Discover Exciting Breakfast Spots in Denver for Hot Breakfast Month

Denver has a long history of breakfasts adapted to local needs. In the 1800s, gold prospectors needed hearty morning meals, leading to large portions with eggs, meat, and potatoes. Later, the city developed a tradition of adding green chili to almost everything, including breakfast dishes. Denver also popularized the Denver omelet—a classic dish with ham, peppers, and onions now served nationwide. Today, the city is home to many spots offering hot breakfasts. Here are some of the best places to try them.

Snooze an A.M. Eatery is a cult-favorite Denver spot with a retro-futuristic design, known for its creative variations of pancakes and Benedicts. Signature dishes include Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes and seasonal Benedicts with house-made hollandaise sauce. A standout feature is its commitment to sustainability—composting waste and using eco-friendly packaging. The menu at Snooze an A.M. Eatery changes seasonally, incorporating ingredients from local Colorado farmers.

Highlights

    Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes – Buttermilk pancakes with caramelized pineapple, vanilla crème, and cinnamon butter.
    Breakfast Pot Pie – Flaky puff pastry topped with rosemary sausage gravy and a sunny-side-up egg.
    Benny Duo – Mix and match two different Eggs Benedict styles, including options like smoked salmon, prosciutto, or habanero pork belly.
    Sweet Potato Smash – Crispy sweet potato cakes topped with poached eggs, avocado, and pickled onions.
    Brisket Hash – Shredded beef brisket mixed with caramelized onions, peppers, and crispy hash browns, topped with eggs.
    French Toast Neat – Thick-cut brioche dipped in vanilla batter and griddled, served with mascarpone and fresh berries.

Recommendations

    The Breakfast Burrito is a good alternative if you prefer a handheld option, and it can be smothered in green chili for extra flavor.
    If you're unsure what to get, the Pancake Flight lets you sample three different pancake flavors.
    The Spicy Bloody Mary or the Mimosa Flight pairs well with savory dishes.
    Snooze gets very busy, especially on weekends, so expect a wait. Using the online waitlist can save time.
    Vegan and gluten-free options are available, but it's best to check with the staff for modifications.

Denver Biscuit Company has turned the simple Southern biscuit into a Denver cultural phenomenon. Their massive, buttery biscuits form the base for incredible sandwiches, the most popular being The Franklin, featuring fried chicken and honey sauce. The restaurant is housed in a former movie theater, retaining its original signage and decorative elements. A unique feature of Denver Biscuit Company is its in-house meat smoker and homemade jams.

Highlights

    Franklin – Buttermilk biscuit sandwich with fried chicken, bacon, and cheddar smothered in house-made sausage gravy.
    Lola – Biscuit sandwich with crispy buttermilk fried chicken, honey butter, and house-made raspberry preserves.
    Dahlia – Biscuit French toast topped with honey butter, strawberries, and whipped cream.
    Shrimp & Grits – Southern-style grits served with shrimp, andouille sausage, and Cajun gravy.
    Biscuit Pot Pie – Flaky biscuit crust filled with a creamy chicken and vegetable filling.
    Giant Biscuit Cinnamon Roll – A massive cinnamon roll made from biscuit dough, covered in cream cheese icing.

Recommendations

    The Sausage, Egg & Cheese Biscuit is a solid choice for a simple but filling breakfast.
    If you want a lighter option, the Granola & Yogurt Parfait is available.
    Pair your meal with a Cold Brew Coffee or a House-Made Chai Latte for a well-rounded breakfast.
    Portions are large, so consider sharing if you're not too hungry.
    The restaurant gets busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early or using the waitlist is recommended.

Sam's No. 3 is a legendary diner operating since 1927, offering a mix of American and Mexican cuisine. Famous for its green chili and an extensive menu with over 100 breakfast items, Sam's No. 3 preserves family recipes for sauces that have been passed down through three generations of owners. The interior retains original 1920s design elements, keeping the restaurant’s historic charm.

