May 25, 2025

Exceptional Breakfasts in Lexington to Satisfy Hunger

Check out Lexington's breakfast spots that serve yummy grilled dishes and fun blended meals to start your day right. Enjoy tasty breakfasts that are full of surprises and fresh flavors!

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

Wake up in Lexington and get ready to appreciate some of the best breakfasts in town! The chefs here are skillful in their cooking styles, making delicious meals that everyone loves. The places feel cozy and welcoming, offering blended dishes that mix different flavors in exciting ways.

European Delights Bakery

221 E Brannon Rd, Nicholasville

(859) 271-7000

Reviewed by:

Tim Craig

I absolutely love European Delights Bakery for breakfast in Lexington! The cozy little cafe area and the array of delicious pastries make every visit delightful. Unlike typical American sweets, everything here is made from scratch and isn't overly sugary, which I appreciate. I make it a point to come at least once a week because it's become my favorite spot in town. The coffee is fantastic, and it complements the pastries perfectly. The staff are incredibly helpful, always ready with suggestions based on personal tastes. My go-tos are the kaluha cake, chocolate croissant, and the cappuccino cup, all of which are always a treat. The online ordering process is seamless, which is convenient, and the employees are kind and helpful. Their cakes are a highlight for me, especially the German Chocolate cake, which is both beautiful and delicious—rich and decadent without being too dense. I've also tried the Black Forest cake slice, and it was moist and phenomenal. We often order cakes for family events from here, and every time, it's a scrumptious experience. I particularly love the white chocolate strawberry and carrot cakes, and the hazelnut praline is also a hit. European Delights Bakery is truly unparalleled, offering the best cakes I've had since my trip to France. I've never been disappointed with anything I've tried here. If you haven't been yet, you really should! The German chocolate cake is out of this world, and I can't get enough of the strawberry white chocolate cake and their fruit tart. I wholeheartedly recommend this bakery to everyone!

North Lime Coffee & Donuts - Limestone

101 W Loudon Ave Suite 160, Lexington

(859) 407-1374

Reviewed by:

Marie Gomez

I always enjoy my visits to North Lime Coffee & Donuts on Limestone for breakfast. Our group tried the hot lattes, which were well steamed with a smooth blend. The cafe latte with oat milk allowed the bean's flavor to shine through, albeit a bit dark for my taste, but still enjoyable. Their donut selection is unique and impressive—we tried the plain glazed, dark chocolate orange filled, and lemon cake donut, and loved them all. The vibe is fantastic, especially if you're into coffee shops and donuts, with The Smiths and Smashing Pumpkins playing in the background. The donuts have a cake-like texture without being too sweet or overly frosted, which I appreciate. This balance carries over to their specialty coffee as well. I've been coming here for years as an occasional treat and to get some remote work done. The coffee specials are fun, though on the sweeter side if that's your preference. They’ve started roasting their own beans, and I’m really enjoying the new offerings. The atmosphere is inviting with plenty of seating, both in the coffee shop and throughout Greyline. The donuts are the real standout—don't miss them! Even though I live a couple of hours away, I make it a point to pick up a couple dozen whenever I’m in Lexington.

First Watch

2251 War Admiral Way #130, Lexington

(859) 263-4737

Reviewed by:

Pablo Kumar

First Watch in Lexington has quickly become a favorite breakfast spot for me and my family. The food options are excellent, with great quality at prices that don’t break the bank. The staff is consistently kind and attentive, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. The bright and welcoming atmosphere is a perfect setting for a morning meal or lunch. I’ve tried several dishes, and none have disappointed. The omelette with a side of potatoes was delicious, with the potatoes having just the right amount of kick. As someone who never thought greens for breakfast would be appealing, I was pleasantly surprised by how tasty they are when lightly dressed. I’ve dined at multiple First Watch locations across the country, and the quality is always consistent. For lunch, I can’t get enough of the ham and Gruyère sandwich, though the roast beef with horseradish is also a top pick. Special shoutout to Trish, who made our meal on the patio unforgettable with her excellent service and recommendations like the Salmon frittata and the Trifecta. While the club sandwich and biscuits and gravy weren’t my personal favorites, they might still appeal to others. The club just needs a bit more flavor, and the biscuits and gravy, though unique with turkey gravy spices, are good in their own right. The only minor drawback is the occasional delay in clearing plates, but overall, the service is fantastic. First Watch offers a fresh, healthier alternative to the usual breakfast grind, and I’ll definitely be seeking them out whenever I travel.

