Ultimate Breakfast Spots in Durham to Start Your Day Off Right

205 S Gregson St, Durham

(919) 806-6023

Queen Eggxpress is my new favorite spot for breakfast in Durham. It's a fantastic food truck with super friendly service, especially from Reyna, who was so kind and even made an omelette for us, which wasn't on the menu. The menu is clear, with prices and pictures, so you know exactly what you're getting. If you're a fan of egg sandwiches, this is definitely the place to be, and the coffee is great, too. Parking is easy, with plenty of space in the lot and on the side streets. Reyna was not only a ray of sunshine but was also lovely with our (admittedly loud) dog. My husband's burrito was packed perfectly, and the fresh, lean chorizo really stood out. I've been searching for a go-to breakfast burrito spot in Durham, and Queen Eggxpress might just be it. The breakfast burritos are big, cheesy, and flavorful—just the kind of hearty meal you crave in the morning. The food truck plaza has great outdoor seating, and if you get there early, you can enjoy the sunrise from the second-story deck. Plus, there's a fantastic coffee shop nearby. Everyone working there is super friendly, which makes the whole experience even better. The breakfast burritos are made to order with a perfect balance of eggs, potato, and chorizo, and their hot sauce is a must-try. I'll definitely be back to explore more of the menu!

5419 Page Rd, Durham

(919) 897-5801

I've been to other First Watch locations, but this was my first time at the Durham spot, and it was fantastic! The service was incredibly efficient, and everyone we encountered was friendly. Having an idea of what we wanted beforehand helped us get our orders quickly. The food was great—really tasty with generous portions I couldn't even finish. On my first visit, I ordered to go, and while there was a slight delay initially, a male employee noticed and tried to assist. On my second visit, another server helped me right away, which made the experience even better. The overall vibe of the place was super nice, and I will definitely be coming back!

7011 Fayetteville Rd #101, Durham

(919) 457-1949

First Watch in Durham is a great spot for breakfast! The food and atmosphere are amazing, and I had such a positive experience that I had to write about it while still there. The seasonal pumpkin pancakes and the Honey Caramel Crunch drink were delightful. The restaurant is clean and welcoming, and though my server didn't introduce himself, the overall service was friendly, especially Alexandra, who was attentive and ensured my food arrived quickly despite the busy morning. While there were a few hiccups with my order—such as the biscuits being overcooked—the staff promptly rectified it. The hacienda hash was flavorful, and the Hawaiian French toast was enjoyable, though a tad sweet. The menu offers a wide range of options, and I would love to see more loose leaf teas in the future. Despite a few small issues, the food was fresh and delicious, and the staff made sure to create a friendly atmosphere. I would definitely visit again when in the area. 10/10 recommend this place!

701 W Main St Suite 130, Durham

(919) 237-1755

What a lovely surprise New World Cafe in Durham turned out to be. The place was clean and had an upbeat vibe, plus it was just a reasonable walk from the Amtrak train station. It was open on a Monday, which was perfect for our train trip out of town. The outdoor seating area was a nice touch, and I appreciated that they offered gluten-sensitive options, including gluten-free bread. We grabbed a Thai iced tea to go, which was perfect for the train ride, but I can't wait to try their independent coffee shop options next time I'm in town. The coffee is amazing, especially when the owner is on the espresso machine. It’s definitely worth your time. The sandwiches were really good too, and the coffee was piping hot, which I loved. The space is great for working, with excellent service and friendly, welcoming staff. Everyone there was kind and respectful, despite some previous reviews suggesting otherwise. The moist banana bread was delightful, even without banana pieces or nuts. Even though the shop has been open for six months, it's still working out a few kinks, like the self-serve syrup being inside a creamer jug, which makes it hard to measure. I'd love to see it in a traditional pump container with a label. Located at the corner of Duke & Main St., there's free street parking available on Duke. This cafe is definitely a spot I’ll be glad to return to.

