May 19, 2025

Seattle's Most Popular Breakfast Spots: Worth Checking Out

Start with a fun morning adventure in Seattle, where you can explore cozy spots serving steamy pancakes and fresh-baked treats. Discover the delightful smells of daily-made waffles and sizzling bacon that make breakfast extra.

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

Good morning from Seattle! Explore the city's best breakfasts, where you can enjoy delicious dishes made fresh every day. Discover places with authentic cooking styles that bring flavors from all over the world to your plate.

Seattle Biscuit Company

4001 Leary Wy NW, Seattle

(206) 739-5800

Reviewed by:

Nicole Starns

On a Friday morning, we decided to try Seattle Biscuit Company for breakfast, and it was an amazing experience. We ordered the Gus, Che, and Big Al's, and there were no lines or crowds, which was a nice surprise. The sausage gravy was a bit heavier than I expected, but still delicious. The fried chicken filets in the Gus were juicy and flavorful, and the pickles added a great touch. The biscuit options were unique and really good. My sandwich had a lot going on, but it was tasty and satisfying. My partner ordered just a biscuit and gravy, and it was huge and delicious. Fortunately, the staff advised her that one biscuit would be plenty when she considered ordering two! I loved the atmosphere inside. Although when we visited, the door didn’t close all the way, which hopefully gets fixed before colder weather sets in. The prices seemed pretty reasonable for breakfast in Seattle. Wow, just wow! This place is the real deal. The portions were HUGE and incredibly delicious. The biscuits were perfectly flaky, the gravy was savory, and the fried chicken was amazing. We really enjoyed everything we tried. The portions are no joke, so if you aren't super hungry, you might want to split a meal. This tiny restaurant off the beaten path provided an unexpected and incredible experience. The biscuits were delicious, and the bacon was crispy. The hostess greeted us warmly as soon as we walked in, and it was nice to see mimosas and other drink specials available for brunch. Although the menu is small, it's clear that they focus on quality and taste. Without us even mentioning it, the staff overheard it was a birthday brunch and surprised us with delightful donut holes with a candle. The food and service were top-notch.

Cheeky Cafe

1700 S Jackson St, Seattle

(206) 322-9895

Reviewed by:

Darius Foster

During our visit to Seattle last August for a concert, my husband and I stumbled upon Cheeky Cafe, and it quickly became a highlight of our trip. We were staying at a nearby Airbnb and were delighted to find such a cozy spot with delicious food. In fact, we enjoyed it so much that we went back two days in a row. On our first visit, we opted for the pasta carbonara, which was incredibly filling, and the bacon, eggs, and toast combo. I do have to mention that the iced tea was a bit of a letdown, lacking in flavor, so I wouldn't order that again. Our second day was equally satisfying with a garden omelet that I absolutely loved, a flavorful and crunchy chicken fried steak, and a delightful quiche. The staff at Cheeky Cafe were friendly and super fast, adding to the positive experience. The portions were generous, and the pricing was fair, making it a great value. It's a fun little cafe with unique food offerings, including some gluten-free options. My teen daughter even got inspired by the artwork around and made her own drawing! On a previous visit in May, we had another fantastic breakfast experience. The service was congenial, and the atmosphere inviting. I highly recommend the spam and eggs, which were delicious. My family, including my dad, brother, nephew, and sister, all enjoyed their meals, from traditional French toast to cheeky cakes and a green matcha tea cheeky cake, which was a standout. While service can be a tad slow at times, everything tastes great, making it worth the wait. Cheeky Cafe has definitely earned a spot on our list of must-visit places whenever we're in Washington State. Plus, there's free parking in the neighborhood, which is always a bonus.

The Dish Cafe

4358 Leary Wy NW, Seattle

(206) 782-9985

Reviewed by:

David Gonzalez Mata

As a breakfast enthusiast, I was genuinely excited to visit The Dish Cafe, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere is that of a quaint roadside diner—cozy and inviting. I kicked off my meal with the chilaquiles, which were the special of the day. The flavors were bright and fresh, and my eggs were cooked to perfection, just as I had requested. The coffee cake was a delightful surprise; it had just the right amount of sweetness and paired perfectly with a bit of butter. The service stood out, with our waiter being both attentive and pleasant, ensuring our water glasses were never empty. I tried the Seattle to Portland scramble, which was tasty and offered great value for the price. Although the breakfast potatoes might have needed a touch more salt, they were a rare find in a city known for its love of hashbrowns. While I found the pancakes slightly too cakey for my taste, all the other dishes hit the mark. Thick bacon is always a bonus, and portion sizes were just right. The outdoor dining area added to the pleasant experience. All in all, The Dish Cafe is a solid choice for a satisfying breakfast, whether you're a local or just passing through.

