June 10, 2025

Super Yummy Breakfasts in Syracuse: Open Early and Delicious Biscuits

Visit Syracuse's cozy breakfast nooks where you can enjoy hot and fresh dishes bursting with flavor. From fluffy pancakes to savory omelets, every meal is a tasty adventure waiting to start your day!

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

Get ready for fun in Syracuse! Discover the best breakfasts with mouth-watering cooking styles like fluffy pancakes and crispy waffles. Enjoy the cozy feeling of these places while you dive into scrumptious dishes like cheesy omelets and sizzling bacon.

Nice Biscuit

2324 Court St, Syracuse

(315) 221-3797

Reviewed by:

Daniel Bass

This place is the bomb! There's an order window, and the girl at the front was super friendly. We had a 20-25 minute wait, but it was worth it. So many people were coming and going, and I totally get why. The biscuits are superb! The flavors were on point, and the sauce was delicious. Everything was incredible. I almost turned right back around to order again. The Nellie wasn’t too sweet, and everything tasted homemade and fresh. Keep doing what you’re doing! We’re two happy customers from Albany, NY, and we will definitely be back. We're loyal customers now! I really enjoyed the biscuit sandwich and the coffee. This is a must-try for anyone looking for an out-of-the-ordinary experience while in the area. Just a heads up, there’s no indoor seating—only two tables and four chairs outside. A quick map search can show some parks nearby where you can enjoy your food. These biscuits are amazing! I’ve been on the hunt for a great biscuit, and Nice Biscuit delivered perfectly. I can’t believe they’re vegan—honestly, this might be the best biscuit I’ve ever had. I ordered one with pimento cheese and a half order of biscuits with gravy. I appreciated that everything was thoughtfully packaged since we took it home. Since it's just an order window, I'd recommend ordering ahead because there can be a wait, especially on Saturday mornings. There are a few outdoor tables, but no indoor dining area. It was pouring rain, and they kindly brought our order to the car—excellent customer service! I found this quaint vegan spot while visiting Syracuse and was surprised to see everything on the menu was vegan. We ordered a biscuit with strawberry butter, the Buck, the Trailblazer, and some potato wedges. Wow, it was so delicious! Not only did the food taste great, but the presentation was also on point. The biscuits were wrapped like little presents! I would definitely recommend this place. You may have a slight wait for your food, but it’s so worth it. I do think they should consider adding a seating area because it’s all to-go.

On the Fly Diner

3600 Court St, Syracuse

(315) 214-8743

Reviewed by:

Federico Young

I went to On the Fly Diner for breakfast on the north side of Syracuse, and it was a fantastic experience. The service was friendly and attentive, and the food exceeded my expectations. We tried the shrimp and grits, mac and cheese, chicken sandwich, and collard greens. Every dish was excellent, with a sophisticated blend of flavors that made each bite delicious. Even though we chose southern dishes, they were surprisingly light. The menu might be small, but that means everything is fresh. My sister and I shared the shrimp cakes and grits, as well as a fried chicken sandwich. Both dishes were incredible. I felt right at home as soon as I walked in, and the menu was so enticing that I wanted to try everything. If you're in the Syracuse area, you need to visit this place. If you're not, it’s worth the trip. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, thanks to Gray, the chef, and Tracy, our wonderful waitress. They made us feel like part of the family. The coffee is great, and the menu is diverse yet concise, so you really can’t go wrong. I’ve been twice now; the first time I had the shrimp and grits, and today I enjoyed the eggs Benedict with fresh, homemade hollandaise sauce. Everything was cooked perfectly. This place truly is a gem, and I'll definitely be back for more.