Highlights

    Green Chile Breakfast Burrito – Scrambled eggs, green chile, cheddar, and bacon wrapped in a large flour tortilla, smothered in green chile sauce.
    Chilaquiles – Fried tortilla chips sautéed in a smoky red or green sauce, topped with eggs, sour cream, cheese, and a side of beans.
    Sam's Special Omelette – A fluffy omelette filled with a mix of sausage, ham, bacon, mushrooms, bell peppers, and cheddar cheese, served with hashbrowns.
    Denver's Best Pancakes – A stack of thick, fluffy pancakes with a choice of toppings like fresh berries, bananas, or chocolate chips.
    Breakfast Quesadilla – Scrambled eggs, cheese, and your choice of meats stuffed inside a crispy flour tortilla, served with salsa and sour cream.
    Biscuits and Gravy – Fluffy biscuits smothered in house-made sausage gravy.

Recommendations

    The Green Chile Breakfast Burrito is a must-try for anyone who loves spicy, flavorful burritos.
    If you're looking for something sweet, the Denver's Best Pancakes are a great option, and you can mix them with fruit or syrup.
    Pair your meal with a Café Mocha or a Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice.
    If you're not super hungry, share a dish—portions at Sam's are large.
    Weekends tend to be busy, so plan ahead to avoid long waits.

Four Friends Kitchen is a modern eatery in the Stapleton neighborhood serving Southern cuisine with a Southwestern twist. The signature dish is the Grits Bowl, featuring smoked pork and green chili sauce. A key feature of Four Friends Kitchen is the spacious rooftop patio with views of the mountains and city. The restaurant is also known for its unique mimosa blends.

Highlights

    Southern Benny – Buttermilk biscuit topped with poached eggs, pimento cheese, ham, and hollandaise sauce, served with home fries.
    Chicken & Waffles – Crispy fried chicken on a Belgian waffle, served with maple syrup and honey butter.
    Shrimp & Grits – Sautéed shrimp in a Creole-style sauce over creamy stone-ground grits.
    Breakfast Po’Boy – French bread filled with scrambled eggs, andouille sausage, peppers, onions, and cheese.
    Sweet Potato Hash – A mix of roasted sweet potatoes, onions, peppers, bacon, and eggs, served with toast.
    Beignets – Light, fluffy New Orleans-style pastries dusted with powdered sugar, served with house-made fruit preserves.

Recommendations

    The beignets are a great starter if you want something sweet before your main dish.
    If you're dining with a group, consider ordering a few plates to share, as portions are generous.
    For a lighter meal, the Greek Yogurt Parfait with granola and fresh fruit is a good alternative to heavier Southern dishes.
    The restaurant has a family-friendly setting with a relaxed atmosphere, making it a good choice for brunch with kids.
    Expect a wait on weekends, but service is fast once you're seated.

RELATED: A Guide to the Best Pizzerias in Denver

Shells and Sauce is an Italian-American restaurant offering unique breakfast options with a Mediterranean twist. A popular dish is Breakfast Carbonara, made with guanciale and a poached egg. The restaurant is set in a historic building with original brickwork. A highlight of Shells and Sauce is its house-made baked goods and imported Italian ingredients.

Highlights

    Lobster Benedict – Poached eggs on a toasted English muffin with lobster, spinach, and hollandaise sauce, served with breakfast potatoes.
    Short Rib Hash – Slow-braised short ribs over crispy potatoes with peppers, onions, and eggs cooked to order.
    Italian Scramble – Scrambled eggs with Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and mozzarella, served with toast.
    Stuffed French Toast – Thick-cut brioche filled with mascarpone and berries, topped with powdered sugar and syrup.
    Pasta Carbonara – A rich and creamy dish with pancetta, egg, and Parmesan, served over fettuccine.
    Eggplant Parmesan – Breaded eggplant topped with marinara and melted mozzarella, served with spaghetti.

