Where To Find the Best Breakfast in Columbus, Ohio in 2024

Last Updated on May 3, 2024 | 0 Comments
breakfast columbus

There are many cozy and delightful places to have breakfast in Columbus, but there are so many great eateries it can be hard to decide where to eat. Columbus has varied and high-quality restaurants, but the city is also home to cafés, bars and bakeries that serve brilliant breakfasts and brunches. Columbus is Ohio’s state capital and is a center for creativity and community-oriented projects. The city is becoming more and more popular as a place to live and visit, as shown by the growth of incredible eateries to eat at in Columbus.

Having breakfast out in Columbus is a great experience, whether that is within the Scioto Mile, which is a string of parks that are home to trials or in the German Village area, it is a fun city to eat in. There is plenty to do in Columbus, whether that is with friends, as a family or on a date, such as visiting the Columbus Museum of Art or the COSI science center.

To make it easier for you to decide where to have breakfast in Columbus, we have created a list of wonderful places to have breakfast in Columbus. We hope this means you can concentrate on enjoying the food in the city and spending time with those who are special to you.

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19 Best Breakfast Places in Columbus, Ohio

1. Fox in the Snow

Fox in the Snow is an adored bakery and café in Columbus that has establishments in some of the loved places in the city, from the German Village to New Albany and the Italian Village. They serve sizzling coffee, rustic-style baked goods and delicious breakfast in Columbus.

The Vibe

This is a quaint coffee shop with a modern and bright interior, perfect for those who love buildings that let a lot of light in. 

What to Order

In terms of baked goods, we like the cinnamon buns and morning bun. Their souffle egg sandwich will get you prepared for a busy day.

Fox in the Snow | Multiple Locations | $$

cinnamon buns make for a great breakfast in columbus
via Fox in the Snow

2. Joya’s

If you want to have breakfast in a vibrant and fun restaurant, you really should think about visiting Joya’s. This restaurant is a family-owned Bengali eatery that serves some of the best breakfast dishes in Columbus. Columbus Monthly called Joya’s one of the best new restaurants in Columbus for 2024.

The Vibe

A colorful and happy place, Joya’s will welcome you warmly and serve you delicious Bengali food.

What to Order

Joya’s milk chai and their breakfast sandwich served with pav-tato roll, bacon, cheesy eggs, chutneys and chives is a fantastic combination.

Joya’s | 657 High St., Worthington, OH 43085, United States | $$

a breakfast sandwich
via Joya's

3. Katalina's, Too! 

If you want to eat food that is full of goodness, Katalina’s serves you homemade food created with warmth and care. Breakfast in Columbus doesn’t get much better than at this diner. The mission of this eatery was to turn an icehouse into a breakfast hotspot in Columbus and they certainly achieved this.

The Vibe

Full of energy and drive, this is a loved community-oriented establishment.

What to Order

Their pancake balls are famous across Columbus, so you should try them.

Katalina's, Too! | 3481 N High St., Columbus, OH 43214, United States | $$

Katalina's is one of the best breakfast spots in Columbus
via Katalina's

4. South of Lane

South of Lane is a vintage café that puts the neighborhood first. Service is known to be fast and very helpful here, which is very useful as the menu is full of deliciousness, but is large. The staff are more than happy to help you decide what to eat and drink.

The Vibe

A cozy and relaxed establishment that is modeled on a modern home.

What to Order

Their signature omelets are definitely a must-try, such as the Greek omelet, which is served with spinach, tomato, red onion, peppers and feta.

South of Lane | 1987 Guilford Rd, Upper Arlington, OH 43221, United States | $$

Omelet
via South of Lane

5. The Lox Bagel Shop

If you are searching for a bakery that serves hand-rolled, boiled and baked bagels for breakfast in Columbus, then The Lox Bagel Shop has you covered. They serve brilliant and delectable bagel breakfast sandwiches which are perfect for a morning gathering with friends. They pride themselves on serving high-quality food and on producing bagels through authentic New York and Montreal baking techniques.

The Vibe

A modern and wood-paneled bakery café that is perfect for meeting friends and family.

What to Order

The Lox is a gorgeous breakfast sandwich that consists of capers, onion, cucumber and cream cheese.

The Lox Bagel Shop | 772 N High St., #106, Columbus, OH 43215, United States | $$

visit this bagel shop if you're looking for a tasty breakfast in Columbus
via The Lox Bagel Shop

6. The Original Pancake House

Located in Upper Arlington and Westerville, The Orignal Pancake House serves traditional pancakes that are perfect for a filling and delicious breakfast. They use fresh and hand-selected ingredients so you can rest assured their food is fresh, tasty and full of goodness.

