Start Your Day Right: The Best Breakfasts in Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas is a city known for its vibrant food scene, and breakfast is no exception. Whether you prefer classic diner fare or something a bit more adventurous, Austin has plenty of options to satisfy your morning cravings. From pancakes to breakfast tacos, this city has it all.

Best Breakfasts in Austin

Austin’s breakfast scene is a charming mix of classic diners, trendy cafes, and Tex-Mex eateries. The city’s diverse culinary landscape offers something for everyone, from hearty breakfast burritos to delicate French pastries.

One of the most endearing aspects of Austin’s breakfast scene is the laid-back, friendly atmosphere. Many of the city’s breakfast spots have a casual, welcoming vibe that makes customers feel right at home. Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast taco on the go or settling in for a leisurely brunch with friends, you’re sure to feel right at home in Austin’s breakfast joints.

Their emphasis on locally sourced ingredients is also something noteworthy. Many of the city’s breakfast spots pride themselves on using fresh, seasonal ingredients from nearby farms and producers. This commitment to quality and sustainability not only benefits the local economy but also results in some truly delicious breakfast dishes.

Finally, Austin’s breakfast scene is known for its creative twists on classic dishes. From breakfast tacos stuffed with unexpected ingredients to pancakes infused with unique flavors, there’s always something new and exciting to try in Austin’s breakfast spots. Whether you’re a foodie looking for the latest culinary trend or just someone who loves a good breakfast, Austin’s breakfast scene is sure to charm and delight.

Bird Bird Biscuit

Bird Bird Biscuit is a cozy café that serves up some of the best biscuits in Austin. Their biscuits are made from scratch and come with a variety of toppings, including fried chicken, bacon, and pimento cheese. They also offer a selection of breakfast sandwiches and tacos, as well as coffee and freshly squeezed juices.

Their vibes are always homey and welcoming, so it’s a great spot to start your day. Reviews attest to their consistent delicious quality and generous portions. It’s a famous breakfast spot, but it definitely lives up to the hype! You absolutely can’t miss their Queen Beak. You can also get the Bird Bird Bacon, Biscuitarian, or Chicken Sausage.

Bouldin Creek Café

Photo: Jessica Z.

Bouldin Creek Café is a vegetarian restaurant that serves up delicious breakfast options. They are known as the go-to spot for vegetarian and vegan breakfast and food. Popular with the locals because of their fresh quality ingredients and everything’s made from scratch. Pair it with a cup of joe and it’s a perfect breakfast.

Their menu includes dishes like migas, tofu scramble, and vegan pancakes. They also offer a selection of coffee drinks and freshly squeezed juices. The café has a cozy atmosphere and is a great spot to relax and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Previous visitors recommend the Tofu Scramble, Blueberry Cornbread, Veggie Burger, and South Austin stir fry.

Phoebe’s Diner

Photo: Nathan M.

Phoebe’s Diner is a retro diner that serves breakfast all day long. Their menu includes classic dishes like eggs benedict, pancakes, and waffles, as well as more unique options like their breakfast burger. They also offer a selection of coffee drinks and cocktails. The diner offers classic American diner fare, Texas breakfast staples, and cozy neighborhood vibes. It’s comforting and familiar food that will make the wait worth it.

Paperboy

Photo: Paperboy

Paperboy serves up excellent breakfast items from locally sourced ingredients. You can get dishes like their steak and egg sandwich, cinnamon toast, breakfast sandwich, and the BEC sandwich. They also offer a selection of coffee drinks and freshly squeezed juices. The interiors make it a great spot with lots of natural light and free parking outside — but there can be long lines, so make a reservation if you can!

Magnolia Café

Photo: Natasha N.

Magnolia Café is an Austin institution that has been serving breakfast since 1979. Their menu includes classic dishes like pancakes, omelets, and breakfast tacos. They’re a sit-down casual restaurant that gets packed during peak hours. It’s definitely the longest wait time and they have a lovely customer service, which makes the wait more manageable. Locals recommend the queso, breakfast tacos, love migas, and eggs zapatino.

Kerbey Lane Café

Kerbey Lane Café is a beloved Austin eatery offering a delightful dining experience. With a menu featuring recommended dishes like French toast, flavorful Eggs Francisco, and indulgent Kerbey queso, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a coffee lover or a vegetarian, Kerbey Lane Cafe has you covered.