Recommendations

    If you're in the mood for a traditional Italian dish instead of breakfast, the Pasta Carbonara or Eggplant Parmesan are solid choices.
    The Caprese Salad or Bruschetta make for a light starter before a heavier main dish.
    Wine and brunch cocktails are available, and the Mimosa Flight lets you try different flavors.
    The restaurant is located in a residential area, so parking can be limited—arriving early is recommended.
    The patio is a good option for outdoor dining when the weather is nice.

The Universal is a modern restaurant blending Southern cuisine with Colorado traditions. Known for its grits, slow-cooked for four hours, and its signature corned beef hash, The Universal stands out with its minimalist industrial design and dedicated coffee program. Interestingly, the chef at The Universal hosts weekly cooking workshops.

Highlights

    Cornbread Rancheros – A take on huevos rancheros with house-made cornbread, black beans, eggs, ranchero sauce, and avocado.
    Savory Grits – Creamy grits served with pork belly, white cheddar, scallions, and a poached egg.
    Biscuits & Gravy – Buttermilk biscuits topped with house-made sausage gravy, served with eggs any style.
    Smoked Salmon Toast – Sourdough topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and pickled onions.
    Universal Breakfast – Two eggs, a choice of bacon or sausage, potatoes or grits, and toast.
    Lemon Ricotta Pancakes – Light and fluffy pancakes with a hint of citrus, served with syrup and butter.

Recommendations

    The Chorizo Scramble is a good alternative if you're looking for a spicier breakfast option.
    For a lighter meal, the Granola & Yogurt or a side of Avocado Toast can be ordered separately.
    If you enjoy coffee, their locally sourced brews are worth trying, especially the cold brew.
    The restaurant is small and fills up quickly, so early arrival is recommended, especially on weekends.
    Patio seating is available, but it’s limited, so be prepared for a wait if you prefer dining outdoors.

Wooden Spoon Cafe & Bakery is a cozy bakery-café in the Highland neighborhood, famous for its freshly baked croissants and homemade English muffins. The signature breakfast at Wooden Spoon Cafe & Bakery features eggs Benedict on house-made brioche. A unique aspect is the open bakery, allowing customers to watch the baking process. Everything on the menu is made fresh each morning.

Highlights

    Croissants – Freshly baked daily, available in classic butter, almond, and chocolate varieties.
    Quiche of the Day – A rotating selection of house-made quiches with seasonal ingredients.
    Breakfast Sandwich – Soft brioche bun filled with eggs, bacon or sausage, cheese, and house aioli.
    Avocado Tartine – Sourdough toast topped with smashed avocado, radish, lemon, and sea salt.
    Pain au Chocolat – A flaky, buttery pastry with rich chocolate filling.
    Ham & Cheese Baguette – A crusty baguette with ham, Swiss cheese, butter, and mustard.

Recommendations

    If you're looking for something sweet, try the fruit tarts or house-made macarons, which pair well with their espresso drinks.
    For a heartier meal, consider adding a side salad or house-made soup, which are available seasonally.
    The bakery is small and tends to sell out of popular pastries early in the day, so visiting in the morning is recommended.
    Seating is limited, making this a better option for takeout or a quick bite rather than a long, leisurely breakfast.
    Their house-roasted coffee is a good choice if you're grabbing something to go.

RELATED: The Newest Restaurants in Denver Worth Checking Out

Photo Credit: instagram.com/woodenspoondenver/

Jelly Cafe is an eccentric spot in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, known for its signature donut holes and creative omelets. The interior at Jelly Cafe is decorated with a collection of vintage cereal boxes. A highlight of Jelly Cafe is the house-made jams and jellies served with every dish. Signature drinks include lavender latte.

Highlights

    Donut Bites – Mini house-made donuts available in flavors like maple bacon, cinnamon sugar, and jelly-filled.
    Smothered Breakfast Burrito – A large tortilla filled with scrambled eggs, potatoes, cheese, and choice of meat, topped with green chili.
    Cap’n Crunch French Toast – Thick-cut brioche coated in crushed Cap’n Crunch cereal and griddled until crispy.
    Benny Duo – Two eggs Benedict variations served on house-made English muffins.
    Chilaquiles – Tortilla chips sautéed in green chili sauce, topped with eggs, queso fresco, and sour cream.
    The Lumberjack – Pancakes, eggs, bacon, and sausage served with house-made jam and toast.

