian-style arcade adds to the charm, making it feel like a community hub with good food at good prices. Whether you're a local or a traveler, I highly recommend giving this place a try. The super friendly staff, excellent food presentation, and fast service were impressive. My friends and I managed to dine and dash in 25 minutes, even with a large group and the diner’s small size. I’ll definitely be back!
The City Diner
5109 Memphis Ave, Cleveland
(216) 331-7101
Rayam Marroquín
Finally got to try The City Diner for breakfast in Cleveland, and it did not disappoint. I ordered the pancake combo, which was very reasonably priced at $10.50, and the portion was generous. The sausage links and pancakes were absolutely delicious, easily beating out the usual breakfast chain I frequent. The service was solid, with Brittani being attentive despite the busy morning. There was a bit of a wait, but it was expected and worth it. I loved the old-school diner vibe, and the place was noticeably clean. However, the limited parking can be a little frustrating given the constant crowd, but I found that coming early on a weekday helps secure a spot. I've been eager to try this place, and it lived up to my expectations, especially with the amazing City Diner omelet on my second visit. Condiments were plentiful on the table, and free refills were a nice touch. We've been making it a point to visit almost every Friday, and this Sunday was no different, as we had our team Jim Claus "Keep the Faith" raising money for the Kidney Foundation of Ohio walk here for breakfast. Jena and Hala took great care of us, and Katie is always wonderful when she waits on us Friday evenings. The staff here is fantastic, working seamlessly as a team, especially on busy days. The food is consistently delicious, fresh, and the family-friendly atmosphere makes it one of our favorite spots. Plus, the homemade baklava is a standout treat! I look forward to returning again soon.
Daybreak Restaurant
6212 Memphis Ave, Cleveland
(216) 862-1004
Kristina Coker
We visited Cleveland from out of town for a wedding and stumbled upon Daybreak Restaurant for breakfast. After our meal yesterday, we knew we had to come back today because it was just that good. The place is extremely clean, and the atmosphere is welcoming, thanks to the exceptionally friendly family that owns and runs it. The food was impeccable. They nailed the perfect egg, no matter how we ordered it, and the hash browns were spot on. Despite being a party of seven, our food arrived together, fresh, and our coffee never went cold. We've practically sampled most of the menu over two visits, and the breakfast skillets stood out as favorites. It’s the perfect spot for breakfast or brunch, with mini breakfasts available for under $5! The interior is cute, and the staff members are all sweet, helpful, and quick. Our family enjoyed a hearty breakfast here on September 21, 2024, which kept us energized for a day at the zoo. Our waitress was friendly and attentive, making the experience even better. I'm not one to usually leave reviews, but this place was worth it. I’ll definitely be back, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for delicious food and a comfortable atmosphere. Keep up the great work, Daybreak Restaurant!
Landmark Restaurant
5380 St Clair Ave., Cleveland
(216) 881-5372
Glenn Contreras
For me, Landmark Restaurant is the best spot in Cleveland to get a real breakfast for the money. I was thrilled to discover that I can split my order of hash browns and grits without paying double, which makes it super affordable and filling. I end up eating some now and saving the rest for later, unless I'm really hungry. I heard some good things about Landmark, so my girlfriend and I decided to try their breakfast early one Friday morning. We ordered two Hungry Man meals with French toast, bacon, eggs, and turkey sausage. We also got orange juice, white chocolate cappuccino, and cheese grits. The food was seriously great! Despite the busy dining room, the service was quick and flawless. I highly recommend this place. The pictures of the delicious food don't lie; it's hot and enjoyable, and the excellent customer service adds to the experience. The restaurant is nice and clean with plenty of space and good energy. We had fabulous service from Kendal, and the crispy bacon was done perfectly, just as we asked. The decor is basic diner style, nothing fancy, but that's part of its charm. Prices are good, too. We'll definitely go back on our next visit to Cleveland.
George's Kitchen
13101 Triskett Rd, Cleveland
(216) 671-0430
Joseph Lopez
George's Kitchen is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Cleveland. The staff is incredibly nice, and the place has this charming old-time diner vibe. The food is both good and affordable, which is a rare find these days. I had the Cubano Sandwich, and it was amazing. My partner tried the pulled pork sandwich and waffles, both done to perfection. Our guest enjoyed omelets, strawberry crepes, a melt, and soup, salad, and bread. Everything was delicious and a great deal, though the fettuccine was a bit bland. We only spent about $80 on our entire order with drinks, which is incredible for how much we got. The service stood out; our waitress was fun, energetic, and really attentive. I highly recommend this gem if you're on a budget and want great food. I used to visit George's Kitchen often with my kids for dinner, but since they shortened their hours, it's been tough to make it before their 3 pm closing time. I genuinely miss the experience and hope they extend their hours in the future. The place feels like you're stepping back in time, and it's a traditional, fast-paced diner with outstanding staff.
