May 29, 2025

Excellent Breakfasts in Modesto: For a Yummy Time

Enjoy the tastiest breakfasts in Modesto, where friendly places serve delicious pancakes, fluffy eggs, and crispy bacon sizzling on the griddle. These special morning meals will make you smile and start your day.

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

Looking for a tasty breakfast in Modesto? You can sample delicious griddle-cooked dishes made with time-honored cooking styles. Many places have a cozy, welcoming style where you can enjoy pancakes, waffles, and omelets.

Mr T's Delicate Donut Shop

3507 Tully Rd #330, Modesto

(209) 522-1614

Reviewed by:

Chris Little

My partner took me to Mr. T's Delicate Donut Shop to prove it's way better than the place I used to love back in high school. When we walked in, I was amazed by the friendly service and the unique vibe of the shop. This place is hands-down the best donut spot in Modesto! The donuts are incredible, and supporting this local business is a no-brainer. I've already been twice in one week, and they impress every time. You have to try the blueberry fritters—they’re fluffy inside and perfectly crisp outside. The Bavarian cream filling is heavenly, and the banana fritters and classic glazed donuts are also delicious. Mr. T's is a local favorite, and rightfully so. You don’t need to visit any other chain when you have this gem. It’s open 24 hours, so I sometimes pop in at 3 a.m. for a little happiness. The donuts are affordable, fresh, and never stale. They don't take credit cards, just a heads-up. The shop is super cute, always clean, with easy parking. The prices are fair, and the selection is vast. Their cinnamon rolls are huge—perfect for sharing. Even the coffee is great. The staff is always welcoming, and there's rarely a long line. Trust me, you'll be glad you stopped by.

Giacomo's Espresso

525 Scenic Dr, Modesto

(209) 248-7915

Reviewed by:

Dort Hightower

I've been going to Giacomo's Espresso for breakfast in Modesto for years, and they truly are the BEST when it comes to coffee. They have a fantastic variety of unique drinks and plenty of sugar-free options, including flavored whipped cream. It feels great to support a small local business instead of the big chains, and you definitely won't be disappointed. I went today with a friend, and she ordered an iced coffee that looked amazing—worth every penny. I got an Italian soda and learned that you need to specify if you want cream. I was initially disappointed by the lack of cream, but I realize now it's just a communication thing. Despite this minor hiccup, the coffee here is outstanding. We even bought coffee beans, and let me tell you, the quality is unmatched. Honestly, Giacomo's is better than Starbucks, and their prices are competitive too. This place has become our new happy spot for its quality coffee without any bitter aftertaste. Keep up the great work, Giacomo's!

Sam's Cafe

3052 5th St A, Ceres

(209) 538-7988

Reviewed by:

Cynthia James

I can't say enough about how good the food is at Sam's Cafe in Modesto! The Denver Omelette with country potatoes and biscuit with gravy was a delicious start to my day, and the corned beef hash was equally incredible. The portions are huge, just the way I like them, and the prices are very reasonable. The chicken fried steak is phenomenal—soft, tender, and packed with flavor. The service is amazing, and the staff is attentive and friendly. The cafe is clean and welcoming, making it our new favorite breakfast spot. Even when I don't have time to pack lunch for work, I stop by Sam's Cafe for a to-go order. Their tuna sandwich or BLT always hits the spot, especially with the fresh daily potato salad or classic French fries. I highly recommend Sam's Cafe for anyone looking for great food and amazing service. Just be prepared to wait a bit because it's popular, but it's well worth it!

Huckleberry's Breakfast & Lunch

4642 Kiernan Ave, Salida

(209) 543-3703

Reviewed by:

Yanira Miles

During my visit to Huckleberry's Breakfast & Lunch in Modesto, I had a genuinely enjoyable experience. The first time my family and I had been to a Huckleberry's, we were impressed by both the delicious food and excellent service at the Salida location. We tried a variety of dishes, including the catfish and fries, California chicken sandwich, and I had the Monte Cristo. Everything came out hot, flavorful, and in generous portions. Our server was attentive and friendly, which added to the pleasant atmosphere of the restaurant. The quiche, with its nice spinach filling, was delightful, even though the crust could have been a bit better. My friend's egg tater and toast were decent, though the hash brown was slightly oily. The Huckleberry mimosa was amazing and a definite highlight of the meal. Overall, Huckleberry's offered a decent American diner experience with an adorable atmosphere and quick service. Despite minor imperfections, the experience was positive, and I look forward to returning. If you haven't tried this restaurant yet, I encourage you to give it a go!

Baker Boy Donuts

2043 Tully Rd, Modesto

(209) 527-5028

Reviewed by:

Rodriguez Solis

I absolutely loved my experience at Baker Boy Donuts for breakfast in Modesto. The new owners have truly revamped the place with their fantastic recipes. The donuts are incredibly fresh and soft, and the breakfast food tastes like it's homemade—just delicious! The shop itself is clean and spacious, with a comfortable area to sit and enjoy your meal. Plus, the music playing in the background added a nice touch to the atmosphere. The staff is super friendly and welcoming, making the experience even better. I wholeheartedly recommend this shop to everyone looking for a great start to their morning. Don't miss out on their special holiday deals, like the buy one dozen get one donut free offer. I'm really looking forward to when they reopen on October 8th!

Huckleberry's Breakfast & Lunch

2213 Yosemite Blvd, Modesto

(209) 527-0872

Reviewed by:

Yakira Hernandez

Even on a busy weekend, we were seated fairly quickly at Huckleberry's Breakfast & Lunch in Modesto. I was grateful to sit by a window to keep my toddler entertained. The food came out fast and was quite good. A few weeks back, I came with a friend and the food, along with the drinks, was still delicious. Being from the South, I have to say it doesn't quite compare to Southern cooking, especially the gumbo. But Huckleberry's does have some great options for breakfast in Modesto. The stuffed French toast is one of my favorites. This time, I ordered the Dixieland Steak Skillet, and it was huge—enough to feed me until the next day! It could have used more BBQ sauce and a touch more love, but it was still good. Adding a side of the Creole sauce was a smart move; I could put it on almost anything. I'd rate the food about 3.5 to 4 out of 5, but the service was the real standout. The staff was super fast and friendly, making the experience even better. Huckleberry's is a great place for family outings or a casual date night. The meals are a bit pricey but worth it for the taste and service. However, I tried their new Voodoo Chicken, and it was a letdown. The dish consists of two biscuits topped with fried chicken, scrambled eggs, and their Voodoo Sauce, which is just Stone Ground mustard. It didn't work well with the eggs and chicken; plus, the chicken breast was the driest I've ever had. Despite usually loving this location, the long wait and that dish left me a bit disappointed.

Posh Bagel

3501 McHenry Ave # B2, Modesto

(209) 526-8454

Reviewed by:

Lily Hardy

I spent about 15 minutes at Posh Bagel and found the service to be quick and easy. They offer two ordering options: self-ordering or ordering at the front with a cashier. I chose to self-order, and it was straightforward. The seating is a bit limited since it's a small place. It was my first visit, and my order consisted of five bagels. The staff member who helped me was really nice and spoke Spanish, which added to a positive experience. I ordered the veggie delight for myself, and it was really good. While my mom's pizza bagel wasn't the best, and my caramel macchiato tasted a bit off, overall I was pleased. This shop may be small without any fancy frills, but it delivers quick service and delicious food. There's a wide selection of fresh bagels baked daily, and the menu features both breakfast and lunch options with fresh, flavorful sandwiches. They also offer freshly brewed teas and milk teas with or without boba. It does get busy during lunch hours, so using their app or calling ahead is a good idea. I tried the cinnamon bagel with butter, and it was cooked perfectly with just the right amount of butter. The hazelnut macchiato was also good. I definitely recommend this place and can't wait to try more from their menu!

The Fruit Yard

7948 Yosemite Blvd, Modesto

(209) 577-3093

Reviewed by:

Viviana Rosson

My husband and sister often visit The Fruit Yard for breakfast, so I thought I'd share some of our favorites. If you go on Mondays, the Homemade Corned Beef and Cabbage is a must-try with perfect spices and generous portions. On Wednesdays, their prime rib special is delicious. Every day, those of us of a certain age can order from the Senior menu, which offers just the right portions at great prices ($12-15 for most items). Adding a trip to the Salad Bar for $6 makes for a fantastic meal without spending too much. Our experience with the service has been excellent, especially with our waiter Gabriel, who was funny, professional, and attentive even on a busy night. While I didn't find the unlimited beef ribs extraordinary, the overall dining experience was wonderful. The red snapper and broiled chicken come highly recommended, thanks to Gabriel's spot-on suggestions. The restaurant does have a bit of a touristy vibe with its variety of items for sale, but it's worth a visit if you're in the area. You might find some unique gifts or hard-to-find products. Despite the drive, it's a fun spot, and we'll definitely be back soon!

Perko's Cafe

3848 McHenry Ave # 510, Modesto

(209) 577-4533

Reviewed by:

Michael Zeboony

My inaugural visit to Perko's Cafe for breakfast was truly delightful. From the moment I walked in, I was warmly welcomed and quickly seated. The service was outstanding, with our waitress being both attentive and friendly, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The food, served promptly and at just the right temperature, was good overall. While I found the prices a bit high for what you get, especially when thinking about how much food costs have gone up, the quality was commendable. I tried the strawberry lemonade, which was refreshing and delicious. The freshly brewed coffee was a nice touch, as it was replenished throughout the meal without me having to ask. The atmosphere was pleasant, although I did notice that the decor could use a bit of an update. Even though I only dined here once, I am looking forward to returning and trying something different next time. The orange juice was fresh, and the cleanliness of the place added to the positive experience. Overall, Perko's Cafe offers good food, excellent service, and a lovely atmosphere, making it a place I'd be happy to visit again. Thanks to the staff for making my first visit so nice!

My Garden Cafe

3507 Tully Rd #40, Modesto

(209) 523-0184

Reviewed by:

Daniel Q Franco

We found My Garden Cafe at the Standiford/Tully location and have been going back several times now for breakfast. It's quickly become a favorite spot for us. The menu is extensive, and they serve everything all day, which is a big plus. I enjoyed the South of the Border tri-tip sandwich with a side salad, and my husband loved his Enchilada omelette with tater tots. Both were delicious, and we highly recommend trying them. We've also heard good things about the chocolate gravy—it sounds unusual, but we're told it's really good. I usually go for the farm house skillet, and it's consistently pretty good. The waffles are impressively large, and the coffee is always refilled promptly, which is great for a Sunday morning. We’ve made it a part of our regular Sunday routine before heading to church, except when we're out of town or not feeling well. The only downside has been our experience with one particular waitress. We've had some small issues with her service, like mix-ups with orders and a bit of a rushed dining experience. It’s slightly frustrating when these happen, but the overall quality of the food and the welcoming atmosphere make up for it. In the future, we’ll just ask to sit in a different section. Despite these minor hiccups, My Garden Cafe remains a solid choice for breakfast with a variety of standard options like skillets, omelettes, oatmeal, and waffles. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth a visit.

Hot Rod Diner

1515 Herndon Rd, Ceres

(209) 581-0150

Reviewed by:

Maria Beverly

Fantastic Diner! The food was exceptional, and the service and staff were super friendly. It's a very popular place, and I can see why! I was deciding between here and Denny's, which I love because it's a sure thing, but I'm so glad I took a chance on this place. We love coming here! The omelettes are huge compared to other diners and more affordable. The atmosphere is very welcoming and family-friendly. I love seeing some of the kids working here, teaching them responsibility at a young age. The food we ordered arrived quickly, and the quality was impressive. I especially enjoyed the taste and texture of the teriyaki burger paired with jalapeño poppers—it made the meal even better. Overall, the experience is one we look forward to revisiting. We come here twice a month because the food is great. My only critique is that the service could be improved a bit. It's sometimes hard to get a drink refill, especially coffee, and I don't love paying $4 for a single cup of regular coffee. Despite that, we continue to go back because the food is consistently good.

Huckleberry's Breakfast & Lunch

901 N Carpenter Rd, Modesto

(209) 529-3100

Reviewed by:

Nate Riandez

I had a great experience at Huckleberry's Breakfast & Lunch in Modesto. Even with many large parties, we were seated fairly quickly. The staff was really nice, and the food was delicious. I always get my food promptly, and I'm happy with the results. The poached eggs could use some work, as they were overdone, and the honeydew tasted a bit off. The decor is interesting, blending Cajun cuisine with a California twist. The shrimp po boy sandwich was pretty good, with lots of shrimp, but a bit dry, so I'd recommend asking for some sauce. Cleanliness could be improved, as the sticky doors and the men's room were less than ideal. Parking can be tricky during busy times, but overall, it's a nice spot for breakfast or lunch.

Farmer Boys

1701 Prescott Rd, Modesto

(209) 408-0735

Reviewed by:

Iker Roman

During a work trip to Modesto, I was thrilled to find a Farmer Boys nearby. Being familiar with their locations in Southern California, I was eager to visit. I went with my usual order, the barbecue ranch chicken salad, but switched the grilled chicken for fried chicken. It's consistently the best "fast food" salad out there. The service was excellent—I was greeted and my order was taken immediately. The staff was friendly and got everything right. I barely had to wait for my salad, and it was just as delicious as always. The place was clean and welcoming, making it a definite stop anytime I'm in Modesto. Besides the salad, I tried the sourdough chicken avocado sandwich. It was huge, tasty, and had real avocado and a hearty piece of chicken breast. The onion rings were probably the best in town, and the strawberry milkshake was blended with real strawberries, which was a treat. The burgers, fries, and especially the breakfast burritos are fantastic. The fish and chips, zucchini, and iced tea were impressive too. The staff and management are accommodating and polite, ensuring a pleasant visit each time. I'm a fan of their coffee as well. Overall, the food is consistently great, making Farmer Boys a must-visit.

Perko's Cafe

3500 Oakdale Rd, Modesto

(209) 551-3500

Reviewed by:

Rosa Figueroa

Perko's Cafe in Modesto is always a favorite spot for breakfast. The staff is friendly and the service is consistently good, which makes it a nice place to return to time and again. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, which sets a great tone for a morning meal. Today's special was homemade corned beef hash. While it didn't measure up to Black Bear Diner's version, it was still decent. I opted for the Motherlode omelette and pancakes; they were fine, nothing too extraordinary, but the speed at which they were prepared and served was impressive. The cafe was quiet, which made for a relaxing dining experience. The to-go order felt a bit lacking, but overall, the experience was pleasant enough that I would consider bringing my whole family for breakfast next time. It's a great spot for a late breakfast, and the atmosphere makes it worth the visit. Yummy!

Panera Bread

2103 McHenry Ave A, Modesto

(209) 900-6525

Reviewed by:

Papito Robling

I had a great experience at Panera Bread in Modesto for breakfast. We were there for a late evening get-together to celebrate my daughter's birthday and tried a few different soups. Our usual favorites, the tomato soup and broccoli cheddar, were delicious as always. My mom tried the Autumn Squash soup, which wasn't quite to her taste as it lacked flavor and had a watery consistency. The seating area was spacious, and it was nice not to feel crowded. It was my first time visiting Panera Bread, and I was impressed with the value duet menu. For just $7.99, I got a tuna sandwich and creamy tomato soup. While the tuna sandwich could've used a bit more flavor, the creamy tomato soup was tasty, though I would have preferred it to be served hotter. The presentation of the meal was appealing, with a nicely sized cup of soup accompanied by croutons and a chunk of baguette. The staff was incredibly friendly and patient, and they did a great job accommodating my special request. The quick service was a bonus, making it easy to grab a bite without worrying about being late for work. Although the signage for picking up online orders could be clearer, the staff followed my instructions well, and the soup was hot and delicious. Overall, this location did a better job with my order than the one in Turlock. The fresh food and good service make Panera Bread in Modesto a place I’d happily return to.

