Outstanding Breakfasts in McAllen for Good Times

4800 S 23rd St #5, McAllen

(956) 630-3502

I've been eating tamales since I was a kid, and I've tasted them from all sorts of places and family recipes. Let me tell you, in my opinion, Delia's serves the tastiest tamales in the world. This was our first time trying them, and they were absolutely delicious. I highly recommend these tamales—they’re literally the best! A big thank you to Delia's for making them for us, and merry Christmas! The tamales were wonderful, though I do feel the food is losing some of its authentic Mexican flavor. I still miss the salad bar with its fresh veggies. So many people told me I had to try these tamales, and they were right! At 12 for $9.99, they’re a great deal. They’re a must-have with green sauce. It’s easy to see why they’re a favorite, both locally and internationally, with soldiers requesting them when redeployed. I had 6 chicken and 6 pork but plan to try the bean and cheese next. You can even buy by the half dozen.

4105 N 10th St, McAllen

(956) 994-1294

Walking into Breadsmith for breakfast is like stepping into a haven of fresh-baked goodness. The aroma of newly baked bread hits you instantly, setting the tone for a delightful experience. The customer service is top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff making sure everyone feels welcome. The bread selection is impressive, with so many varieties that it's hard to choose just one. I'm already planning to come back weekly to try each type. The atmosphere is inviting, reminiscent of a fun Italian Bistro, making it a perfect spot to not only buy bread but enjoy the experience as well. My personal favorites are the Dark Rye, Sourdough, and Country Buttertop, but I'm especially enamored with their Pumpkin Chocolate loaf, which is wonderfully moist and rich. With few artisan bakeries in the Valley, Breadsmith stands out as a prime choice for homemade-style bread. Each visit is a treat, and I love stopping by every Saturday for the Greek olive ciabatta. They even offer fresh pizza dough, perfect for making delicious homemade pizzas. Breadsmith in North McAllen has truly become my go-to place for fresh, flavorful bread. Highly recommended!

1906 E Griffin Pkwy, Mission

(956) 600-7183

Visited The Griffin Grill for breakfast and absolutely loved it! The food was amazing, and the atmosphere was delightful. The staff was very professional, contributing to a great dining experience. Despite rising prices everywhere, their menu offers delicious entrees at very reasonable prices. I ordered the fried chicken and waffles, which were scrumptious and beautifully presented. I also tried the chilaquiles, which had great flavor, though the chips could have used a bit more crunch. The service was excellent, and the owner even took the time to answer our questions about a plant inside. The restaurant has a cozy vibe, although it can feel a bit cramped at times. A little more space between tables would enhance comfort. I noticed the floor was slippery on my way to the restroom, which I'd suggest they address for safety. The lighting throughout was just right, and the restrooms were clean. The chilaquiles came with perfectly cooked over-medium eggs, homemade-tasting beans, and good potatoes. The red sauce was a bit Americanized, but it had a nice hint of heat. The crispy totopos were a treat until I detected a slight burnt-oil flavor midway through. The service was generally average; our waitress was attentive but could have offered more insight when I asked for her recommendation on the chilaquiles. Despite a few minor hiccups, the overall experience was fantastic, and the food tasted even better than it looked. We plan on becoming regulars and can't wait to return to The Griffin Grill!

963 US-83 BUS, Alamo

(956) 782-0202

Easy to find and a delightful spot for breakfast in McAllen, El Manjar Bakery exceeded my expectations. They sell bread by the pound, which is fantastic because there’s plenty of variety to choose from, even when we arrived just an hour before closing time on a Sunday. The bread is incredibly soft, visually appealing, and tastes fresh and delicious. I highly recommend trying their conchas, mantecadas, and maranitos, or as we call them, Javalines. This bakery is definitely my go-to place whenever I’m in the area. I’m looking forward to trying the barbacoa and other items on their menu. It's an awesome place to buy Mexican pastries, and the attendant was very helpful and friendly, which made the experience even better. I picked up a pound of barbecue, and it was just perfect — gracias! I am very satisfied with everything. The drive-thru option is convenient, and the breakfast was delicious. The staff is wonderful, making my visit even more enjoyable. The pan dulce is priced reasonably, especially compared to other places like Pan de Paris, which can be quite pricey. Overall, I am very happy and will definitely be returning.