Yours Truly Playhouse Square
Playhouse Square, 1228 Euclid Ave, Cleveland
(216) 621-2700
Frank Dunken Roberson
Yours Truly at Playhouse Square is a fantastic place to eat, especially after catching a show. It strikes a perfect balance—not too busy, expensive, or pretentious. The location is superb, making it a convenient stop for lunch or breakfast. The General Tso chicken is incredibly tasty, but when I'm there, I love opting for breakfast food just because it's so good. The service is consistently great and speedy, even when the place is bustling. It's definitely one of the best brunch spots I've visited. During my visit, I tried the Killit Skillet, and it was both delicious and generous in portion size. The Bloody Mary I had was also spot on. If you're in the area, this spot is a must-visit. The food is flavorful, though you might have to wait on weekends. A typical American diner vibe with good food and very friendly, helpful staff. The only downside is getting a table, as it's always packed, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Shay's Restaurant
4007 St Clair Ave., Cleveland
(216) 431-6339
Kat Andrade
My family and I love eating at Shay's Restaurant in Cleveland, and it has become our go-to spot, especially for breakfast. The food is consistently good, and the service is always great. One of my favorite meals is the French toast with eggs and beef sausage—it's delicious and halal! The portions are generous, and you can really tell they care about the quality of their food. The host is always attentive and friendly, checking in to make sure everything is perfect. I appreciate that the chef and patrons greet everyone warmly with salams, making the atmosphere inviting and welcoming. Shay's feels like home, and the staff treats us like family each time we visit. Today, I enjoyed a Shay burger and fries, cooked to perfection, while my companion tried the grilled corned beef with fries, and he loved it. The prices are affordable, which is a bonus because the quality is excellent. Shay's opens early at 5 am, perfect for an early bird like me. It feels like a cozy neighborhood diner where you can enjoy a good breakfast or even lunch. The waitress is super nice, and the coffee is fantastic, making it a win-win experience every visit. Highly recommended—I'm already planning to go back for a cheeseburger for lunch!
BRI'S Bistro
4457 Broadview Rd, Cleveland
(216) 471-8488
Dario Pagel
I always considered BRI'S Bistro my go-to spot for breakfast, and there's so much to love about this place. It's a fantastic neighborhood hangout in Cleveland, where everyone feels welcome the moment they step inside. The staff is genuinely friendly, creating a warm atmosphere that makes dining there a pleasure. The menu has solid offerings, especially their breakfast combos, which are both delicious and reasonably priced. The portions are generous, ensuring you leave satisfied. I particularly recommend trying their omelettes—they're fresh, made to order, and you can taste the quality in every bite. Even when dining alone, the experience is delightful, thanks to the inviting environment and attentive service. While there was a hiccup with the speed of service during my last visit, I'm willing to chalk it up to a potential off day. Every place deserves a second chance, and considering the positive experiences I've had before, I'm eager to return. The combination of good food and stellar service has always been a hallmark here, and I'm hopeful the new management will continue this tradition. Despite the recent change in ownership, I believe BRI'S Bistro remains a gem in Old Brooklyn, and I'm excited to see how they continue to evolve and improve.
Big Al's Diner
12600 Larchmere Blvd, Cleveland
(216) 791-8550
Lorena Culbert
Having been a regular at Big Al's Diner for over a decade, I've finally decided to share my thoughts. The service has always been a highlight, with the staff consistently friendly and helpful, especially the young lady at the front desk. However, the strong scent of the cleaning solution upon entering was a bit overwhelming this time. The food quality has seen better days. My usual order of eggs, home fries, corned beef, and toast was disappointing. The corned beef was overcooked, the eggs weren't quite done, and the home fries tasted dry, likely due to reheating. A small hiccup with the toast, too, as I received white instead of Texas. Despite these recent blips, there's a charming authenticity to this diner. It's a classic hole-in-the-wall spot where you can sense the history within its walls. Space is limited, but the wait wasn't too long, and the staff's efficiency shone through. Our server was delightful and ensured our food arrived promptly, hot, and just as ordered. Big Al's has always been my go-to for a classic diner breakfast at a great price, especially with a staff that goes out of their way to accommodate dietary needs. I'd love to see them source some local cinnamon rolls, but overall, it's a place that brings people together. Whether it's joining strangers for breakfast or enjoying a perfect blueberry pancake, Big Al's continues to capture the true diner experience.
