Let’s be honest: in Spokane, a truly great breakfast isn’t just a meal—it’s the foundation of your entire day. We approached this guide with that seriousness, evaluating each spot’s classic dishes, inventive specials, and the crucial balance between a quick fuel-up and a leisurely weekend feast. Now, with our appetites thoroughly (and deliciously) researched, we present the definitive morning lineup.
IHOP
$ | (509) 483-8188 | WEBSITE
Fluffy pancakes, bottomless coffee, and a server named Cameron. Yep, it’s not your average chain breakfast spot—it’s IHOP in Spokane. The service at this reliable restaurant sure isn’t just standard, but if the attention were directly correlated to the quality of what’s being offered, they should be charging a lot more. They have a welcoming atmosphere, so you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast or maybe take an impromptu date, but the food is really about the comfort and customization.
Get the lemon blueberry ricotta protein pancakes with a sweet homemade batter perking up a mixture of fluffy texture and flavor. For a hot option, go for the attentive service—the addition of Cameron to the standard friendly staff is professional and memorable.
Uncle Rusty’s Diner
$ | (509) 474-9214 | WEBSITE
Uncle Rusty’s Diner is one of those rare places where you can enjoy a bacon cheeseburger on homemade bread or a chocolate chip waffle at the same time as your morning coffee. Comfortable booths and clean tables give plenty of places to start your day with a newspaper, and there are even a couple of high chairs for keeping little ones content.
If you’re up early on weekends, the friendly staff might replace your empty mug with a fresh pour and coax a sausage, egg, and cheese muffin onto your plate.
Wall Street Diner
$ | (509) 327-2627 | WEBSITE
The sausage country gravy at Wall Street Diner is really good, especially if you go with the classic bacon and eggs combo. But the real reason we’re here is the cinnamon rolls. These warm, gooey spirals are sweet without being too heavy, fluffy without being dry, and have a sticky caramelized glaze on top for a comforting and indulgent dose of flavor. There’s also the fresh food selection, with great recommendations from the waitresses that are always nice and service-oriented.
The inside is full of small tables spaced closely together, but there’s more room in the homey atmosphere that feels nostalgic. They’ll even make your kid’s breakfast extra kid-friendly so they can enjoy it sooner.
The Original Pancake House
$ | (509) 795-5955 | WEBSITE
People who live in downtown Spokane probably already know and love The Original Pancake House. There’s a real cozy neighborhood vibe happening in here—there are usually quick seats available and no shortage of phrases like “welcome back” or “More orange juice?” They serve pancakes made with a touch of sourdough and fresh bacon, and we’re partial to pairing any breakfast with one of the biscuits and gravy they’re famous for.
People’s Waffle
$ | (509) 552-9637 | WEBSITE
If you’ve ever walked past People’s Waffle on a Saturday morning, wondering where that irresistible aroma of crisp waffles was coming from, the answer is right there. This charming little spot is known for all sorts of breakfast delights that hit the spot any day of the week. There are always a few lingering folks enjoying bottomless mimosas or catching up about the weekend at the intimate tables, but in general, this bustling nook is best for getting in and getting back to your day.
Their chicken and waffles has brought us back to life after a rough night—alright, more than once—and their Cinnamon Brown Sugar waffle could vie for the title of Spokane’s official breakfast dish.
Old European
$ | (509) 467-5987 | WEBSITE
Old European is good any day, but especially on those weekends when you need a hearty start to your morning. The bustling, warm atmosphere and potato pancakes Frankfurt style, golden and crisp with just the right amount of savory, will satisfy you completely. You can count the number of empty tables among the happy families and regulars on one hand, and you can feel the energy in the room from the moment you enter.
The staff aims to create an experience where everyone feels at home, and there’s a loyal following enjoying Ableskiebers and other European favorites as a result.
Sando’s
$ | (509) 290-6807 | WEBSITE
Drive-thru by morning and sandwich destination by reputation, Sando’s is the reigning champion in Spokane’s breakfast scene. The cheerful digs make for a quick and satisfying stop, and the friendly owner adds to the charm. Don’t miss their signature Hot Breakfast Sando with sausage patty—it’s served with such exceptional quality that you’ll understand the slightly higher price tag.
Plus, if you get into the sandwich zone and end up craving more, you can switch over to their chorizo sando that customers are obsessed with. The employees are genuinely nice and instantly boost your mood, making this a must-visit for delicious sandwiches.