The Sweet Praxis

203 E Water St, Syracuse

(315) 216-7797

Reviewed by:

Brad Hayes

The Sweet Praxis in Syracuse is a gem for breakfast lovers. The pastries and baked goods are ridiculously good, with options for everyone, including gluten-free and vegan choices. I once gave my boyfriend a vegan donut without telling him, and he said it was one of the best donuts he’s ever had. Even after learning it was vegan, he stands by that opinion! The coffee drinks are creative and delicious, and the staff is super friendly. Do yourself a favor and visit this place. I tried the Sweet & Spicy Sandwich (GF), and every bite was a delight. It features a fluffy buttermilk biscuit, farm-fresh egg, harissa-roasted sweet potato, cheddar cheese, spicy chipotle aioli, arugula, and pickled red onion. Since The Sweet Praxis moved downtown, it has become my weekend go-to for sweet treats. The staff puts so much effort into their products, and I can't thank them enough. My recent visit included a breakfast sandwich, iced blueberry latte, and a chocolate almond croissant, all of which were delicious. The staff was kind and helpful, and the menu offers plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. We also chose The Sweet Praxis for our wedding desserts, and they exceeded our expectations. Meg was incredibly helpful in selecting the right desserts from their extensive menu. Our guests loved everything, and the pickup was seamless, with everything thoughtfully packaged. I highly recommend The Sweet Praxis for any occasion!

Water Street Bagel Co.

239 E Water St, Syracuse

(315) 802-6925

Reviewed by:

Shirlyne Hurt

Finally found a good spot for an egg and cheese on a bagel at Water Street Bagel Co. The bagels were delicious—while they weren't as soft as I usually prefer, they were just as good! It gets quite busy on weekends, so be ready for a bit of a crowd. When you walk in, you'll have to make your way to the back to place your order, weaving past people waiting for their food. On a Saturday, the wait was about 15 minutes for one breakfast sandwich and a plain bagel with cream cheese. Their WOOD FIRE BAGELS are a hit! I tried the one with two organic eggs, cheddar, avocado, and local maple syrup. Honestly, it was one of the best bagels I've ever had. The place has a super cozy and warm vibe, and the owner is awesome, really friendly. The egg and cheese bagel we tried was fresh and delicious. We also had coffee, which was decent but nothing too fancy. What stood out was how customer-focused the team was; they genuinely seemed to connect with everyone who walked in. This is definitely a great place for breakfast, though seating is limited. I highly recommend it. We were in search of a traditional bagel shop and found Water Street Bagels. While it might not have been exactly what we had in mind, there were absolutely no complaints about the bagels or the service.

Three Lives

316 S Clinton St, Syracuse

(315) 218-5001

Reviewed by:

Devin Rotenberg Goihman

I had an incredible time at Three Lives! Not only do they offer amazing food, but their nonalcoholic and alcoholic drinks come with a cool twist. The games available are entertaining and they brought back a wave of nostalgia for me. The staff was exceptional—helpful and welcoming, making my experience even more enjoyable. I was there with my five- and seven-year-old, and they also had a fantastic time. I highly recommend Three Lives for a wonderful outing. It's a unique spot—a bar with creative cocktails and menu items, surrounded by retro arcade games. You can relive childhood memories in a friendly atmosphere while enjoying great food. Speaking of which, the Gold BBQ Wings were amazing! The sauce was excellent and the wings were perfectly crispy. Their loaded vegan tater tots were also very good. We tried a couple of cocktails and they were both very good! The staff was super friendly and helpful, which made us feel truly welcome. Service was fast too. I can't wait to go back! My family even surprised me with a 60th birthday party at Three Lives, and it was the perfect venue for a Sunday afternoon. We celebrated together, watching the Buffalo Bills game, and had a blast playing video games. It was a warm, friendly atmosphere, and everyone had a great time.