The café prides itself on quick service, accompanied by friendly and accommodating staff who ensure a memorable visit. The cafe’s comfortable atmosphere welcomes guests, and despite its popularity, the wait time remains reasonable. With all-day breakfast options, Kerbey Lane Café has some of the best breakfasts in Austin.

Forthright

Photo: Abs F.

Forthright is a charming café nestled downtown, known for its love of toasts and delectable breakfast options. Guests can indulge in recommended dishes like creamy avocado toast, perfectly poached eggs, flavorful eggs benedict, or savory wild mushroom toast. The cafe’s focus is on simple, no-frills food that highlights their dedication to the art of making food.

With a cute and cozy atmosphere, Forthright provides a welcoming space with plenty of natural light and an intimate setup. Their commitment to using scratch-made dishes prepared with top-notch ingredients ensures a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic American breakfast or a taste of Texas, Forthright delivers deliciousness in a casual, no-frills manner.

Josephine House

Josephine House is a small and cozy neighborhood restaurant that promises a delightful dining experience. With a menu featuring recommended dishes like steak and eggs, burrata, and breakfast burgers, Josephine House offers small plates of deliciousness that leave a lasting impression.

The laidback and comfortable atmosphere creates an inviting ambiance, perfect for a leisurely meal. The extensive drinks menu complements the dining experience, and the desserts are a must-try. Due to its intimate space, Josephine House tends to fill up quickly, so it is advisable to make a reservation to secure a table.

The friendly staff adds to the overall charm, making it a great spot for a brunch gathering with friends. For a taste of some of the best breakfasts in Austin, Josephine House is a top choice.

Café No Se

Café No Se is a charming all-day café that offers a delightful dining experience in a casual and comfortable atmosphere. With a focus on seasonal ingredients, their menu features recommended dishes such as avocado toast, quinoa bowl, breakfast sandwich, and French toast.

The limited menu ensures that each dish is carefully crafted and executed to perfection. The intimate seating, wood décor, and abundance of natural lighting create a warm and inviting ambiance. Café No Se is especially known as a great spot for brunch, where guests can enjoy their delicious plates while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere. The beautifully presented dishes also make for great Instagram-worthy moments, adding to its overall appeal.

Elizabeth Street Café

Photo: Cindy W.

Elizabeth Street Café is a charming Vietnamese café that offers a delightful fusion of American and Vietnamese flavors. With a menu featuring recommended dishes like Elizabeth Street fried rice, tofu, and house-baked brioche French toast, this café is a go-to spot for brunch enthusiasts.

Whether you choose to dine indoors or enjoy the pleasant patio seating, Elizabeth Street Café provides a welcoming ambiance. The café prides itself on using fresh ingredients to create delicious dishes, and the charming décor adds to the overall aesthetic appeal. The service is quick and friendly, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Notably, the long communal table at the front of the café adds a unique touch to the atmosphere, creating a sense of community.

Dai Due

Photo: Charles H.

Dai Due has a slightly upscale vibe with a bistro atmosphere and charming rustic décor. The friendly and accommodating service ensures a pleasant visit, whether you choose to dine indoors or enjoy the outdoor seating. It also has a romantic vibe, making it a popular destination for a date night.

With a deli and butcher shop at the front, Dai Due emphasizes the use of fresh ingredients, elevating the flavors of their dishes. Dai Due is a solid choice for some of the best breakfasts in Austin.

Dai Due is a culinary gem not only for dinner but also for breakfast or brunch options. People recommend the Centex breakfast and breakfast sandwich.

Nervous Charlie’s

Photo: Kim L.

Nervous Charlie’s is a renowned bagel haven in Austin that never fails to impress.

With a focus on the art of bagel-making, this eatery offers a mouthwatering selection of recommended dishes, including the beloved everything bagel, delightful bagel sandwiches, satisfying breakfast sandwiches, and scrumptious French toast. The bagels themselves are the star of the show, with a perfect balance of crispy and fluffy textures, making each bite a heavenly experience.

The friendly and efficient service adds to the overall appeal of Nervous Charlie’s, making it a popular spot among locals and visitors. While the place can get busy, especially during breakfast hours, the wait is usually manageable. With consistent quality and a reputation for possibly having the best bagels in Austin, Nervous Charlie’s is a must-visit for bagel enthusiasts.

