There’s something about a breakfast spot that makes or breaks your morning. In Tempe, your first meal can mean a fluffy stack of pancakes in a sunny cafe, or a soothing cup of chai in a laid-back space that feels like a friend’s living room. Over years of living here, I’ve sampled breakfasts after sunrise hikes, post-finals slumps, and slow Sunday strolls—so I know both where to walk in hungry and which places will have you planning your next visit before you even leave.
Finding the best breakfast in Tempe isn’t about hype or flashy signs; it’s about honest, satisfying flavor that keeps you coming back. Whether you crave avocado toast, crave-the-crispy-edge omelets, or just a straight-up good cup of coffee, there’s a spot in this city for every morning mood. Read on for my picks, each carefully chosen for quality, warmth, and pure breakfast joy.
1. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
Snooze, an A.M. Eatery redefines breakfast in Tempe with a playful twist. Walking in, you’re met by a buzz of energy and plates that don’t play by the usual breakfast rules. My last visit included a light as air pineapple upside-down pancake—unexpected and crave-worthy.
Snooze stands out for its creative takes on the basics. Think delicate, flavor-packed eggs Benedict or pancake flights that let you sample the best of their griddle. Each dish aims for both comfort and surprise. Vegan or gluten-free? You’ll have no trouble finding options; their menu is broad without sacrificing flavor.
Go for the Sweet Potato Pancakes or the classic Benny Duo. Both show off how the kitchen balances hearty, fresh ingredients with inventiveness in every bite.
2. U.S. Egg
U.S. Egg is where locals lean in for hearty, classic breakfasts with a few modern upgrades. Every time I pop in, the service feels personal, like they’re happy to see you before you’ve even had your coffee. There’s a genuine, neighborhood vibe you don’t get everywhere in Tempe.
The menu here is stacked with generous portions and plenty of variety—perfect for picky eaters or those in search of comfort food. Their Protein Pancakes are a local legend, packed with grains and just a hint of sweetness, making them satisfying without being heavy.
Order the Arizona Omelet or anything featuring their signature home fries. U.S. Egg’s breakfast style is unfussy, crowd-pleasing, and always leaves you planning your next visit before you leave.
3. Harlow’s Cafe
Harlow’s Cafe is the kind of place where regulars have “their table” and newcomers feel part of the scene the moment they order. I’ve spent slow mornings here, watching the regulars settle in and the kitchen turn out plate after plate of classic comfort food with a Southwest kick.
The charm comes from decades of serving honest, no-fuss breakfasts while weaving in local favorites like their house-made salsa and perfectly cooked eggs. The service feels more like you’re visiting family than just grabbing a meal. If you’re close to the ASU campus, it’s a must-stop before tackling the day.
Order May’s Egg Benedict for the local favorite or a generous helping of Huevos Rancheros. Fresh, satisfying, and reliably good, Harlow’s captures the heart of Tempe mornings.
4. Daily Jam
Daily Jam brings a modern spin to breakfast, right in the heart of Mill Avenue. Every visit feels like a burst of energy, thanks to fresh ingredients and a bright, bustling atmosphere. It’s perfect for a meet-up after a downtown stroll or a pre-class bite if you’re at ASU.
What sets Daily Jam apart is its creative menu—there’s plenty for both the health-minded and those who just want a sweet start to the day. Their kitchen isn’t shy about bold flavors or vibrant plating.
Give the Red Velvet Waffles or the Avocado Toast a try. Both dishes capture Daily Jam’s playful yet thoughtful approach to breakfast and always taste as good as they look.
5. Market Cafe
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Market Cafe is set against the scenic backdrop of The Buttes, making breakfast here feel like a mini get-away. I remember sipping coffee by the windows, sunlight streaming in, while choosing between vibrant fruit and smoky Southwestern-inspired dishes on the buffet.
What makes Market Cafe special is its dedication to fresh, regional flavors paired with relaxing views you don’t often find at hotel cafes. The breakfast buffet brings options—think fluffy eggs, steel-cut oats, and spice-kissed roasted potatoes—all crafted with care.
Don’t skip their made-to-order omelets or the Southwest breakfast skillet. Both reflect Market Cafe’s style: hearty staples elevated with local ingredients and the spirit of Tempe’s sunny mornings.
