Awesome Breakfast Spots in Riverside Loved by Locals

6734 Brockton Ave, Riverside

(951) 686-4400

Kraemer's Koffee Bistro in Riverside is a great spot for coffee lovers like me. The vibe is wonderful, and despite being busy, it’s a cozy place to hang out. I tried the cold brew topped with vanilla cream cheese cold foam and Cocoa Puffs, and it was fantastic. I intended to take it home, but it was so good that I finished it during my drive. It’s a delightful way to spend a hot afternoon. When I visited with friends, we enjoyed some delicious tea in a comfortable, family-friendly setting. The sandwiches were tasty, and they took care to prepare them just the way we liked. However, I’ve had mixed experiences with food orders. While the coffee drinks are a 10/10, the food can be inconsistent. The bread for sandwiches hasn't always been toasted, which is unusual. I usually stick to a basic toasted bagel now, as there are extra charges for any toppings. I've noticed that sometimes orders aren’t prioritized in the order they're received, especially when ordering online. On one occasion, people who ordered after me received their food first. When I finally got my bagel, it was missing butter, which added to the frustration. Despite these issues, the place is popular with regulars, and I still go there often for the amazing coffee.

6160 Arlington Ave STE C9, Riverside

(951) 977-9847

TOASTED INC is the kind of mom and pop coffee shop that I absolutely love, and it truly hit the mark for me. They serve real food, not just pastries, and that's a huge plus. I particularly enjoyed their eggs over potato with pesto and feta – delicious! Their bread, which is made in-house, is a standout, and the coffee is spot on. The atmosphere is inviting, with great decor and a friendly staff that makes you feel right at home. You can tell they put a lot of heart into their work, which makes me sure they’ll keep getting better. It’s definitely a place I want to support. A heads up, though: the seating is limited, so it can be tough to find a spot during the busy breakfast hours, especially with people working on their laptops over just a cup of coffee. But knowing this now, I’ll plan accordingly. The avocado toast is a must-try, made with their fresh, warm sourdough. Their "2 Fried Pesto Eggs" dish is highly recommended for first-timers, and a little less chili pepper flakes is great if you’re not into heat. My husband loved the rosemary garlic bread on the Garden Toast, though a bit more flavor could make it perfect. And the lattes! The Rosemary Orange Latte was a surprising and refreshing combo. While the Campfire Latte wasn't quite what we expected, combining lavender and mint was interesting (if a bit reminiscent of bath bombs for me). Overall, TOASTED INC is a cozy spot with welcoming employees and fantastic food and drinks. It's one of those places you almost want to keep secret, but it’s too good not to share.

6951 Flight Rd, Riverside

(951) 688-3337

I absolutely love having breakfast at The Riverside Airport Cafe. It's always an amazing experience and has become our favorite spot. It's such a fun place to eat, especially for my son who enjoys running around and playing with the tic tac toe toy outside. Watching the planes take off adds an extra layer of excitement. Although our server was juggling many tables, the food was still delicious. While the sliders were a bit overcooked, the chicken fried steak sandwich was a hit. The setting is awesome, and overall, the food is fantastic. Having lived in and around Riverside since 1988, I can't believe I hadn't discovered this gem sooner! It's a place I'm definitely going to visit again. A quick heads up for pilots and visitors alike: weekends are super busy with locals, so expect a 40-minute to an hour wait for your food. The DJ adds to the party atmosphere, making it a lively and noisy spot. All things considered, it's an excellent stop with a great menu and friendly staff. We're definitely coming back!