2263 Pecan Blvd, McAllen

(956) 668-8226

Ms G's Tacos N' More is the best place for breakfast tacos! Everything is spot on—great taste, great portions, and a great price. I can't imagine getting tacos from anywhere else after this experience. The lady behind the counter is super sweet and even remembers your face and name, which adds such a personal touch. The customer service is genuinely friendly, and the breakfast tacos are fantastic. They brought back memories of eating with my grandparents when I was a kid. Walking into Ms G’s felt welcoming right from the start. The homemade tortillas are fluffy and leave a light flour residue on your fingers, just like my grandma used to make. Every taco I tried was absolutely delicious. The lemonade is fresh too! I'll definitely be returning whenever I'm in the area.

1501 N 10th St, McAllen

(956) 687-2011

The best apple fritter ever! I've tried them all over the country while working, and this one is loaded with apple filling. Wow, just wow! The cinnamon rolls are huge, and I absolutely love their old-fashioned ones. I used to go every day for one, always getting extra icing. It's so delicious, especially when warmed up in the microwave. A perfect 10/10 with lots of nuts too! I don't usually visit places like this, but I was craving a kolache, so I went through the drive-thru. The service was good, and I received my order quickly. However, I was disappointed with the kolache since it was mostly bread. I wouldn't recommend this place for kolaches. But OMG, what a great find! I was told about this amazing little donut shop called Shipleys, and I didn't really believe it at first. As soon as I got there, it was a pleasant surprise. The place smells so fresh and sweet, and everyone inside had smiles on their faces. I ordered a variety of donuts, along with the sausage and egg rolls and egg and ham rolls. Everything was so tasty and delicious, melting in my mouth and making me want more. Definitely check this place out for breakfast or if you're craving something sweet!

4100 N 10th St, McAllen

(956) 994-0266

My family of four visited Jimmy's Egg in McAllen on a Sunday morning around 9:30 am, and we were really impressed. The service was phenomenal, with attentive staff who brought out our drinks and food in a timely fashion. The place was clean and well-organized. My husband had the carnitas skillet, which was packed with flavor—the carnitas were the standout! Even though he had hot sauces ready, he found the skillet perfect as it was. My daughter ordered the chocolate chip pancakes, and she devoured them. The kids' menu had great options, was reasonably priced, and the quality was top-notch—better than other breakfast spots we've tried. My son enjoyed hot chocolate with a cinnamon roll big enough to share. I went for the iced chocolate coffee, which was so good it could earn Jimmy's Egg five stars by itself. I had the Berry Belgian Waffles with sides of bacon and hash browns topped with cheese and onions. Every meal was incredibly satisfying, and I highly recommend this spot for breakfast and brunch. The brunch menu looked inviting, with many options available. There were no downsides to our visit. The food tasted great and was reasonably priced, with breakfast bowls seasoned just right and fluffy, delicious pancakes. Coffee was excellent, with assorted creamers at the table. This was our first time there, and we all enjoyed our meals. I'm glad we stopped in during our trip from out of town. The eggs Benedict and omelet I tried were both impressive, with great flavor profiles. This location is also COVID-conscious, with a wall thermometer for screening. Overall, it was a fantastic experience.

308 N Nebraska Ave, San Juan

(956) 782-6456

I had the chance to try the buffet at Mijitos Cocina for breakfast in McAllen, and it was a delightful experience. The chicken and fideo were delicious, and the frijoles a la charra were tasty too. The cheese enchiladas were a hit, and the chalupas, although a bit cold, were still enjoyable. The selection was diverse, and my meal was accompanied by two hot flour tortillas, which were a nice touch. While the capirotada and iced tea could use a bit more flavor, the overall buffet offered great value for $13.99. The service was truly outstanding. The waitress was attentive and polite, making sure we had everything we needed. It's always a joy to dine at a place where the staff is so welcoming. Mijitos Cocina is definitely one of the best small business restaurants in San Juan, and their authentic Mexican home cooking brings back fond memories of my grandma's dishes. I even ordered a plate of enchiladas by phone to save time, and though there was a minor hiccup with the pickup, I appreciated the efficiency and speed with which my food was prepared. This spot is a favorite for weekend breakfasts or lunches, and the homemade quality of the food is undeniable. I'm looking forward to my next visit and enjoying more of their delicious offerings.