324 Blackwell St Bay 4, Durham

(919) 683-3200

Parker and Otis in Durham is a fantastic spot for breakfast and lunch. They really know how to serve huge portions, which is awesome if you love getting a good bang for your buck. The coffee is excellent, and the service is top-notch. Despite the long line, everything came out super fast, which is always a plus. The space itself is fun and comfortable, making it a great place to meet up with friends, and there's plenty of easy parking available. While I wasn't a fan of their pimento cheese because it was a bit too heavy on the mayonnaise for my taste, it might be great if you like that style. The #14 sandwich was packed with ingredients I love, but I found it a bit bland and could have used a kick of flavor, maybe with some garlic or chipotle in the white bean paste. On the bright side, their gift shop is an absolute treat, offering unique and fun gifts perfect for anyone in your life. Don't leave without trying one of their delicious truffles—they're a real highlight. Although I miss the broader breakfast menu from their old location, the current lunch offerings are still satisfying. I had the roast beef sandwich, which was tasty, though a bit pricey at $12. Though they don't have indoor seating at the moment, it seems like they're working on a small area for it. If you've ever been to the old Parker and Otis, you'll notice some changes, but the place is still a gem. My group tried four different menu items, and everything was consistently flavorful. You really can't go wrong with anything you choose here.

1002 9th St, Durham

(919) 286-2642

Monuts in Durham has quickly become my favorite spot for breakfast. Their donuts and pastries are not only delicious but also fresh, and it truly shows in the taste. My husband and I tried a variety of items, including their bagel breakfast sandwiches and lattes, and everything was fantastic. Although parking can be a bit of a challenge and getting a hot donut is rare, it’s worth it. The quiche we had was one of the best I've ever tasted, and my mocha was the perfect finishing touch. I love that Monuts emphasizes paying their employees a living wage, which adds to the positive experience. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the customer service is excellent. It's a great place to relax on a Saturday morning, and despite the crowd, the vibe remains chill. While there aren't as many vegan options as I would like, the avocado toast, maple sriracha potatoes, and vegan cookie are always a hit. Adding a few more vegan items would make it perfect. Overall, Monuts is a staple in Durham for good reason, and I can't wait to return with friends.

2706 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham

(919) 401-2600

My visit to Guglhupf Restaurant for breakfast was a wonderful experience all around! The servers were polite and helpful, making it easy for a first-timer like me to navigate their offerings. Even though the restaurant was about 80% full, it never felt loud or overwhelming. The food was amazing and brought back some good memories. I was especially thrilled with the mustard – the dark mustard with horseradish was perfect! This spot is a great place to enjoy a meal with family or friends. While it can get pretty crowded during lunchtime, breakfast on Saturday at 10:30 was a delightful time to visit. You need to order your food at the counter, and they bring it to your table. Service is friendly, and the line to order moved quickly, thanks to the menus available for browsing beforehand. There’s a self-service area for water and condiments, which was convenient. We ordered croissant sandwiches, a seasonal omelette, and coffee – everything was fantastic! The beautiful weather made the outdoor seating quite popular. The yogurt with fruit and granola was a classic yet tasty choice, and the farmer's omelette was both flavorful and filling. Before leaving, I stopped by the bakery. The fig walnut gruyere scone was absolutely perfect. Overall, this place has a relaxed vibe, reminiscent of the Rainforest Cafe in some ways, and I’m not mad about that. If you plan a visit, getting there early is recommended, but plenty of seating is available inside and out. 4.5 stars for an excellent breakfast experience!

4900 NC-55 ste 520, Durham

(919) 544-7473

Brigs at the Park Restaurant in Durham is a great spot for breakfast. The menu has so many options, which I love. While there's usually a line on weekends, it moves quickly; we only waited about 10 minutes. The food is delicious and the service prompt, all at reasonable prices, so I'll definitely be back. During my visit, I noticed that the hostess directed us to our table instead of guiding us there, which was a bit surprising. I also saw her wearing a mask below her nose and mouth, which seemed odd. Despite this, our server, Perry, was excellent. My husband enjoyed his "Works" omelet, though my pancake wasn't up to par since it was cold and had too much butter. My wife's specialty French toast didn't work out, but Perry quickly brought her a perfect cheese omelet. My Brigs Benedict and bacon were spot on, though I personally could have used more lemon in the Hollandaise sauce. I appreciated the thermal pitcher of coffee Perry provided, even if the coffee itself wasn't the strongest. The restaurant offers a small military discount and has a clean, high-energy environment that efficiently manages the crowds. Though the atmosphere is a bit tight, the friendly service makes up for it. I'll be returning when I'm in town again.