Steve's Doghouse
3850 Pearl Rd, Cleveland
(216) 398-1446
Travis Khatri
Steve's Doghouse is a true throwback gem—a family-owned and operated greasy spoon joint with very reasonable prices, which is a rare find these days. The fact that it’s open 24/7 is incredibly impressive. During my visit, I ordered the steak and eggs. While the steak seemed like cube steak and could use a bit more seasoning, the over-easy eggs were perfectly prepared with a deliciously runny yolk. The rye toast had real butter, and the home fries were crispy and flavorful. I'll definitely be back on a future trip. It's a great little place with friendly staff and quick service. Though I only ever order breakfast here, the food is consistently good, and the prices can't be beaten. On a recent visit for a late breakfast, I was thrilled to find out they're now open 24 hours thanks to better staffing. Steve’s, also known as Sal’s, might not appeal to everyone, but those who give it a try will be pleasantly surprised. It’s my go-to Browns pregame breakfast spot and a true neighborhood diner where many customers are greeted by name. The breakfast dishes are well-cooked, tasty, and served piping hot, and the coffee cups are always kept full. My breakfast with coffee only cost $10, and they cook to order. I'll keep coming back for more. If you're looking for an authentic diner experience, this is the place. It's a little hole-in-the-wall spot where you can see the flattop cooking just 10 feet away. The prices are great, and the food is excellent. A true blue-collar greasy spoon atmosphere. You gotta try it.
Fifth Wheel
3306 St Clair Ave NE, Cleveland
(216) 431-0023
Michael De Leon
I had a fantastic experience at Fifth Wheel for breakfast in Cleveland. The employee who served me was incredibly friendly, courteous, and professional, which made my visit even more enjoyable. The food was excellent and the prices were very reasonable. It’s quite impressive how a place that started in 1918 still thrives today, holding onto its charm as a working-class restaurant. The giant portions and no-nonsense service make it stand out. It’s a shame that places like this aren’t as common anymore. The atmosphere is laid back, and parking is convenient. The staff is super friendly, and overall, I highly recommend visiting Fifth Wheel. I'll definitely be going back!
Mom's Family Restaurant
6512 Clark Ave, Cleveland
(216) 631-0099
Natasha Forbing
I visited Mom's Family Restaurant in Cleveland for breakfast and was genuinely impressed with the quality of the food. It was both flavorful and satisfying, and all of this came at a very reasonable price. Although there were some hiccups with the service, as it took a while to get our drinks and menus, the delicious meal made up for it in the end. The restaurant itself might be a bit dated, but the quality of the food definitely shines through. The affordability of the meal was another highlight. Even with a few issues, the price point really makes it worthwhile. Despite the minor service delays, I left feeling satisfied and glad that I chose to stop by. The excellent food and great prices are enough for me to recommend giving it a try.
Michael's Diner At Shaker Square
13051 Shaker Blvd, Cleveland
(216) 752-0052
Kd Poland
My kids and I decided to try Michael's Diner at Shaker Square for breakfast after seeing so many good reviews, and it was conveniently close to our AirBnB. I have a soft spot for diners, and Michael's definitely fit the bill. It's small and cozy, with a unique view right along the tracks. You can tell it's a local favorite because the lady at the register knew many customers by name and order. We all enjoyed our food, despite a small mix-up with our order when an item was forgotten and the waitress didn't check back until we were done. Even so, it’s a great spot for a quick, no-frills, affordable meal. I often order from them through Uber Eats, and the food is always hot and tasty. I do wish they offered blueberries with pancakes without ordering extra. Everything tastes freshly made, which is a big plus. The prices are fair, although I hope they switch to syrup without high-fructose corn syrup. There was an unusual incident with yellow liquid between the boxes on a delivery, but it seems like a one-off issue, and they assured me they don’t use Styrofoam. Michael's is a charming "hole-in-the-wall" diner you might miss if you're just driving by, situated right by the railroad tracks. I imagine it's a convenient stop for travelers. The space is a bit small, and it warms up as they cook, but that’s a minor point. I had the ribeye steak and eggs with a side of French toast—the steak was a bit thin, but overall, the meal was satisfying. If you're in the area and want a quick diner-style breakfast, I can definitely recommend it. Plus, they offer liver and onions and a great meatloaf!