Columbia's Favorite Breakfasts That Brighten Mornings

807 Locust St, Columbia

(702) 427-0048

Cafe Poland is a charming little spot with authentic Polish food. Yes, it's small and humble, with meals served on paper plates and plastic utensils, but that's part of its charm. The owner, who also cooks and serves, is incredibly nice and works very hard to deliver a great experience. The pierogies are some of the best I've ever tasted, and the crepes are equally amazing. For two people with a beer, the price was about $45, which felt reasonable. It's not a fancy place, but if you love Polish food, you'll find it delightful. I visited with a group of six, and we did occupy almost half of the indoor dining area, but there's also outdoor seating available. We shared the cheese and bacon pierogies, along with the potato and cheese variety, and they were delicious. Our order of grilled Polish sausage with caramelized onions, sauerkraut, and mashed potatoes was a hit, especially the sauerkraut. My boyfriend, who is of Polish descent, loved everything, particularly the pierogies and sauerkraut. He even wanted to take a jar of the sauerkraut home! We're definitely planning on returning. Despite its simplicity, Cafe Poland offers a lovely taste of Polish culture and cuisine.

2011 Corona Rd STE 101, Columbia

(573) 282-8206

I initially visited Old Neighborhood Cafe with high hopes but left unimpressed. My "golden state gobbler" had a tasty filling, but the bread was burnt, and the fries were too hard. I decided to give them another shot because I love supporting local spots and found them through a quick Google search, one of my go-to ways to explore local dining. This time, I tried The Goat, and my mom had Las Vegan, and both were absolutely amazing. Just a heads-up, the map might lead you to the wrong side of the building. Since then, I've been back multiple times, and every visit has been a delight. Whether grabbing a quick snack during a busy day or sitting down for a meal, the quality remains top-notch. Their fries and salads hit the spot, and nothing on the menu has disappointed me thus far. Kudos to Jake, Vanessa, and their team for keeping the family-friendly atmosphere going. Their approach is straightforward—no fancy gimmicks, just burgers, salads, and sandwiches done right. My personal favorite is the Big Tex, and their smash burgers are fantastic. On our most recent visit, we noticed the portions were smaller due to shrinkflation, but for someone over 60, the portions were just perfect for us. We felt satisfied without leftovers, which was great. In short, we love Old Neighborhood Cafe for its simple, well-executed food and welcoming vibe.

5414 Clark Ln #100, Columbia

(573) 214-0552

I had a fantastic experience at Just Love Coffee Cafe - Battle Crossing for breakfast in Columbia. The coffee was flavorful, not bitter, and definitely better than what you'd find at chain coffee shops. The food was excellent, with the chicken salad croissant being so good I considered ordering a second one. Service was friendly and quick, and the atmosphere was very cool and inviting. We did a quick dine and dash, and the inside was super clean. The staff was kind and made some great recommendations, especially the refresher drinks which were a hit with the kids. We tried the chai, and it was spiced perfectly. Prices were reasonable, making it an easy choice over Starbucks. We were just driving through from Kansas City and stumbled upon this gem. Even had a chance to chat with the owner, who was really nice. Plus, they have a drive-thru, which is super convenient. Overall, a great place to stop, and I’m looking forward to trying more of their menu next time.