1108 Morning Glory Ave, Durham

(919) 251-9265

I tried out Tater Bread Cafe for breakfast in Durham, and I must say, I was quite pleased with my experience overall. Despite a few hiccups, the food was enjoyable, and it's conveniently located near my house, making it a great stop on the way to work. The potatoes were flavorful, which I appreciated as a chef who's often critical of these things. The prices were reasonable, and even though the setup seemed more like a kitchen than a dining spot, it added a unique charm to the place. While there were some areas for improvement, like the sizing and preparation of the sausage egg and cheese biscuit, as well as the service, the cafe still managed to deliver on what truly mattered—the taste. My mother and I discovered this gem after a trip to Duke hospital, and we were surprised by the variety available. The stewed apples were a highlight, reminiscent of those at Cracker Barrel, and the overall bill left us satisfied with what we paid. Even though I wouldn't suggest it as a date spot, it's perfect for a casual and filling breakfast experience. Tater Bread Cafe brings the countryside charm straight into Durham, making it a worthy choice for anyone craving a hearty morning meal.

776 9th St, Durham

(919) 416-3823

We had a wonderful breakfast at one of our favorite spots in Durham. My wife absolutely loved her biscuits with sausage gravy and scrambled eggs. I went for a 4 ingredient omelette with home fries and a side of their pumpkin apple bread, which was fantastic! The omelette was made just right. This place even rivals Brigs! Definitely recommend it if you’re in the mood for a classic diner experience. From the warm greetings at the door to the attentive waitresses and speedy service, everything felt right. The patrons added to the cozy atmosphere, chatting across tables like you’d hope to find in a friendly neighborhood diner. I ordered soft scrambled eggs with sausage patties, two pancakes, and a side Caesar. Although the orange slice was a tad dry, everything else hit the spot. In fact, I didn’t even need lunch afterward. The place was bustling but it still had that hometown diner feel. With so many great options, choosing was the toughest part. I’m looking forward to trying their eggs benedict or shrimp n grits next time. The picture I took was of their seasonal dish featuring corn bread fritters, sweet mashed potatoes, black beans, cotija cheese, and eggs. It was delicious! We stopped by for breakfast on a busy Saturday and sat at the counter. The service was quick, the servers were friendly, and even the bathroom was clean. We’ll definitely be back when we’re in the area.

5307 New Hope Commons Blvd Ext, Durham

(984) 251-0136

We sat outside with our dog, and the food did not disappoint. The food pictured is their hash with potatoes, brussel sprouts, egg, and a lot of other goodness! When our server saw we had our dog, she was so sweet and also brought her out a water dish. We came for lunch, and they seated us right away. Service was fast and friendly, and the location is convenient with plenty of parking. The pancakes are great, as are the salads. I enjoyed the mint mocha and breakfast quesadillas. I wish we had more time to try other things on the menu. Another good experience at First Watch. Two thumbs up! 👍🏼👍🏼

401 Foster St ste a, Durham

(984) 439-2220

Y'all, this place was amazing. You walk in and there's an order screen where you place your order, wait a bit, and then they'll call your name when it's ready. The food was so good it brought to mind that song by Irene Cara, "What a Feeling...". Just a heads up, they only take credit or debit cards—no cash. I had the bacon, egg, and cheese with a cheese biscuit, and my wife tried the blueberry sausage biscuit. If you're in Durham, NC, definitely check them out! It was my first time there, so ordering was a bit different, but it wasn't complicated to figure out. The biscuits were worth the stop, especially if you get the hot honey biscuit. It was so delicious and really stood out. The chicken and grits were alright, and the Southern biscuit was just okay. The hot honey flavor really made the experience for me. Overall, it's decent food at an affordable price. I also tried the glazed blueberry biscuit, and even though I kept it in the fridge until the next morning, it was still delicious. I appreciate how this place offers great quality food without breaking the bank. The staff was quick and super nice with our order. It was a welcoming experience in Durham, NC! My only wish is that they had indoor seating.

