Wonderful and Flavorful: The Best Breakfasts in Dayton
Leap into Dayton's friendly breakfast spots where the morning magic shines with yummy toasted treats and crispy fried delights that spark joy and fill tummies. Enjoy every bite in these warm and welcoming places that make breakfast.

Good morning from Dayton! Here, you can munch on some of the best breakfasts around. The places are cozy and welcoming, where you can enjoy well-prepared, crispy fried dishes that are sure to make your mouth water.
Salt Block Biscuit Co.
115 E 3rd St, Dayton
(937) 938-9079
Danays Y Roly Pandit
Salt Block Biscuit Co. is a must-try for breakfast in Dayton! The food is amazing and all made from scratch. Our meal started with blueberry cornbread served warm with handmade butter—an incredible mix of sweet, salty, and a bit of crunch from the cinnamon sugar. We loved it so much we took a slice home for later. The Caesar Salad blew me away with its cheesy biscuits instead of croutons—a creative twist that works perfectly. Our group ordered different entrees: Smoked Butternut Squash Lasagna, Tomato Caprese Salad, and Orchard Chicken Salad, and every dish was fantastic. On another visit, I tried the Early Bright sandwich and found it exceptionally delicious, paired with roasted parmesan rosemary potatoes. The freshness and quality of the ingredients truly stood out. Every time I eat here, there's a new flavor to discover, and I haven't tried anything less than excellent. The staff are friendly and attentive, making the cozy atmosphere even more welcoming. The place has a cute and cozy vibe, perfect to enjoy a leisurely meal. The seating situation is unique, with a communal table, some low tables, and high-counter seating for about 12-14 people. It's not a rush-in, rush-out place, so you might wait a bit for a seat or your food, but it's always worth it. Their menu offers a wide range of options, from breakfast items, salads, tinned fish trays, sandwiches, and more. There's always a daily special and a unique cobbler. Saturdays are special with their biscuits and gravy that you can't miss. Today, I enjoyed the daily special: cheese tortellini with sausage, peppers, and onions, followed by a blueberry peach cobbler and peach iced tea. I highly recommend skipping the chain breakfast spots and heading downtown to Salt Block Biscuit Co. for an exceptional dining experience.
My Favorite Muffin
175 E Alex Bell Rd #216, Centerville
(937) 434-2535
Alverto Jackson
My Favorite Muffin in Dayton is a great spot for breakfast with a welcoming atmosphere. It's very clean and has a nice, quiet vibe that makes it a pleasant place to start the day. The service was impressive, and the staff was genuinely friendly and courteous, which added to the positive experience. I ordered coffee and muffins, and the coffee was really good – definitely a highlight. The muffins, although they have a wide variety and are nicely displayed, didn't quite hit the mark for me in terms of taste. They were a bit dense and sweet, lacking the freshness I was hoping for. However, this didn’t overshadow the overall experience too much. The breakfast sandwiches looked appealing and are something I’d love to try, especially if I lived closer. The prices are very reasonable, which is always a plus. My daughter was particularly fond of the place, mentioning how kind the employees are and how it’s a great spot for families. She even received six free mini muffins once, which made her day! Overall, despite the muffins not being my favorite, My Favorite Muffin has a lot going for it. I’ve visited multiple times and always walk away satisfied. It's a place I recommend for a warm atmosphere and friendly service. I'll definitely be returning.
The Ugly Duckling
1430 E 5th St, Dayton
(937) 951-2040
Laurie Calderon
I visited The Ugly Duckling for breakfast in Dayton after hearing some great recommendations, and I'm glad I did. Despite the wait time, which gave us the chance to explore the nearby Dayton Church Store, it was well worth it. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with a simple yet satisfying menu. I ordered the World Famous Breakfast, and my wife tried the cinnamon French toast. Both dishes were delicious, and the coffee was both aromatic and bottomless. Even during a busy morning, the staff remained upbeat and attentive, adding to the positive experience. The place felt like a comforting spot in the community, and the food was both creative and plentiful. As someone from Fort Worth visiting family in the area, it’s great to know there's such a welcoming breakfast spot nearby. I’m definitely planning to return and explore more of their menu options.
