As a breakfast enthusiast exploring Seattle, I’ve discovered that the city has a diverse and delicious breakfast scene. With options ranging from cozy cafes to bustling bakeries, it’s easy to find the perfect spot to start your day in Emerald City. In this article, I’ll share some of my favorite breakfast joints in Seattle, highlighting the dishes that make each spot stand out.
The city offers classic breakfast staples like fluffy pancakes and mouthwatering omelets and a treasure trove of unique and tantalizing options. Whether you’re craving a warm, freshly baked pastry from Piroshky Piroshky or a satisfying avocado toast, there’s a place that caters to your taste buds. And for those who enjoy an adventure in their morning meal, Seattle’s breakfast scene doesn’t disappoint.
One can find a delightful mix of traditional fare and inventive dishes that cater to various dietary preferences in Seattle. The possibilities seem endless, from the heavenly biscuit sandwiches at Morsel to the scrumptious bagels and burritos at Rachel’s Bagels & Burritos. Read on to uncover the best breakfast in Seattle and get ready to fuel your mornings with the city’s tastiest delights.
The Best Breakfast in Seattle Awaits You!
Skillet, Multiple Locations
At Skillet, I found their creative spins on classic American breakfast dishes delicious. Located in various neighborhoods around the city, it has become a Seattle favorite for morning meals.
The Four Locations
Capitol Hill:
1400 East Union St,
Seattle, WA 98122
Seattle Center:
305 Harrison St,
Seattle, WA 98109
Regrade:
2050 6th Ave,
Seattle, WA 98121
SeaTac International:
17801 International Blvd Gate N18,
Seattle, WA 98158
5 Spot, Queen Anne
5 Spot, situated in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood, has a great selection of classic American diner dishes to comfort you in the morning. For those who like something a little different, there are always exciting specials like their current (April 2023) Caribbean menu.
Location
1502 Queen Anne Ave N
Seattle, WA 98109
Biscuit Bitch, Downtown & Belltown
Biscuit Bitch had me hooked with their Southern-style biscuits and gravy. The casual and lively atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to enjoy breakfast near Pike Place Market.
Location
Downtown:
1909 1st Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
Belltown (Inside Belltown Inn):
2303 3rd Ave
Seattle, WA 98121
Lola, Belltown
At Lola, I enjoyed the mouth-watering Mediterranean-inspired breakfast dishes. With options like Challah French Toast and the Greek Scramble, it’s a uniquely flavorful way to start the day.
Location (Inside Hotel Andra)
2000 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
The Fat Hen, Ballard
The Fat Hen impressed me with its cozy atmosphere and menu of handcrafted coffee drinks. Nestled in the Ballard neighborhood, it’s a charming spot to enjoy your morning meal.
Location
1418 NW 70th St, Seattle, WA 98117
Skalka, Downtown
Skalka, a Ukrainian bakery and cafe, captured my interest with their beautifully presented breakfast dishes. Their Eastern European influence adds an exciting twist to the Seattle breakfast scene.
Location
77 Spring St Seattle, WA 98104
Kona Kitchen, Maple Leaf
At Kona Kitchen, I savored their Hawaiian-inspired breakfast options. This family-owned spot has a warm atmosphere that complements its flavorful dishes like Loco Moco and Portuguese sausage.
Location
8501 5th Ave NE Seattle, WA 98115
Cafe Flora, Madison Valley
Cafe Flora provided me with a delightful vegetarian and vegan breakfast experience. Their innovative plant-based menu is perfect for those seeking healthy, satisfying morning meals.
Location
2901 E Madison St Seattle, WA 98112
Lost Lake, Downtown
Lost Lake, an open-late diner, grabbed my attention with its retro atmosphere and all-day breakfast options. From country fried steaks to omelets, this place offers a variety of choices.
Location
1505 10th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
Meet the Moon, Leschi
In the Leschi neighborhood, I found Meet the Moon, which offered an inviting, casual space with a creative brunch menu. Salty food lovers will love their Breakfast Bowl (I got mine with carnitas), while sweet tooth will delight in their Cinnamon Roll French Toast on the weekends. I highly recommend their cappuccino!
Location
120 Lakeside Ave Seattle, WA 98122
Geraldine’s Counter, Columbia City
Geraldine’s Counter, located in the Columbia City neighborhood, satisfied me with its delicious all-day breakfast menu. Their French toast and corned beef hash have become my personal favorites.
Location
4872 Rainier Ave S Seattle, WA 98118
Portage Bay Cafe, South Lake Union, West Seattle, & University District
Portage Bay Cafe stood out for its farm-to-table approach and focus on local, organic ingredients. The popular pancake bar allows for a customizable, crowd-pleasing breakfast experience.
Locations
South Lake Union:
391 Terry Ave N Seattle, WA 98109
Nue, Capitol Hill
Nue brought global flavors to my breakfast experience with its eclectic menu inspired by street food worldwide. Their creative dishes satisfied my craving for something different in the morning.