Recommendations

    For a lighter option, try the Greek yogurt parfait or steel-cut oatmeal, which are less filling but still satisfying.
    If you’re in the mood for something savory, consider adding a side of corned beef hash or house-made sausage patties.
    The café gets busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early or visiting on a weekday can help avoid long waits.
    They offer house-made jams in unique flavors, which can be purchased separately to take home.
    Parking around the area can be limited, so plan ahead if you're driving.

Root Down is an innovative restaurant set in a repurposed 1950s auto shop, serving organic breakfasts with global influences. Known for its vegan and vegetarian options, Root Down features a rooftop garden where fresh herbs and vegetables are grown. The interior of Root Down incorporates recycled materials and vintage finds for a unique aesthetic.

Highlights

    Sweet Potato Pancakes – Light and fluffy pancakes made with sweet potato, topped with pecan butter and vanilla crème fraîche.
    Breakfast Bahn Mi – A Vietnamese-inspired sandwich with scrambled eggs, pickled vegetables, jalapeños, cilantro, and hoisin sauce on a toasted baguette.
    Veggie Hash – A mix of seasonal vegetables, sweet potatoes, and quinoa, topped with two eggs any style.
    Lox & Everything Bagel – House-cured salmon served with an everything bagel, cream cheese, pickled onions, and capers.
    Pork Belly Benedict – Crispy pork belly with poached eggs on an English muffin, drizzled with miso hollandaise.
    Churro Waffles – Cinnamon sugar-dusted waffles with a caramel drizzle and whipped cream.

Recommendations

    For a protein-rich breakfast, try the bison sausage as a side, which pairs well with any dish.
    The fresh-pressed juices and smoothies are worth trying, offering refreshing options like beet-carrot-ginger or green detox blends.
    Root Down offers a strong selection of gluten-free and vegetarian options, making it a good choice for dietary restrictions.
    The restaurant is housed in a repurposed gas station with an eclectic interior, making it a unique dining experience.
    Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch, as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

Photo Credit: instagram.com/rootdowndenver/

Spices Cafe is a family-owned café known for its hearty breakfasts and generous portions. The focus is on omelets, pancakes, and meat-based dishes. The signature item is the Green Chili Breakfast Burrito, packed with a flavorful filling and house-made sauce. Another favorite is the Cinnamon Roll French Toast, featuring a caramelized crust. The café has been serving classic American breakfasts for over 20 years. A key highlight is the customizable menu, allowing guests to create their own ingredient combinations.

Highlights

    Green Chili Breakfast Burrito – A large flour tortilla filled with scrambled eggs, cheese, potatoes, and sausage or bacon, smothered in house-made green chili.
    Denver Omelet – A classic combination of ham, bell peppers, onions, and cheddar cheese, served with toast and hash browns.
    Blueberry Pancakes – Fluffy pancakes packed with fresh blueberries and served with butter and maple syrup.
    Corned Beef Hash & Eggs – Slow-cooked corned beef mixed with crispy potatoes and onions, topped with two eggs any style.
    Biscuits & Gravy – Buttermilk biscuits covered in homemade sausage gravy, served with eggs.
    Veggie Scramble – Scrambled eggs with mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, and feta cheese, served with toast.

Recommendations

    The homemade soups are a standout, with rotating daily options like tomato basil and chicken tortilla.
    If you're in a hurry, the breakfast sandwiches are a quick and filling option.
    The house coffee is a solid choice, but they also offer freshly brewed iced tea for a lighter alternative.
    Portions are generous, making it a good spot for sharing or taking leftovers.
    Spices Cafe is a casual, no-frills spot with a friendly atmosphere, best for those looking for a hearty, home-style meal without long waits.