May 16, 2025

Tastiest Breakfasts in Columbus for a Yummy Time

Revel in Columbus's friendly breakfast spots where warm and cozy meals await. Enjoy melted cheese on fluffy eggs and mixed fruit with sweet pancakes that make each morning special.

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

Rise and shine in Columbus! Enjoy a tasty breakfast with diner-style cooking that will make your morning special. You can find cozy places where they serve all kinds of mixed dishes like pancakes, eggs, and sausage that everyone loves.

Plucked Up | Chicken & Biscuits

1208 1st Ave, Columbus

(706) 225-0044

Reviewed by:

Hitesh Bailey

Everything at Plucked Up | Chicken & Biscuits in Columbus is amazing all the time! I had the chicken and biscuits made like fresh French toast, and it was absolutely delicious. My client had the biscuits Benedict, and we both agreed this is the best food around. The staff goes out of their way, especially for my disabled client, which we truly appreciate. The concept is cute and extends beyond just decor. The recipes are funky and scrumptious, and I highly recommend the French toast biscuits. We tried the limited apple pie cheesecake waffles, and they were divine! Our server, Tanya (hope I'm spelling that right), was very sweet and courteous. The portions are generous; we even had one person in our group share a plate, and another took leftovers. The inside is cozy but can accommodate larger groups by putting tables together. There are also two tables available for outside seating. I'm so happy we came here for breakfast while traveling through GA. The atmosphere is super cool, and I love the giant chickens. Tanya was phenomenal, and the food came out quickly and was delicious. I highly recommend this restaurant and am glad we stopped to try it.

Iron Bank Coffee Co.

6 11th St, Columbus

(706) 992-6609

Reviewed by:

Brian Ser

When you first walk into Iron Bank Coffee Co., you're immediately greeted by the delightful aroma of fresh food. The place has a classy vibe with nice furniture and plenty of space both inside and outside. The bakery items are spot-on—super fresh and exactly what I've been looking for. With over 15 different treats and an awesome menu for custom sandwiches and drinks, I'll definitely be returning for more. The atmosphere is great, and the staff has a positive attitude, always ready with a smile. The fact that it's a cute old bank turned into a coffee shop adds to its charm. Their breakfast options are top-notch, and the cold brew is delicious. If you can, try to get there early for the herb biscuits—they're worth it. The space is open and perfect for studying or working. As a tourist, I found this spot to be a fantastic experience. The taste of everything was amazing, and the aesthetic of the drinking areas was delightful. I’d rate it a 9 out of 10. The only slight downside is that the staff could be a bit friendlier, and the chandeliers could use a dusting. All in all, it’s a wonderful establishment with amazing coffee, set in a beautiful old building.

CC's Place

2023 Fort Benning Rd, Columbus

(706) 682-8888

Reviewed by:

Kyler Brown

Wow!!! Let me just say, this place is amazing!!! If I could pack it up and take it back with me to Michigan, I absolutely would. But, honestly, I might just move here for this breakfast spot. The food is so good, and totally worth it. The service is incredible—the waitress was the sweetest and super attentive. The biscuits were moist and delightful, and the omelette was spot on. The grits? Absolutely phenomenal! My family and I cleaned our plates, and I loved that they offer to-go containers just in case. Forget about the Waffle House—this is my new go-to for breakfast every morning. The vibe here is so positive, you feel like you’re among friends. I can’t praise this place enough. It really sets a great tone for the day. You have to try it out! Also, a shoutout to Natasha at the front desk; she’s super kind and friendly. Go grab some breakfast here—you won’t regret it!

Toasted

5727 Moon Rd, Columbus

(706) 221-4151

Reviewed by:

Mary Ann Briones

I had a fantastic breakfast with my family at Toasted in Columbus. The food was incredibly well-seasoned and expertly cooked. It was meant to be just a quick stop, but it turned out to be an unforgettable experience. The customer service was top-notch, with the staff being so helpful, especially when accommodating special requests. I highly recommend this spot if you're in the area, and I definitely plan to come back. The food was simply amazing. I tried the shroom Philly and cucumber salad, which were so good. One of my kids had a bacon burger—it was okay—while another had the holy cluck minus the sauce and it was amazing. My husband tried the van goat, which was delicious too. But our absolute favorite was the fried grit fritter and gravy, which you must try! The restaurant itself is cute, with lovely paintings that add to the charm. The beignets are a must-try if you visit, an absolute highlight of the menu. We also had the “Chicken Dish” and the “Hen House,” both of which were delicious. The chicken in both dishes was tender and flavorful, with the pasta, sauce, and sides standing out as well. A big shoutout to Clay for the great recommendations and making our first visit so memorable. Toasted is a true gem in Columbus, Georgia, and I wish there was one in Texas! We'll definitely be back.

