Best Breakfasts in Tempe to Satisfy Hunger
Uncover Tempe's gracious breakfast gems where quick-fired meals and grilled dishes shine. Dive into delicious pancakes, sizzling sausages, and colorful omelets that make mornings magical!

Wake up in Tempe and start your day with a delicious breakfast adventure! Sample the best breakfasts that offer classic cooking styles and quick-fired dishes bursting with flavor. Enjoy the cozy and friendly feel of the places as you treat your taste buds to something special.
Netta Cheta's on Mill
3224 S Mill Ave, Tempe
(480) 912-1711
Jose Grello
Visiting from Texas, my daughter took me to Netta Cheta's on Mill for brunch, and it was a fantastic experience! We chose this spot on a whim, and it turned out to be a gem. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, making it hard to choose. I decided on the Nutella & Berries French Toast, and it was delicious without being overly sweet. My friend tried the adult root beer float, which was the perfect sweet treat. The coffee was excellent, which we appreciated as avid coffee drinkers. For breakfast, my wife had the Garden Omelet, and I went for the Mushroom Benedict paired with French Toast. Every dish was generously portioned and cooked to perfection. Although we didn't try the all-you-can-drink mimosas due to work, they're on our list for next time. The service was top-notch. Our server, Christina, was friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, ensuring we had everything we needed. Overall, the food was awesome, and I left feeling satisfied and happy. Whether you're a local or visiting Phoenix, I definitely recommend checking out Netta Cheta's on Mill. I'm already looking forward to my next visit! 😋
First Watch
111 W University Dr, Tempe
(480) 498-4100
Quinnon Prebosnyak
First Watch in Tempe was a great breakfast spot. The menu offers good options, and the food is tasty. Our server, Jaleel, was fantastic and really made our experience enjoyable. The million dollar breakfast sandwich was a highlight—absolutely delicious. While the menu descriptions can be a bit over the top with terms like "farm sourced," the quality of the food was undeniable, even if it felt a little pricey. The downtown Tempe location is just a few blocks from the hotel, but the area can feel a bit sketchy, so keep that in mind if walking. I usually love ordering the Purple Haze drink at First Watch, but this time it wasn't as vibrant or flavorful as I'm used to. The ham and cheese omelette was pretty decent, though the salad lacked the usual lemony zest I love. The pancakes were good too. One thing worth noting is how accommodating the staff was, especially Jose, who was excellent with my stepdad's dietary needs and very patient with my kids. We're from out of state and are glad we trusted the good reviews. The biscuits & gravy and "million dollar" potatoes were incredibly flavorful—some of the best I've had. Parking can be tricky, but we found street parking nearby. Overall, the food was well made, though it could use a bit more seasoning, but that won’t stop me from visiting again.
Harlow's Cafe
1021 W University Dr, Tempe
(480) 829-9444
Basilio Hall
While visiting Tempe, I checked out Harlow's Café for breakfast on a friend's recommendation, and I couldn't be happier that I did! This place is a true gem, having been around for 44 years and serving breakfast and lunch all day. I went on a Sunday at around 10:30 AM, and despite the bustling atmosphere, the staff made me feel right at home. I had a friend visiting from Georgia, and the kind staff let us stay a little after closing. They even introduced us to their freshly made banana nut and blueberry muffins, which were hot and absolutely mouthwatering. I'm still craving them! For my breakfast, I ordered the Cisco breakfast, which came with French toast, bacon, and eggs over medium. Everything was cooked perfectly. My friend enjoyed the biscuits and gravy and raved about his meal as well. Our waitress was phenomenal, ensuring our coffee cups were always full. Despite how busy it was, we never felt rushed. Plus, parking was plentiful, even on a Sunday. I can confidently say Harlow's Café is my new favorite breakfast spot. It's a cozy little place with great food and even better service. Yes, there's often a wait, but it's undoubtedly worth it. If you're in Tempe, do yourself a favor and visit Harlow's for brunch. You won't be disappointed!