2534 E Griffin Pkwy, Mission

(956) 519-8335

We visited La Estación to celebrate a birthday, and the experience was delightful. The atmosphere of the restaurant is nice, and the food had authentic Mexican flavor. Whenever I'm in Mission, Texas, visiting my brother and his family, this place becomes a must-visit for breakfast. They offer some of the best breakfast options for miles. I ordered the French toast with eggs and bacon, which was delicious, and my niece enjoyed the huevos divorciados. Another highlight was the Cafe Lechera and the Mexican Hot Chocolate, both of which were wonderful. The wait staff was attentive and friendly, enhancing our breakfast experience. The restaurant is clean and wheelchair accessible, with a large free parking lot, making it convenient for everyone. While some dishes like the huevos rancheros seemed a bit plain and overpriced, the variety of fresh pastries, particularly the croissants, is impressive. Although the food can seem average with high prices, the beautiful interior and courteous staff make it worth a visit. I would especially recommend stopping by for their coffee and bread.

501 E 9th St, Mission

(956) 581-9600

Diaz Diner is a delightful spot for breakfast with an old-school charm that's perfect for its location in Old Mission. I've been coming here since 2016, and each visit never disappoints. The Steak Tacos plate is consistently amazing, and my partner swears by the Cheese Enchiladas Plate. The brisket plate on weekends is an absolute must-try! On my last visit with family, we all enjoyed our meals. The steak ranchero was flavorful and left me wanting a bit more heat, but that's just my taste. My dad's enchilada sauce was savory, though my mom's chicken fried steak was underwhelming, so I’d avoid the American dishes. Everything else was spot on, and the service was warm and attentive, with our waitress making sure my husband’s coffee was always full. The atmosphere is welcoming and makes you feel right at home. The nachos supreme and Western omelet were both delicious, and the chips and salsa were a tasty start to the meal. Diaz Diner is a nostalgic gem that I recommend, and I'll definitely be back for more.

1900 S 10th St, McAllen

(888) 805-0358

Boy oh boy, where do I start? The highlight of my visit to IHOP in McAllen for breakfast has to be the food. I was craving their pancake of the month, and it did not disappoint. The pancakes were simply delicious, and the rest of the breakfast was equally wonderful. The cooks really know what they're doing, and it showed in the quality of the meal. The service was fast and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal, whether you're alone or with company. If you're a pancake lover or just looking for a great breakfast spot, I highly recommend giving this place a try. The atmosphere was welcoming, and I left satisfied and ready to start my day. Overall, it's a solid choice for anyone wanting a tasty breakfast.

600 W Expy 83, McAllen

(956) 468-2935

I had heard good things about Black Bear Diner in McAllen, so I decided to give it a try for breakfast, and I'm glad I did! The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a cozy meal. The staff was incredibly attentive, especially Claudette, our server, who was friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. She made sure our drinks were always topped off and provided excellent recommendations. The food was delicious and just what you'd expect from a classic diner. I ordered eggs with bacon and a side of ham. The bacon and ham were flavorful, and the portions were generous. The pancakes were a standout, fluffy and tasty, and I highly recommend giving them a try. Despite the place being packed, we were seated quickly, and the food arrived in about 15 minutes, which was impressive. Prices were reasonable, considering the portion sizes and quality of food. It's worth noting that Art, the manager, made an effort to ensure everything was perfect and that we were having a great experience. Overall, my breakfast at Black Bear Diner was fantastic, and I look forward to returning. It's not just the great food that makes it worth a visit, but also the exceptional service from Claudette and the team. Highly recommended!