Location
1519 14th Ave Seattle, WA 98122
Best Bakeries and Cafes
Hood Famous, Chinatown International District
Say hello to aesthetic purple-colored ube sweets and classic Filipino dishes. Hood Famous is essential for locals and travelers in the Seattle area. Don’t forget to take some Instagram photos for your friends and family!
Location
504 5th Ave S Ste 107A Seattle, WA 98104
Voula’s Offshore Cafe, University District
I found Voula’s Offshore Cafe a great breakfast spot with its delicious options and welcoming atmosphere. The cafe is known for its sizable portions and famous “Pinata Benedict.”
Location
658 NE Northlake Way Seattle, WA 98105
Bakery Nouveau
My visit to Bakery Nouveau was delightful – this spot is in the heart of the West Seattle neighborhood. With a wide variety of pastries, sandwiches, and artisan bread, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.
Location
137 15th Ave Ste E Seattle, WA 98112
Piroshky Piroshky, Downtown
Piroshky Piroshky, situated in Pike Place Market, never disappoints. I enjoyed their wide selection of Russian-style pastries, making a satisfying breakfast.
Locations
1501 4th Ave Ste 110 Seattle, WA 98101
1908 Pike Pl Seattle, WA 98101
Sea Wolf, Fremont
Another great option for a bakery is Sea Wolf, where I found an array of delicious sourdough bread and pastries. The cozy atmosphere adds to the enjoyable experience.
Location
3621 Stone Way N Seattle, WA 98103
Kitanda Espresso & Acai, Capitol Hill, Denny Triangle, University District, & Greenlake
I’d recommend Kitanda Espresso & Acai for a healthier breakfast, which offers tasty acai bowls, smoothies, and Brazilian-style pastries. The energy-boosting options are perfect for the morning.
Locations
Capitol Hill:
200 Broadway E Seattle, WA 98102
University District:
1121 NE 45th St Seattle, WA 98105
Denny Triangle:
2202 8th Ave Seattle, WA 98121
Greenlake:
428 NE 71st St Seattle, WA 98115
Wild Mountain Cafe, Crown Hill
I had a pleasant breakfast experience at Wild Mountain Cafe, a popular spot in the Crown Hill neighborhood. The menu offers both savory and sweet dishes that cater to different cravings.
Location
1408 NW 85th St Seattle, WA 98117
Saint Bread, University District
Saint Bread is a fantastic bakery that delivers fresh, high-quality bread and pastries in a chic setting. I enjoyed the creative menu items and the warm ambiance.
Location
1421 NE Boat St Seattle, WA 98105
Rosellini’s, Ballard/Phinney Ridge
As a fan of European-style baked goods, I was thrilled by my visit to Rosellini’s. The cozy and inviting atmosphere was perfect for savoring a croissant and espresso.
Location
1413 NW 70th St Seattle, WA 98117
The Crumpet Shop, Downtown
For something unique, I visited The Crumpet Shop, which specializes in homemade crumpets, jams, and toppings. It was a delightful spot to satisfy my sweet-tooth cravings.
Location
1503 1st Ave Seattle, WA 98101
Top Pot Doughnuts, Denny Triangle, Capitol Hill, Downtown, First Hill, Lower Queen Anne, & South Lake Union
Top Pot Doughnuts is a must-visit spot for donut lovers. I found the selection of freshly made donuts irresistible, and the coffee was excellent too.
Locations
Denny Triangle:
2124 5th Ave Seattle, WA 98121
Downtown:
720 3rd Ave Seattle, WA 98104
888 Western Ave Ste E Seattle, WA 98104
Lower Queen Anne:
325 W Galer St Seattle, WA 98119
Capitol Hill:
609 Summit Ave E Seattle, WA 98102
South Lake Union:
590 Terry Ave N Seattle, WA 98109
First Hill:
1206 Madison St Seattle, WA 98104
Easy Street Records & Cafe, Alaska St & Oregon St Junction
Combining breakfast with record shopping, Easy Street Records & Cafe is a fantastic spot for music enthusiasts like myself. The menu includes classic breakfast items and delicious coffee.
Location
4559 California Ave SW Seattle, WA 98116
Tilikum Place Cafe, Belltown
The charming Tilikum Place Cafe near Seattle Center has quickly become one of my favorite brunch spots. The European-influenced menu and lovely setting offered an enjoyable dining experience.
Location
407 Cedar St Seattle, WA 98121
Sugar Bakery & Cafe, First Hill and Lower Queen Anne
For a sweet treat, I loved my visit to Sugar Bakery & Cafe. The small cafe offers a variety of beautifully crafted cakes, cookies, and pastries to enjoy with a cup of coffee.
Locations
First Hill:
1014 Madison St Seattle, WA 98104
Lower Queen Anne:
110 Republican St Seattle, WA 98109
Noteworthy Coffee Spots
One of my favorite coffee spots in Seattle is Moore Coffee Shop. This cozy café offers a variety of delicious breakfast items alongside its coffee and tea options. Their unique latte art designs and warm atmosphere make it an excellent choice for starting your day.
Another great place for coffee and breakfast is Top Pot Doughnuts. They have a wide range of doughnuts, from classic glazed to more indulgent flavors. The coffee pairs wonderfully with their fresh doughnuts, making it a one-stop shop for your caffeine and pastry cravings.
For a more community-focused experience, I suggest checking out The Station in Beacon Hill or one of Black Coffee Northwest’s locations in Shoreline and Ballard. These coffee shops have dedicated spaces for local art, creating an inspiring environment to enjoy breakfast and morning coffee. South Park’s Resistencia Coffee is another option for those who appreciate supporting local businesses with a strong connection to the neighborhood.
When it comes to coffee, Seattle offers a variety-show of flavors and atmospheres. Satisfy your taste buds by exploring these noteworthy coffee spots for breakfast:
- Espresso Vivace: A famous Seattle local favorite. Vivace’s owner David Shomer developed and popularized latte art in the US.
- Moore Coffee Shop: Known for creative latte art and a welcoming atmosphere
- Top Pot Doughnuts: Wide variety of doughnut flavors with accompanying coffee options
- The Station: Combines community-focused atmosphere with quality coffee
- Black Coffee Northwest: Multiple locations in Shoreline and Ballard, dedicated to neighborhood connections
- Resistencia Coffee: Located in South Park, emphasizing community through art and neighborhood engagement
Top Neighborhoods for Breakfast
Capitol Hill
In my experience, Capitol Hill is one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle for breakfast lovers. There is a diverse range of options to choose from, so you will never get bored. One of my favorites is Le Panier, which has some of the most delicious and authentic French croissants in town. Besides that, Voula’s Offshore Cafe offers a classic diner experience set up on the shore of Lake Union, serving hearty plates to fishers and city dwellers alike.
Ballard
Ballard is another great spot for breakfast enthusiasts in Seattle. Rachel’s Bagels & Burritos is a fantastic choice if you are looking for a satisfying meal to start your day. Formerly known as Porkchop & Co, this eatery is well-loved by locals. Portage Bay Cafe is also located in this neighborhood, offering migas and pancakes that could easily become your new favorite breakfast treat. With a focus on sustainable and local ingredients, you’re sure to have a delightful dining experience in Ballard.
| Restaurant | Favorites | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Rachel’s Bagels & Burritos | Bagels, Burritos | Check Website |
| Portage Bay Cafe | Migas, Pancakes | 8 am – 1:30 pm weekdays, 2 pm Sat & Sun |
Green Lake
Green Lake is another neighborhood worth exploring for those who love to start their mornings with a delicious meal. In this area, you’ll find Jack’s BBQ situated in Seattle’s Industrial District. While it may seem like an unlikely choice for breakfast, I find that their offerings cater to both the breakfast and BBQ fanatics. Don’t hesitate to indulge in their mouthwatering morning dishes when you’re in the Green Lake neighborhood.
- Jack’s BBQ
- Style: BBQ meets Breakfast
- Ambiance: Central Texas saloon-style
Each of these neighborhoods offers its unique breakfast scene that is worth indulging in. Make the most of your mornings by exploring the best that Capitol Hill, Ballard, and Green Lake have to offer.
Tips for Enjoying Breakfast in Seattle
As someone who enjoys searching for the best breakfast spots in Seattle, I’ve discovered some helpful tips for making the most of your morning meal experience.
Firstly, to beat the crowd, I definitely recommend visiting popular breakfast spots on weekday mornings. Weekends tend to be busy, so you might end up waiting in line, especially at well-known places like “Meet the Moon” where the cinnamon roll is a must-try. However, take note of their opening hours, as some restaurants like “Meet the Moon” open at 11 AM on weekdays.
In my opinion, there’s nothing like a waterfront view to complement your breakfast. I often look for locations that offer a beautiful view of Elliott Bay or other picturesque spots in the city. For example, if you prefer a simpler, elegant breakfast option, a half baguette with butter or house-made yogurt at a restaurant overlooking the bay will provide a serene start to your day.
Here’s a list of some of the best breakfast spots in Seattle that I’ve personally enjoyed:
- Rachel’s Bagels & Burritos: known for their tasty bagels, located in Ballard.
- Biscuit Bitch: famous for its biscuit sandwiches, just around the corner from Pike Place Market.
- Lola: offering a blend of American and Mediterranean options.
- Arthur’s: a favorite in West Seattle.
When choosing where to eat, I try to consider what I’m in the mood for. Some days I crave a hearty biscuit sandwich, while on other days, a bagel or a Mediterranean breakfast might suit me better. Don’t be afraid to explore different options and embrace Seattle’s diverse breakfast scene.
Lastly, always make sure to verify the opening hours and current operating status of these restaurants, as situations may change due to unforeseen circumstances. This way, you can be certain your chosen spot will be open and ready to serve you the perfect breakfast experience.