Strong Hearts

315 Irving Ave, Syracuse

(315) 478-0000

Reviewed by:

David Ahn

My partner and I ordered online and when we arrived at Strong Hearts for breakfast in Syracuse, I was immediately impressed by the atmosphere. There were plenty of great spots to sit both inside and outside, and the aroma of the food was absolutely mouthwatering. The service was outstanding; every customer was greeted with a smile, and the staff genuinely cared about delivering an authentic experience. I ordered the fried chicken sandwich, which was incredibly fresh—the lettuce, tomato, and sauce all came together perfectly. My partner had the buffalo wings, and they were unlike any other—practically boneless with a crispy exterior that made them perfect. I also appreciate how inclusive Strong Hearts is for people with dietary restrictions, offering gluten-free and vegan options. During a long trip, I stopped again and ordered a Sesame Citrus Salad with extra fried vegan chicken patty and tofu. It was tasty, and the service close to closing time was still as cordial and helpful as ever. While the menu is more fast-food style, catering to a college crowd, it’s consistent in quality. One thing to note: the $5 chocolate bars are tiny at just 0.85oz. Though I only had coffee once, it was delicious. The young lady who served me was polite and friendly, adding to the good vibes of the place. It’s bright, clean, and has a cool vibe with outside seating. As someone who isn’t vegan, I can honestly say the food here is fantastic. The loaded fries were top-notch with lots of toppings, and my mac and cheese with chicken nuggets was excellent. I’m already planning my next visit. Strong Hearts serves great food that just happens to be vegan, and I highly recommend it for a relaxed and tasty meal.

Recess Coffee Tipperary Hill

429 Ulster St, Syracuse

(315) 991-8414

Reviewed by:

Tyler Rosales

Lovely place to spend some time on the weekend! This is, without a doubt, the best Recess Coffee I've visited in the Syracuse area. I started with the Teddy Graham Latte, and it was fantastic—highly recommend it! The breakfast sandwiches were top-notch, especially the Vienna Croissant. The latte I had could easily be the best I've ever tasted. The cozy atmosphere is inviting, with plenty of seating available, and the vibe is enhanced by local art and plants decorating the space. The staff is cheerful and attentive, and the barista who prepared my Pour Over did so with such care, resulting in an incredibly flavorful cup. Despite parking being a bit tricky, the experience was well worth it. I would choose Recess Coffee over any of the bigger coffee chains anytime—it's an excellent example of how small doesn't mean small time. I'll definitely come back whenever I'm in Syracuse.

Hope Cafe

444 E Genesee St, Syracuse

(315) 325-9525

Reviewed by:

Hannah Keymoney

I visited Hope Cafe in Syracuse for breakfast and had a fantastic experience. I started with a coffee and a breakfast bowl topped with a slightly spicy and fantastic sauce. Sitting outside was a delight, adding to the great experience. The ciabatta breakfast sandwich was delicious, and the empanada was very large and tasty. The service was friendly, and the place was clean, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. I heard about this gem from my coworkers, and I'm glad I checked it out. The employees were kind and helpful throughout my visit. I ordered the carne empanada with cilantro chipotle sauce, and both were absolutely amazing. The empanada offered a punch of fresh, authentic Peruvian cuisine, making for a wonderful light lunch that's easy on the wallet. I also tried the garden salad, which was fresh, crisp, and light. Although I haven't tried the coffee yet, I've heard it's delicious, and I'm excited to stop in before work for a cup. Hope Cafe is in a fantastic location, and I'm confident they'll thrive with the foot traffic and nearby businesses. I'm excited to see what the future holds for them. Good luck to the team! This is an excellent place to enjoy delicious coffee and food in a welcoming atmosphere.

Café Kubal

3501 James St, Syracuse

(315) 863-1989

Reviewed by:

Billy Shazia

Café Kubal has become my go-to spot for breakfast in Syracuse, and I've seen it improve over the years. The coffee is consistently good, and it's hard to beat their iced americano, probably the best I've had in the area. The café has expanded with more seating, making it a comfortable place to catch up with friends. While service can be a bit slow at times, especially when they're understaffed, it's always great to be there. The staff's friendliness makes up for the wait, and I appreciate their warm welcome. Over the years, I've tried various items from their menu. Their cappuccino is excellent, and the breakfast wrap is huge and satisfying. The chai seed pudding, paired with a cortado, was a pleasant surprise, both delicious. The vibe is earthy with a global feel, which I love. It’s a true independent coffee shop experience, and their baked goods, like the cookies, are simply amazing. Overall, Café Kubal remains a delightful spot for a morning visit.