8200 Renaissance Pkwy STE 1003, Durham

(919) 248-2992

YUM! Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken at Durham Southpoint is a fantastic spot for breakfast. The self-order touch screens make it easy to customize your meal, and the option to order online and use locker pick-up is genius. With limited indoor seating, the outdoor tables are great when the weather cooperates. Plus, there's plenty of parking, which is always a bonus. The employees here are genuinely kind, making the experience even better. As someone who's not crazy about biscuits, I love that Rise lets you build a breakfast sandwich on a potato roll. I had the Country Ham with fried egg and cheese, and it was delicious. Don't miss out on the fried okra; they're fantastic and seem freshly made. The southern chicken biscuit with pimento cheese blew me away. On my first visit, I had an issue with my order, but the manager handled it excellently by refunding me and even offering a new meal. I was satisfied with the refund but appreciated the gesture. When I ordered biscuits again, they were perfect, and there was even a free donut in my bag, likely because the manager recognized my name. Overall, this place is perfect for a quick bite or a pickup, especially with their delicious menu and excellent customer service. I'll definitely be back for more mouthwatering breakfast options!

703B 9th St, Durham

(984) 439-1790

Happy + Hale in Durham has truly become my go-to spot for breakfast, and I can’t recommend it enough. The menu offers a fantastic variety of healthy options that are both delicious and satisfying. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, making it easy to find something that caters to any dietary preference or craving. The breakfast bowls and smoothies, in particular, are packed with fresh ingredients that always leave me feeling energized and ready for the day. The atmosphere at Happy + Hale is welcoming and vibrant, making it a pleasant place to start my morning. The staff is friendly and efficient, ensuring that even during busy times, orders come out promptly without compromising quality. I appreciate the care they put into each order, accommodating any special requests without a hitch. Overall, Happy + Hale has consistently delivered great breakfast experiences with its tasty offerings and inviting ambiance. It’s definitely a must-visit if you’re in Durham and looking for a healthy, fulfilling meal to kickstart your day.

2608 Erwin Rd #120, Durham

(984) 243-9929

I had a great breakfast experience at Big Bad Breakfast in Durham and I will definitely be back. If you're looking for a traditional home-cooked meal, this is your place. The mimosas and Irish coffee were delightful. We tried the skillet and eggs Benedict, both of which were so delicious they barely lasted long enough for a photo. The homemade jellies are a must-try! Lee made sure we were well taken care of, and the overall service was excellent. Despite some mixed reviews, I followed my gut and decided to give it a shot. A lady leaving the restaurant told me the food was good, and she was right. We walked in to find a few tables occupied and a bunch of staff eager to help. Although the hostess seemed like she was new, we were seated quickly. My mom ordered the pancakes and grits, while I had the low country skillet. The flavors were decent, especially the shrimp in my skillet. The biscuit was a bit of a letdown initially, but the house-made strawberry jam was a delightful save. My mom enjoyed her pancakes, even though they absorbed the syrup quickly. The grits were okay but did cool off a bit too fast. Overall, everything about this visit was smooth. The team atmosphere was evident, with employees checking in on us, creating a warm and welcoming vibe. We ordered the Yardwork skillets and coffees, and everything was spot on. The freshly squeezed orange juice was truly refreshing. From start to finish, it was an enjoyable breakfast outing with great service and a pleasant atmosphere. I encourage everyone to try it out and see for themselves!

3710 Shannon Rd, Durham

(919) 419-0907

I was really impressed with Hope Valley Diner for breakfast. The staff was friendly and courteous from the moment I walked in. I've been wanting to try this diner, and I'm so glad I finally did. We started with homemade potato chips as an appetizer, which were fantastic. For dinner, we enjoyed steak Diane with a loaded baked potato, green beans, and cornbread, as well as fried pork chops with mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and cornbread, plus a Belgian waffle with homestyle potatoes. Every dish was delicious, and the portions were generous. We will definitely be back. We also used Hope Valley’s catering for our wedding, and they did a fantastic job. They arrived on time, set up quickly, and made sure our guests were well-fed without any issues. We received so many compliments on the food, and quite a few guests even asked to take home leftovers. I would absolutely recommend their catering services to anyone in need. The quick and friendly service, along with the freshly prepared food, really hit the spot after a long day. We will definitely return for more.