3400 W Expy 83 Ste 780, McAllen

(956) 800-6279

I enjoy dining at Corner Bakery Cafe for breakfast because of their excellent service. The staff is very helpful and friendly, always making sure you're taken care of. One standout item for me was the BLT sandwich. It had a generous portion of bacon, which I appreciated. The scrambled eggs with toast and fruit were good, and while the portion of eggs seemed smaller than at other places, they were still satisfying. The fruit was fresh, and the croissant was delicious—I’d definitely order it again. The atmosphere is pleasant, with tables usually available, even on a Sunday morning. I had a Café Latte with Oatmilk, and while I’m not a big coffee drinker, it tasted good to me. Although the tables were a bit sticky, the place didn't feel dirty at all. There were a couple of mix-ups with my order in the past, and some items could use improvement, like the Caramel Macchiato. However, I believe in giving places another chance, and I plan to try more items on their menu. Overall, the combination of friendly service and a few standout food items makes me willing to return.

2200 S 10th St, McAllen

(956) 800-5122

Casa Madre Brunch & Grill is one of the best spots in the RGV! The ambiance is fantastic, and I especially loved their berry gin. It's prepared right in front of you with three types of fresh berries—absolutely delicious. The food surprised me with how good it was. I ordered the mar y Tierra, and my boyfriend got the tampiqueña, and both dishes were amazing. Our server was attentive and did a great job. We also tried the guacamole appetizer, which was huge and totally worth it. The prices were reasonable for the quality we received, and I was surprised at how quickly the food came out. It all tasted homemade. We celebrated my wife's birthday at Casa Madre, and it was a blast! The food and staff were awesome, and the live music made the experience even more fun. We'll definitely be back! One minor downside is the parking, and there were quite a few birthdays being celebrated. However, that didn't take away from the overall experience. I highly recommend this place!

2207 S Closner Blvd, Edinburg

(956) 316-0844

El Patio Cafe is a true gem for breakfast in McAllen. This is where all the locals eat, and it feels like Mayberry with everybody knowing each other. The servers are always friendly and fast, making it a welcoming place. The food is consistently delicious, whether you're having Machacado or chicken-fried steak. It's down-home cooking at its best in the Rio Grande Valley. I've been eating here for over 23 years, and the quality hasn't changed. The staff is respectful, courteous, attentive, and professional. While some meals might take a little longer to arrive, they're always fresh and worth the wait. The Tamez family, who run the place, are incredibly nice. I highly recommend El Patio for breakfast or lunch. It's affordable, and the food is always cooked fresh. The service is great, even though I once encountered an older man at the checkout who was rude and had a bad attitude—definitely not the norm for this place. Despite that, I've been coming here since I was a kid, often with my dad, and it's hands-down the best hole-in-the-wall spot in Edinburg.

106 N Cage Blvd, Pharr

(956) 787-8868

Las Margaritas Restaurant in McAllen is a wonderful spot for breakfast that brings a taste of Mexico right to your table. The lively atmosphere, especially with live music on the weekends, makes it a fun place to relax and enjoy a meal. The decor is beautiful, and you can really feel the vibrant Mexican spirit. I've been here several times with family, and each visit has been a delight. Whether it's enchiladas, a big burrito, or their carne guisada, the food never fails to impress. Even their burgers are juicy and packed with flavor, paired perfectly with crispy fries. Recently, I tried the grilled chicken sandwich and was not disappointed. The bistec ranchero is also delicious, according to my dad. The service has always been friendly and attentive, and I appreciate being able to watch the cooks make tortillas and prepare the dishes. While the parking is a bit quirky since it's a former gas station, the overall experience more than makes up for it. Despite their name, they only serve beer, which is worth noting, but it's not a big deal given how great the food is. Barbacoa is available every day, unlike most other places, which is a fantastic find. However, there was a negative moment when I witnessed the owner yelling at the staff, which was uncomfortable and unfair to the employees. Respect and kindness should be extended to those who work hard to make our dining experiences memorable. Overall, Las Margaritas remains a top choice for its excellent food, friendly service, and enjoyable atmosphere. I'll keep coming back to explore more of their menu and soak in the wonderful ambiance.