Crêpe Bar
7520 S Rural Rd, Tempe
(480) 247-8012
Adolfo Li
Crêpe Bar in Tempe is a delightful spot for breakfast that puts a creative spin on traditional crepes. The menu features both savory and sweet offerings, each crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients and beautifully presented. The variety of coffee options pairs perfectly with the meal. On my visit, we shared the Second Time and breakfast tacos, and both were outstanding. The atmosphere is inviting, enhanced by local artists' paintings on display and for sale. The staff is incredibly kind and attentive. Our server expertly prepared our loose leaf Earl Grey tea, adding to the overall experience. The quality of the food, freshly brewed tea, and service is evident, and it's a place I would love to revisit. We discovered this gem by chance and were so glad we did. The relaxed sitting area made for a comfortable dining experience. Aside from the crepes, we also enjoyed the fig and honey toast and the burrito, each bursting with flavor. I’m eager to return and will definitely recommend Crêpe Bar to friends for its innovative brunch experience.
Market Cafe
2000 W Westcourt Way, Tempe
(602) 225-9000
Jenn Erwin
I went to Market Cafe for breakfast and had a wonderful experience. The breakfast buffet was a treat, especially since it included juice at no extra charge, which is a rare find. While the buffet menu was somewhat limited, the stunning view and excellent service more than made up for it. The price was on the higher side, but it's worth it for the beautiful scenery. We happened to visit during the Angels' spring training, so parking was an added expense, but opting for valet was a nice little indulgence. We were celebrating my husband's birthday, and the staff truly went above and beyond to make it special. The food was fresh and delicious, and they were accommodating with our request to split the Wings platter into half with bones and half boneless. I appreciated that they were able to turn a cocktail into a mocktail for me, which was a nice touch. Overall, the experience was enjoyable, and we plan to return soon since it's conveniently close to home. A few minor hiccups didn't overshadow the positive aspects of our visit. I'm looking forward to another breakfast at Market Cafe.
Henhouse Cafe
9920 S Rural Rd Suite A105, Tempe
(480) 590-3423
Monique Crumbaugh
I thought I loved other breakfast spots, but Henhouse Cafe blew them out of the water! The standout for me was their large home fries fried in bacon grease—crisp on the bottom and perfectly soft inside. Their biscuits and gravy were fantastic, and the Mexican Eggs Benedict was a treat. The coffee was great, and the atmosphere was inviting with superb staff. I’m eager to visit their location in Gilbert, hoping it matches this vibe. The prices were lower than expected, better than most breakfast places I've been to. The corned beef hash was excellent, with yams that weren't mushy and potatoes rendered in bacon fat. The chicken and waffle were well-seasoned, and the green chile skillet was delicious. Service was top-notch, with our coffee always topped off. I can see why they’ve been voted best breakfast for many years—it’s well-deserved. On a busy Sunday, we were greeted warmly and seated quickly. Lori, our server, was attentive and efficient, even as we waited for friends. The food arrived promptly, and everything was delicious. I had the Chicken Fried Steak with Chorizo gravy, which was wonderful, and my partner enjoyed the huge Belgian Waffle. Our friends loved the Green Chile Skillet and French Toast made with sweet Hawaiian bread. Portions were enormous—enough for leftovers! The restaurant and restrooms were clean, and the service was impressive. Note there is a 3% upcharge for credit card use, but they offer a 10% discount for those in the service industry and 15% off on Military Mondays. Henhouse Cafe will definitely become a regular stop for us!
Sweet Desert Cafe
715 W Baseline Rd #2, Tempe
(480) 930-5352
Macedonio Kordell
Any place that can make a killer crepe is a must-stop for me. I tried both the Monte Cristo and the Chorizo versions, and I thoroughly enjoyed each. The vibe was very relaxing, and the service was outstanding. From the Salted Caramel Frappe to the crisp hash-browns, every taste was delicious. The prices are great, and the dining experience is five-star. We were craving breakfast after waking up at 2 p.m.! Sweet Desert Cafe stays open until 4 p.m. and was there to rescue us night owls. The atmosphere is beautiful, and you get service with a smile—and even better food! I can't wait to go again. You must try the breakfast burrito; it's stellar! This is one of those meals that you'll think about forever. We sampled the strawberry banana smoothie, mango smoothie, eggs Benedict, crepes, Chile rancheros, sausage, and WOW. There aren't proper words in the English language to convey how incredible and delicious this meal was. I want to shout from the rooftops about that divine strawberry banana smoothie, and I've never had sausage so perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful! And let's not forget the incredible service! The gentleman helping us was attentive to every table and so kind. Every person he asked about their food said it was incredible, and I didn't hear a single complaint. I can't recommend this place enough and will definitely be back—every day, if I could have it my way.