First Watch

2528 Weems Rd Ste A1, Columbus

(706) 322-4517

Reviewed by:

Victoria Smith

I love going to First Watch for breakfast. This was my third visit to the Columbus location, and it never disappoints. The food options are impressive, always available, and made with really fresh ingredients. The restaurant is always spotless, just like their food. It's definitely my favorite breakfast spot in town, with great prices and a fantastic menu selection. During my second visit, I tried the Farmhouse Hash and it was so delicious that I ordered it again this time—still amazing, especially with the fresh avocado. Our waiter was incredibly kind and attentive, leaving me and my friend only wonderful things to say about him. If I could, I'd hug the chef for the immaculate food. I hope to return soon, especially after my lovely breakfast with the nurse I'm dating, who took me out after his night shift. He had the lemon pancakes while I enjoyed the egg sandwich, and both were so good. The potatoes are a must-try, and don't miss out on the million dollar bacon! Although I had a small issue with my fruit, the rest of the experience was excellent. Our server was very pleasant and polite. Overall, I'm excited to come back more often.

Metro Diner

5524 Whitesville Rd, Columbus

(706) 530-5907

Reviewed by:

Kendall Averitt

On my first visit to Metro Diner for breakfast in Columbus, I was thoroughly impressed. We ordered the croissant French toast and the Bissell breakfast, and both dishes were delicious and more than generous in portion size. The food was excellent, and our drinks were served nice and cold. What truly stood out was the exceptional service from Kala, our waitress, who took great care of us and made us feel welcome throughout our visit. The atmosphere was vibrant and enjoyable, and we felt comfortable from the moment we arrived. The manager even made rounds to ensure every table was satisfied, which was a nice touch. Metro Diner delivered a 5-star experience, and I’m already looking forward to returning for another fantastic breakfast.

IHOP

2939 N Lake Pkwy, Columbus

(706) 507-1635

Reviewed by:

Merihun Torres-Lebron

Whenever my family visits Columbus from Albany, IHOP is our go-to spot for breakfast. The food is consistently good, and the service is outstanding. The staff is friendly and always checks on us to make sure we have everything we need. I especially love the short stack—it's a classic you can never go wrong with. The service at this location is fast and top-notch. I even learned about over medium well eggs, thanks to a helpful server who explained it to me. Despite being quite busy during our visit, with about a 15-20 minute wait time, the team managed the crowd wonderfully and maintained a fun and enjoyable atmosphere. The delicious food kept up the tradition I've come to expect at this IHOP over the years. The cleanliness of the restaurant is always impressive, making it a comfortable place to enjoy a meal. After indulging in a hearty breakfast, I had one of those "I ate way more than I should have" moments, but it was worth it. I'll definitely be back and would recommend this IHOP to anyone looking for a satisfying breakfast experience.

Dell's Food

3466 University Ave STE 4, Columbus

(706) 221-0421

Reviewed by:

Jonatan Daniel Arold

Dell's Food for breakfast in Columbus is a gem of a spot, truly rooted in the local community. The place has a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. I decided to try their Philly Cheese Steak with fries, and wow, it was seasoned perfectly and wonderfully greasy—just the way I like it. The made-to-order options are a great touch, and I couldn't resist getting the 8-piece BBQ bone-in wings with jalapeño fries. Though the meal was around $29, the high quality of food and excellent customer service made it worth every penny. For those looking for vegetarian options, the garden salad was fresh and full of flavor. Mr. Keynan, who seems to be the owner, was incredibly polite and knowledgeable, adding to the positive experience. Whether you're craving something hearty like the Philly Steak or just want a fresh salad, Dell’s offers it all with a local touch. It's definitely a place I'll be visiting again soon, despite the occasional presence of officers. If you're in the area and need a good meal, Dell's is the place to stop by.

IHOP

6317 Talokas Lane, Columbus

(706) 569-0522

Reviewed by:

Kendall Stoughton

Had breakfast at IHOP in Columbus, and it was a really positive experience. Our server was outstanding – he noticed me coming in with a knee roller and quickly ran to help with the door. We were seated immediately, which was nice, and the menu had great choices. Throughout the meal, our server frequently checked on us, and the food came out quickly. It was tasty, definitely a good spot if you're in the mood for IHOP. The place was clean, and the staff took good care of us, making us feel welcome and comfortable. Overall, a great experience and I would recommend it if you're in the area.