First Watch

119 W Reynolds Rd, Lexington

(859) 785-4689

Reviewed by:

Tom Thornton

We love this brunch spot! Even though it's busy, the ample seating meant we didn’t have to wait when we arrived at 10 a.m. on a Saturday. The service is super friendly and fast, making the experience even better. The seasonal menu is fantastic, and I have to say the breakfast tacos are bomb! The fresh fruit was also a highlight, with a delicious seasoning that really made it stand out. Plus, the fresh-made juice is a definite bonus. Areli, our server, was amazing and made our brunch experience truly special with excellent menu recommendations. Her charm and attentiveness, especially with kids, were impressive. Even during a busy shift, she handled everything with ease, making sure we had everything we needed. I will definitely be coming back to enjoy the same great service. I've only been to this location twice, but it’s quickly become a favorite. The food tastes so fresh and clean. Our server, Lauran, was outstanding, making us feel at home and anticipating our needs flawlessly. In today’s fast-paced world, service like this is rare and appreciated. During a visit to Lexington to see my daughter, we chose First Watch for brunch, and it was a perfect decision. Lauren, our server, went above and beyond by introducing us to the summer specialties we might have missed. The food arrived promptly, hot, and absolutely delicious. Lauren's enthusiasm and dedication ensured not just a great meal but an overall wonderful dining experience, making our visit memorable. I can’t wait to return on my next visit. 🌟

Tudor's Biscuit World

757 E New Circle Rd, Lexington

(859) 368-0900

Reviewed by:

Sharla Cory

I visited Tudor's Biscuit World in Lexington for breakfast, and it was a delightful experience. From the moment I walked in, I was warmly greeted by the staff, and the dining area was impeccably clean. The cashier was incredibly helpful, offering suggestions and patiently answering all my questions. The highlight of my visit was definitely the biscuits—they were soft, buttery, and simply melted in my mouth. It was a treat worth the drive. The sweet tea was just right, and as a North Carolina native, it even rivaled some of my favorite spots back home. I couldn’t resist trying the cinnamon roll, and it was a heavenly addition to my meal. Even the bathroom was spotless, which speaks volumes about the care and attention the team puts into maintaining the space. Overall, Tudor’s Biscuit World in Lexington provided a wonderful breakfast experience, and I truly hope they consider expanding into North Carolina. It would be great to have them closer to home!

First Watch

2894 Richmond Rd, Lexington

(859) 899-3447

Reviewed by:

Destiny Marchese

First Watch in Lexington is a fantastic spot for breakfast and brunch. The staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience all the more enjoyable. It reminded me of a classier Cracker Barrel, with a cozy atmosphere and delicious food. I tried the honey caramel crunch coffee, pesto chicken quinoa bowl, BLT Benedict, and salmon Benedict, and let me tell you, every dish was amazing! I stopped by First Watch between appointments and was blown away by the quality of the food. Despite being hungry, I devoured the white egg omelet with chicken and spinach from the healthy section – so good, I even forgot about the bread. Later, I enjoyed a bowl of fresh fruit, which was perfectly ripe and refreshing. I love that they accommodate dietary needs, like my husband’s Celiac Disease, with gluten-free options. Today, I went for the steel cut oats with fruit and a blueberry muffin, while my husband had the Traditional breakfast. Both were excellent choices. The eggs Benedict and seasoned potatoes did not disappoint either. With plenty of servers and an impressive menu, First Watch is definitely a place I'll return to. Whether you’re a breakfast lover or just looking for a good meal, you can’t go wrong here.

Chick-fil-A

2025 Harrodsburg Rd, Lexington

(859) 373-0007

Reviewed by:

Earl Bethea

Chick-fil-A in Lexington for breakfast is truly a standout experience. The food is consistently amazing, with the chicken always cooked to perfection and the biscuits delightfully fluffy. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that each visit is pleasant and welcoming. Even when it's busy, the service remains efficient, making the early morning meal smooth and enjoyable. It's clear that they prioritize customer satisfaction, and that dedication shows in everything from the quality of the food to the warm smiles of the employees. This location is definitely worth visiting for anyone considering a breakfast stop in the area.

North Lime Coffee & Donuts - Clays Mill

3101 Clays Mill Rd #300a, Lexington

(859) 303-6114

Reviewed by:

Martin Serwah

This morning, my husband and I decided to try North Lime Coffee & Donuts on Clays Mill, and it was a fantastic experience! We’ve been on a bit of a donut kick lately, and this place did not disappoint. The donuts were fresh, homemade, and had just the right balance of flavors. We were particularly impressed with their seasonal pumpkin selection – a perfect treat for the season. The coffee was excellent too, especially their Ethiopia light roast, which paired perfectly with the donuts. It's clear they're putting a lot of effort into their coffee, as they now roast their own beans. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with a quiet and peaceful vibe. The outdoor patio was a great spot to relax and enjoy our breakfast. The staff were warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home. We even wandered in with a group of 20 for the start of our Christmas celebration, and the team handled it with ease, serving us with smiles and ensuring we had everything we needed. North Lime surely knows how to make great donuts and coffee, and it shows. We'll definitely be back for more!