Original ChopShop
8738 S Emerald Dr #104, Tempe
(480) 386-0320
Valeria Raboteau
Our first time at Original ChopShop turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The staff were attentive and friendly, which set a positive tone for the visit. I tried the Daily Date Shake and it was simply delicious! The flavors were vibrant, and I loved the smooth texture. It's definitely a standout on the menu. I also had the Kale Caesar Salad with Chicken, and it was fresh, generously portioned, and satisfying. The restaurant itself is cute and cozy, perfect for a relaxed meal. I was impressed by the cleanliness, especially seeing the team cleaning the drink machine and service area during lunchtime. It's nice to know they prioritize hygiene. Initially, I had an issue with my order, but the management’s quick and efficient response was remarkable. They addressed my concerns promptly and provided an excellent solution. Their dedication to customer satisfaction has ensured that I’ll be returning to enjoy more meals. Overall, the experience was delightful, and the leadership here truly goes above and beyond to make things right. Thank you for a great experience!
Crackers and Co. Cafe
1285 W Elliot Rd, Tempe
(480) 705-7900
Troney عبد البديع
Crackers and Co. Cafe in Tempe is a charming spot for breakfast that offers a delightful menu with a mix of classic American and Mexican-inspired dishes. While my experience with the French Toast was underwhelming—it looked great but tasted average—the overall dining experience was positive. The service was top-notch, earning a solid rating, despite the slight disappointment with the dish itself. The serving size was generous, and the coffee was good. The cafe was busy, so there was a bit of a wait, but the staff was attentive, keeping everything running smoothly. The dining area was clean, though the plastic table covers were a minor distraction. On a positive note, I've visited all three Crackers locations, and the food quality remains consistent each time, ensuring a good meal. Prices can be a bit steep, and the options for gluten-free folks are limited, but it's worth a visit if you're in the area. Despite the mixed service experiences among patrons, the overall vibe is inviting. I'll definitely return to try something different on the menu, as the place has more hits to offer.
First Watch
4910 W Ray Rd #5, Chandler
(480) 752-3754
Alejandro Robinson
The food at First Watch for breakfast in Tempe was fantastic, and Deshawn's service was outstanding. His friendly smile made the experience even better. I've been to four different locations, and I'm always impressed by the consistency. The place looks small from the outside but is surprisingly spacious inside, and even though it's busy, the service is quick and the food is excellent. This morning, I had the salmon Benedict with a mimosa, and the arugula, spinach salad was spot on. The watermelon pineapple mint juice was a refreshing treat. The Belgian waffle was incredibly light and fluffy, possibly the best I've ever tasted, with the warm syrup adding a lovely touch. I also appreciate that they offer both turkey and chicken sausage. I had a fantastic brunch at First Watch in Chandler recently as well. The staff was extremely friendly and attentive, making it a pleasant visit. All the dishes were delicious, and if you love bacon, the "Million Dollar Bacon" from their seasonal menu is a must-try. It was so good! Overall, great service, amazing food, and a comfortable place make First Watch a winner.
Original ChopShop
222 E University Dr, Tempe
(480) 307-9336
Juan Barrientos
I ordered carry out for breakfast at Original ChopShop in Tempe and was really impressed. The food was great, and the service was friendly. Although the space is tight and requires some maneuvering to get to the register, the vibe is good, and the range of healthy options is impressive. I was delighted with the spicy Korean steak bowl, especially after adding avocado. The teriyaki bowl is another favorite, and they offer a fantastic selection of proteins, vegan bowls, healthy snacks, and detox juices. While I’m not a fan of the lemonade with Splenda, the overall offerings more than make up for it. Service is quick, and the staff is helpful. It's surprising I hadn't discovered this spot earlier during my time at ASU, given how popular it is, even in the heat of summer. This has become my go-to breakfast spot, especially for the Kale Cleanse juice, which fuels me for the day. The salads, cookies, and açaà bowls are also incredible. Overall, the Original ChopShop is a hidden gem that I can't wait to visit again.