Hi-Spot Cafe

1410 34th Ave, Seattle

(206) 325-7905

Reviewed by:

Rishi Burgess

I decided to grab a quick breakfast at Hi-Spot Cafe before my flight and I'm so glad I did! Torn between the biscuits and gravy and the Sammy Sue, the thoughtful waiter asked the kitchen to add some gravy over my side of potatoes, which was a delightful touch. The Sammy Sue, a sandwich with eggs, bacon, cheese, lettuce, and tomato, was more than enough for me - I could only finish half! The staff were incredibly kind and attentive, and the atmosphere felt wonderfully homey. Sitting outside during the fall was lovely and warm, thanks to the heaters. What stood out to me the most was the excellent customer service. And I must say, the bacon is incredible! This cafe in Madrona, once a house, has been transformed into a charming restaurant with a kid-friendly menu. Everything was relatively clean, and the service was fantastic despite being busy. Apart from the bacon, the pancakes and eggs were delicious, and the coffee was pretty good too. Overall, it was a very nice experience with plenty of delicious options. The outdoor patio was super pretty, although there's usually a bit of a wait, but it's totally worth it. The breakfast burrito was tasty, and the pancakes were thick and large, so you really get your money's worth. Our server, Taylor, was great and very helpful!

Geraldine's Counter Restaurant

4872 Rainier Ave S, Seattle

(206) 723-2080

Reviewed by:

Javier Bertino

I went to Geraldine's Counter Restaurant for breakfast, and it was an amazing experience. I ordered Chicken Fried Steaks with Eggs, Hashbrowns, and Sourdough Toast, with a side of French fries. My husband tried their legendary French toast with the counter special, and both dishes were absolutely delicious and fresh. The atmosphere was pleasant, and the food was packed with flavor. The customer service was outstanding, making the visit even better. I was in Seattle last week and looking for a good breakfast spot, and Geraldine's was the perfect choice. I also had French toast, eggs, and bacon, while my husband had a chorizo omelet with hash browns. The French toast was fried, which was different but still enjoyable. The delicious food and friendly, attentive staff made for a great dining experience. They even have daily specials, and the inside seating is ample. The Mac and Cheese came out bubbling hot, a clear sign it was made fresh. Geraldine's is the perfect way to start your morning, and brunch doesn’t get much better than this. Highly recommended!

Tilikum Place Cafe

407 Cedar St, Seattle

(206) 282-4830

Reviewed by:

Jonathan Negash

I visited Tilikum Place Cafe for breakfast in Seattle, and the experience was quite enjoyable. The restaurant is small and cute, with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. The service was fantastic, with Eileen, our server, being particularly cheerful and attentive. We tried a few dishes, and the highlight was the ricotta cheese and blueberry Dutch baby. It came out hot and was deliciously light, despite looking heavy. The baked eggs were amazing, definitely my favorite, although the Fry Up was good too, featuring homemade baked beans, a sausage patty, and a few strips of bacon. The bacon, hard-boiled egg with tuna aioli sandwich was a mixed experience for me; the bread was fantastic, but I found the bacon lacking and realized that hard-boiled eggs aren't my favorite in a sandwich. The French onion soup, however, was delicious. As for the Dutch babies, the savory version with broccoli and cheese could have used more flavor, while the sweet sugar lemon variety was a delightful end to breakfast, though I wouldn't be satisfied with just that. Overall, the food was good, and the fresh ingredients made a noticeable difference. The cafe is quite popular, so reservations are a good idea. While the food didn't blow my mind, the service and atmosphere certainly make it worth a visit when exploring downtown.

5 Spot

1502 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle

(206) 708-6678

Reviewed by:

Katherina Conicello

5 Spot in Seattle is an amazing place for breakfast. The coconut shrimp with dipping sauces was awesome, and both the French onion soup and clam chowder, paired with either a biscuit or toast, were excellent. My drinks were flavorful and strong, and the hospitality and service were top-notch. It's a great spot for breakfast, with fresh, hot, well-presented, and well-portioned food. We didn't have to wait to be seated, and our food came out quickly. Our server was fast, friendly, and very attentive. During another visit, we came in at 7:00 PM on a Friday night and were immediately seated. We both ordered pasta dishes that came with garlic bread. They were light, refreshing, and very filling, perfect for a chilly night. Despite a faint smell of cleaning supplies, the music was calming, and the light fun chatter added to the atmosphere. Overall, we had a great time at 5 Spot, and I'm looking forward to my next visit.