Juan in a Million

Photo: Lillian C.

Juan in a Million is an absolute gem when it comes to Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. This beloved eatery offers a range of recommended dishes that highlight the flavors of the region, such as the mouthwatering carne guisada, comforting menudo, flavorful chicken enchilada, and the iconic Don Juan Taco.

Fresh tacos and friendly staff make for an enjoyable dining experience. Parking is convenient, with spaces available at the back and street parking options nearby. The portions are generous and bursting with flavor, with previous visitors raving about the spicy complimentary salsa.

Juan in a Million is a favorite among both locals and tourists, yet the wait is typically reasonable. Their must-try Don Juan Taco is both enormous and perfect for sharing. With its delicious food and well-deserved reputation, Juan in a Million is definitely one of the best breakfasts in Austin.

Counter Café

Photo: Angel C.

Counter Café is an American diner and café that offers a delightful dining experience with a range of recommended dishes. Counter Café caters to various breakfast and brunch cravings with recommended dishes like the crab cake Benedict, Southern poached eggs, breakfast tacos, and hot cake. With a focus on using fresh, local, and organic ingredients, every dish is made to order, ensuring a high-quality culinary experience.

The café features both indoor and outdoor seating, creating a pleasant atmosphere for diners. Parking can be a challenge due to its popularity, Counter Café remains crowded throughout the day as they specialize in breakfast and lunch, served until 3 PM. However, the service remains top-notch and friendly, adding to the overall experience.

With its charming ambiance and fantastic breakfast and brunch options, Counter Café is a go-to spot for breakfast.

Mary’s Café

Photo: Cal L.

Mary’s Café is a local favorite in town, known for its delightful breakfast offerings and charming atmosphere. The menu at Mary’s Café may be limited, but it’s packed with delicious options to satisfy your morning cravings.

Their recommended dishes include the indulgent Berry Tyler Moore waffles, the flavorful chicken salad panini, the mouthwatering Red River wrap, and, of course, their famous Belgian waffles. With an emphasis on Belgian waffles, this cafe is a great spot for anyone with a sweet tooth. If you’re going savory, the breakfast bowls are highly praised for those looking for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Although they have a limited menu, it still packs a punch with items like tacos and sandwiches, as well as a wide selection of delicious coffee. The indoor seating is a little tight, so it’s advisable to avoid peak hours for a more relaxed experience. Additionally, Mary’s Café is attentive to dietary requirements, making it a welcoming spot for all. Don’t miss out on this must-try breakfast spot that locals adore.

Upper Crust Bakery

Photo: Sage O.

If your idea of breakfast involves indulging in copious amounts of freshly baked goods, Upper Crust Bakery should be at the top of your list. This bakery is a haven for bread and pastry lovers seeking a delightful breakfast experience. Each morning, they offer a tempting array of pastries, desserts, cakes, pies, and more, all made with the utmost care and using quality ingredients.

The friendly and accommodating service adds to the overall charm of the bakery, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. When visiting Upper Crust Bakery, be sure to try their highly recommended cinnamon rolls, which are a crowd favorite. Their cakes are also a popular choice.

For those in need of a morning pick-me-up, the bakery also offers a drinks menu with a variety of coffees to complement your breakfast delights. Embrace your love for baked goods and enjoy an excellent breakfast at Upper Crust Bakery.

Snooze, an AM Eatery

Snooze, an AM Eatery, is a haven for breakfast and brunch lovers. They offer a culinary experience that is hard to beat and also caters to a variety of dietary requirements. Their upside-down pancakes or the pancake flight are must-tries for those looking for a unique twist on a breakfast staple. The comfortable vibes, friendly staff, and extensive menu make Snooze an ideal spot to start your day off right.

People recommend the French toast, perfectly poached eggs Benedict, mouthwatering breakfast pot pie, and the iconic pineapple upside-down pancake. The full bar adds to the experience, offering a range of libations including mimosas, Bloody Marys, margaritas, and beers.

Conclusion

Austin is home to a vibrant breakfast scene with several outstanding options to satisfy morning cravings. From the delightful and diverse menu offerings to the bagel perfection found at Nervous Charlie’s, each breakfast spot brings its own unique charm and flavors to the table. With so many exceptional breakfast spots in the city, locals and visitors alike can indulge in the best breakfasts in Austin.

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