The best breakfasts in Boston

This Beacon Hill standard—in business since 1937—is slightly fancier than its original incarnation, but its old stainless steel grill, Formica tabletops, and cafeteria-style service make breakfast here a low-key affair. Standards such as omelettes and corned beef hash are on the menu, or go for something fancier like avocado toast, chocolate Boston cream pancakes, or healthy quinoa parfait. For late starters, breakfast goes well into the afternoon.

Tatte, a local success story, has many locations around the city. Each café is friendly and welcoming, good for a morning linger over coffee and pastry. Breakfast highlights include a fresh-baked croissant, pan au chocolate, kouign amann, and delicious, always-fresh coffee. The Brookline location features an open kitchen where you can watch the bakers at work.

Neighborhood favorite South End Buttery is the place to be for brunch on Sundays, but it’s worth a stop for a morning fuel-up any day. House-made pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and toasts (with a base of avocado or ricotta) are all-natural and satisfying, whether you’re dining in or taking out. Canine companions are also taken care of with fresh doggie cupcakes.

For a sweet start to the day, head to Joanne Chang’s popular cafe and bakery. You’ll be tempted by baked goods galore, including sticky buns, doughnuts, coffee cake, croissants, and more. Have a coffee and linger, or take your treats to go. Multiple locations make Flour a handy option for picking up a quick, quality breakfast.

This tiny Bay Village eatery specializes in quick and comforting breakfast sandwiches. Having only two stools in house, Mike & Patty’s is ideal for grabbing breakfast and chowing down on a park bench, maybe even a nearby stoop. The Fancy is their claim to fame and has customers lining up around the block. They’re open daily until 2pm for those craving breakfast for lunch, or just those who slept in late.  

A throwback to both the 50s and the 80s, this Allston diner celebrates the Brat Pack movie for which it’s named. Homemade breakfast items feature fresh ingredients and cage-free eggs, resulting in killer pancakes. The menu references the movie with specials like “The Basketcase” (two eggs, home fries, toast, pancakes or French toast, and choice of meat) and “The Dean’s Office” (toasted bagel, smoked salmon, cream cheese, onions, tomatoes, capers).

Casual sibling to Oleana and Sarma, Sofra is popular for Mediterranean treats like gözleme, shawarma, and börek. But this spot on the Cambridge-Belmont border also offers Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese baked goods, including tasty breakfast treats. Try olive oil granola, chickpea pancakes, or a morning bun with orange blossom glaze, available every day of the week.

Nestled on a low-traffic side street in Back Bay is the Friendly Toast, whose menu is just as eccentric and colorful as their dining space. With a such a big menu, big portions, and big flavors, you’ll leave feeling full, happy, and possiby ready to go back to bed. The Friendly Toast has mastered the art of breakfast and makes everything in house, from their freshly baked bread to their hollandaise sauce. They serve breakfast all day, as well as signature sandwiches, soups, burgers and more. 

South Street Diner welcomes hungry patrons at all hours. The 24/7 diner serves breakfast standards throughout the day for early risers and night owls alike. The “Diner Special” (three eggs, two pancakes or French toast, home fries, toast, and choice of bacon, corn beef hash, ham or sausage) is always a winner.

Henrietta’s Table is the spot for farm-to-table fare, with a menu packed with local, seasonal ingredients. Breakfast is a treat, especially on the sunny patio in warm weather. Wake up with hearty fare like malted waffles, red flannel hash, cream chipped beef with biscuits, and farm fresh eggs. Don’t miss fresh squeezed juices and fresh baked goods.

Tiny 3 Little Figs is top notch when it comes to getting your morning caffeine fix. Beans are carefully-selected from a variety of roasters. Espresso drinks are well-made, with impressive foam work. Scratch-made muffins, scones, and other baked goods make for a complete breakfast on the go.