First Watch

1080 S Broadway Suite 30, Lexington

(859) 252-2226

Reviewed by:

Magalie Hernandez

During our trip to Kentucky, we ended up visiting First Watch for breakfast in Lexington three days in a row, which should tell you just how much we loved it. Each time, we experienced minimal wait time, if any at all, and the service was outstanding—even on a busy Sunday, when we showed up with a large party. The food was consistently fresh and delicious. I experimented with different meals each day, but my husband loved his plate so much that he ordered the same thing every visit. The cold brew with a splash of oat milk was heavenly, and the orange juice was perfectly refreshing. The pumpkin pancakes were so good, I'd seriously consider sacrificing a few fingers for more. I’m genuinely sad to be back home because I’m missing their breakfast! We can’t wait to try other First Watch locations whenever we can. The dishes were consistently well-prepared, and the staff was professional and friendly, making us feel welcome from the moment we walked in. The honey caramel crunch iced coffee was the perfect balance of creamy and sweet, and the purple haze drink was refreshing. I also really enjoyed the Chile chorizo omelet, and they even let me swap out potatoes for fresh greens, which was great. The portions were generous, and being greeted and seated promptly was a definite plus. Overall, the experience was fantastic, and I’m already looking forward to our next visit.

Wild Eggs

1925 Justice Dr, Lexington

(859) 543-0532

Reviewed by:

Ahmed Zanchez

I absolutely love having breakfast at Wild Eggs in Lexington. The coffee is strong and they bring a full carafe right to the table, which is a great start to any meal. The portions are large, so while it's a little pricey, you definitely get your money's worth. My favorite dish has to be the Mexican chilaquiles with chorizo—it's simply phenomenal! The Chicken and Waffle is also great, and I'd highly recommend the Mad Platter if you want to try a bit of everything. The pancakes are tasty, although a bit dense for my liking. However, their cinnamon roll is hands down the best in the world, which makes up for it! The rest of the food is just as amazing, and the service is fantastic. The atmosphere is bright and cheery, making the experience even better. We arrived shortly after 7am and it wasn't too busy, so we were seated right away. The place was clean, and our waitress, although I didn't catch her name, was polite and helpful with suggestions. I went with my usual omelet, which was cooked nicely and arrived at a good temperature. My husband tried the "Kelly KY Brown" with the grits of the day and it hit every taste bud just right. I couldn't resist the Buffalo Chicken omelet with the homemade blueberry muffin, and the flavors were outstanding. The menu offers a good selection, though some items are a bit pricier than expected, which is my only reason for giving it a 4 out of 5. We noticed a lot of takeout orders, which makes sense given the quality. Our server, Liz, was wonderful with her suggestions. My peach mimosa was perfectly balanced—I ended up having two! Overall, if you decide to come here, it will be a fantastic decision. Enjoy your meal!

Great Bagel & Bakery

396 Woodland Ave, Lexington

(859) 258-2210

Reviewed by:

Bora Schildcrout

Great Bagel & Bakery is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Lexington. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the service is always quick and friendly. Their bagel options are diverse, ensuring that there's something for everyone. I particularly enjoy their American-style bagel, which consistently hits the mark every time I order it. The coffee is top-notch and complements the bagels perfectly. Even though the line can be long, it's a testament to their popularity and great food. The sprout sandwich on a sesame bagel, with cucumbers and cream cheese, is a standout – it tastes fresh and delicious. Overall, Great Bagel & Bakery is a wonderful place to grab breakfast.

Wild Eggs

3735 Palomar Centre Dr, Lexington

(859) 277-0402

Reviewed by:

Ismael Parra De Rodríguez

Wild Eggs in Lexington is definitely a breakfast spot worth visiting. The breakfast menu has some standout options, especially the raspberry lemon pancakes from their summer menu. These pancakes are massive and delicious, with a perfect drizzle of lemon curd and raspberry puree that takes the flavor to another level. They're so large that sharing might be a good idea. I tried the Nashville hot chicken and waffles, while my girlfriend opted for the pancakes. The chicken was well-seasoned and juicy, and while the skin didn't stay on, mixing all the elements made for a tasty bite. The heat balanced perfectly with the butter and syrup on a fluffy waffle. Her pancakes were even better, with the lemon curd adding a bright citrus kick to the sweet raspberry flavor. The steak and eggs here are a favorite of mine, and I often prefer them over getting steak at other places, like Tony's of Lexington. My wife ordered the Yellow Submarine Sandwich, which was hearty and satisfying, though the pickles packed quite a spicy punch. Service was a bit chaotic; while we were seated quickly, our server seemed overwhelmed and busy with tasks beyond our table, resulting in us frequently asking other staff for refills. Despite this, I appreciated the effort of the young lady at the host station, who consistently checked on us and made us feel welcome. It seemed like the management style was a bit different, with a manager focused on something else rather than supporting the staff directly. The food overall was very good, though I had to dock a star for a cinnamon roll we got to-go that was hard and unappealing. The waitress handled it well by removing it from our bill. Despite a few hiccups, Wild Eggs offers a great breakfast experience with some truly delicious dishes.