The Vibe

A bustling eatery that is a lot more than just pancakes.

What to Order

We love their crepes, such as the fresh fruit version served with strawberries, bananas lightly dusted with powdered sugar, warm strawberry syrup and whipped cream.

The Original Pancake House | Multiple Locations | $$

pancakes with fruit
via The Original Pancake House 

7. Starliner

Starliner is a diner that has served classic Cuban breakfasts in Columbus since 1995. The Hilliard community has been lucky to have this diner for so long. Their food is Cuban, American and South-Western inspired, making it a very unique eatery. They have won multiple awards, such as Best Hangover Breakfast in Columbus by Columbus Monthly readers.

The Vibe

A cozy and community-oriented diner that knows how to make incredible breakfasts.

What to Order

The huevos rancheros is a must-try dish and is a menu item that represents their culinary influences well.

Starliner | 4121 Main St., Hilliard, OH 43026, United States | $$

Visit Starliner the next time you want breakfast in Columbus
via Starliner

8. Buckeye Donuts

Founded by George Barouxis, Jim Barouxis and George Sauter in 1969, Buckeye Donuts has been serving delicious bakes for a very long time. From Prince to The Black Keys, they have had very famous guests try their delicious donuts.

The Vibe

A 24-hour donut and coffee heaven near the OSU campus, serving breakfast fare, donuts and Greek gyros.

What to Order

The breakfast sandwiches are loved, such as the steak sandwich and the classic sausage, egg and cheese. They serve perfect studying food.

Buckeye Donuts | 1998 N High St., Columbus, OH 43201, United States | $

a breakfast sandwich
via Buckeye Donuts

9. Creole Kitchen

The Creole Kitchen is a little part of New Orleans in Columbus. If you are searching for a flavorful and spicy breakfast in Columbus, then this is the place. Chef Henry Butcher Sr. makes food inspired by his Louisiana Bayou roots. This eatery is full of passion and tradition.

The Vibe

A family restaurant that serves homely and fresh breakfast. They often have live jazz shows here, so it is often a bustling and lively place.

What to Order

Their beignets and French toast are simply perfect for breakfast.

Creole Kitchen | 1052 Mt Vernon Ave, Columbus, OH 43203, United States | $

French toast is a classic breakfast in Columbus
via Canva

10. Sunny Street Café

This eatery puts family first and focuses on serving scrumptious homemade treats. Sunny Street Café is a family-owned business that makes tasty concoctions from scratch that enhance breakfast in Columbus. 

The Vibe

A bright spot that wants to make everyone feel comfortable through its attentive service.

What to Order

The Waffle Combo is a delight and consists of a golden waffle served with two eggs and a choice of side. Their omelets are stunning as well.

Sunny Street Café | Multiple Locations | $$

French toast
via Sunny Street Café

11. Hang Over Easy

Located in Osu and Olde Towne East, Hang Over Easy offers great spots where you will get the food and drinks to cure your morning hangover. Come here for a breakfast in Columbus that will provide you with unprocessed and tasty food. 

The Vibe

A family-friendly establishment that is perfect for gatherings.

What to Order

Their avocado toast and chicken waffles are scrumptious delights.

Hang Over Easy | Multiple Locations | $$

breakfast in Columbus
via Hang Over Easy

12. DK Diner

A snug diner that has a loyal following. DK Diner serves classic comfort food and delightful donuts that will make you feel at home. If you are searching for some comfort food for breakfast in Columbus, then consider coming here.

The Vibe

A snug diner, but DK Diner also has plenty of covered outdoor seating and they do takeaway.

What to Order

DK All the Way is a customer favorite and includes house-made biscuits topped with two eggs, smoked bacon, home fries and sausage gravy.

DK Diner | 1715 W 3rd Ave., Grandview Heights, OH 43212, United States | $$

breakfast sandwich
via DK Diner

13. Emmett's Café

A modern, laid-back and minimalist café in the University District and the Brewery District, if you want healthy, fresh food with sizzling coffee for breakfast in Columbus, then pay a visit to Emmett’s Café.

The Vibe

A bright and modern space that has been creatively designed.

What to Order

Tasty dishes include banana bread, overnight oats and the breakfast burrito, which is served with scrambled eggs, Monterey jack cheese, crispy prosciutto, tots, avocado, spicy chipotle aioli, plus a side of fresh salsa.