Nestico's Too

4105 W Genesee St, Syracuse

(315) 487-5864

Reviewed by:

Jose Rivera

Nestico's Too is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Syracuse and never disappoints. Every time we visit, the food is consistently excellent, and the service is impressively fast, even during busy times. The staff is attentive, and management is always welcoming and polite, creating a great atmosphere. We try to visit every weekend, but my hours don't always match up, so I miss the dinner hours. However, it's great to see the place busy whenever I drive by. The food is delicious, and there aren't enough stars to rate the exceptional staff and service. I'll never forget the kindness they showed to my dad during his early stages of dementia. Despite his challenges, the staff was patient and supportive during his visits. This is the best spot in town for quick, quality food. We once spotted a Baldwin at a table nearby, adding to the charming experience. The service is fast and friendly, making it a must-stop if you're in the area looking for a nice diner-type setting. They even offer gluten-free bread, which makes a great BLT, and there's a wide variety of options to suit any taste. You won't regret your visit; enjoy! If you get a chance, try the blueberry lemon waffle. I shared it with my husband, and it was delicious!

Clementine

321 S Salina St, Syracuse

Reviewed by:

Juan Carlos Ding

I had a great experience at Clementine for breakfast in Syracuse. The atmosphere was vibrant, and the service was top-notch. Our waiter had an amazing attitude that really lifted the whole dining experience. The food was excellent and definitely lived up to the pictures. Even though we had to wait a bit for a table during brunch, it was absolutely worth it. The combination of delicious food, cool vibes, and attentive service makes this place a must-visit.

Recess Coffee

110 Montgomery St #103, Syracuse

(315) 425-8969

Reviewed by:

John Dias Lopes

Recess Coffee in Syracuse is a charming spot that I genuinely enjoy for breakfast. What sets it apart for me is their excellent house-roasted and fresh-ground drip coffee. As someone who isn't really into espresso and its variants, finding a place with top-notch drip coffee is essential, and Recess Coffee delivers on that front. The staff is friendly and welcoming, which adds to the positive experience. I've had food there a few times, and it has always been freshly prepared and delicious. I do notice some inconsistency now and then, especially with the espresso drinks, which can be a bit hit or miss. Prices can vary, too, particularly if you add substitutes like almond milk, which can make the bill climb to around twenty dollars for just two items. It's worth mentioning that specifying the amount of syrup in your drinks can help if you prefer them less sweet. Despite these minor issues, the atmosphere and quality of the drip coffee keep me coming back. The interior is cozy, and the location is great. Overall, Recess Coffee is a wonderful spot for those who appreciate a good cup of drip coffee paired with friendly service.

Recess Coffee

110 Harvard Pl, Syracuse

(315) 410-0090

Reviewed by:

Mary Cruz

I visited Recess Coffee for breakfast and was impressed overall with the experience. The place was pretty busy, so there was a bit of a wait, but it was worth it for the drinks. The coffee was excellent; I started my day with a cortado, which felt more like a latte, but it was still a great cup that set the tone for a productive morning. The café has a classic coffee house vibe—casual, with plenty of seating and a nice menu. I settled into one of the back dining rooms, found a comfy spot, and set up my laptop. The free wifi was a plus, and I was able to work on a few projects for several hours without any interruptions. For breakfast, I tried a bagel sandwich. It had egg, cheese, ham, and ketchup on an everything bagel. It was a bit messy but undeniably delicious. While the bagels could use a little more toasting and crispness, the combination of flavors made up for it. What stood out was the atmosphere—a classic coffee shop setting where you can easily spend hours, just like I did. While there were a couple of minor hiccups, like running out of dairy products, these didn't detract from my experience. Overall, Recess Coffee is a great spot for breakfast or just to enjoy a good cup of coffee. I highly recommend trying their lattes and blueberry smoothie, and if you're in the mood for a bagel, their spinach, egg, and pesto option is worth a try too. I'll definitely be adding it to my list of places to revisit in Syracuse.

