Breakfast Spots in Memphis (2025)

Near the University of Memphis, this family-run staple turns out from-scratch breads, open-faced omelets, and cinnamon roll pancakes. Praised by Food Network and Memphis Magazine, it’s also lauded for community work and long-running “Best Breakfast” wins.

Memphis’ oldest café serves breakfast all day—sweet potato pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and the Elvis-favorite fried peanut butter and banana sandwich. Frequently featured by Southern Living and highlighted by Memphis Travel for its cultural history.

House-baked biscuits, creative breakfast bowls, and a lively counter-service vibe define this local favorite (with an East Memphis outpost). Frequently cited by Southern Living and Memphis food writers as a must for modern Memphis breakfast.

Longtime Midtown hangout with breakfast served all day, a soda fountain, and scratch bakery items. Noted by Tennessee’s official travel site and Memphis Magazine for being a neighborhood fixture with broad, vegetarian-friendly menus.

A seven-decade Midtown diner that reopened in April 2025 after a fire—same spirit, refreshed space, and the familiar plates locals love. Covered by Action News 5, Memphis Flyer, and Choose901 for its community comeback.

A Memphis institution for hot yeast donuts, fritters, and maple-bacon classics. Regularly cited by Southern Living and other national outlets; locals swear by early-morning runs when the racks turn over fresh.

In the Arrive Hotel lobby, this indie bakery-café turns out sourdough toasts, French toast, and thoughtful pastries with quality coffee. Highlighted by Southern Living and Memphis Travel as a stylish downtown breakfast stop.

Beloved, family-owned soul-food café known for Saturday brunch—waffles, salmon croquettes, and hot-water cornbread. Featured on Food Network and celebrated by local journalists for heartfelt hospitality and Memphis roots.

A biscuit-and-breakfast joint in Harbor Town that channels the Delta with farm-sourced ingredients and inventive plates. Southerly and modern—praised by Southern Living and the Memphis Flyer for its thoughtful approach.

Locally owned coffee-and-bakery counter offering made-to-order breakfast sandwiches on house breads and biscuits. A neighborhood standby that keeps mornings simple and tasty in Cooper-Young.

Downtown spot centered on Southern breakfast plates and signature grits bowls, with daily morning hours. A convenient base for exploring the core, noted by local guides for hearty portions and classic choices.