Emmett's café | Multiple Locations | $$

Emmett's Cafe is a popular breakfast spot in Columbus
via Emmett's Café

14. 3 Brothers Diner

3 Brothers Diner is a family-owned business that serves homely American, Mexican and Cuban-influenced food, perfect for breakfast. Originally from Oaxaca, Mexico, they pride themselves on giving everyone incredible Latin American breakfasts for those who visit them in the morning.

The Vibe

Home-style cooking mixed in with the chefs’ experience in fine dining restaurants, you can expect gorgeous food in a friendly establishment.

What to Order

The Three Brothers’ Omelet is tasty and filling. It comes with ham, bacon, fried plantains, jack cheese, smoked chili sauce and sour cream. 

3 Brothers Diner | 3090 Southwest Blvd., Grove City, OH 43123, United States | $$

a breakfast burrito
via 3 Brothers Diner

15. Skillet

Skillet is a locally-owned eatery that puts local produce first. Their menu changes based on the season and harvests, so you can expect healthy, fresh and eco-friendly food. The Caskey family serves great food in Schumacher Place, whilst supporting local farmers.

The Vibe

A modern-looking building with exposed brick and a lively atmosphere.

What to Order

Their French toast and huevos rancheros are great options for breakfast.

Skillet | 410 E Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43206, United States | $$

visit Skillet if you're craving a breakfast in Columbus
via Skillet

16. Abner’s Casual Dining

If you are searching for a breakfast in Columbus that is filling, homely and delicious then Abner’s Casual Dining will have you covered. Their all-day breakfasts are fantastic.

The Vibe

A casual dining experience with very friendly staff who are happy to help.

What to Order

Their breakfast combos and the ability to create your own omelet are options that will get you prepared for the rest of the day.

Abner’s Casual Dining | 4051 Main St., Hilliard, OH 43026, United States | $

a breakfast omelet
via Canva

17. Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee

Recommended by Restaurant Guru in 2023, Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee is an eatery that brings New Orleans cooking to Columbus. Yonder Miller has brought her roots and entrepreneurialism to the city, providing delicious sweet treats to the local community.

The Vibe

A small and modern shop with a big heart.

What to Order

The Southern Beignets breakfast is a great pick to choose from their menu. Two beignets are made from scratch, stuffed with cajun andouille sausage, eggs and cheddar cheese. They also have great kids options, so it's a perfect place for a family breakfast.

Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee |386 E Main St., Columbus, OH 43215, United States | $$

If you are craving something sweet for breakfast in Columbus visit this spot
via Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee

18. Kolache Republic

Rick Jardiolin and Dusty Kotchou serve brilliant breakfasts in Columbus. Kolache Republic was started as they were craving kolache, a must-try Czech pastry but they couldn’t find it anywhere in Columbus. So since 2013 they have made their own and provided this treat to the city. Located in the German Village, their dough is delightful and is perfect for a breakfast treat.

The Vibe

A laid-back and unique bakery where owners have poured their heart and soul into making the Kolache Republic a great place to eat.

What to Order

The sausage, egg and cheese kolache is the most popular for a good reason, so why not try it soon?

Kolache Republic | 702 S High St., Columbus, OH 43206, United States | $

Breakfast Kolache
via Kolache Republic

19. Jack & Benny's Old North Diner

Jack and Benny’s Old North Diner has been in the University District for over 25 years. Their all-day breakfasts have helped students get through many days. They still serve incredible breakfasts in Columbus and are perfect for those who like to feel the historical significance of a place. This eatery has a fascinating history and story and it is worth reading about on their website.

The Vibe

Despite the High Street receiving a commercial makeover, this establishment shows its history clearly through its old English-style structure.

What to Order

Their pancakes and breakfast sandwiches are tasty and succulent. Having one of these is a perfect start to the day.

Jack & Benny's Old North Diner | 2563 N High St., Columbus, OH 43202, United States | $

breakfast in Columbus
via Jack & Benny's Old North Diner

Try Cooking Columbus Foods

Breakfast in Columbus is a delightful experience, but if you want to learn how to make hot sizzling and scrumptious breakfasts yourself at home, you should look at cooking classes in Columbus soon. Going out to eat the best breakfast in Columbus is always fun, many talented chefs are more than willing to teach you their culinary secrets, so you can make breakfast treats for friends and family.

Try a cooking class to learn new skills
via Cozymeal

Breakfast places in Columbus are varied in style and experience, yet all these places mentioned above will serve you a high-quality and delectable breakfast that will prepare you for a fun day ahead.

Whether you are searching for homely pancakes, cheerful New Orleans food or a classic Mexican breakfast, we have you covered. We hope now you can concentrate more on enjoying the best breakfast in Columbus, rather than searching for breakfast places in Columbus. 

For even more ways to explore Columbus and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.