The top breakfast restaurant chains in America

Eric Glenn // Shutterstock The American breakfast is rooted in both tradition and innovation. Throughout the 1800s, many Americans ate high-protein breakfasts like bacon and eggs. Later, as the industrial revolution led to less physically demanding work, lower-calorie breakfasts became all the rage. But as these meals mostly took place at home, decades would pass before breakfast became a staple on restaurant menus. In the mid-20th century, spots like The Original Pancake House began catering specifically to the morning crowd, elevating breakfast to a celebrated dining experience. Quick-serve eateries like McDonald’s, Ray’s Kingsburger, and Burger King got in on the game in the 1970s, and the fast food breakfast was born. These days, the breakfast restaurant biz is thriving. According to IBISWorld, the industry generated approximately $14.6 billion in the U.S. in 2024 alone. These restaurants play a pivotal role in American food culture, not just as places to eat but also as social hubs. Breakfast joints have evolved to include everything from small diners to large-scale chains, each with their own spin on the most important meal of the day. To find the nation’s favorite breakfast spots, Stacker gathered YouGov Ratings (current as of the second quarter of 2024) to rank the top 20 breakfast restaurant chains in America. The list was ranked by the percentage of respondents who liked the chain and ties were broken by a higher “have heard of” figure. In terms of customer expectations, traditional breakfast staples–pancakes, waffles, and omelets–remain top picks. Some of the most famous chains include The Original Pancake House, with its classic American breakfast fare. The coffee shop Starbucks has also earned a place on this list thanks to an expanded menu featuring items like egg bites, oatmeal, and sandwiches. Keep reading to see if your breakfast go-to spot made the list. You may also like: 10 different foods used in New Year’s Eve traditions and the stories behind them #20. Bruegger’s Bagels Canva – Have positive opinion of: 31% – Have heard of: 50% Founded in 1983 in Troy, New York, Bruegger’s is best known for its New York-style bagels made fresh daily at more than 180 locations across the country. Customers love the variety of bagels, spreads, and breakfast sandwiches, particularly the classic bagel with Vermont cream cheese. Bruegger’s Bagels remains a popular pick for breakfast and coffee breaks due to the restaurants’ welcoming, cafelike atmosphere. #19. Winchell’s Donut House