The Bryant Corner Cafe

3118 NE 65th St, Seattle

(206) 582-1879

Reviewed by:

Roxana Earhart

I had an amazing experience at The Bryant Corner Cafe for breakfast with a large group of nine. Although they don’t take reservations, the wait was manageable at 15-20 minutes. While waiting, I appreciated being able to order coffee or a drink at the counter, and the availability of alternative milks was a nice touch. I highly recommend trying the hot vanilla matcha latte. The menu is extensive with plenty of breakfast and lunch options, and the portions are generous. It’s great to see a reasonably priced, locally owned business thriving. Though the inside is on the smaller side, making it a bit noisy when crowded, they offer outdoor seating with heaters, which is a nice option. The crab cake eggs benedict I ordered was delicious, with the potatoes being the standout of the dish. While the service was on the slower side, the food quality more than made up for it. We sampled the Veggie Potato Sauté, French Toast, and Sunflour Breakfast. The Veggie Potato Sauté was a hit, even though they initially forgot to include the egg I ordered. The French Toast was alright, but the raspberry jam on the table was a delightful discovery. I was a bit disappointed by the espresso machine being down and some items being unavailable, but that didn’t overshadow the overall experience. The neighborhood vibe of the cafe is charming, and it’s a gem worth visiting, especially for their pumpkin pancakes! The cafe has typical Seattle pricing and offers a pleasant spot for breakfast with street parking available.

Both Ways Cafe

4922 S Genesee St, Seattle

(206) 722-5799

Reviewed by:

Ahmed Yanis

Both Ways Cafe is a delightful spot for breakfast in Seattle. The moment you step in, the retro style and welcoming atmosphere make you feel at home. The food is delicious and presented beautifully, with fresh touches like slices of melon and baby watermelon adding a pop of color to the plates. The quality and creativity of the meals make dining here a memorable experience. Everyone is friendly, and the atmosphere inside is fun and cozy. That said, the space is quite small, and when we had four adults and two small kids at a table meant for four, it felt cramped. The wait time for food was almost an hour, and our server, who seemed new, made a few mistakes with our order. However, everything tasted great, and I’m hopeful that a future visit under different circumstances will be even better. The biscuits are some of the best I’ve ever had, and despite a few hiccups, I’m planning to return. Just be prepared for a cozy space and a potential wait, especially during busy times.

Ludi's Restaurant

120 Stewart St, Seattle

(206) 239-2728

Reviewed by:

Katiuska Irene Varro

Ludi’s Restaurant in Seattle really impressed me during my breakfast visit. The process of ordering and paying before being seated made everything quick and smooth, and we were comfortably seated in less than seven minutes. The menu offers a variety of American and Philippine options, and while we stuck to pancakes and other American dishes, everything sounded delicious. Our food was tasty and arrived promptly. A standout moment was when one of the owners visited each table, offering desserts and making sure everyone was having a great time. This personal touch, along with the restaurant's rich history displayed in photographs around the dining area, added to the charm. The veggie-silog was bursting with well-balanced flavors, and the Manila Sunrise had just the right kick. The biscuits with homemade jelly were a delightful surprise. The atmosphere of Ludi's is warm and welcoming, with pleasant music and big windows perfect for people-watching. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, keeping my coffee and water cups filled. I can't believe I hadn't heard of this cozy gem before. We stumbled upon it while staying nearby, and I'm so glad we did. The whole experience was memorable, from the quick service to the flavorful food. As I'm leaving Seattle, I'm already looking forward to my next visit. If you're in the area and need a brunch spot, Ludi’s is a must-visit.

Beth's Cafe

7311 Aurora Ave N, Seattle

(206) 782-5588

Reviewed by:

Giovanni Williams

How I did not know of this restaurant, it escapes me. Beth's Cafe has all the diner feel and yummy taste you're looking for. Their specialty is those humongous 6 or 12 egg omelets. We chose the Triple Bypass, with all the meat fillings they could find, and it was perfection! Their hashbrowns could use a touch more flavor, but they're playing second fiddle to the omelets anyway. We stopped by on a Monday for breakfast. Parking nearby was easy, and thankfully, it wasn't too busy. Service was fast and prompt. I got the short stack with a side of sausages. The pancakes were decent, and the sausages were okay. My wife tried the veggie scramble, which was pretty good. Overall, it was a nice breakfast. A few recommendations for the restaurant: when a customer asks for a to-go cup for coffee, filling it with fresh coffee would be appreciated, and maybe avoid charging extra for an extra plate. Consistency in cooking the hashbrowns or asking how the customer prefers them could also enhance the experience. But with all that said, we truly enjoyed eating here. It's a really cool place with big breakfasts, good food, and fair prices. The staff is friendly, and the fun artwork on the walls adds to the charm. 8/13/24 update: still delicious! Definitely a place to visit again to try all their offerings.