Maple Street Biscuit Company

2270 Nicholasville Rd Suite 120, Lexington

(859) 554-7550

Reviewed by:

Hannah Newport

We stopped into Maple Street Biscuit Company for breakfast on a whim and were delighted with our meal. My husband got the country fried steak biscuit, and I opted for the hash bowl. Since it was his birthday, we were treated to two cinnamon iced biscuits, which turned out to be the highlight of our breakfast. They were incredible—tall, fluffy, and light without any odd aftertaste. I could've devoured them plain but decided to enjoy them with some berry jam. The food portions were generous. My husband's biscuit was excellent, and the hash bowl was delicious. The bacon was sweet and thick with just the right texture, and the hash browns reminded me of Thanksgiving stuffing with the perfect crunch outside and softness inside. The coffee was flavorful too. While the gravy wasn't to our taste and seemed a bit off, the rest of our breakfast experience was wonderful. The service was excellent, making this place a new favorite for breakfast. Despite some minor issues, we’ll definitely be returning for those unforgettable cinnamon biscuits!

Doughdaddy's Doughnuts Inc

3325 Lexington Rd, Versailles

(859) 873-1355

Reviewed by:

El Montoya

We wanted some good donuts after coming back to the States from Germany and couldn't have found a better place! Delicious donuts and a good variety. Stopped in for a quick breakfast of doughnuts. The glazed ones were, without a doubt, the best I have ever had in my 70 years. I have but 2 regrets: 1) I live 500 miles away, and 2) I didn't buy a few dozen to take home.. wow!!!! Great coffee and GREAT donuts! Hard to beat this place! We got a whole assortment & loved them all, especially the HUGE apple fritters! So good! Try anything! Praise God! My daughter raved about this place, and when we were driving by, we just had to stop. The staff are super friendly. Tons of selection from the most basic doughnut to something elaborate. We were there late in the afternoon, and I was surprised at the selection and how fresh everything was. The cinnamon rolls and long johns are to die for. Once you have these, you won't be able to drive by ever again. Good prices as well.

Biscuit Belly - East Main

652 E Main St, Lexington

(859) 350-6900

Reviewed by:

Linda Deary

This was our first time visiting Biscuit Belly - East Main for breakfast in Lexington, and we really enjoyed our experience. They have a plethora of items to choose from and a lot of drinks, including some great alcoholic options. We loved all the food and drinks and this will definitely be our go-to spot when we come to Lexington from now on. I can't wait to try more things on the menu. First impressions were great: it's a quaint, bright, and cozy space with prompt service. The food was fantastic for the price. I ordered the "Fire in your belly" biscuit sandwich. The chicken was perfectly cooked, moist, and the breading was crispy. The Nashville hot mayo was spicy but not overwhelming. The biscuit was a bit underdone, which I actually prefer. My wife ordered the pancakes and they were phenomenal. The berry jam tasted fresh and had just the right amount of tartness to sweetness. We're definitely planning to stop back in! Biscuit Belly is doing things right. Who can beat smoked brisket with sausage gravy over two fresh biscuits? Not only that, but Alicia's customer service was outstanding. My only issue is that the food is too good. It's a delicious and cute little spot! We had two of the biscuit dishes and a side of the loaded tater tots. I got the Love Shack, and the Brie & berries were so delicious. My partner loved the basic biscuit too. We're hoping to come back and try some of the drinks soon!

Panera Bread

2887 Richmond Rd Suite 110, Lexington

(859) 335-9992

Reviewed by:

Natalia Ochoa

I decided to try out the newer Panera Bread location in Lexington, and I'm glad I did. The food was delicious, and the restaurant was clean. Both my daughter and I opted for the "You Pick Two" option, which is a great deal. I had the Autumn Squash Soup with a Caesar Salad on the side, while my daughter enjoyed the Chicken Noodle Soup with a Turkey Sandwich. Our meals were served quickly and were very tasty. It's a great place for a quick bite, although it can be a bit pricey, so maybe skip the drink if that’s a concern. One of the highlights of our visit was the outstanding service from Greg at the drive-thru. He was upbeat, friendly, and efficient, handling our two-part order with ease and a smile. Greg even surprised us with a pup cup for our Doodle, which was a very nice gesture. Overall, this Lexington Panera location exceeded our expectations in many ways. The store is new, with an attractive exterior, and outdoor dining will definitely be pleasant in the summer months. While the new coffee machines aren’t my favorite and the dining room feels a bit too institutional for my taste, the service and food quality make it worth the visit. I’ll be heading to this location again, even if it means driving a few extra miles.

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