DeWitt Bagel Company

4320 E Genesee St, Syracuse

(315) 396-0019

Reviewed by:

Karelys Theisen

Let me start off by saying, the vibe when you walk in is perfection. All the staff were having fun and doing their job, the best of both worlds. The bagels are amazing, and they definitely don't skimp on quality with their locally sourced ingredients. The service was fast and efficient. I'd go back any day, 10/10. Thank you for providing such an excellent experience with amazing staff. This place has a great vibe, the coffee is always on point, and the bagel sandwiches are delicious. Sometimes there's a wait during mid to late morning, but it's always a pleasant atmosphere. The people are friendly and helpful, and the bagels have a nice texture with a firm outside and softer inside. The outer crust isn't too hard, so the cream cheese stays put. There's a nice variety of bagels available, and the bagel sandwiches are tasty. Though inside seating is limited, we've never had trouble finding a spot while waiting. I enjoyed a bagel with cream cheese this morning, and when they were out of a specific one, we only waited six minutes for a fresh batch to be ready and even grabbed a few to take home. The bagels are crispier on the outside than a typical bagel, which I really liked. There's a small seating area, and they serve Recess coffee. The only options today were dark roast and decaffeinated, and I would have liked a light blend, but that's a minor thing. Overall, just an excellent breakfast spot.

Rise And Grind Cafe

4119 Genesee St, Syracuse

(315) 935-5139

Reviewed by:

Ivetth Ram

Rise and Grind Cafe is my go-to spot for a quick and tasty breakfast, and it's perfect for grabbing a coffee my mom absolutely loves. I genuinely prefer it over Starbucks any day. I adore the cafe's charming atmosphere, which makes every visit enjoyable. The food selection is impressive, and I can't get enough of their açaí bowl — it's become my staple order. The coffee and espresso are always expertly made, which keeps me coming back. During my first visit, even though it was early evening and we hadn't eaten much all day, the avocado toast hit the spot. It was delicious and satisfying without being too heavy. I also tried the hot caramel apple cider out of curiosity, as I'd never had hot apple juice before. I ended up loving it and can't wait for apple cider season to return so I can order it again. Rise and Grind Cafe has become my new favorite place, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for great food and coffee.

Bruegger's Bagels

3065 Erie Blvd E, Dewitt

(315) 517-3160

Reviewed by:

Pascal Evstigneeva

Our first visit to Bruegger's Bagels in Syracuse turned out to be a fantastic decision during a hectic day. With an hour to spare between appointments, we decided to stop by for a quick breakfast. As soon as we walked in, Betty greeted us warmly and answered all our questions with a smile, making us feel right at home. The service was fast and efficient, and the cleanliness of the place stood out. The dining area was welcoming, providing the perfect spot to pause and enjoy our meal. I was there early on a Friday morning, and every staff member I met was incredibly friendly and had great personalities. This location may be a bit out of my usual route, but the experience was worth the detour. The energy of the staff made it a fun visit, and the western sandwich I ordered was just what I needed – consistent and satisfying. We left with smiles and a dozen extra bagels, excited to return the next time we're in the area. Big thanks to Betty and the team for their welcoming presence!