Waffle House

2727 Manchester Expy, Columbus

(706) 327-3852

Reviewed by:

Irma Bonga

I just had breakfast at the Waffle House in Columbus, and I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. The service was impressively fast, and all the employees were friendly and courteous, making us feel welcome. Our waitress, Erika, went above and beyond—she was especially professional and even paused while my Dad was praying, joining in with a heartfelt "Amen" before serving our food. That level of service truly stood out. The food was delicious, especially considering the speed and price. The waffle had a soft, almost creamy texture that was perfect—not undercooked at all. If I had to nitpick, I'd say the syrup dispenser was a bit sticky, and I would've liked my hash browns a touch crispier. But overall, the meal was satisfying and exactly what we ordered. What impressed me most was how clean the restaurant was; it's the cleanest Waffle House I've ever visited. The staff worked as a cohesive team, welcoming every customer with a smile and a warm greeting. Despite living in Dothan, AL, I wish our local establishments had this level of friendliness and cleanliness. Thanks to the crew working on May 4th for taking such good care of us. It was a truly enjoyable breakfast with my Dad and sister, and I left feeling grateful for the experience. Blessings to the amazing staff at this location!

Houlihan's

DoubleTree Hotel, 5351 Sidney Simons Blvd, Columbus

(706) 243-0551

Reviewed by:

Robby Cornish

Stopped by Houlihan's for breakfast after not visiting for years, and I'm glad I did. It's a typical chain restaurant, but the food was surprisingly good. We had a mix of dishes: fish tacos, a side Caesar salad, chicken egg rolls, and a Kentucky burger, along with drinks. The total came to $61, which felt reasonable for the quality and portion sizes. The restaurant was calm and quiet when we visited in the mid-afternoon, and our waitress, Ra Ra, was fantastic—very attentive and polite. The food arrived hot and promptly, which we appreciated. I stumbled upon Houlihan's while in the area for another reason, and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. While I'm not usually one to frequent chain restaurants, this made for a satisfying midday meal. The breakfast bar stood out as a highlight; the options were solid, and the service was exceptional, thanks in large part to Ms. Melissa. Her friendly demeanor and attentiveness really enhanced the experience for us. The night before, we came by hoping for dinner, but found it closed earlier than expected. Still, we returned for breakfast and were not disappointed. The venue was perfect for hosting events like military graduations—ample parking and not too crowded. Everyone in our party enjoyed their food, and the cheesecake came highly recommended. For dinner, my husband loved his fish and chips, and I was very pleased with the stuffed chicken breast with green beans and potatoes. Our server, Greneleigh, was terrific; personable and attentive, which added to the positive experience. Special thanks to manager Summer for maintaining such a lovely restaurant atmosphere. Overall, Houlihan's provided a great meal and memorable service.

Waffle House

5701 Milgen Rd, Columbus

(706) 569-8483

Reviewed by:

Taylor Morales

I've been to many Waffle House locations, and I have to say, this one in Columbus is my favorite. The food is consistently great, and I appreciate being able to watch it being prepared. There's a good variety on the menu, although not everything is listed—like the T-Bone steak that my husband loves. Our dog even gives the bone a paws up! The grits here are a must-try; they might not cure a cold, but they sure make you feel better. The service is always friendly and efficient, making each visit a pleasant experience. I've been to other Waffle Houses in Columbus, but this one stands out. The staff is attentive, and the food never disappoints. It's become our go-to spot when we want a reliable and tasty breakfast. The only downside is the extra 20% charge for take-out, which I find a bit much, but the military discount they offer is appreciated. Overall, this Waffle House is a great place for breakfast, and we're always satisfied when we leave.

Waffle House

6751 Veterans Pkwy, Columbus

(706) 653-7788

Reviewed by:

Tina Sharp

This Waffle House location has become a staple for me. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive to every need. On a Sunday morning, I waited less than two minutes to be seated. My waitress, Brayleigh, was phenomenal. She kept my drink full the entire time, and the food was delicious and cooked to perfection. Her positive attitude and smile made a major impact on my visit. The store is clean, and the entire staff is friendly. I'm not sure if the management team was on site, but Bray was great. The food came out quickly and hot. We always appreciate a good Waffle House experience, and this one was exceptional. We will definitely keep this location on the top of our list when we're in town. Honestly, this was the best Waffle House I've ever been to! The vibe, service, and food were all top-notch. When life gets hectic, it's comforting to know that Waffle House is always there with great service and so much good food. Fantastic experience overall.