3607 Tenth St, Riverside

(951) 328-0866

At Coffee Court Bistro, the 11am rush is handled seamlessly by the friendly and efficient staff. Their dedication to quick service is a standout feature that definitely encourages repeat visits. The food is a highlight, especially the breakfast burrito, which ranks among the best I've ever had. It includes homemade-tasting hash browns and delicious sausage, and the homemade salsa is simply addictive. The coffee menu is highly customizable, which is a big plus for coffee lovers like myself. The bistro's eclectic and homey vibe makes it a perfect spot for a hearty breakfast served by genuinely caring people. The owners' kindness and accommodating nature add to the charm of this place. It's rare to find such warmth these days, and it makes for a wonderful spot to have lunch or enjoy a coffee. The cajun chicken sandwich is also a must-try, and I'll definitely be returning whenever I'm in the area. This local gem has a welcoming atmosphere with plenty of space to settle in and get some work done. I highly recommend supporting this local coffee shop and enjoying everything they have to offer.

17136 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside

(951) 780-0388

I love coming to Rodeo Café for breakfast more than anywhere else in the Inland Empire. Though I don't usually visit this specific Riverside location since it's a bit out of the way, I happened to be nearby and couldn't resist. If you're familiar with Rodeo Café, you know their iconic spot on Etiwanda. Luckily, they've opened several new locations around here. The machaca is absolutely delicious and bursting with flavor. While the pancakes are standard, definitely try a Mexican dish because it's truly exceptional. The food is consistently amazing. I always order the eggs Benedict, omelet, and chicken fried steak. The servers are really helpful, and the ambiance is very welcoming. It's such a great restaurant! I had such a good lunch that I decided to come back the next day for breakfast, and it didn't disappoint. The service was friendly and quick, and the food was delicious and hot. These were the best two meals I've had in a while. It's a bit of a bummer they're only open until 3 p.m. with no dinner service, but maybe that's why their breakfast and lunch are so good. Meeting Chef Marcos and owner Orlando added a personal touch, and the staff's professionalism contributed to the positive atmosphere. The breakfast menu's diverse selection impressed me. My choice of country fried steak and eggs with biscuits and gravy was a delightful combination. The meal tasted great and left me perfectly full. The best part was the affordable pricing, providing a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Overall, it's a highly recommended spot for anyone looking for delicious and affordable dining.

5633 Mission Blvd, Riverside

(951) 274-9509

Having lived down Mission Blvd. in Glen Avon for the past 35 years, I finally stopped by Riviera Family Restaurant for breakfast, and it reminded me of eating in Grandma’s kitchen. The family atmosphere is one of the best parts of this place. Without a doubt, I've become a regular customer already. The coffee never went empty, which is always a huge plus! The service was great. The food was delicious and reasonably priced. The staff was attentive, and the restaurant is in a convenient location. While the menu didn't have much in terms of allergy or vegan markings, the hashbrowns with bacon and eggs were delicious. It would be nice to see some Gluten-Free options for bread. The aroma of a home-cooked meal draws you in from the parking lot. The French toast was a melt-in-your-mouth treat, and the variety of breakfast options is impressive without being expensive. You can expect quick service and a warm vibe. The atmosphere is perfect for family-style dining, truly deserving of 5 stars. Out of all the places I've had breakfast over many miles, this place stands out as the best. A big thank you to Mrs. Dee, the owner for the past 25 years, and a special mention to our witty waitress Kerrie and the wonderful Debbie. The staff here is super friendly and welcoming. Highly recommended!