Chick-fil-A
1482 Miamisburg Centerville Rd, Dayton
(937) 439-2552
Randy Durakito
We had an excellent experience at the Chick-fil-A in Dayton for breakfast. We were in town to see a friend perform and decided to stop in for a quick meal. Despite how busy it was, we received our food within two minutes, and everything was exactly as we ordered. The location is great—clean and well-maintained—and it wasn’t too busy when we returned on a Wednesday night. The staff at this location are exceptional. They are always friendly, courteous, and incredibly efficient, even during the lunch rush. The food is consistently hot, fresh, and delicious. I highly recommend trying the deluxe chicken sandwich; the tomatoes and lettuce add a nice touch of extra flavor. The drive-through can be a bit confusing at first, but after a few visits, it becomes quite manageable. Overall, the service we received was top-notch, and we will definitely be returning.
First Watch
2824 Miamisburg Centerville Rd, Dayton
(937) 435-3127
April Nunez
Yesterday was our first time visiting First Watch for breakfast in Dayton, and it was a pretty great experience. We never felt rushed to order, and our waitress was very nice, walking us through some questions we had. We started with the blueberry cornbread, which was absolutely delicious—especially with the lemon butter. My husband and I both chose the ham and cheese omelette, and they did not disappoint. We'll certainly be back, especially before the cornbread is gone! The food here is good, and the menu changes often, which keeps things exciting and makes you want to return. Our server, Aaron, was amazing. He was kind, made my day, and honestly, I felt spoiled. I also tried the pumpkin pancakes, which were delicious, and the million dollar potatoes lived up to their name. Aaron, thank you! We came here for Sunday brunch, and everything was so fresh and tasty. The seasonal harvest million dollar hash with hot honey is absolutely delicious and so filling. The lemon ricotta pancakes were light and fluffy, big enough for two people to share. Overall, First Watch is a place I'd recommend for a satisfying and enjoyable breakfast or brunch experience.
George's Family Restaurant
5216 N Dixie Dr, Dayton
(937) 275-0705
Rosa Salas Bajrami
Looking for a breakfast spot while driving east, we decided to try George's Family Restaurant in Dayton, and it turned out to be a great choice. The food was tasty, and the service was fast and friendly. The 50s diner atmosphere added to our enjoyment. We shared a waffle, biscuits and gravy, bacon, and a breakfast hash, all of which tasted amazing. The highlight for me was the salad with chicken strips, which was outstanding. My dad enjoyed the liver and onions, especially the mashed potatoes that came with it. The chili cheese fries were good, although I would have preferred the fries to be a bit crispier. The biscuits and gravy were decent and flavorful, but the biscuit could have been fluffier. The pancakes are highly recommended, too. The coffee was excellent, which was a big plus for me as a coffee lover. The staff, including our server Rachel and the manager Peggy, were wonderful and ensured everything was perfect. It's a warm mom-and-pop type of place, which I love. Despite trying a variety of dishes and coffee, our bill was under $35, making it an affordable option. The wide menu selection is impressive, and I highly recommend trying it out. We'll definitely be coming back, as it's one of Dayton's hidden gems!
Debbie's Restaurant
2620 Valley Pike, Dayton
(937) 236-2220
Yvar Turenne
A great local place for breakfast! I highly recommend trying this place out. This is what a diner should be like: friendly service and great food! I know breakfast isn't usually complicated, but when it's done right, you know everything else will be great too. If I lived here, I would become a regular. My wife had been to Debbie's before, but it was my first time. We arrived for breakfast at 10:00, and the bustling parking lot was a good sign. Inside, there were some seats available at the bar, and we were served and greeted promptly. Prices were reasonable, and breakfast is served all day alongside lunch and dinner options. The place has a wonderful hometown atmosphere. We even chatted with the owner, Mike, who is Debbie’s son; he kindly shared that she had passed away about 18 months ago. Everyone here takes pride in what they do, and they do it with kindness. My wife ordered Debbie's omelet with toast and coffee; I went for two eggs, bacon, home fries, and biscuits & gravy with coffee. The coffee was excellent, and our food arrived fresh, plentiful, and delicious within about 8-10 minutes. Bonus: they keep the syrup warm for those who enjoy it that way. As you eat, there's quiet music playing, and polite conversations surround you. A TV behind the counter displays ads for local businesses. Regulars are greeted by name, but even newcomers like me are treated warmly. The decor is more functional than aesthetic, but the people more than make up for it. I felt like I belonged, and that says a lot. Debbie's will now be one of my regular places to eat. Everything here is done right! The corned beef hash was fried with a nice crunchy edge, and the pancakes—oh, the pancakes! They’re perfect even without toppings, making a great base for your breakfast to enjoy. I'm dreaming of making a pancakearitto with one when I return. If you ever visit, there's a 99.999% chance you'll be the only newcomer. Everyone else seems to be a regular. The fried bologna was thick and not overly salty, just mmmm. The chicken and dumplings were satisfying, and the gravy is so good it should cover everything. And oh, my goodness, the fried chicken! Simple and done right—perfection! If you want quality food and amazing service, don’t walk… run to Debbie's. The food is the best diner food I’ve ever had. My wife and I both agreed we’ll return as often as possible. We ordered French toast with bacon and home fries, chicken and dumplings with mashed potatoes and green beans, and a plate of biscuits and gravy to share. Everything was so flavorful and fresh. We also ordered pie to-go, and it's quality dessert as well. We really enjoyed ourselves and will definitely be returning!