Daily Dose Rio Salado
96 S Rockford Dr #105, Tempe
(480) 590-6937
Kelton Aguilera
Daily Dose Rio Salado is a delightful spot for breakfast in Tempe. The atmosphere, full of real plants, creates a charming environment that makes you feel right at home. The food is a standout here, with a range of options that cater to both savory and sweet palates. The highlight for me was the cinnamon roll pancakes. They were perfectly sweet and flavorful, an absolute must-try that I highly recommend. One of the standout aspects of my visit was the exceptional service. Our waitress, who had blonde hair and light eyes, was attentive and friendly, adding a personal touch to our dining experience. I also appreciated the way Jess, who takes care of the plants, was kind enough to share a little baby clipping with me. The menu offers a solid variety, including healthy options, which is great for those looking to eat mindfully. I opted for the traditional sausage and eggs breakfast with chocolate chip pancakes, and everything was cooked to perfection. My companion's burger with an egg and queso was also a hit, even for someone as picky as I am. The atmosphere is lively, and while it can get a bit loud, it adds to the vibrant experience. With ample parking and ADA accessibility, it's an easy choice for a weekend breakfast stop. While there are areas for improvement, such as proactive cleaning and staff communication, the overall experience was positive. Daily Dose has great potential, and we'll definitely be back for more of those delicious pancakes and friendly service.
Over Easy
690 S Novus Pl #187, Tempe
(480) 912-6294
Pablito Steward
Over Easy in Tempe deserves every bit of its 4.98-star rating. When I visited, it was bustling, but for good reason. The food was absolutely delicious, with a diverse menu that catered to all tastes. The service was exceptional—Vicki, our server, was both friendly and attentive, ensuring we had everything we needed. I had The OG Wolfpack, avocado toast, and chocolate chip pancakes, and each dish was spot on. The hashbrowns were cooked to perfection, the avocado toast was simple yet flavorful, and the pancakes were in a league of their own. The cold press coffee was just what I needed to kickstart my day. The service truly stood out, particularly in the Phoenix area where we were traveling. John, another server, was also fantastic, offering great food recommendations that didn't disappoint. An unforgettable detail was the kindness of the hostess, Kai, who went out of her way to retrieve my pen with a smile, turning my stressful morning around. If I were local, this would be a regular spot for me. Over Easy offers amazing food and service, making it a must-visit if you're in the area.
Denny's
1994 W Baseline Rd, Tempe
(602) 431-1818
Kyleigh Giggs
My breakfast at Denny's in Tempe was fantastic, all thanks to Melissa, my server. From the moment I sat down, Melissa was incredibly polite and attentive. Despite how busy it was, she quickly took my drink and food order. When my food arrived, it was hot and fresh, and she checked on me soon after I started eating to make sure everything was perfect. Melissa is a gem, and Denny's is lucky to have her on their team. The place was bustling, yet Melissa managed to handle everything with grace and efficiency. Her friendly demeanor and quick service made our breakfast experience truly enjoyable. From start to finish, everything, including the atmosphere and music, was spot on. This was the best service I've experienced at any Denny's I've visited. Melissa's positive attitude and attentiveness really stood out. I will definitely be coming back and highly recommend this location and Melissa's exceptional service. Evelyn was also a sweet and courteous server, making our experience even better. We'll be sure to return to this location! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Daily Jam - Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant
310 S Mill Ave #A101, Tempe
(480) 968-9288
Raul Barrientos
Daily Jam in Tempe has become one of my favorite spots for breakfast and brunch. The location is fantastic, right on Mill Avenue with a great view of A Mountain, and the vibe inside is awesome. The place is bright with plenty of natural light thanks to the large windows. There's a lot of seating, and even though the table we chose needed a quick wipe-down, it was no big deal. The service here is friendly and efficient. You place your order at the counter, and everything is brought out to you. The food was the highlight of my visit. We sampled both sweet and savory dishes, and everything was delicious. The jalapeño popper avocado toast was my favorite, closely followed by the banana Nutella French toast, farmer's Benedict, and red velvet waffles. Portions are generous, which means you might end up taking some home, like we did. I also loved my caramel macchiato—it had the perfect balance of coffee and sweetness. My breakfast partner enjoyed the PB&J smoothie, which was flavorful and not overblended. I'm really looking forward to trying the mimosa flights next time. The entire location is clean and doesn't feel crowded even during peak hours. The fountain drink station is well-maintained. I've read some reviews about a strange smell, but we didn't experience any issues. Everything was great, including the pomegranate mimosas and gluten-free options. My sister, who has Celiac disease, had the gluten-free waffles and loved them, giving them a 12/10. Overall, it's an excellent spot with nice portions and good prices. The staff is friendly and kind, and with such a beautiful view from the outdoor seating, it's a gem in Tempe that I’ll gladly return to.