IHOP

2111 Airport Thruway, Columbus

(833) 538-8228

Reviewed by:

Rita Benedicte Hansteen

The IHOP on Airport Thruway is a hidden gem for breakfast in Columbus. The service is fantastic, with staff going above and beyond to make the experience enjoyable. It's the perfect spot if you're looking to escape the busy areas of north Columbus and downtown. The restaurant was spotless, and the Halloween decorations added a fun touch. My omelette and pancakes were made to perfection, and the Bacon Egg Benedict was a delightful change of pace. The Watermelon Lemonade was a refreshing highlight—I'll miss it after summer ends! Overall, this IHOP impressed me with its cleanliness and friendly staff, making it an excellent stop during my travels.

Waffle House

1646 A Bradley Park Dr, Columbus

(706) 324-7400

Reviewed by:

Ted Mckee

This place is definitely my happy spot for breakfast in Columbus! The food here is something special—it always makes me want to dance. Everything looks and tastes exactly how I order it, and I even took a picture to prove it! Tatiana and Seth are amazing; they really know how to make you feel at home. I've been coming here regularly for two months, and Tatiana always goes above and beyond to make sure my order is perfect. I love getting the All-Star Meal: scrambled eggs with cheese, white toast, crispy bacon, cheesy grits, and a lightly done, fluffy waffle. Plus, their Sprite is the best ever! One time, my family and I—there are five of us—were enjoying our time when a rude old man tried to rush our waitress. She was doing a great job with us, but the manager handled the situation poorly, berating her right in front of everyone, which was completely uncalled for. We decided to cancel our order, but we made sure to tip our waitress for her excellent service before we left. It's unfortunate the manager acted that way because Loretta, another waitress, was fantastic. She made our visit memorable, especially by congratulating our soldier for his graduation. Props to her for being so kind, and the cook for making our food just right.

Panera Bread

6301 Whitesville Rd, Columbus

(706) 322-0009

Reviewed by:

Michael Makosy

The "You Pick Two" meal at Panera Bread is a perfect choice. It's filling and satisfying. I tried the new bacon chicken sandwich, and it was delicious. The tech-friendly feature of ordering on a tablet and waiting for your name to be called is super convenient. The atmosphere is one of the most relaxing around, with comfortable booths and a friendly, kind staff. The food is absolutely delicious. I had the steak and white cheddar sandwich, and it was outstanding. The fresh ingredients and the crispy, airy bread stood out. Plus, they offer both Coke and Pepsi products, which is a nice touch. While I've had a few hiccups with orders in the past, the overall experience is usually positive. Despite a few mix-ups, like once getting a sandwich I didn't order, the quality of the food keeps me coming back. It's a great spot for breakfast in Columbus, and the pastries are a must-try.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

1500 Bradley Park Dr, Columbus

(706) 317-3460

Reviewed by:

Juancarlos Price

For breakfast today, I had a great experience at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Columbus. Despite a 20-minute wait for a table, the visit was well worth it. Our server, Linda, did an excellent job, bringing a nice basket of cornbread and biscuits to start. The serving sizes were generous, ensuring no one leaves hungry! I ordered the Country Fried Steak and thoroughly enjoyed it, appreciating that not many places serve it these days. While my friend who had Fried Chicken felt it wasn't the best he’s ever had, overall everything was good, and considering the variety of tastes Cracker Barrel caters to, that's quite an accomplishment. We didn’t explore the shopping area much, but that's another aspect for others to enjoy. Overall, breakfast at Cracker Barrel was satisfying, from the service to the hearty meal.

Houlihan's

800 Front Ave, Columbus

(706) 324-1800

Reviewed by:

Carl Fonseca

Our visit to Houlihan's for breakfast in Columbus was fantastic. Our server was amazing—attentive and pleasant throughout. The entire staff was friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere. We were able to relax and enjoy our meal without feeling rushed. The new craft cocktail menu is definitely worth trying, with classics still available. We visited around 3:30 on a Sunday and were seated immediately. The environment was both entertaining and comfortable, and our waitress was incredibly helpful when we couldn't decide on a meal. The food was delicious. We tried the salmon, pot roast, and sampler appetizer, and everything was top-notch. Staying at the Columbus Marriott, which houses Houlihan's, made it convenient, especially as we were in town for a wedding. The breakfast buffet was good, but it was the hostess, Kim, who truly stood out. Her friendly and personable nature made our experience exceptional. Sometimes, it's the smiles and attention that make a meal memorable. Thanks to Kim, our day started perfectly. I wholeheartedly recommend Houlihan's for a delightful dining experience.

Get More Brunch Ideas

Discover new brunch secrets in our monthly newsletter: