Leading Breakfast Spots in Raleigh for Good Times

631 E Six Forks Rd Suite 100, Raleigh

(919) 704-3984

First Watch in Raleigh is an amazing spot for breakfast and lunch. The staff is super friendly and welcoming, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. The food is fresh, straight from farm to plate, and you can really taste the quality in every bite. I ordered an omlette with seasoned potatoes, and they were perfectly crisp. I also recommend trying their rotating seasonal dishes and drinks—they're definitely worth it. The restaurant's ambiance is beautiful, and everything is spotlessly clean, including the bathrooms. The service is top-notch with attentive servers who make sure you are well taken care of. Although I wish there were more simple options like plain biscuits and gravy for picky eaters like me, the overall food quality is outstanding. Even when I arrived close to closing time and inquired about carryout, the staff remained friendly and accommodating. They even provided ice water for my walk back to the hotel, which was a nice touch. I will definitely be returning whenever I'm in town again!

621 Hillsborough St Suite 101, Raleigh

(919) 561-5588

For my wedding anniversary breakfast, I chose to go to First Watch in Raleigh, and it was an excellent experience. The food was delicious, and our waitress gave us fantastic recommendations, helping us pick the best items on the menu. I opted for the Tri-fecta, which was perfectly cooked, and my partner enjoyed a sweet iced coffee. The decor and atmosphere of the restaurant were inviting, with open space and high ceilings, although it can get a bit noisy when busy. The environment was clean, and the plating of our food was delightful. There were plenty of options on the menu for both adventurous eaters and those with simpler tastes. The staff were polite and kind, and although there were times we had to call our waiter over, the service was generally good. The location is conveniently close to NC State and Pullen Park, and the parking validation was a bonus, saving us from hefty parking fees. While I usually avoid downtown areas, this spot isn’t too deep into Raleigh’s downtown, making it easily accessible. I loved the experience and will definitely be back. First Watch is a place I would recommend without hesitation. 5/5 stars!

6109 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh

(919) 789-3347

I discovered First Watch through Google, drawn by the many positive reviews and attractive pictures. When I visited, I tried several dishes from the menu, and overall, I enjoyed my experience. The shrimp and grits stood out as phenomenal, and I really appreciated the healthy juice options, especially the Morning Meditation, which turned out to be clean and refreshing despite my initial skepticism about the beets. The service was amazing, and the atmosphere was excellent. They offer gluten-free options, which is a plus. My wife ordered the French toast, and I tried the Ham and Gruyère sandwich. While the sandwich was good, I personally prefer my homemade version. We also tried the Million Dollar Bacon appetizer, which was alright, though not really my thing. Unfortunately, the Eggs Benedict was a letdown. The poached eggs were overcooked, and the avocado was practically inedible. It was disappointing that the quality didn’t match the price. However, our server was attentive and did his best despite the kitchen's shortcomings. The drinks were the highlight for me, and I left feeling that there’s potential for a better experience if the food quality were more consistent. If I find myself back in North Carolina, I might give them another shot, but it's not a priority for me.

1240 Farmers Market Dr, Raleigh

(919) 755-1550

Back in Raleigh visiting my brother, I knew I had to take our kids to breakfast at the State Farmers Market Restaurant. The country ham biscuit was calling my name, and it did not disappoint. Free biscuits at the table were a nice touch, but we didn't wait long for our food. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was fun, as always. Service was fast and friendly, making it a delightful experience. It's a charming, country-style restaurant right next to the incredible Farmers Market. The pulled pork, pickled beets, fried okra, and biscuits were absolutely delicious. Everything we ordered hit the mark, especially the collards and the banana pudding. During a home visit over the Fourth of July weekend, I stopped by before 10:00 a.m. and explored the market first. Although nothing caught my eye, the breakfast made up for it. Despite the line being out the door in 98-degree heat, the quick movement and fantastic southern hospitality from the hostess team stood out. I appreciated the coordinated staff in their green overalls and tops, adding to the country down-home experience. This spot is perfect for bringing visitors or newcomers to Raleigh. We sat near the hostess station, and the service was excellent. I tried the famous fried bologna biscuit with a scrambled egg and cheese grits. The biscuits were fresh and fluffy, as warned by my waitress Anne, who described them as "the size of a cat's head." They were indeed huge, so much so that I took half home for lunch. The bologna was thick and delicious, and the iced coffee was refreshing on a humid day. My neighbor enjoyed a Belgian waffle, sausage, and breakfast potatoes. I will definitely return, as the service here is top-notch. Next time, I might even try dinner.

6320 Capital Blvd Suite 130, Raleigh

(919) 900-8355

I had my very first breakfast at First Watch in Raleigh, and it was fantastic! The food was delicious and left me wanting more. From the Million Dollar Bacon to the Hawaiian French Toast, everything my wife and I ordered was spot on. She enjoyed the Sunrise Granola Bowl, and I can see why it’s a favorite. The atmosphere is laid-back and comfortable, making it perfect for a relaxing Sunday brunch. The service was exceptional, with friendly and attentive staff who made the experience even better. I was pleasantly surprised by the short wait time, despite it being a busy brunch day. This place truly has it all—amazing food, great drinks, and a welcoming vibe. I highly recommend First Watch for anyone looking for a superb breakfast spot in Raleigh. Love this place! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

7909 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh

(919) 848-1310

New York Bagels & Deli in Raleigh truly lives up to its name and delivers an authentic New York deli experience. Their bagels are fantastic, with a firm outer crust and a soft, chewy center. The jalapeno cheese bagel was a standout, and the sun-dried tomato bagel was absolutely delicious—one of their best, in my opinion. The real star, though, has to be their black and white cookie. It's more like a cake than a cookie, and it reminded me of the ones I used to get on trips to New York. If you have a sweet tooth, you won't be disappointed. The staff is friendly and incredibly efficient. Even if there's a line, it moves quickly, and the prices are reasonable. We spent around $25 for a couple dozen bagels with cream cheese. One time, my order was incorrect, but they quickly fixed it, gave me the right sandwich, and even refunded part of my money, which really impressed me. I've just moved to Raleigh, and I think I've found my go-to sandwich shop. I also tried their garlic herb cream cheese and a cheese Danish. The bagels were really fresh, the cream cheese was delicious, and the Danish had a delightful crunchy topping. I'd love to try their lunch menu next, especially since they use Boar's Head products, which I love. There's both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a great spot on a nice day. It's always fairly busy, which is a good sign that others enjoy it too. It's hard to believe this place doesn’t have a perfect 5-star rating. Easily the best bagel in Raleigh by a long shot. Pro Tip: Freeze the fresh bagels, run them under water, and bake at around 300°F for about 10 minutes. It's way better than eating them after a couple of days. You should definitely visit this place.

5111 Western Blvd, Raleigh

(919) 859-9990

Pam's Farmhouse Restaurant is a true gem in the heart of Raleigh. As soon as I walked in, I felt like I was at my grandmother's house, enjoying a warm, homemade breakfast. The atmosphere is cozy, reminiscent of a country store where locals gather before starting their day. Every time I’m in Raleigh, I make it a point to have breakfast here. The food is simply awesome—true country cooking at its best. Miss Tanya took excellent care of us, and you can’t go wrong with the hot cake; it’s a must-try! From the first greeting by a cheerful staff member to meeting Pam, the wonderful owner, the experience was filled with warmth and hospitality. The coffee is great, served in charming Mason jars, and the breakfast hits the spot: perfectly cooked eggs, smoky bacon, and delicious French toast. The huge pancake is a sweet delight, and the fresh tomato slices and warm biscuits rounded out the meal perfectly. Pam's Farmhouse has been running for 29 years, and it’s easy to see why. It’s not just the food and the decor, but also the patrons and staff that create a welcoming environment. I’m thrilled to have discovered this place and plan on visiting often. Just a heads-up—they don’t accept cards, but there’s an ATM available. I wholeheartedly recommend Pam's Farmhouse Restaurant for anyone seeking excellent country food and service. You’ll feel right at home here!

Corners Shopping Center, 5009 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh

(919) 747-9533

I wasn't sure what to expect after reading some of the Google reviews, but I was pleasantly surprised by my visit to Big Ed's North Restaurant in Raleigh. The service was prompt and welcoming, making me feel right at home. I decided to try the hamburger steak plate, and it was mouthwatering. The mac & cheese was creamy and decadent, while the collards were seasoned perfectly. Denise, my waitress, was wonderful and really enhanced my experience. It's a family-friendly spot that's great for gathering with family and friends. The large portion sizes and excellent service make it a place worth visiting. Thank you, Ivan, for making Big Ed’s a standout experience! On my second visit, Daja provided excellent service with great recommendations. I tried the burger and the homemade spiced apples, both of which were delightful. Kitty at the register was friendly and efficient, adding to the positive atmosphere. Big Ed's never disappoints with its consistent service and excellent food, making it a favorite place to dine out. While I did encounter some confusion during a crowded brunch with a large group, the biscuits were perfect, and the staff was accommodating, even brewing a fresh batch of coffee when needed. Though the food was just okay, the fun we had together made up for it. Big Ed's had been on my list for a while, and despite the food not fully living up to expectations on one visit, the overall experience, hard-working staff, and potential for off days make me hopeful for future visits.

8111 Creedmoor Rd Suite 169, Raleigh

(919) 870-0994

Brigs Great Beginnings Restaurant is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Raleigh. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal. The service is outstanding—attentive, friendly, and quick. On my last visit, I ordered the Ultimate Omelet, and it was delicious, packed with fresh ingredients and cooked perfectly. The portion size was generous, and every bite was satisfying. If you're looking for a hearty breakfast or a casual place to catch up with friends, this is a must-visit. I also tried the griddle combo with chocolate chip pancakes, scrambled eggs, and bacon, and my partner had the works omelet with French toast. Our food came out quickly, was hot, and full of flavor. The server was knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even better. I'm definitely planning to return to try more of their menu options.

4233 Corners Pkwy Suite 230, Raleigh

(919) 399-9040

I visited First Watch in Raleigh for brunch this past weekend and loved it. The service was excellent, and my meal was hot and mostly delicious. The new fall menu is out, and I tried the honey roasted brussels sprout bowl, which was fresh and tasty. It's always exciting to see what new dishes they come up with, and they never disappoint. I did have a couple of minor issues. The oatmeal lacked flavor and the consistency was off, so I won't be ordering that again. Also, when I ordered eggs Benedict, they came hard-boiled, which I don't prefer. Aaron, our server, did his best, but it seemed like there was a little slip in the kitchen. I also requested a fresh avocado, and they brought another piece from the same fruit with a few black spots. Despite these small problems, First Watch remains one of my favorite breakfast spots. The ambiance is upbeat and friendly, and the diverse menu offers something new and exciting each visit. The Corners Parkway location in Brier Creek is particularly wonderful because it’s less busy, making the experience even better. Their special dishes, like the pastrami breakfast sandwich and Seoul Hash skillet, are always a hit. Just a small suggestion: ensure the coffee carafe at the table is hot rather than just warm. Overall, I'll definitely be back the next time I'm in the area.

10 E Hargett St, Raleigh

(919) 836-1204

When I think of a local coffee shop, Morning Times is exactly what comes to mind. We visited during our anniversary trip, and it was just perfect. They have a simple breakfast biscuit with bacon, egg, and cheese that's delightful, and the hot mocha was spot on. The server was incredibly friendly and even surprised us with a free cookie for our anniversary—such a thoughtful gesture! The prices were fair, and the portions were just right, making my morning better. We enjoyed a quick brunch there, where I tried the grit bowl and shared some tater tots with a friend. Even though the fried chicken wasn’t my favorite, everything else was delicious. My caramel cappuccino was a highlight—so good! The food and coffee drinks were very good, and service was quick once we ordered, although the queue was a bit slow. I also had a chance to try the French toast and omelet, which were both perfect. The iced latte was excellent too. The atmosphere was quirky, and although there was some wall work happening upstairs, it seemed intentional. There's a small space to order and seating both upstairs and outside, and the staff were nice despite the line to get in. Overall, Morning Times was a beautiful spot to enjoy breakfast. The outdoor seating made for a lovely morning. I’m looking forward to visiting again, just maybe not for the French toast.

2900 Spring Forest Rd Suite #104, Raleigh

(919) 977-3679

Spring Cafe is a gem for breakfast in Raleigh. It was lively and bustling on a Monday morning, but I didn’t mind the wait. The French toast with turkey sausage and scrambled eggs was delicious, and the turkey bacon was perfectly cooked and seasoned. Coming back for more is a given. On my first visit with a friend at 11AM, even at the end of their breakfast rush, we only waited about 15 minutes. The staff was friendly and hardworking. My omelet was excellent, and my friend enjoyed a tasty philly. Everything was fresh and priced reasonably. This place has become a favorite for a classic diner-style breakfast or lunch, and I've never been disappointed. I love their daily specials featuring dishes like chicken and dumplings or liver and onions—rare finds around here. This cozy spot feels like a lucky discovery on this side of town, and my partner and I frequent it often. It's a humble, no-frills diner with great prices and quick service. Seats are usually available, even when it's busy. It feels like a family-operated business, which adds to the charm. If you're looking for comfort food in a diner setting without the crowds, this cafe is definitely worth a visit.

2016 Clark Ave, Raleigh

(919) 833-6924

Flying Biscuit Cafe is a fantastic breakfast spot, and it's easy to see why it's so popular. Be ready for a wait during peak times, though; we were there for about two hours before getting seated. Despite the long line, the staff was nothing short of amazing—quick, organized, and super friendly even with the crowd. Once we got our table, the food made it all worthwhile. The biscuits are everything they're hyped up to be—light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. The menu offers a great variety, and everything we tried was delicious. My omelette was spot on, and the creamy grits with added cheese were a highlight. The service was excellent throughout. The place was quite loud; it's definitely buzzing with energy as everyone chats over their meals. If I lived in Raleigh, I'd be here often. I had an amazing breakfast, perfect before heading to a wine trade show. The bartender was friendly and attentive, and the food came out quickly. I wished I wasn't traveling so I could take leftovers. The playlist added to the fun vibe, mixing fresh and nostalgic tunes. I'll be back every time I'm in town. There are no frills—what you see is what you get at a decent price. My wife loved her biscuit sandwich, calling it a great deal. The complimentary biscuits were fantastic, but doubling up on them might be too much. Overall, Flying Biscuit Cafe gave me a memorable and delightful breakfast experience.

8315 Creedmoor Rd, Raleigh

(919) 848-4808

I stumbled upon Creedmoor Cafe by chance, and it truly is a wonderful hidden gem. The ham is the best I've had in a long time, and the service was prompt, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff. If you're unsure what to order, the big breakfast platter is a perfect choice. It's a family-run place with very pleasant employees. The menu has excellent options, including gluten-free toast, baklava, large muffins, and danishes. It's a sweet little find in a strip mall, and I highly recommend it for "home-cooked" food. It was busier than I expected for a Friday morning at 10:30, a sure sign that the food and service are great. A special thanks to Kanisha, our server, for making our experience personal and enjoyable. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, and we chose to sit outside. The chicken and waffles were good, and the omelette and home fries were even better. All the servers were friendly and attentive, and we'll definitely return for more. We initially walked in for a latte, not realizing it was a sit-down cafe. We were greeted warmly and decided to try some coffee and breakfast. Although we didn't get our latte, the food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The dishes have a Greek influence, with items like Feta, Gyro, and Baklava, which I found delightful. I overheard someone mention that the cafe had won an award, which doesn't surprise me. I will definitely be back to try the other non-breakfast items. It's worth overlooking the worn booth seats; they just signify how great the food is.

8710 Glenwood Ave # 104, Raleigh

(919) 787-7715

Sunny's Diner is my go-to spot in Raleigh for breakfast. It's affordable, kid-friendly, and offers simple diner food that's perfect for the whole family. The atmosphere is casual and comfortable, making it an easy choice for any meal. While it can get busy, I prefer stopping by after the lunch rush to enjoy a more relaxed experience. The diner is fantastic if you're looking to avoid the fuss of fancy restaurants but still want good food. It's great for spontaneous family meals, meeting up with friends, or just a quick bite after visiting Umstead. Plus, you can't beat the value here. For just $7.50, I got two pieces of French toast, two sausage links, and two fried eggs! The service could be a bit quicker, but overall, it's quite decent. Located just off Glenwood Avenue, Sunny's has a wide menu with plenty of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. On one visit, I grabbed a Breakfast BLT at the bar area, and I was impressed by its size and taste for only $6.99. The coffee was also a steal at $2.99 for a large cup. The owner, who seemed to be running the place while making the food, was incredibly friendly and committed to getting everything right. Sunny's Diner may not look like much from the outside, but it's truly a hidden gem run by some of the nicest people you'll ever meet. I've had meals here that easily top anything I've had at bigger chains like Denny's or IHOP. Since it's right in my neighborhood, I'll definitely be back often!

1550 Buck Jones Rd, Raleigh

(919) 469-3663

Walking into The Shiny Diner feels like stepping into a time machine! The retro charm hits you right away, with classic jukeboxes playing, cozy vintage bar stools, and booths inviting you to sit and relax. The centerpiece of the room is a massive cake display, while a milkshake machine hums in the background, adding to the nostalgia. The menu is extensive, though vegetarians might find limited options—so keep that in mind! We went with the veggie omelettes—one served with an English muffin and the other with white toast. Both came with the crispiest hash browns, perfectly golden brown and delicious. Pairing the meal with hot, fresh coffee and a strawberry milkshake to share made the whole experience even sweeter. The portions were generous, and the food was fantastic, full of flavor and warmth. Service was impressively quick and efficient, making the meal even more enjoyable. We’ll definitely be back, and next time, we’re bringing friends & family. It is such a cute restaurant with helpful staff and delicious food! I got a Belgium Waffle, two scrambled eggs, and two sides of crispy bacon. The Belgium Waffle was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It was delicious! Lydia got two pancakes, a side of grits, a side of bacon, and an orange juice. We had a wonderful experience here and we did not have to wait long for our food despite the restaurant being full. Our server was Spirit! She was so kind and helpful, especially when explaining the menu to us. She remembered to check on us regularly. Lydia and I both have diagnosed stomach issues and were worried that the food might be greasy. It was not and neither of our stomachs were upset after. We both thoroughly enjoyed our visit to The Shiny Diner and will definitely be visiting this restaurant again!

530 Daniels St, Raleigh

(984) 200-6966

Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken in Raleigh Village District is a solid spot for breakfast. I had the chance to try their offerings when they catered for our workplace, and it was a hit with everyone. The food was fresh, and the quality was top-notch. I decided to order a few things, as it was my first visit. The loaded protein box with tots and chicken tenders was excellent. The eggs were perfectly scrambled, and the chicken was juicy and flavorful. The hot honey butter chicken on a cheddar biscuit stood out as my favorite. The combination of sweet and spicy chicken on a cheddar biscuit is hard to beat—definitely among the top biscuits I've ever tasted. The maple bacon donut was enjoyable, with the generous amount of bacon being a highlight. Although it wasn't the best donut I've ever had, it was still quite satisfying. The service was impressively quick, much quicker than the Holly Springs location I usually visit. While the tables being on a hill was a bit quirky, it didn't detract from the experience. The convenience of ordering online and using their grab-and-go cubby system is a huge plus, keeping the food warm and ready for pickup. The only downside is the small size of the location, which can feel cramped when it's busy. But that speaks to their popularity more than anything. Overall, it's a great spot to build your own biscuit or enjoy a quick meal, and it's definitely worth checking out if you haven't already.

1818 Oberlin Rd #103, Raleigh

(984) 200-1605

Idle Hour Coffee Roasters in Raleigh is a cute and cozy spot, perfect for working or relaxing with a friend. The vibe is chill, and the customer service is excellent. The food surprised me with its artistic presentation, especially the mushroom dish and apple dessert. The matcha latte was spot-on. It's a cozy place with a variety of drink choices and tempting desserts. Marlee provided fantastic service, supported by her coworkers Gabi and Julia. I absolutely loved the pumpkin spice oatmilk latte and wish it was available year-round. The banana bread varies but is generally good, while other desserts excel in both taste and presentation. They offer an array of coffee flavorings. The Viet iced coffee is decent, and although the banh mi has great flavors, it's not quite perfect. The staff is friendly, and the decor is snazzy. While not overloaded with charging ports, there are enough for some to get their work done. The coffee and donuts here are excellent, and the flowers outside add a beautiful touch. It's an ideal place for a productive Sunday afternoon.

160 Park at N Hills St Ste 127, Raleigh

(919) 307-8195

I visited Another Broken Egg Cafe in Raleigh for breakfast and was pleasantly surprised by the experience. Despite arriving an hour before closing, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, which set a positive tone for the meal. The staff were friendly and attentive, managing to provide good service even as they began to wind down for the day. The standout for me was the strawberry pound cake french toast. It was flavorful and complemented perfectly by the syrup on the side. The coffee was also excellent, a perfect pick-me-up to start the day. While I can see how some might find fault with certain dishes or service aspects during busy times, my experience was enjoyable and met my expectations for a breakfast spot. I particularly enjoyed the outdoor seating, which added a pleasant touch to the meal. Overall, it was a good visit, and I look forward to returning to try more items on their menu.