1005 E Walnut St, Columbia

(573) 874-7804

I decided to order more than usual at Ernie's Cafe & Steak House, and I'm glad I did because the food is just that good. The eggs were cooked perfectly, the hashbrowns were super crunchy, and the pork chop wasn't salty at all, just how I like it! The atmosphere is very homey, and the staff is incredibly attentive, constantly refilling my coffee. Plus, the prices are incredibly affordable, which makes this place even more appealing. I frequent this place often for breakfast and have noticed they've had the same staff for years, which speaks volumes about their service. If you go, you have to try the No.11 with a waffle; it's my favorite. Ernie's definitely ranks as the best American diner I've ever tried, with everything tasting delicious and homemade. There's really nothing negative about this place. It does get busy, so just be prepared for that during peak hours. I once got eggs cooked in a way I didn't enjoy, but the kind waitress quickly replaced them without any extra charge, which is a testament to their excellent service and hospitality. We initially stopped in for steak and eggs and ended up trying the KC Strip with eggs. The owner slices his own steaks, ensuring a great cut each time. Our waitress, Amy, was incredibly kind and informative. I was with my elderly aunt, and the staff was so kind to her, making the experience even more special. The place is filled with pictures that give a hometown feel, and the coffee is excellent. Overall, it was a wonderful, personal experience. I love spending time here as much as a kid loves cake. I 100% recommend this place! 😉🤗

124 E Nifong Blvd, Columbia

(573) 442-5857

Visiting B&B Bagel Company on the south side of Columbia, Missouri, truly made for a fantastic breakfast experience. The staff's friendly demeanor and bright smiles instantly created a welcoming atmosphere. The bagels were the highlight and they never disappoint. I chose the Santa Fe sandwich with sausage and jalapeño cream cheese on a honey wheat bagel, and the flavors were spot on. The menu is extensive, offering a wide range of options to satisfy different tastes. What sets this place apart is its versatility. Whether you want to dine in, grab takeout, or use the drive-thru, B&B Bagel Company makes it easy. There's a spacious parking lot and plenty of indoor seating, making the experience hassle-free. In summary, B&B Bagel Company offers not only amazing bagels but also a warm atmosphere and convenient options for enjoying your meal. It's a must-visit for any bagel enthusiast. The veggie melt on specialty bagels is my go-to, and the savory bagel chips are highly recommended. I absolutely love B&B! I've been a customer since high school when I frequented their downtown location. Their $6 lunch specials on Monday to Wednesday are fantastic, especially the veggie melt and pizza bagel days. This place serves tasty food with super sweet employees, and the prices are very reasonable. I’ve never had a bad experience at B&B Bagel!

U.S. Hwy 40, Columbia

(573) 777-9473

Perche Creek Cafe is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Columbia. It's got that classic diner vibe with all the typical grub you'd expect. The Tenderloin Sandwich and Tots I had were excellent. The service was top-notch—friendly, prompt, and always with a smile. It's definitely a place I'd recommend to friends, and I'm sure I'll be back soon. It's a great little hole-in-the-wall diner, just like other reviewers have described. My drink and food arrived in less than 10 minutes, which was impressive. The menu is very affordable, with daily specials that are hard to resist. During another visit, I tried the prime rib sandwich, and it was exactly what I was hoping for. Overall, Perche Creek Cafe is a very good spot for a quick, satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

421 N Stadium Blvd Ste 109, Columbia

(573) 615-5100

I had a fantastic brunch at First Watch in Columbia with my wife. The food was really good; we both had the bacon omelette and it was delicious. This was my first time at this location, and it lived up to the friendly, clean atmosphere and amazing quality I've experienced at the First Watch near me. It's a nice, relaxing spot to enjoy healthy food and socialize. The alcohol was decently priced and tasted good, too. I have no complaints about this location. The exceptional service and wonderful food mean that I'll definitely be back.

5 US-63, Columbia

(573) 607-9027

I visited Scooter's Coffee in Columbia for breakfast and was thoroughly impressed. Compared to other coffee shops, it really stands out. I ordered the Snickers blended drink, and it tasted just like the candy bar—absolutely incredible. The drive-through service was both fast and efficient, and I was amazed that I only spent $10.47 for two blended drinks. Plus, their cinnamon rolls are served hot and are a must-try. I've purchased coffee from this location twice in a row now, trying both a hot and an iced coffee, and both were very good. The staff is friendly and personable, adding to the welcoming and relaxed vibe of the place. They quickly corrected a small mistake with my order, which I appreciated. I tried sitting inside for the first time; while it's not your traditional coffeeshop atmosphere, it’s a nice, quiet spot to enjoy a coffee and muffin. I appreciate that they offer oat milk and a variety of non-coffee drinks, but I wish there were more hearty vegetarian breakfast options. The egg bites with tomato and feta are decent, but a simple egg and cheese sandwich would be a great addition. Despite this, Scooter's Coffee is fast, friendly, and delivers great drinks. I’ll definitely be visiting again!

