Nicest Breakfast Spots in Salem For All Ages

1741 Center St NE, Salem

(503) 399-5522

As first-time visitors to the area, choosing a breakfast spot was a challenge, but I'm thrilled we picked Patty's Off-Center Cafe. The moment we walked in, the cozy, welcoming atmosphere and the friendly staff made us feel right at home. The walls are adorned with eclectic items, adding to the charm. We couldn't resist ordering the biscuits, a must-have with any meal because they are absolutely delicious. Patty's menu offers a wide variety of enticing options, like the lemon-poppyseed pancakes with vanilla icing and raspberry syrup—extremely satisfying! The Meat Lover's scramble was packed with ham, sausage, and bacon, and the herb biscuits were perfect, whether with butter or their flavorful sausage gravy. The home fries were a hit too, full of onion and green pepper, and not greasy at all. Patty's takes pride in their scratch-made dishes, and you can taste the difference. The generous portions meant we had leftovers to enjoy later. The place fills up quickly for lunch, and while we did have to wait longer than promised, it was worth it. The chicken fried steak was hand-breaded and came with a beautifully consistent gravy. As for the corned beef hash, it had a great meat-to-potato ratio. The apple pancake with apple cider vinegar syrup is a standout dish that I will keep coming back for—possibly the best pancake I've ever tasted. Despite a few minor hitches, like the wait time and a less-than-stellar cheesesteak omelette, Patty's offers amazing food and service. The staff, including Patty, ensured everyone was well taken care of. Even with the occasional grumpy chef, everything was cooked to perfection. For vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions, there are options available too. I highly recommend this gem of a restaurant. If you're in the Salem-Keizer area and haven't visited, you're truly missing out. Don't hesitate to check them out!

1594 Edgewater St NW #180, Salem

(971) 304-7363

I stopped by Urban Grange Coffee & Bakery for a quick business meeting and was immediately impressed by the variety of seating options. There are plenty of tables for working, but also cozy nooks perfect for having a casual chat. The service was great, and the coffee was even better. I ordered my usual caramel macchiato, and it was just how I like it—not overly sweet, as many places tend to make it. It was exactly the kind of delicious coffee experience I was hoping for. The place has a great energy, with a welcoming atmosphere that's often very lively. I love their wide range of coffee options, including the choices that change with the seasons. As for the baked goods, they're a real treat. The cinnamon rolls are good, though they do sell out fast. While they have a hint of nutmeg that gives them a slightly different flavor, I still enjoyed them. The strawberry pastries are also a hit. Overall, my visit left me feeling satisfied and ready to tackle the day. If you're in Salem and haven't checked this place out yet, you're definitely missing out.

299 Cottage St NE, Salem

(503) 581-6154

I really enjoy IKE Box Café for breakfast when in Salem. The building gets a lot of praise for its stunning architecture, and the atmosphere is both calming and peaceful. It’s fascinating that it was once an old mortuary, but now it serves as a wonderful spot to relax alone or with loved ones. The breakfast options are delicious, with tasty sandwiches and pastries that hit the spot. Finding parking on a Saturday morning can be tricky, but it's worth the effort. The café has a local vibe and cool old-town theater decor that I find charming. While the service can be a bit slow, it wasn’t an issue since I wasn't in a rush. The space is great for larger gatherings, and there’s plenty of natural light, which adds to the ambiance. It’s an excellent spot for remote work or study sessions. The food and coffee are surprisingly good; I especially enjoyed my mocha and sandwich. For anyone in the area, I definitely recommend stopping by in the morning to experience what IKE Box Café has to offer.