3653 La Sierra Ave, Riverside

(951) 354-0437

Yes, yes, and yes! You need to come here and just eat. Everything is packed with flavor. It's hearty, good old American food. The restaurant has an old-school diner mixed with a cabin vibe. The bakery offers some tempting desserts, and I definitely recommend trying something sweet while you're there. The menu is extensive, so you're sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. I stopped by on October 1st with my son while we were in the area. I was craving authentic country fried chicken, and I'm glad we found this spot. We were welcomed and seated right away. The staff was attentive and friendly, helping each other out. I wish I could remember our waitress's name because she did a great job. The chicken was so delicious that my mouth waters just thinking about it. I ordered the four chicken wings with two eggs and two sides, while my son went for the full-size pastrami fries. The food was so good, I didn't even get a chance to take a picture. Although they were busy, the wait for our food wasn’t long. The prices are similar to other places nowadays, and the portions were generous. The place is clean and nicely decorated with a country feel, and I appreciated the Bible verses at the bottom of the menu. The parking lot is small, but I'll definitely return next week when I'm in the area again. This place is a great find in Riverside, and we love discovering mom-and-pop spots like this. It’s conveniently located right off the freeway, making it easy to get back on the road after a tasty meal. The portions kept us full and happy all the way home. Inside, it's cute and cozy, really giving off that country feel with old-school bar seating and swing-type benches in the waiting area. The service was awesome, and we didn't have to ask for anything. Typically, I'm not a fan of hash browns, but theirs were seasoned well, and I ate them all. My daughter ordered the Farmer's Breakfast, which had hash browns and biscuits with gravy on top. She couldn't finish it all, but she gave it her best shot. My son said his chicken fried chicken was some of the best he's ever had. The portions were huge, making it a great stop. If you haven’t been there yet, you should definitely go. It's hands down one of the best breakfast spots in Riverside. This place is quite iconic, embodying the countryside, traditional, and cozy restaurant vibe. You get a warm, welcoming sensation as soon as you step in. The service is outstanding, and the manager is always on top of everything. The food is incredibly delicious, with unique scrambled egg combinations, out-of-this-world pancakes, and superb chicken wings. The staff always has a smile, offering outstanding service. Highly recommended!

3639 Main St, Riverside

(951) 369-6030

My family is just about the pickiest there is. No matter where we go, someone always complains. So it really says a lot when not a single family member complained about any aspect of Simple Simon's. The service was impressively fast. I was still getting my drink when one of my guests mentioned that the food had already arrived. This might make it sound like the food was rushed, but it was perfectly prepared despite how quickly it was served. The French toast had a wonderful texture with the right balance of crispness and chewiness. The bacon was crunchy and full-flavored. The omelets were perfectly sized and consistent, and the croissant breakfast sandwich was big, flavorful, and satisfying. Prices ranged from about $10-20 per person, which felt reasonable for the quality. The place could go from quiet to bustling quickly, but it was worth it regardless of how busy it got. It's a quaint little breakfast spot with tasty food. The croissants are flaky and buttery, and while the coffee could be a bit warmer, it's a great place to sit with friends and enjoy. Some of the dishes we tried included the croissant, batin, French toast, and triple berry stuffed French toast, along with two vanilla lattes. If I could give it six stars, I would. The location is great, with a cool vibe and outstanding food. I wouldn't mind traveling across the country just to have breakfast here once a month. If you're in the area, you must visit. It's a charming bakery/bistro with a lovely, old-time feel enhanced by downtown Riverside's atmosphere. The staff was friendly and helpful. We also ordered a Cobb salad and a veggie sandwich. The Cobb salad was good, with no complaints, but the veggie sandwich was impressive. Many places offer a veggie sandwich that's essentially just bread with lettuce, tomato, and onions, but this one was thick and flavorful. If you're short on time during lunch, I'd recommend calling ahead because it got pretty busy on a Thursday around lunch.

5620 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside

(951) 352-2690

I'm completely obsessed with Flo's Farmhouse Cafe! Their breakfast is incredible, with the most mouthwatering bacon I've ever tasted. And even though their breakfast is amazing, you can't overlook their dinner – it's absolutely delicious! Everything on the menu is fantastic, but the real star is their decadent chocolate cake, made fresh in-house daily. It's a must-try if you have a sweet tooth. Other standouts include their fluffy, flavorful omelets, which are cooked to perfection, and their classic biscuits and gravy. Though the gravy could be a touch less salty in my opinion, it's still a great combo. The whole experience at Flo's is a gem. We didn't wait more than a couple of minutes to be seated, and once we sat down, we were quickly asked about our drinks. The strawberry lemonade was refreshing and delightful. With so many options on the menu, I took my time deciding. The waitress seemed to know I was still thinking over my choice since she didn't approach us until I put the menu down. I ended up choosing the Santa salad and rice pilaf. The chicken breast was seasoned perfectly, tender and moist, and the rice pilaf was fluffy and tasty. For dessert, I treated myself to a piece of coconut cake, which was fresh and flavorful with whipped frosting and toasted coconut. Visiting on a Sunday afternoon, I was seated right away, and the food arrived in less than 20 minutes. The biscuits and gravy were delicious, and the omelet tasted homemade. I've always disliked humid omelets, but here, the eggs and meat are cooked well, avoiding that overly steamed texture. The country steak was another good choice, both generous in portion and reasonably priced. The cafe has a cool, comfy, and homey vibe that makes you feel right at ease. On my visit, I did notice the waiter had a habit of calling everyone "baby" a few too many times, which felt more annoying than endearing. While the presentation of the food looked fantastic, I found that some items lacked flavor on their own, but thankfully, the yummy salsa and Cholula came to the rescue. The pico de gallo tasted a bit off, as if it had sat too long, so I'd recommend a taste check first. Despite those small hiccups, I enjoyed what I could and would definitely return and recommend Flo's Farmhouse Cafe to others.

10635 Magnolia Ave, Riverside

(951) 689-0296

Breakfast at Amy's Cafe in Riverside was a delightful experience. Veronica, our server, was attentive and friendly, adding to the charming diner atmosphere. The place has a cozy feel with typical diner decorations that make you feel right at home. The menu offers an impressive selection of breakfast classics. I tried the Chili Verde Omelette, and while the pork was slightly overcooked, the combination of avocado, sour cream, and cheese inside the omelette was tasty. The biscuits and gravy, although not as hot as I'd prefer, had a good flavor. My friend opted for the 2 Egg Breakfast Plate. The eggs were cooked well, though the potatoes needed a bit more heat. Again, the biscuits and gravy had room for improvement in temperature but tasted great. Cleanliness was notable, especially in the bathrooms, which were well-maintained. The women's restroom even had a proper baby changing table, which is always a plus. There is plenty of parking available, including spots for those with disabilities. Overall, despite a few temperature issues with the food, the experience at Amy's Cafe was pleasant. The staff is welcoming, the atmosphere is inviting, and the food is flavorful. It's a place I would recommend for anyone looking to enjoy a classic diner breakfast.

6723 Brockton Ave, Riverside

(951) 328-1273

Little Green Onions for breakfast in Riverside has such a homey and peaceful vibe that I couldn't help but feel relaxed as soon as I sat down. I tried their albondigas, which was comforting, but the standout was the chocolate muffin sundae. It came with a warm muffin, vanilla ice cream, nuts, and whipped cream. It was incredible, and our server, who made it for the first time, absolutely nailed it. If she's reading this, I might have a picture of that beautiful dessert! I also ordered the bacon and cheese omelet, which was delicious, with bacon and hash browns done to crispy perfection—just the way I love them. This place is a fantastic spot for brunch. Though it's a small restaurant, which might mean a bit of a wait, it's a good sign because the food is worth it. On my visit, I had a craving for steak and eggs, and they definitely delivered, making it a great start to the day. Overall, the service was good, and I look forward to returning. Just be prepared for a potential wait time, as the restaurant can get busy. Nonetheless, it's a delightful spot with tasty offerings that make it worth a visit.

9646 Magnolia Ave, Riverside

(951) 637-2782

Dining at Brandon's Diner in Riverside is always a pleasure. The cozy atmosphere immediately makes you feel at home. The food consistently delivers a comforting, home-cooked taste that's both delicious and satisfying. The staff is friendly and always provides excellent service with a smile, making every visit a great experience. There's a wonderful variety on the menu, and the option for shaded outside dining is a definite plus. Whether dining in or ordering food to go, the quality remains top-notch. The to-go orders are well-packaged, making them convenient for travel. While there was a slight hiccup with seating during one visit, the manager quickly resolved the situation, ensuring we had a pleasant dining experience. Overall, Brandon’s Diner on Magnolia Ave is a place I highly recommend for anyone looking for a welcoming atmosphere, great food, and outstanding service. I’ve tried other locations, but this one is my favorite. Looking forward to my next visit!

10246 Indiana Ave, Riverside

(951) 359-3617

Brandon's Diner in Riverside truly exceeded my expectations for breakfast. The service was impressively quick, and I appreciated Savannah's frequent visits to refill my water. The food portions were generous, especially the twin enchiladas, which were outstanding. I was pleasantly surprised by how affordable the meal was—just $14 for 2 eggs, hash browns, 4 bacon strips, plus gravy and biscuits. Although I'm usually not a fan of biscuits and gravy, this place knows how to make them right! I only wish I lived closer so I could visit more often. Maybe they could open a location in Santa Ana? The service was friendly and efficient, the prices budget-friendly, and the portion sizes satisfying. The coffee was good and always topped up. Everything from the "Mexican breakfast" menu was incredible, though the biscuits and gravy were more "cafeteria grade." I would definitely eat here again but might try something different next time. The whole experience was fantastic—the atmosphere, the people, and especially our waitress Heather, who had a great sense of humor. Trying the sampler plate was a treat; the nachos, chicken quesadillas, flautas, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, potato skins, and hot wings were all delightful. Meats were moist and flavorful. Prices are more than reasonable, making it a great all-around experience. Thanks to the entire team for a wonderful visit!

4019 Market St, Riverside

(951) 224-9830

When you step into The Beignet Spot in Riverside, you're instantly transported to a New Orleans beignet shop with jazz music playing in the background. The beignets are heavenly, generously covered in powdered sugar, and their fried chicken is perfectly crispy and juicy. The portions are generous and reasonably priced, leaving everyone satisfied. From the sweet and fruity Berry Berry to the succulent chicken and waffle fries, every dish is a hit. We've definitely found our new favorite breakfast and lunch spot in Riverside. I've visited several times and tried many menu items. My favorite is the Jerk Fried Chicken Sandwich, especially with the jerk aioli and slaw that add just the right amount of flavor. The B Spot Morning Hash is another solid choice, though the sides have varied a bit each visit. The Berry Berry beignets are a great option for dessert or a snack, perfect if you're craving something similar to a funnel cake. The location is convenient, with easy walking from the courthouse and parking right behind the building. Despite being busy, the customer service is quick and friendly. The kitchen is visible through a big glass window, and it was fascinating to watch a lady preparing the dough while we were there. A standout during my visits was the peach cobbler beignets, absolutely worth the drive. My wife went for the classic powdered sugar beignets, and we both enjoyed the Chickory coffee for the first time—delicious! They even offer dipping sauces to enhance their already tasty treats. Overall, this place definitely deserves five stars.

6712 Magnolia Ave, Riverside

(951) 781-4710

I visited the Soup Shoppe in Riverside, California, and was really impressed with my breakfast. I ordered the country fried steak breakfast plate with over medium eggs, home fries with grilled bell pepper and onions, and biscuits and gravy. The eggs were cooked perfectly, and the country fried steak was both tender and flavorful. The home fries were seasoned just right, with the bell pepper and onions adding a nice touch. The biscuits and gravy were rich, creamy, and seasoned well. The portions were generous, and the service was prompt and friendly. Overall, it was a great experience, and I would definitely recommend the Soup Shoppe for anyone looking for a delicious breakfast in Riverside.

17950 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside

(951) 789-8843

As a Woodcrest local, it's refreshing to see a small restaurant like Joanna's Cafe thriving amid the fast-food chains taking over the area. The staff here are genuinely nice and respectful, which creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The food is consistently good, and I've found the coffee always hot and satisfying. One of my favorites has to be the pancakes—they're simply delightful, and the menudo is quite good too. The French toast brings a nostalgic touch, reminding me of homemade meals at my mom's. On my first visit with my husband, we were both impressed by the delicious food and friendly service. While I enjoy the cozy, countryside-style decor inside, I do think the outdoor dining area and restrooms could use a bit of sprucing up. Despite that, the service remains excellent, with attentive staff who make you feel right at home. I've visited Joanna's Cafe with coworkers and, each time, we all thoroughly enjoyed our meals. It's become a hidden gem for us—a place we look forward to returning to for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. My last visit I spent just over $20 for a salad with some slices of avocado, and it was worth every cent. I’m definitely coming back to explore more of their menu.

3889 Tyler St, Riverside

(951) 353-9562

I had breakfast at NORMS Restaurant in Riverside and it was great. Our waitress was welcoming and kind, making the experience pleasant. My son ordered the lumberjack breakfast and enjoyed it, though he couldn't finish it all. I tried the Alfredo, which was okay, but I’d definitely come back for the overall atmosphere and service. NORMS consistently provides my family and me with delicious food and excellent service, regardless of the time, as they are open 24/7. The staff is always friendly and efficient, from the busboy to the waitresses. One of my favorite dishes is the chilaquiles with eggs over easy—the homemade salsa really makes the dish stand out. The prices are reasonable, and I appreciate the value we get for the quality of food and service. While there have been minor hiccups, like with the Benedict dish, the overall experience more than makes up for it. Stopping in for breakfast before work, I had T-bone steak with eggs and pancakes, and everything was just right. The steak was juicy and flavorful, and the pancakes were perfectly fluffy. NORMS continues to be a reliable spot for a satisfying meal.

5225 Canyon Crest Dr #40, Riverside

(951) 784-2233

I had a really enjoyable breakfast experience at Crest Cafe in Riverside. The atmosphere was welcoming and vibrant, which set a positive tone for the visit. I decided to try the Greek omelette, stuffed with spinach, feta, and cheddar cheese, and it was absolutely delicious. The flavors were well balanced, and it was quite filling; I'd definitely order it again. Although the burrito wasn't the highlight, as it was mostly potatoes and less flavorful chicken, the staff was fantastic about making adjustments. They were attentive, replacing side potatoes with a fresh salad upon request, which was appreciated. The portions are generous here, too. My 2x2x2 meal surprisingly came with an extra egg, and the omelet serving was substantial. The mimosas were a delightful addition, served with a split of champagne and fresh orange juice. There are more menu options than you'd expect, like choosing between hash browns or breakfast potatoes. Overall, the service and value make Crest Cafe a spot I recommend, and I look forward to visiting again.

1320 University Ave, Riverside

(951) 369-4028

I had a fantastic breakfast experience at the IHOP in Riverside. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the pancakes were as perfect as ever. Our host, Enrique, was incredibly friendly, adding to the enjoyment of our meal. I ordered the T-bone steak and eggs, cooked medium-rare, and it was prepared just right. My server, Moises, was attentive and very polite, even handling a difficult customer nearby with great composure, especially during the busy morning hours. I hadn’t been to an IHOP in a few years and was pleasantly surprised by the improvements. The menu has been upgraded, and both the food and service were excellent. Though the lemon blueberry crepes could have used a few more blueberries, everything else was spot on. The restaurant was spotless, adding to the pleasant dining experience. All in all, I'm glad I chose this location. On a different occasion, I stopped by for lunch. The place wasn’t crowded, and the food was tasty and served at a good temperature. However, the service was lacking. It took a long time to take our order, and the waitress was not very accommodating, even refusing help from other staff. Despite this, the breakfast experience was great, and I would definitely consider returning for another morning treat. The parking situation is convenient with two handicap spots in front and additional parking on the side or back of the building.