626 9th St, Durham

(919) 286-4900

The Bruegger's Bagels on 9th Street in Durham is hands down the best! I had an incredible experience this morning with the kindest staff and exceptional service. They truly made my day. The food was spot-on and delicious, and I'm already looking forward to coming back. Bruegger's is usually a great spot for a top-notch bagel in Durham. Even after a previous negative experience, a representative reached out and gave me a full refund, which shows how much they value their customers. I must give a special shoutout to the two amazing employees working on the morning of 11/7/24. Their friendly service and the welcoming atmosphere made the visit exceptional. Be prepared for a bit of a wait, as the lines can be long—but that's just a testament to their outstanding service and quality bagels. My go-to order is the bacon cheddar with extra sausage on everything, and it never disappoints. Although there's still no inside seating, it doesn't detract from the experience. Thank you, Bruegger's Bagels, for going the extra mile and being the best bagel shop ever!

3703 Hillsborough Rd, Durham

(919) 309-2888

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is my go-to spot when I'm around Durham, especially for breakfast or brunch. It's a favorite for both my husband and me, and it's clear why it's popular with the community and travelers alike, given its convenient location near the interstate, shopping areas, and a trauma center. Our last visit was delightful. I decided to try something new and went for the grilled cheese with a side of hash brown casserole. Both were delicious, with the grilled cheese perfectly toasted and the cheddar melted just right. My husband ordered the roast beef, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Service was decent, considering how busy they were that day. What I love about Cracker Barrel is the entire experience, from the meal to the charming old-fashioned gift shop, where I always find something unique. They carry everything from candies to jewelry and candles. My husband and I have a tradition of picking up a Hershey bar on our way out. Ordering takeout is easy, whether it's online or over the phone, which is great for those times when we're traveling in our van and staying overnight in their parking lot. There's something incredibly cozy about browsing the gift shop after a quick stop for a restroom break. While there have been some menu changes, the food remains fabulous. The stuffed cheesecake pancakes and the sausage gravy are standout items, and the apple butter with the cornbread and biscuits is always a treat. I also noticed they now serve mimosas, and I recommend the orange one with fresh juice. Taylor, our server, was attentive and friendly, ensuring we had a pleasant experience. Cracker Barrel continues to impress us with its warm atmosphere and comforting meals. We'll definitely be back to try more of their delicious offerings.

5410 Highway 55 Suite AJ AK, Durham

(919) 316-7978

True Flavors Diner is a hidden gem that has quickly become one of my favorite spots for breakfast in Durham. Despite only being open four days a week, it’s easy to see why they stay in business. The flavors are outstanding, and I find myself craving their dishes on the days they’re closed. I love that this place doesn’t skimp on portion sizes. If you're not counting calories or looking for vegan or low-carb options, this is the spot for you. During my last visit, I went with a smashed burger variation while my partner opted for the southern fried egg sandwich. We also tried the biscuits and jam, which were delightful. The restaurant has a top-notch aesthetic, even the restroom was nice. It's a small space, so you might feel part of your neighbor's conversation, but it didn’t bother me. While we did experience a bit of a wait for our food, it was well worth it, especially for the blueberry chicken biscuit, which was phenomenal. Service was decent. Our waitress started off a bit reserved but warmed up as the meal progressed. One slight hiccup was hearing a waiter use a foul word, albeit not directed at anyone. It was unprofessional but not a deal-breaker for me. This is shaping up to be our regular after-church brunch location. I highly recommend stopping by for a meal if you're in the Triangle area. True Flavors Diner has delicious French toast, waffles, and definitely lives up to its name with its diner vibes. If you enjoy soul food with lots of butter and salt, this is the spot for you. Their Biscoff French Toast and Strawberry Cinnamon Roll Waffles are must-tries. Plus, the service was attentive even when they were busy. All in all, True Flavors Diner is a fantastic spot for brunch if you’re not focused on alcoholic offerings. It’s always a joy to visit, and I can't wait to return!

1831 Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy, Durham

(919) 401-3700

This location is the best! Living in Chapel Hill, my family and I specifically drive to this Bruegger's Bagels in Durham because of how fast their service is. The staff is always welcoming, and they really know how to hook up a bagel! When you ask for a shmear of cream cheese, they give you a hefty amount, which is fantastic. It was my first experience at a Bruegger's, and it lived up to my expectations. Overall, the consistent service and quality of bagels at this spot make it stand out from others. It's definitely worth the drive for a great breakfast experience.