135 Lancaster Dr SE, Salem

(503) 385-1086

I had a great breakfast experience at Ritz Diner in Salem. It was a cozy spot that reminded me of homestyle cooking, just like my mom used to make. I enjoyed a fluffy Belgian waffle, crispy thin bacon, and perfectly golden scrambled eggs. My partner's crispy shredded hashbrowns were so good, I couldn't resist nibbling on them too! The German sausage was particularly tasty and added a nice touch to the meal. We also decided to try a 1/2 order of biscuits and gravy—a great decision as it was delicious. The portions were generous, and the prices were very reasonable. Our server, Kim, was exceptionally friendly and attentive, which made the experience even better. There are plenty of options on the menu to choose from, and the to-go options are a nice bonus if you're in a rush. While the place is under new ownership, you can tell they're putting in the effort to make improvements. It's definitely worth stopping by for breakfast if you're in the area and not in a hurry, as it can get busy. Overall, it was a delightful meal that kept me fueled for the day without breaking the bank.

201 Commercial St NE, Salem

(503) 551-3939

I visited Isaac's Downtown for breakfast in Salem with the intention of getting some work done. The atmosphere was fantastic and made for a really pleasant experience. While the WiFi was a bit slow and I couldn’t find a poppy or pumpernickel bagel, everything else was spot on. The tea was nicely served with a small plate for the strainer, which was a thoughtful touch. The tables were just the right size for working, and I appreciated having power plugs nearby. I would definitely come back to work here again. The place has such a great vibe, and I found everything from the food to the coffee to be well worth the visit. It's competitively priced, and 5 stars truly doesn't seem enough! The line can be long, but they are working on improving that with a new system and space expansion. I came for breakfast based on great reviews and was seated in a charming half-empty space. Though the service was a bit slow as servers walked by without acknowledging us, it seems like the perfect spot to grab a coffee and work. Despite the minor hiccups, I would still recommend it, especially for those looking for a workspace with good coffee.

471 Court St NE, Salem

During my visit to Salem, I stopped by The Governor's Cup Coffee Roasters for breakfast, and I was pleasantly surprised. The atmosphere is laid-back and inviting, with funky paintings on the wall and a cozy vibe that's not too over-the-top. It's a neat spot where you can easily open a laptop, read a book, or just relax. Although some tables were not as clean as I'd prefer, the overall charm of the place more than made up for it. I ordered a soda water and, although it was a bit flat, the staff was attentive and friendly, and my girlfriend's Chai was delicious. The variety of breakfast options is impressive, and I particularly enjoyed the Rosemary bagel and white mocha lavender coffee. Both were intriguing and made me want to explore more of their menu. The coffee is well-roasted, and the baristas clearly know their craft, offering great taste suggestions. Seating is available both downstairs and upstairs, though it can fill up quickly. Despite a minor hiccup with parking and the location of the bathrooms, it's a small price to pay for such a great café experience. The Governor's Cup is one of my favorite coffee spots outside of Seattle, and I'll definitely be returning to try more of their bagels and drinks. It's a wonderful place to unwind, with fantastic baristas and a nice assortment of goodies.

2373 State St, Salem

(503) 581-7724

Sybil's Omelettes has quickly become my go-to spot for breakfast in Salem. The menu is packed with choices, and after trying several, I've settled on my favorite—omelet #36 or 37, with a few extra toppings to make it just right. The variety is incredible, and you'll definitely find something you love. They open early from 6 am to 8 am for early bird deals, and stay open until 2 pm for those who prefer a later breakfast or brunch. Trust me, the prices are worth it for the quality and quantity of food you get. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the service is top-notch. Amber, our waitress, was attentive and made sure our coffee cups were always full—she was friendly and professional. Plus, the senior special is a great deal. Each visit has been consistently satisfying, with delicious, well-prepared food. The bacon is thick and crispy, just the way we like it, and the coffee is a delightful medium roast. My only tweak would be to request fewer green peppers in the omelet next time, but that's a minor detail. Even though the place gets busy, the staff is efficient and the food arrives quickly. The prices are competitive, and you get excellent value for your money. Overall, Sybil's Omelettes is a fantastic choice for breakfast or brunch, and I can't wait to bring the entire family back for another meal.