Dee's Diner

1900 Brewerton Rd # 4, Mattydale

(315) 454-9961

Reviewed by:

Stanley Halstead

Dee's Diner for breakfast in Syracuse was a surprisingly delightful experience. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the staff was friendly and attentive from the moment we walked in. The breakfast menu offered a nice variety, and the prices were incredibly reasonable for the quality of food served. I ordered the corned beef hash with poached eggs and toast. The hash was flavorful and cooked just right, and the eggs were perfectly poached. The toast was lightly buttered, just how I like it. My partner enjoyed their meal as well, commenting on how fresh and delicious everything was. Throughout our meal, the servers made sure we had everything we needed, refilling our coffee and checking in with us regularly. It was evident they took great pride in ensuring their guests had a positive dining experience. The diner had a cozy vibe, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back breakfast with loved ones. Overall, Dee's Diner exceeded our expectations, and I can see why it's a favorite among locals. I'll definitely be returning for another enjoyable breakfast soon.

Original Grain

302 S Salina St, Syracuse

(315) 299-5011

Reviewed by:

Jessica Balboni

Original Grain is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Syracuse! The atmosphere is light, airy, and modern, with skater hip decor and upbeat music that makes the experience enjoyable from the moment you walk in. The full glass windows offer a great view of downtown, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal. Their menu offers fresh, healthy, and delicious options, which is perfect for someone like me who appreciates a good balance of flavor and nutrition. I opted for one of their pre-designed menu items, and it was a great choice—full of flavor and perfectly satisfying. While the tables could have used a quick wipe-down, the friendly staff and reasonable prices more than made up for it. Overall, Original Grain is a great place to grab a casual bite to eat, whether you're alone or with friends. It's a gem in Syracuse, and I hope they expand to more locations soon because other places deserve to enjoy this culinary delight too. I look forward to coming back for another superb meal!

Oh My Darling

321 S Salina St, Syracuse

(315) 290-3330

Reviewed by:

Jasmine Lockette

Oh My Darling for breakfast in Syracuse was a delightful experience for me. The brunch food was tasty, and I’m really looking forward to going back to try more items from their menu. The bourbon salmon I had was perfectly flaky and well-seasoned, though I felt the risotto could have used a bit more flavor. The artichoke dip wasn’t quite to my liking, as it lacked warmth and had a bit too much cream cheese. Despite that, the hot honey chicken was a standout dish that I absolutely loved. The atmosphere of the restaurant was beautiful, especially the gorgeous bar area. I’m quite keen on trying out their happy hour in the future. Although the music was nice, it was a bit too loud, making conversations difficult and even causing some confusion with the hostess. Service was friendly, and they were attentive to our needs, though not particularly outgoing. We visited on a busy night with a reservation, so we were seated promptly. The seating arrangement felt a bit cramped, as the tables were quite close together. While the drinks we ordered were enjoyable, they were on the pricey side. Overall, it was a positive experience with room for some minor improvements. I'm excited to return and explore more of what Oh My Darling has to offer!

Cafe Kubal

3911 Brewerton Rd, Syracuse

(315) 863-2553

Reviewed by:

Kris Morgan

I stopped by Cafe Kubal in Syracuse on a Saturday morning around 9:00 a.m. while traveling through town. I was looking for a good cup of coffee and a light breakfast, and this spot did not disappoint. Although the pastry cases were a bit empty when I arrived, and I was told the freshly baked goodies were still cooling, the coffee itself was fantastic—rich and flavorful, just the way I like it. I spent an hour catching up on some computer work and appreciated the calm environment. The young man who took my order was friendly and polite, which added to the overall pleasant experience. Though it took a little while for music to start playing, when it did, it created a nice, relaxed vibe that was perfect for a morning pit stop. While the restroom needed a bit of attention, the staff was quick to address the issue when I mentioned it. The service was courteous and professional, making me feel welcome. Overall, despite a couple of minor hiccups, I really enjoyed my brief visit to Cafe Kubal. It's a cozy spot to grab a coffee, especially if you're looking for a peaceful place to relax or get some work done. I'm looking forward to stopping by again next time I'm in the area.

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