Bacco Cafe

86 Pine St, Seattle

(206) 355-8887

Reviewed by:

Nancy Torem

On a visit to Seattle, I decided to try Bacco Cafe for breakfast, and it turned out to be a delightful choice. The atmosphere was pleasant, and we were quickly seated outside without much of a wait. I ordered the Bacco Breakfast, which included bacon, eggs, a biscuit, and a cup of coffee. Everything was tasty and satisfying. I also tried a waffle topped with strawberries and blueberries, accompanied by three sausages. The combination was delicious and hit the spot, even if it wasn't the most extraordinary breakfast I've ever had. It's definitely a great place to grab a meal before exploring the city. On another occasion, I had the bacon cheddar breakfast sandwich, which was my favorite. The savory onions and jam paired perfectly with the bacon and eggs. The crab omelette was surprisingly good as well, with a generous amount of crab that complemented the dish wonderfully. Overall, the service was friendly and efficient, and despite a line outside, it moved quickly, thanks to ample seating. I spent about $70 on the meal, which felt reasonable for the enjoyable experience. I would recommend stopping by Bacco Cafe for a good breakfast experience in Seattle.

Portage Bay Cafe on 65th

900 NE 65th St, Seattle

(206) 529-3252

Reviewed by:

Bill Hakim

We visited Portage Bay Cafe on 65th for breakfast on a Wednesday morning and were pleased to be seated right away. The server was attentive, and we received our food in about 15 minutes. I ordered the Swedish Pancakes, and they were absolutely delicious. I’m definitely planning to return for more. The atmosphere inside was inviting, though the high ceilings made it a bit loud, which made conversation challenging at times. Portage Bay Cafe is a great American breakfast spot with an upscale feel and a commitment to sustainable and local ingredients. The berry bar is a standout feature, allowing you to add fresh toppings to various dishes. I recommend trying the Seattle Benedict or the Ranchers breakfast; both are satisfying and worth the price. The service was friendly, adding to the positive experience. If you’re planning to visit, making a reservation can save you some wait time. Overall, Portage Bay Cafe on 65th offers a delightful breakfast experience, and I look forward to my next visit.

Portage Bay Cafe - South Lake Union

391 Terry Ave N, Seattle

(206) 462-6400

Reviewed by:

Fernando Mincey

Portage Bay Cafe in South Lake Union is an absolute standout for breakfast in Seattle, and the ambience is immediately captivating. It's lively and bustling in the best way possible. I visited for a friend's birthday brunch and had an amazing experience. I ordered the goat cheese egg with a side salad, and it was fantastic. Their pancakes and French toast were also a hit. They have an open fruit bar where you can add fresh berries and bananas to your pancakes, which is a nice touch. The drinks, like coffee and tea, weren't as impressive as the food, but everything else more than made up for it. I organized a family reunion for twelve people on a busy Sunday, and it was a wonderful experience. Despite a hiccup with the reservation, the host and staff were incredibly accommodating and found us a table in no time. The service was outstanding; our server was patient and attentive, and the owner even came to check in on us. It made the whole event feel special. The food impressed everyone, especially those visiting from out of town. We ordered French toast, Swedish pancakes, and mushroom Benedict. While the toast was a bit soggy and the jam on the pancakes a touch too sweet, I appreciated the fresh fruit bar to customize our plates. All their locations offer quality breakfast at fair prices, and the ingredients are always fresh. If you can, try to grab a table outside when the weather's nice because it can get quite noisy inside. Overall, the experience was delightful, and I can't wait to return.

Skillet Diner @ Capitol Hill

1400 E Union St, Seattle

(206) 512-2001

Reviewed by:

Gqdavid Moe

Skillet Diner in Capitol Hill is a fantastic spot for breakfast. It's a popular place, so getting a table can be a challenge, but the wait is worth it. I've tried about half the menu, which features a lot of fried chicken options, and I must say, the fried chicken is top-notch. The eggs are always cooked perfectly, and the potatoes are delicious. The Benny and breakfast scramble were both exceptional, and the Italian doughnuts are a must-try. The atmosphere is lively without being too loud, making it a comfortable place to enjoy a meal. The staff is friendly and accommodating, which adds to the overall experience. On my first visit, I tried The Chub and it was amazing. The croissant bun was soft and the jalapeño aioli and bacon jam were packed with flavor. The morning taters were crispy and incredibly addictive. The food quality is consistently high, and I highly recommend the Mac or garlic fries as a side—they're my personal favorites. While the service from the host could have been better, the overall experience was positive. Skillet Diner is definitely a place to visit for anyone looking for delicious food at a reasonable price.