6. First Watch
First Watch delivers a breakfast that feels both comforting and thoughtful. Each time I visit, I notice the menu’s clever blend of classics and creative seasonal dishes—perfect for anyone who wants something familiar but fresh.
Their approach revolves around quality—fruits are sliced fresh every morning and every plate arrives looking bright and inviting. The inviting atmosphere makes it easy to linger, whether you’re cramming for exams or catching up with friends.
Try the Avocado Toast or the Morning Meditation juice. Both highlight First Watch’s knack for simple, wholesome flavors with plenty of color. It’s the kind of place you leave feeling recharged, not weighed down.
7. Crêpe Bar
Crêpe Bar brings inventive flair and high-quality local ingredients to the breakfast scene in Tempe. My last visit felt like a treat, watching the crepes whirl together at the open counter while sunlight spilled onto my table. There’s an artful energy here that makes breakfast feel special, never routine.
Every order is fresh and beautifully balanced—imagine delicate crepes filled with market vegetables or sweet notes like lemon curd and berries. The coffee list deserves its own mention, with expertly prepared espresso and teas that complete the experience.
Try the classic Good Morning or the Market, with rotating local veggies and herbs. Each crepe is proof of Crêpe Bar’s knack for transforming simple food into something memorable.
8. Sunny’s Diner
Sunny’s Diner is as cheerful as its name, filling up daily with regulars, students, and families in need of a laid-back break. Every time I walk in, I’m greeted like an old friend, and the staff seem to know everyone by name—or will after a visit or two.
What sets Sunny’s apart is the genuine comfort: hearty portions, cozy booths, and familiar flavors done right. The atmosphere makes it easy to lose track of time, refilling your coffee and swapping stories with whoever’s across the table.
Order the Garden Omelet or the Oatmeal Pancakes. Both capture the spirit of Sunny’s—nourishing, simple, and always just what you’re craving after a busy week in Tempe.
9. Biscuits
Biscuits feels like a nod to classic breakfast traditions, right in the heart of Tempe. Every visit feels welcoming, whether you’re a regular or wandering in for the first time. I’ve watched families gather here, sharing platters and coffee on slow weekend mornings—the energy is always cozy and inviting.
What sets Biscuits apart is its dedication to generous portions and from-scratch comfort food. The focus on fresh ingredients shines in every dish, making each bite both hearty and honest.
Order the Southern Stack or their vegetable omelet. The biscuits themselves are warm and flaky, perfect for sopping up any extra syrup or jam. This spot delivers the kind of breakfast that makes early mornings worth it.
10. Denny’s
Denny’s is equal parts reliable and nostalgic, the kind of place you end up after late-night study sessions or for early breakfasts when nothing else is open. Every trip I’ve made here has been about comfort—bottomless coffee, warm smiles, and a menu that never feels out of reach.
Denny’s stands out for its consistency and all-day breakfast menu. Whether you’re in the mood for a full meal at sunrise or pancakes at midnight, you’ll find plenty of options that hit the spot.
Order the Fit Slam or the Veggie Skillet. They’re good examples of Denny’s approach: classic, filling, and easy on the wallet, without overcomplicating morning cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-try breakfast spots in Tempe?
Tempe has plenty of favorites, but Snooze, Harlow’s Cafe, Daily Jam, and Crêpe Bar always get top marks for flavor, atmosphere, and variety.
Are there vegan or vegetarian breakfast options in Tempe?
Yes, almost every major breakfast spot in Tempe offers vegetarian dishes, and you’ll find great vegan options at places like Daily Jam, U.S. Egg, and Crêpe Bar.
Which places offer gluten-free breakfast in Tempe?
Snooze, Biscuits, and Market Cafe feature gluten-free choices. Many kitchens are flexible with modifications — just ask your server.
Where can I find a healthy breakfast in Tempe?
Crêpe Bar, First Watch, and Original ChopShop serve fresh, wholesome breakfasts with lighter fare, smoothies, and lots of seasonal fruit.
Is breakfast all day a thing in Tempe?
Denny’s and U.S. Egg both serve breakfast all day, making them good go-tos when you’re craving pancakes at dinner time.
What’s the best breakfast near ASU?
Daily Jam, Harlow’s Cafe, and Snooze are all close to Arizona State University and popular with both students and locals.