4656 Commercial St SE, Salem

(503) 378-0431

My favorite place for breakfast in all of Salem has to be The Original Pancake House. Their pancakes are a must-try, especially with fresh strawberries, peaches, and homemade whipped cream. Even if you're in the mood for a classic breakfast, their meat and eggs or enormous omelets will not disappoint. The omelets are so big they could easily feed a couple of people, making it a great value. We visited yesterday after not going for more than a decade, and it was absolutely delicious. I ordered the vegetarian omelette, which was packed with veggies and cheese, and it came with three pancakes on the side. My wife chose the ham and eggs; the slice of ham was massive, and she loved every bite. The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful, and the place radiates an old-school charm that makes you feel right at home. While the crepes were a bit too sweet for my liking, and I wished for more spinach in my Joe breakfast, the experience was fantastic overall. The apple pancake is a personal favorite—so large that I have to share it with my husband—and adding sides like ham and bacon really enhances the meal. The homey atmosphere and friendly service make me feel like I'm visiting family every time. Taghen was excellent as I waited for my guests from Eugene, Oregon. We'll definitely be back and highly recommend it for a great breakfast! Thank you! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

1311 Edgewater St NW, Salem

(503) 362-9588

I have a mixed history with Annette's Westgate Café, mainly due to inconsistency in service and food quality over the years. However, when they get it right, the experience is truly outstanding, which keeps drawing me back. On this visit, despite past challenges, the staff was incredibly friendly, even if the order was a bit off. The Chicken Bacon Avocado Salad with crispy chicken is a standout dish in Salem—when it’s done right, it's unbeatable. The atmosphere is welcoming, with outdoor seating and a bar area adding to the charm. One thing I've found helpful is dining in. This way, if there's an issue, it can be addressed on the spot. Portions here are generous, and the variety, including vegan options, is impressive. A standout moment was when the staff happily made an off-menu item for a friend, showcasing their willingness to accommodate customer requests. Despite the ups and downs, the food is delicious, and the servers are excellent. Annette's is a pleasant spot for breakfast, especially on a road trip, and my friends and I often enjoy our mornings here. If you’re looking for a satisfying meal where the potential for greatness outweighs occasional missteps, give Annette's a try.

3310 Market St NE, Salem

(503) 378-0100

Look how big and thick this French toast is! They bake their own bread for the French toast, and this peachy blintz version is even more tasty with mascarpone cream cheese inside it. Very creative! All the staff are so nice and friendly. Keep Salem “sassy!” 🧅 I went in for breakfast today and really enjoyed what we had! I tried the sweet potato hash and opted for scrambled eggs instead of poached. I also added the honey jalapeño gravy to the San Diego burrito, and it was 👌👌. Everything is fresh and delicious. I was impressed with the amount of flavor in the food. The chicken fried steak is homemade, and I’d highly recommend it. The San Diego skillet was packed with flavors, and the skillets can also be made into burritos. Try upgrading your hash browns to “sassy” or “spicy”—they add peppers and cheese. Even the strawberry jam that came with our toast was homemade. The line was out the door, and I could tell the food was going to be good. The smiles on the wait staff told me it was going to be worth the wait, and it sure was. The price was fair, and the food was delicious. The staff even brought out bacon for us to sample, taking a poll to see if they should switch to a new bacon. I will be back. Thank you, Sassy Onion. See you again!

2280 Broadway St NE, Salem

(503) 399-0046

I've been going to this wonderful little mom-and-pop diner since I moved to Salem in 2016. The atmosphere is great, the staff is wonderful, and the cooks are amazing. The food is hand-prepared and always fresh, and the service is fast and friendly. You just have to come down and have a taste for yourself. I ordered the chicken fried steak, and it was amazing. They make it just right—smash it flat, bread it quickly, and cook it fast and hot. I've been to many breakfast joints across the country while playing disc golf, and this place is near the top for chicken fried steak. The coffee wasn't burnt, which is a huge plus at a diner. I just ate there again this morning with a friend. We had gingerbread French toast, link sausage, basted eggs, hash browns, bacon, toast, and the Spanish omelette, which was especially yummy. I hadn't been out for breakfast in years and decided to treat myself this morning. The service was great, and they were even accommodating when I asked for my hash browns inside my bacon and cheese omelette, just like I used to have it. They are generous with the delicious gravy! It's a cute little breakfast place with a plain drive-in atmosphere, friendly service, and above-average food. Besides tables, they have a counter with stools too. I'll definitely be back tomorrow before I leave town.

1244 State St, Salem

(503) 378-9180

My husband and I went to Sassy Onion for breakfast and had a really great experience. We got seated right away, and our food arrived in less than ten minutes, which was impressive given how many people were there. Yet, it never felt overcrowded. The food was fantastic! The classic French toast was enormous, super fluffy, and delicious. You can see the care they put into it. And the chicken fried steak - wow! It tasted like home cooking, just outstanding. My dad tried it too and said the same. The jam was a delightful addition to the meal. I was there visiting my best friend, and I'm glad he recommended the single French toast with berry syrup. It was the perfect mix of sweet and tangy. He ordered the cinnamon roll with apples, and those apples were incredible - he said he'd eat them by the bowl! The service was decent, and the manager reached out to ensure everything was satisfactory, which shows they care about their customers. The restaurant has a cozy vibe, and while the decor might be simple, the food more than makes up for it. I'd definitely recommend stopping by for a delicious breakfast!

2725 Commercial St SE, Salem

(503) 581-1716

French Press always hits the spot for breakfast. I've been going there for many years, and their wide range of crêpes never disappoints, whether I'm in the mood for something sweet or a hearty breakfast. My go-to is the Nutella crêpe, and I've recently added their panini to my list of favorites. Even though I haven't tried everything on the menu, I bet the other options are just as tasty. The place can get packed and busy, so if you're looking for one-on-one customer service, this might not be the spot for you. However, the staff is friendly and keeps things moving smoothly, and there's a drive-thru if you prefer to grab your food without worrying about seating. Honestly, when it comes to crêpes in Salem, they are simply the best. They're just the right amount of smooth and chewy. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and it's a great spot for families. We initially planned to take our food to go since all the tables were taken, but a table opened up, and I'm so glad we stayed. The menu is excellent, with options like Hot Cocoa, Croissant Benedict, Brioche French Toast, and Chorizo Crêpes. All were delicious and came in good portions. I also tried their breakfast sandwich special with an iced coffee, and it was perfect. It's a fantastic local spot, and judging by how busy it gets on Saturday mornings, everyone seems to know it. The Spicy Greek Crepe with a coconut/dark chocolate coffee was probably the best breakfast I've ever had. I'll definitely be back!

4685 Portland Rd NE, Salem

(503) 393-9124

The Original Pancake House in Salem is a fantastic spot for breakfast. Their pancakes are the best, with syrup that is simply unbeatable. Even though everyone loves pancakes, it's rare for people to order them first, but here, I can't resist. The coffee is great, and the bacon is exceptional. Overall, the food is top-notch. I highly recommend it. I tried the vegetable omelet, and it was fluffy and delicious. Instead of the regular pancakes, I opted for the Georgia pecan pancakes, which were loaded with pecans both inside and on top. The fresh-squeezed orange juice was a refreshing addition. The server, like all the staff, was incredibly nice and attentive, promptly clearing plates and ensuring I had everything I needed. I visited alone, aiming to do some homework and enjoy a “home-cooked” Sunday breakfast. I decided to try the Dutch Baby, a unique and huge dish, but it wasn't my favorite. However, the wait staff suggested I try the apple version, and it was incredible—like having apple pie for breakfast! The staff's genuine care in making sure everyone leaves happy was truly impressive. Thank you, Original Pancake House, for such a wonderful experience!

3950 Market St NE, Salem

(503) 363-3950

I had a wonderful breakfast experience at Elmer's Restaurant in Salem, OR. The place was buzzing with people, yet I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly our group of six was seated. I decided to go all out for brunch and ordered the veggie omelette, which turned out to be huge and incredibly tasty. The cinnamon roll pancakes were hands down the best I've ever had—absolutely delicious! I also enjoyed the traditional German Pancake with a fresh fruit topping, and it was pure perfection. My eggs over easy with sausage links were cooked just right, and the stuffed hash browns were delicious as well. Portions were so generous that I had enough leftovers for another breakfast. Our waitress, Vanessa, made our visit even better. She was attentive, service-oriented, and friendly, managing to keep everything running smoothly despite the packed restaurant. Overall, it was a fantastic brunch, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit to Elmer’s for another treat.

5080 Commercial St SE #140, Salem

(503) 391-4215

Toast & Jam in Salem is a breakfast spot that blew me away. The coffee was top-notch, with the creamer always filled and my cup never empty, thanks to the attentive staff. I enjoyed the top sirloin steak and eggs with pancakes, and let me tell you, the steak was unbelievably tender, and the pancakes were spot on. My wife had the eggs Benedict and a fruit side, and everything was fresh and wonderful. The atmosphere is great, and the owner and waitresses are so kind—I'm already looking forward to our next visit. The quiches my wife and I tried were delicious, and the potatoes had a fantastic crispy texture. The coffee cake was a pleasant surprise, much larger than expected and definitely worth it. I was impressed by the generous portions, especially the four extra-large sausage links instead of the usual three. This place is tucked away in a mini-mall, opening into a welcoming atmosphere with booths and tables, plus a bar area with lottery machines. It's worth the detour from I-5; really easy to get in and out. If you're passing through Salem, make sure to stop by. You're missing out if you don't give it a try!

2505 Liberty St NE, Salem

(503) 566-6885

Alex and Ludwig at Starbucks in Salem are truly amazing baristas. They welcomed me with smiles and quickly crafted my drink with love, making it one of the best I've had in a while. Even as it got close to closing time, they served us with enthusiasm and care. Although the interior could use some improvements and the inventory seems geared towards drive-thru customers, the view of the road adds a nice touch. The coffee, of course, is consistently good. The staff here always greets us with respect and often remembers our usual orders. My wife has specific preferences for her coffee, which can be a bit awkward for me to order, but they make it so easy by anticipating our needs. Alex and Ludwig truly elevate this Starbucks experience.

3680 Market St NE, Salem

(503) 363-3411

What I love about Denny's is that they are open when you really need a breakfast. The service here is consistently good, and it's a comforting spot to enjoy some coffee with friends and family. During my visit, I ordered steak and eggs, and although the steak came well done instead of medium, and the sausages were just warm, I still had a great time. The eggs and hash browns were solid, adding to the experience. Spending time with my parents, sipping coffee from whimsical mugs, and the attentiveness of our server made the visit worthwhile. On a different occasion, my co-worker and I stopped by around midnight during a freeze. The atmosphere was lively, with the music a touch loud, but not irritating. We were greeted warmly and seated quickly by our server, Tyler, who was friendly and prompt with our requests. The food was hot, tasty, and plentiful, which hit the spot after a long day at work. There was one unfortunate incident where I waited over an hour and didn't get seated, despite other customers being served. It was a bit frustrating, but it seems to have been an isolated experience. Overall, Denny's remains a reliable choice for a hearty breakfast or late-night meal, and their dedication to service usually makes for a pleasant outing. I'll definitely be back for more breakfasts and coffee catch-ups.

3155 Ryan Dr SE, Salem

(503) 585-8424

We visited the Denny's off of Ryan Drive in Salem for breakfast, and it was a phenomenal experience all around. My wife ordered the French Toast Slam with eggs and bacon, while I went for the all-you-can-eat pancakes. Both dishes were fresh, flavorful, and didn't break the bank, with the entire meal costing less than $20. Our waitress was incredibly nice and friendly, adding to the pleasant experience. This particular Denny's is managed by Tina, who is an outstanding manager and human being. They hosted our group in their private room and went above and beyond with their generosity and unmatched customer service. We've eaten at several Denny's across different states, and this location is by far the best. The service was super fast, and the staff was exceptionally kind. Tina, in particular, was a lovely server who made our group feel welcome and well cared for, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. I can't recommend this Denny's enough. If we lived closer, we'd visit more often, but we'll definitely be back on our next trip through.