Maria's Taco Shop

2083 W Orangeburg Ave, Modesto

(209) 571-8632

Reviewed by:

Jeff Leitenberger

Maria's Taco Shop in Modesto has become one of my go-to spots whenever I'm in the area, especially for breakfast. It's one of those places you might stumble upon late at night when nothing else is open, and to your delight, it's better than expected. The food is consistently good and offers great value. One thing I appreciate is their fast service, even with a steady stream of DoorDashers coming in and out. The vegetarian options are impressive, and I can't get enough of their guacamole and chips—definitely a must-try. The fish burritos are another favorite of mine, and the fact that they're open 27 hours means you can indulge at almost any time. The atmosphere is charmingly nostalgic, as the shop looks like an old Taco Bell, which brings back some great memories. I also like that there's no pressure to tip via an iPad; there's simply a tip jar on the counter if you feel inclined, and I always do. For some good home-style Mexican food, Maria's Taco Shop is a solid choice.

Bob's Coffee Shop

2908 E Whitmore Ave Suite B, Ceres

(209) 538-9048

Reviewed by:

Maribel Alcocer

Came here by recommendation from a friend, and I'm so glad I did! As soon as I walked in, I was warmly greeted, which was perfect because it was quite chilly outside. The cozy atmosphere inside made me feel right at home. I was quickly seated without any wait time, and they let me choose where I wanted to sit. The service was fantastic. The waitress was attentive and asked questions to make sure everything was just right. After taking my order, she checked in on me at the perfect times. I ordered the chilaquiles and steak picado, and the food arrived promptly. It was absolutely delicious, with no complaints on taste. Prices were reasonable too, which is always a plus. Overall, Bob's Coffee Shop is a great spot for breakfast if you're looking for a tasty meal and reasonable prices. The service was spot-on, and the food was wonderful. I'm definitely coming back and recommending this place to friends and family!

Denny's

2052 W Orangeburg Ave, Modesto

(866) 984-5949

Reviewed by:

Courtnee Rafael

I went in today for breakfast at Denny's, and it was a delightful experience! The menu offered a fantastic variety of options, making it hard to choose. I opted for the classic Country Fried Steak with pancakes, and it did not disappoint. The coffee was nice and hot. Service was very pleasant. I visited Denny's on Orangeburg Avenue in Modesto, and it was fantastic! From the moment I walked in, Angela was friendly, attentive, and welcoming. She made sure we were comfortable and had everything we needed, checking in regularly but not intrusively. The food was fresh, hot, and perfectly prepared. Every dish was exactly as ordered, and the portions were generous. I was impressed by how quickly our food arrived, even though the restaurant was fairly busy. The restaurant was clean and well-maintained, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Overall, Denny's on Orangeburg delivered exceptional service and quality, making it a great spot for a casual meal. I highly recommend this location to anyone looking for great food and friendly service in Modesto!

IHOP

2098 W Orangeburg Ave, Modesto

(209) 342-9065

Reviewed by:

Catalina Polanski

I visited IHOP in Modesto for an early dinner, and I was genuinely impressed with the experience. The food was delicious, and both my spouse and I were thrilled with our dishes. I ordered the beef sirloin tips, and it was cooked perfectly. The rest of the family enjoyed pancakes, eggs, and bacon. The kids were especially delighted with the face-decorated pancakes and appreciated the price discount. The presentation of the meals was lovely, and the atmosphere made us feel right at home. This visit reminded me of why I enjoy IHOP so much. We highly recommend it and will definitely be returning.

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