Mecca Cafe

526 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle

(206) 285-9728

Reviewed by:

Dior Rivas

I was eager to try Mecca Cafe for breakfast in Seattle, and I’m glad I did. I had lunch on my first day and returned for breakfast the next morning. The corned beef hash was extraordinary, and the atmosphere was awesome. For lunch, I tried the hot beef sandwich, which is a rare find these days. The mashed potatoes and gravy were homemade and delicious. The food was top-tier, exactly what you want from a breakfast and diner spot. The place was busy, living up to the hype, and every dish was prepared exceptionally well. While the hollandaise sauce lacked flavor, it didn’t spoil the experience. Service was a bit abrasive, but the server was attentive and got the job done. Prices were fair, especially given the generous portion sizes. The overall experience was excellent. The atmosphere was pleasant and inviting, reminiscent of a classic diner vibe. We also tried the Fish & Chips and French Toast Breakfast—both were fantastic—and enjoyed the rotating local ciders, including the Channel Marker Honey Badger. If you’re in Seattle, definitely check out Mecca Cafe.

Lost Lake Cafe & Lounge

1505 10th Ave, Seattle

(206) 323-5678

Reviewed by:

Jodi Thoman

Lost Lake Cafe & Lounge is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Seattle. It's a fun dive bar/diner with a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The staff was friendly and extremely helpful, adding to the good energy of the place. We ordered the Steak & Eggs and Chicken Fried Steak, both of which were quite good. The steak was cooked perfectly, though the chicken fried steak was a bit thin with chewy edges, but the middle was just right. The highlight, though, was the Cheese Curds recommended by our waiter. Fried to a perfect golden brown and served with garlic aioli and honey, they were absolutely fantastic. The balance of flavors was spot on. The Californian Benedict was incredible with top-notch hollandaise sauce, and the smashed rosemary potatoes were a great accompaniment. Our server, Gretchen, provided outstanding service, making the experience even better. A delicious mimosa rounded out the meal perfectly. I also tried a coffee pancake with coffee butter, which turned out to be one of the best pancakes I've ever had, despite sounding unusual. While the hash browns could use a bit more seasoning, it was nothing a little hot sauce couldn't fix. Overall, Lost Lake Cafe & Lounge offers a great dive diner feel with excellent food and service. I'll definitely be back.

The Breakfast Club

12306 Lake City Way NE, Seattle

(206) 361-2582

Reviewed by:

Wanda Peralta

I live in Lake City, and I've always walked by The Breakfast Club without stopping in, but today I decided to finally give it a try. I ordered the eggs Benedict with potatoes, and it was excellent—well-prepared and generous in portion. The service was fast, and the staff was incredibly friendly. The hot chocolate was the best I've ever had, and the pancakes were enormous. The gravy for the biscuits was outstanding. The prices were great, especially considering the generous portions. The inside of the restaurant is charming, with family photos and antiques everywhere. It felt like stepping into a home, adding to its unique character. The food was on point; I tried the country Benedict, and the gravy was amazing. I'm so glad a friend recommended this place to me. Though I've been a customer for over 25 years and often visited on weekends with my kids, I've noticed a change. The atmosphere has shifted, becoming darker and less inviting, and the service has lost its friendly touch. Prices have risen, understandable given the location, but the quality doesn't match up like it used to. It was disappointing to see my eggs come out runny—something that never happened before. Despite my long history with The Breakfast Club, this might be my last visit. It's sad to see such a beloved spot decline.

IHOP

950 E Madison St, Seattle

(206) 323-9323

Reviewed by:

Courtney Russell

Strong 4/5 is a fair rating for IHOP in Seattle. The food can be hit or miss depending on what you order. Chicken, hash browns, eggs, fruits, and coffee are pretty good, but the biscuits and French toast almost ruin the whole dish. Despite this, the service is quick and attentive, making it a good spot for a fast breakfast even when it's busy. Visiting late at night for dessert is a treat as it never disappoints. The staff are always nice and polite. Even with the heavy crowd past midnight, the service remains impressively fast. Their milkshakes and pancakes are top-notch in both taste and quality. The double blueberry pancakes are a favorite, but I'd suggest trying other pancake options since they are well-known for them. The combo of French toast with hash browns and pancakes was absolutely delightful. It's a good place overall, with the classic French toast and chicken sandwiches also being solid choices.

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