First Watch
5245 Cornerstone N Blvd, Dayton
(937) 732-9013
Mark Hernandez
First Watch in Dayton is hands down the best breakfast spot I've visited. The food quality is top-notch, blending delicious country cooking with healthy options. The menu is extensive with unique choices, so nothing feels boring. It's my first time here, and I'm highly impressed. My family recommended it since I'm from out of town, and I'm already planning another visit. I'm willing to drive an hour out of my way on my next trip to Ohio just to eat here again. The staff is wonderfully pleasant and helpful, which makes the experience even better. From the host to the finish, the service is excellent, living up to the reputation of First Watch. The pictures I took don't do justice to the freshness and quality of the meals. If the weather's good, sitting outside adds to the experience with the lovely landscaping. It’s become one of my favorite breakfast places, with a great atmosphere and plenty of seating options, whether inside or out. The restrooms, though limited, are clean, and the service is quick. I love that you can join the waiting line through their website. The friendly staff, original menu, and fresh, organic ingredients make each visit outstanding, even when the place is busy. Plus, having an individual coffee pot at each table is a fantastic touch!
Lily's Dayton
329 E 5th St, Dayton
(937) 723-7637
Taketa Acropolis
I can't believe I've never reviewed Lily's before, given how many times my husband and I have enjoyed breakfast here. Every visit has been a delight, whether dining in or doing curbside pickup when my husband couldn't resist their amazing fried chicken. The atmosphere is always welcoming, and the staff makes you feel right at home with their superb hospitality. The food at Lily's truly speaks for itself. You could pick anything at random from the menu and be assured of a fantastic meal. I remember during the oyster fest in February, even though it was a special menu for that time, it just highlighted how there's always something unique and delicious to discover at Lily’s. I first found this gem in the Oregon District while searching online for the best fried chicken in Dayton, and it did not disappoint. One of my favorite meals was a chicken dinner with mashed potatoes with garlic confit and macaroni on the side. The chicken was perfectly seasoned and juicy, and as a macaroni snob, I was thrilled with how delicious it was. Plus, the portions are generous, so the leftovers were just as enjoyable the next day. The service is another highlight. My server, Jamie, was incredibly attentive and offered great recommendations. Chef Don's dedication is evident in every dish, ensuring everything is cooked to perfection. The cocktails are also top-notch, complementing the welcoming and relaxed ambience. Lily’s is a hidden gem worth visiting. The decor is beautiful and makes for a pleasant dining experience. I highly recommend trying the nachos and chicken sandwich. The service is consistently excellent, and the environment is inclusive and safe for everyone. It's a perfect spot for a laid-back meal with friends, especially if you’re not in a rush. While the brisket Mac might have been a bit saucy for my taste, the overall experience was excellent, and I always enjoy spending time at Lily’s. It's definitely a place I recommend and plan to return to often!