4021 N 10th St Suite C4, McAllen

(956) 278-8270

Corner Bakery Cafe in McAllen offers a decent breakfast experience with some room for improvement. The food itself is quite good—I'd rate it a solid 9/10. The fresh fruits and tasty bread stand out, and their All American Scramble is okay, although a bit underwhelming for the price, which exceeds $10. A small addition like potatoes or hash browns would greatly enhance the value and overall satisfaction. However, there are significant issues with the atmosphere and cleanliness that detract from the experience. The tables are sticky even after cleaning attempts, and there's noticeable built-up grime. The floors are also dirty, and the scent around the condiments and drinks area is quite unpleasant. These issues make it challenging to enjoy the meal fully. The service could use some improvement, as staff seem off task, and orders don't always come out as expected. On one occasion, the sandwich I ordered was particularly disappointing, and the servers seemed unhappy with a simple request from the table next to me. The cold bacon and chocolate croissant with an odd texture and flavor added to the list of areas needing attention. In summary, while Corner Bakery Cafe has potential with its good food offerings, the overall dining experience could be greatly improved with better cleanliness and service. For now, it remains an average breakfast spot that could benefit from some management attention.

306 N McColl Rd, McAllen

(956) 631-8516

Don Pepe's is a delightful spot for breakfast in McAllen. The restaurant is beautifully designed, with charming architecture and lovely artwork that really sets the mood. Though the place wasn’t packed, the service was a bit slow at first, but it allowed us to take in the serene atmosphere. The staff, although primarily Spanish-speaking, were friendly and did their best to accommodate us despite our language barrier, which added an authentic charm to our experience. We tried a variety of items, with the Dinosaur Rib standing out as a real highlight—absolutely deserving of the hype. The breakfast options were consistently good, and while there were a few hiccups with our drink orders, they were refreshing and enjoyable nonetheless. The environment outside was also enjoyable, with a small water feature and birds adding to the peaceful ambiance—a nice touch for someone like me who appreciates nature. Though there were minor issues, like the slightly overbearing cumin in the rice, the overall quality of food was solid. Don Pepe's certainly offers a reliable and pleasant dining experience, making it a place I wholeheartedly recommend.

314 N Shary Rd, Mission

(888) 805-0314

I took my wife to IHOP in McAllen for her birthday breakfast, and we had a great experience. The staff was incredibly friendly and made her feel special on her birthday. The sautéed steak tips were wonderfully tender and packed with flavor. We also enjoyed the birthday ice cream treat, with vanilla coffee poured over it—it was a delightful surprise. The service was top-notch, thanks to our server, Letty, who was attentive and made sure our drinks were always full. We got our food quickly, and everything from the grilled chicken sandwich to the waffles was delicious. However, there were a couple of areas that could use improvement. While the chicken sandwich was yummy, the fried items like the tenders and mozzarella sticks had a bitter aftertaste, likely from old oil. It also seemed like the Nashville hot sauce on the chicken had a gritty texture, which wasn’t very appealing. Additionally, the leaking ceiling was a bit of a distraction. Despite these small issues, the overall experience was positive. We were pleased with the good food and excellent service, and we'll definitely consider coming back, especially for breakfast.

7017 N 10th St, McAllen

(956) 686-2578

Kolache Factory in McAllen is a great spot for breakfast. They offer a delicious range of options, whether you're in the mood for something sweet or savory. My favorite is the Ranchero Kolache; it has just the right amount of tanginess and a hint of heat that I love. Even when I have leftovers, they taste great. The staff is friendly and welcoming, which makes the experience even better. It's not just about the food, which is tasty and satisfying, but also about the warm service. I appreciate that they often have coupons available at HEB, which is perfect when family visits. Overall, while the atmosphere is just okay, the food definitely makes me want to come back.