3510 Interstate 70 Dr SE, Columbia

(573) 554-5984

My buddy from out of town and I stopped by Big Mama's Cafe for breakfast around 9:30 am, and we were seated almost immediately. Our drinks were brought quickly, giving us just the right amount of time to look over the menu before placing our order. This family-owned restaurant offers a great alternative to chain spots like IHOP, and the food was delicious and hot. I noticed several people leaving with leftovers, which is always a good sign. The staff was friendly and attentive, reminiscent of Uncle Bill's, for those who know it, right here in Columbia. During our second visit, I opted for the breakfast burrito. It was plentiful, though a bit bland, but the side of potato rings was delicious. My husband tried the meatball sub and really enjoyed it. The place was busy but not overwhelming. However, our server seemed to forget about us after taking our initial order. A food runner and another server stepped up when we needed help, which we appreciated, but our server’s lack of attention was disappointing. Despite this hiccup, the food itself was fantastic—more than enough to fill us up for breakfast. I had some hash browns and a split biscuit with gravy, plus a couple of eggs for extra protein. Everything was excellent, and we got our meals quickly. Parking is a bit tight, so carpooling might be a good idea. Overall, the diner-style food here has a step up in taste, service, and presentation. We'll definitely be back, just hoping for a more attentive server next time.

220 N 10th St, Columbia

(573) 441-0400

I visited Café Berlin for breakfast on a Sunday and had a great experience overall. Despite a bit of a wait, which is pretty standard for busy spots, the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. Once seated, our server was friendly and attentive. She went the extra mile to answer our questions about the menu, which was appreciated. I decided to try the Huevos Rancheros, and it did not disappoint. The flavors were spot on, and even though the rice it was served over could be improved, I was satisfied with the dish. We also ordered a side of bacon, and it was cooked to perfection. What stood out the most was the positive vibe of the place. The staff was constantly around to ensure everything was okay, and the outdoor seating provided a lovely spot to enjoy breakfast in the shade. I’m definitely looking forward to coming back and trying other items on their menu. Café Berlin is a fun and convenient spot in Columbia, Missouri, that I would happily recommend to anyone.

22 S 4th St, Columbia

(573) 875-1173

Stopped for breakfast on the way to St. Louis and stumbled upon a real gem in Columbia, the Broadway Diner. This cute little diner offers excellent country service and a charming vibe. I decided to try the cheeseburger omelette, which was good, though not extraordinary. However, my daughter's pancake was a different story—extremely good. And then there were the cinnamon rolls. Oh man, absolutely amazing! If you’re passing through, I highly recommend stopping by. One of the standout dishes for me was Matt’s Dilemma, packed with lots of flavors. The coffee was consistently refilled, keeping my mug never close to empty, which I appreciated. The building itself carries an old-school diner charm that adds to the whole experience. The bacon jam was excellent and our eggs were cooked to perfection. The only minor concern was that the floors could use a bit of cleaning, but that didn’t take away from the overall great experience. The service was quick and friendly, and even though the diner was busy, we were seated immediately. The meatlovers omelet was very impressive, filled with delicious ingredients. Without a doubt, I’d go back again. It’s a great find for anyone looking for a delightful breakfast spot.

1201 E Broadway ste b, Columbia

(573) 818-2240 ext. 1

If you're looking for wholesome, healthy, and nourishing food, Nourish Café & Market in Columbia is the place to be! They cater to everyone with vegan, vegetarian, and omnivorous options, and everything is organic, free-range, and local. Dining in is a treat since they serve everything in glass. I tried the Broadway bowl, a strawberry dream smoothie with blue spirulina powder, and a strawberry cashew cheesecake. My partner had the chicken soup bowl, the detox drink, and a green cold-pressed juice. The cold-pressed juice being raw and not pasteurized is such a bonus! I was really satisfied with my meal; everything was flavorful, and the smoothie was nice and thick. They even topped me off with the leftover bit in the blender! The location is small but very popular, and there are so many dishes I'd love to come back and try. They even sell wine, healthy snacks, and other health-promoting items. During our visit, we were warmly welcomed, and Rose at the register was wonderful, especially with my little one taking extra time to decide. The whole team was friendly and attentive, ensuring a great experience for everyone. The latte was smooth and rich, and the smoothie was a refreshing treat—both highly recommendable. On another visit, I tried their sunshine bowl and found the fresh ingredients and tasty preparation worth recommending. It's the kind of place we always make a point to stop at when passing through from St. Louis to Omaha. Everything on the menu is gluten-free, with plenty of dairy-free options too. They even serve reverse osmosis water! The owners and servers are friendly, hospitable, and accommodating. Nourish Café & Market is a class act with a serious commitment to quality, and I can't wait to return!

1712 N Providence Rd, Columbia

(573) 442-4773

JJ's Cafe in Columbia, MO, is a delightful breakfast spot with a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food. The diverse menu offers hearty breakfasts, flavorful sandwiches, and fresh salads made with quality ingredients. The coffee is excellent, providing a perfect start to the day. The cozy and comfortable ambiance makes it an ideal place to relax or catch up with friends. The staff is friendly and efficient, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. On a Saturday, my family and I visited and, despite a short wait for a clean table, we were impressed with the service. The drinks did take a bit longer than expected, but the food was worth it. The pancakes and breakfast items were good, especially the egg, cheese, and bacon sandwich with crispy bacon. Plates are large and hearty, and the fresh squeezed organic juice is a nice touch. JJ's Cafe, a staple in Columbia, provides yummy comfort food and great service. The place lets you choose where to sit, and they keep your coffee cup filled. You don't feel rushed to leave, and the entry features art and quick purchase items. I highly recommend trying the country skillet, country omelet, and biscuits and gravy with superb sausage gravy. The country fried steak pile-up is also a must-try. Overall, the food and service are top-notch, making JJ's Cafe a fantastic choice for breakfast.

3304 Clark Ln, Columbia

(573) 474-9977

I had a great experience at the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store for breakfast in Columbia. The food was delicious, as always, and I especially loved the biscuits and gravy; they were warm and yummy. For lunch, I tried the meatloaf and chicken n' dumplins, and they were served hot and fresh. The fries were a bit salty for my taste, but everything else was good. Despite a minor issue with our waitress, whose attitude seemed off when we requested drink refills and extra biscuits, the rest of the staff was friendly, especially Nicole, who made our visit enjoyable with her attentive service. I found the atmosphere delightful, and the shop had some adorable kids' apparel, including sea turtles and toddler accessories, which I loved. Although the portion size of the meatloaf could have been more generous, the overall quality of the meal made up for it. The server did check back with us several times, ensuring everything was alright. I highly recommend giving Cracker Barrel a try, and I'm looking forward to my next visit. I hope to see Nicole again as she truly enhanced our dining experience.

2701 S Providence Rd, Columbia

(573) 449-1515

I had a wonderful experience at the Waffle House for breakfast in Columbia. The moment I walked in, the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The staff was incredibly friendly, greeting me with smiles and a genuine enthusiasm to make my visit enjoyable. The service was top-notch; my coffee cup was never empty, and the staff was attentive without being intrusive. The food was exactly what I hoped for – fresh, hot, and delicious. My breakfast was served promptly, and everything tasted great, especially the waffles, which were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The staff seemed to really enjoy their work, adding to the pleasant vibe of the place. It felt like a true community spot where everyone was welcome and well taken care of. Overall, it was a fantastic breakfast outing, and I left feeling satisfied and happy. I'm looking forward to my next visit!

1301 Grindstone Pkwy Bldg D, Columbia

(573) 258-4972

First Watch in Columbia is a gem for breakfast lovers. The food is fantastic and always cooked and presented beautifully. I tried something with Brussels sprouts from the seasonal menu, and it was absolutely delicious. One of the highlights for me is that they bring a whole pot of coffee to the table, which is a great perk. The service is typically friendly and efficient, creating a quaint and welcoming atmosphere. While the prices are on the higher side, around $30 per person, the quality of the food makes it worth it. It's the perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. The freshness and taste of the dishes are impressive. Although the coffee was a bit bitter once, it's not enough to deter me from returning. Overall, First Watch is a go-to place for a great morning meal. Highly recommend giving it a try for the excellent food and great staff.

51 Conley Rd, Columbia

(573) 442-9242

I brought the family to IHOP in Columbia for lunch, and even though it was busy, we were eventually seated. Our server was fantastic and even customized a drink for my grandson, which was a nice touch. While I usually love their breakfast, I decided to try something different and ordered the Nashville hot patty melt. It was okay, but a bit dry, and the fries were just mediocre. Despite this, I know IHOP shines with their breakfast offerings, especially the pancakes, which are always delicious. What truly stands out about this IHOP is the wonderful staff. Kierra, our waitress, is consistently cheerful and upbeat, making each visit pleasant. She takes the time to chat and ensures we have a great experience. The place is also very kid-friendly, which is a big plus for families like mine. Overall, the food is usually good, and the workers make it a welcoming place.

904 Vandiver Dr, Columbia

(573) 441-1100

I had a wonderful experience at Waffle House for breakfast in Columbia. The service was fast and attentive, and the food was delicious with perfect portions. While the restaurant is old and a bit dingy, it adds to the charm. One of the unique elements was hearing the orders hollered at the kitchen staff; it's half the fun! The food arrived hot, and the service was fantastic. The restaurant was clean, and the fountain drinks were good. The staff was super friendly and helpful. Our food arrived quickly and was delicious. Even though it wasn't very busy during our visit, parking can be tricky during peak times. We'll definitely be back.

29 S 8th St, Columbia

(573) 447-7100

Glenn's Cafe is a charming spot connected to a hotel, making it a convenient choice for breakfast in Columbia. The ambiance is delightful, and the service is excellent, with staff who are attentive and friendly. While the burger I ordered could have used more seasoning, the quality of the patty was impressive—juicy without being too greasy. However, the fries were a letdown, lacking the crispiness I prefer. Many of the menu items feature pork, which is something to keep in mind if you avoid it. Despite this, the quality ingredients they use stand out. The Market Salad was generous and enjoyable, although not particularly memorable. I added blackened salmon, which unfortunately came out dry and in small portions. On a positive note, the gumbo soup was flavorful, though I would have liked a bit more spice. Visiting on a busy Friday night, our group found that even with the crowd, the service was prompt, and our food arrived quickly. The complimentary champagne sample was a nice touch. However, the noise level was high, making it tough to have conversations, and the tables felt cramped. Overall, despite some missteps in the food, Glenn's Cafe provides a pleasant dining experience thanks to its great location and wonderful service. It’s a nice spot if you're in the area, but there’s room for improvement in some of their dishes.

3000 Clark Ln, Columbia

(573) 814-3256

I visited Bob Evans for breakfast in Columbia and was pleasantly surprised by the friendly staff and prompt service. The team was attentive and made sure our orders were taken care of quickly. The location is very convenient, right off the highway, which made it an easy stop. Although I was disappointed by the limited gluten-free options, mainly consisting of eggs, I was able to create my own breakfast meal. It would have been nice to see gluten-free pancakes or French toast on the menu, but I settled for double hash browns. Despite this, the food was decent, and my family seemed satisfied with their meals. The experience was mostly positive thanks to the staff, even though there were a couple of hiccups. Overall, if you're looking for a convenient breakfast spot with friendly service, Bob Evans is worth a visit.