Another Broken Egg Cafe
3450 Rigby Rd, Miamisburg
(937) 866-4510
Olivia Martinez
I went to Another Broken Egg Cafe once and was instantly hooked, making it a regular stop for breakfast. The breakfast and coffee here are top-notch. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the cafe feels so cozy and comfortable. My favorite dish has to be the Crab Cake with poached eggs, but honestly, everything I've tried is delicious. On my latest visit, I stopped by on an early Saturday morning. The place was clean, and the atmosphere was calming, almost like being at home. The bar seemed a bit out of place, but it didn’t really bother me. Megan served me that day, and she was fantastic—friendly, fun, and very knowledgeable about the menu. I felt like a welcomed guest rather than just another customer. I tried the Southwest Scrambler this time, loaded with great flavors and just the right amount of spice, making it quite filling. Megan offered to swap the tortillas for an English muffin, which was perfectly toasted and generously sized. The potatoes on the side were well-cooked and nicely seasoned. It's been a while since I had such a satisfying breakfast. The coffee is a highlight as well—hot, fresh, and served in a large, artsy mug that adds to the whole experience. I’m already looking forward to my next visit. There’s nothing broken about this place; it’s a wonderful surprise. The food is amazing, the environment inviting, and the service—from people like Kendra and Megan—is the best. What a great place to enjoy breakfast or brunch.
Hasty Tasty Pancake House
3509 Linden Ave, Dayton
(937) 254-8431
Felicita Gonzalez Peñaloza
Stopped in for breakfast with some friends after a soccer match, and it was a great experience. Despite showing up at 10 a.m., the wait for an 8-person table wasn't bad at all. Our server immediately greeted us and took our drink orders. Our food arrived quickly and as ordered, which is always great to see. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed their meals and left with full stomachs. Portion sizes were perfect. We'll be sure to make a return trip in the near future. I highly suggest eating here! At first, I was hesitant to try this place because of the look of the building and its location. However, it had more good reviews compared to a high-end place that was triple the price, so I decided to give it a try. The location isn’t the worst but could be better. Inside, it appeared not to be updated in decades, but it wasn’t dilapidated. The decor was filled with various antique memorabilia. The menu consisted of breakfast to dinner meals, and the highest price was under $15. Very reasonable pricing on all items and all home-cooked foods. Service was excellent, and the food was quite good. Very good portion size, tasty, and great value! Hasty Tasty is fantastic with amazing comfort food, a great atmosphere, and wonderful servers. The price is very reasonable and worth the meal. Looks like a hole-in-the-wall kind of place, but it is fantastic.
Table 33
45 W 4th St, Dayton
(937) 999-3070
Mackenzie Barahona
Table 33 in Dayton is a true gem for breakfast and brunch! I went there with my wife on a whim and was pleasantly surprised. I’d never tried chicken and waffles before, but they nailed it. The chicken was perfectly crispy and juicy, while the waffles were delightfully light and fluffy. As a first-timer, I think they absolutely did it justice. I ordered the classic traditional breakfast, and it was on point. The scrambled eggs were cooked just right, and the bacon was thicker than what you usually get at other places. My wife couldn’t stop raving about her chicken and waffles, which speaks volumes. We also tried the drip coffee, which delivered a full-bodied, robust flavor. The service was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere felt so relaxed and inviting. I also ordered a breakfast sandwich with crispy potatoes and a cinnamon espresso roll. The sandwich was delicious, with all the flavors coming together nicely, especially the red onion and maple aioli. The cinnamon roll had an espresso icing that was simply amazing, even if the roll itself was average. Overall, Table 33 offers an impressive mix of classic breakfast favorites and creative options. It has definitely earned a spot as one of my go-to places in Dayton. If you’re looking for a fantastic brunch spot, you should definitely check it out! Just a heads up, their menu was different from what Google shows. 🍳🥓🍗🧇☕️ #brunch #foodie #hiddengem
The Brunch Club
601 S Main St, Dayton
(937) 222-7411
Vic Clark
The Brunch Club in Dayton is a solid spot for breakfast! Yes, there was a long wait on Sunday morning, but the food made it worth it. It's a small, cozy diner, so it's not ideal for big groups, but perfect for a breakfast date or a quick meal. The menu is extensive, offering a variety of tasty options. The portions are generous, and the food is excellent. The potatoes reminded me of the ones my grandma used to make—thinly sliced and delicious. Service was friendly and attentive, adding to the positive experience. I even had leftovers for lunch, which is always a bonus. The eggs with gravy and mix-ins were the best I've ever had, and the hash browns were crunchy yet soft. Pancakes were fluffy, with syrup and butter complementing them perfectly. We managed to snag seats at the bar without waiting, which was great. I had scrambled eggs, toast, and corned beef hash, which were all good and came in sizable portions. While the place could use a thorough cleaning, the owner was kind and welcoming. I’m already looking forward to bringing a friend on my next visit!