Scramble, a Breakfast & Lunch Joint
1120 E Baseline Rd Ste 101, Tempe
(480) 534-4044
John Aworiland
I visited Scramble, a Breakfast & Lunch Joint, and had a fantastic experience. The cafe-style setup is convenient, and I appreciate having the freedom to seat myself. The variety of vegan and vegetarian options is impressive, making it easy for anyone with dietary preferences to find something delicious. I especially loved sitting on their shaded patio; it’s a lovely spot to enjoy a meal, and it's a bonus that they welcome dogs with a special pup plate. On our visit, we decided to try their brunch offerings. The mimosa was a standout and made for a refreshing accompaniment to the meal. My son, who is usually cautious about new dishes, absolutely loved the French toast, which was a pleasant surprise for us. Personally, I have a soft spot for their biscuits and gravy plate. The homemade biscuits are generously topped with sausage gravy, and the seasoning is spot-on, especially if you enjoy a good peppery kick. And let me mention their hashbrowns—they manage to make them perfectly crisp without being greasy, which is rare and delightful. Overall, the friendly and kind staff made the experience even better. The food came out quickly, and the whole dining experience was smooth and enjoyable. For anyone looking for a great spot for breakfast or brunch, I highly recommend Scramble. It’s a place that I’ll definitely be visiting again, and it’s always a pleasure when an experience meets or even exceeds expectations.
Kneaders Bakery & Cafe
2030 E Elliot Rd, Tempe
(480) 355-0544
Emily Abu
I had a fantastic breakfast experience at Kneaders Bakery & Cafe in Tempe. The food was absolutely delicious, and I couldn’t get enough of the almond croissant. Mark, one of the staff members, provided exceptional service. He noticed that I’d been waiting longer than usual for my food and made it a point to quickly address the situation. Not only did he ensure that I got my sandwich promptly, but he also offered me a drink to make up for the wait, which was incredibly thoughtful. Even when my sandwich was missing the ham, Mark was quick to resolve the issue by getting me a fresh one to go. His attention to customer satisfaction truly made my day. The food was great overall, and though there were minor hiccups in the order, the way they were handled left a positive impression on me. I would definitely return for the tasty offerings and hope for quicker service next time.
Morning Squeeze
690 S Mill Ave Suite 110, Tempe
(480) 264-4688
Megan Boisrond
Morning Squeeze has become our go-to breakfast spot in Tempe, and it's easy to see why. The service, while a bit slow, is genuinely friendly, making the whole experience feel welcoming. I particularly enjoyed the atmosphere; it's cute and inviting, and on a Monday morning, we had our pick of seating. I imagine weekends might be busier, so reservations could be a good idea. The food and drinks are truly the stars here. Everything we tried was delicious, from the mocha latte (both iced and hot versions) to the original Bloody Mary. Despite the slightly higher prices, the quality of the food, like the chicken and waffles, made it worth it. I did feel the portion sizes could be a bit more generous, but the taste more than made up for it. Our visit was made even better by the attentive staff, including what seemed to be a manager who greeted us warmly and checked in throughout our meal. It's these little touches that really enhance the dining experience. The decor adds to the fun vibe of the place, making it a spot I'm excited to visit again. Overall, Morning Squeeze is a fantastic choice for breakfast in Tempe—highly recommended!
Back East Bagels
1628 E Southern Ave #2, Tempe
(480) 491-4222
Sai Reed
Back East Bagels has been my top choice for bagels for years. Their bagels are pillowy and satisfying, and the cream cheese is delicious with lots of interesting sandwich options. For those who worry about them running out of stock as the morning goes on, that's how a real bakery operates when they serve fresh products, and it's a great sign of quality. After more than five years of being a regular, their simple lox bagel is unbeatable in the valley, and my order has never been messed up. If you don't see any fans of Back East Bagels, it means I'm no longer around. This is the spot for fantastic bagels! These bagels are the real deal, reminiscent of an authentic New York bagel. My favorite order includes the jalapeño cheddar bagel with jalapeño cream cheese. The bagel sandwiches are amazing, and the chopped lox bagel was a highlight during my last visit. Depending on who’s serving, you might get a generous amount of cream cheese, although there was one instance where I felt it was a bit lacking. However, the bagels themselves are so good that I can’t really complain. For the best experience, make sure to come early. It gets really busy during peak hours, so I prefer to visit before 8 am. The bagels here are definitely worth waking up early for. The place has a nice local vibe with excellent service, and although they occasionally run out of certain bagels, the cheese bagel was a great backup choice. I'll keep coming back for more!