The Brunch Pub
101 W Franklin St, Dayton
(937) 999-4622
Melissa Vargas
My family has been to The Brunch Pub three times in the past two weeks, and each visit has been amazing. The menu is delicious and creative, and everything is expertly prepared. Their service is perfectly timed and attentive, and the patio adds to the charm of the place. Big shoutout to Jason and Taylor for their exceptional service. Also, their baklava is the best I’ve ever had. Our first time here was for brunch, and even though we had to wait for about 35 minutes, it was worth it. The brunch was really good—I loved the waffle and grits, although the syrup was thicker than I prefer. Despite accidentally leaving bacon off my breakfast panini and a lack of hot chocolate, the experience was cozy and relaxed, much like having breakfast at home. Encouraged to try dinner by the enthusiastic guy at the front, we made a reservation. While the cocktail menu was limited, the server and bartender went above and beyond, and the drink was good. Dinner itself was decent; the rice pilaf was just rice, and the veggies were overcooked, but the chicken was okay. One of our visits was on a Sunday, and we decided to enjoy their patio. Our server, Brandon, was kind and provided fast service. I ordered the BLT Benedict, which was a bit tricky to eat but still delightful. Overall, each visit to The Brunch Pub has been a seamless and enjoyable experience, and we will certainly return to explore more of their menu.
Frisch's Big Boy
6188 Wilmington Pike, Dayton
(937) 848-3362
Pedro Karori
Frisch's Big Boy in Dayton has become a breakfast staple for me over the years. The food is consistently good, and I particularly love the onion rings—they're the best I've ever tasted. The staff is always friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to help, creating such a welcoming atmosphere. One thing I appreciate is how clean the restaurant and restrooms are. It's also completely accessible, which is great for everyone, including families with kids who can enjoy booster chairs and fun activities. The diner has an old-fashioned feel, with a comfortable decor that adds to its hometown charm. It's a great spot for a light meal, something filling, or just coffee and pie with a friend. While the breakfast buffet is okay, I highly recommend trying their regular menu items for a tastier experience. Whether you have kids or you're dining with adults, Frisch's Big Boy caters to all tastes, making it a wonderful place to enjoy a meal.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
7171 Miller Ln, Dayton
(937) 890-0047
John Heid
I had a delightful breakfast experience at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Dayton. From the moment I walked in, the warm and welcoming atmosphere made me feel right at home. The staff was friendly and attentive, ensuring that my needs were met throughout my visit. The highlight of my meal was the chicken fried steak, which was perfectly cooked and incredibly tender. It was one of those dishes that melted in my mouth and left me wanting more. I also tried the strawberry mimosa, and it was absolutely refreshing and on point, providing the perfect start to my day. The menu offered a variety of comfort food options, which made it hard to choose, but everything I had was flavorful and satisfying. The service was prompt, and my server was knowledgeable, making sure everything was just right. Overall, it was an excellent dining experience with great food at reasonable prices. I left the restaurant feeling happy and satisfied and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a hearty and comforting breakfast. I look forward to my next visit and trying more of their delicious offerings.
Burkey Family Restaurant
670 Shiloh Springs Rd, Dayton
(937) 275-7127
Annie Markez
Burkey Family Restaurant is a wonderful spot for breakfast if you're in Dayton. The food is consistently good, with my over medium eggs and home fries cooked just right, and the sausage patties were delicious. While the biscuits were a bit dense, the sausage gravy was beautifully creamy. The pies—peach and apple—were tasty, though not extraordinary. What stands out most is the excellent service; the staff is incredibly friendly and attentive without being overbearing. The value is great, with generous portions, like the large omelets that I happily took home for later. The restaurant's atmosphere was calm, and their dinner specials looked tempting as well. For anyone seeking delicious food, great service, and reasonable prices, Burkey Family Restaurant is definitely worth a visit. It's a spot I plan on visiting again when I'm in the area.