Making time to go out for breakfast can turn an ordinary day into a little vacation, don’t you think? And when the impulse strikes, it’s good to know some tasty, local breakfast spots! 

We asked the Main Line Parent Community to name their favorite places around the Main Line where you can order from a full menu of breakfast options and sit down to dine. We got lots of great recommendations, so get to know these favorite spots on the Main Line and in the surrounding areas. Because sometimes breakfast is the best meal of the day!

Apple Walnut Cafe

2924 West Chester Pike, Broomall

What’s in a name? For the Apple Walnut Cafe, it’s a pie that built a cafe—a scrumptious apple and cream cheese pastry, topped with cinnamon and brown-sugared walnuts. But beyond their stellar desserts, this cafe is a true scratch kitchen brought to you by the family that has run The Dining Car in Northeast Philly for 60+ years. Their menu features three pages of breakfast favorites, including crepes and a gluten-free section. Open for breakfast and lunch, every day from 8 am–2:30 pm.

Ardmore Station Cafe

6 Station Rd, Ardmore

This cozy, family-owned cafe gets lots of thumbs up from the Main Line Parent community.  Their extensive menu covers all the breakfast bases with classic platters, plus options with a twist. Just a hop across the street from the Ardmore train station, the Cafe serves breakfast and lunch from 8 am–2 pm, Tuesdays through Sundays. 

Black Cat Cafe

42 Berkley Road, Devon

The Black Cat Cafe serves up tasty homemade food in a comfy, cottage atmosphere, but what’s really the cat’s meow, is that it’s a cafe with a mission! All proceeds from the restaurant benefit P.A.L.S, a cat rescue organization. When you browse the inspired menu, you’ll notice some cat-themed entrees, like Tiggers French Toast with mango/papaya or passion fruit butter, the generous Garfield Sampler, and Puss In Boots, a creamed chipped beef on toast. Grab breakfast from 9 am–2 pm, Wednesday through Sunday. 

The Classic Diner

352 Lancaster Avenue, Malvern

The Classic Diner serves up generous portions of traditional diner fare with an emphasis on presentation and “the art of a well-prepared breakfast and lunch.” Think upscale diner food with high-quality ingredients and an updated approach. Main Line Parent Community member, Mary W. says “their food is SOOO good. And they have a ton of gluten free delicious options!” Sit down to breakfast daily from 6:30 am–2 pm; Saturday and Sunday from 6:30 am–3 pm.

Em J’s Cafe (Re-opens Jan. 21st, 2025)

814 Lancaster Avenue, Berwyn

Em J’s Cafe gets lots of shout-outs in the Main Line Parent Community, including Shannon H. who says, “EM J’s is amazing!” At this locally owned and operated BYOB, breakfast is served all day and the menu includes classic and inventive items, plus gluten-free options. Open Wednesday through Saturday 7:30 am–2:30 pm; Sunday at 8:00 am–2 pm.

First Watch

31 East Wynnewood Road, Wynnewood
775 East Lancaster Avenue, Villanova
299 East Swedesford Road, Wayne
3735 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square
303 North Pottstown Pike, Exton

First Watch is a restaurant chain with a handful of locations in the area serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch using fresh ingredients. The modern menu features healthy specialty items like quinoa bowls and avocado toast, as well as a juice bar, plus seasonal items such as butternut squash bisque and pumpkin pancakes. Open daily from 7 am to 2:30 pm.

Havertown Grille

2409 W Darby Rd, Havertown

Situated in a vintage-looking storefront, Havertown Grille serves made-to-order breakfasts and lunch. Enjoy signature favorites like Nutella-stuffed French Toast, a Brioche Breakfast Sandwich, or the Apple Cheddar Omelet. Outdoor, sidewalk seating is available when the weather is nice. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 8 am–2:30 pm. 

Hymie’s

342 Montgomery Ave, Merion

Definitely worth a pilgrimage for their matzoh ball soup and pickle bar, Hymie’s is also a solid, long-standing breakfast spot on the Main Line. Inside, the vibe is that of a classic New York-style deli, complete with booth seating, caricature portraits on the wall, and bakery cases of Rugelach and other amazing-looking pastries. The menu is huge and has something for everyone. Open daily 8 am–3 pm and breakfast is served all day. 

Julie Anne’s Place

22 S Warren Ave Malvern, PA 19355

This quaint, homestyle restaurant gets kudos for its great food, friendly service, and fun atmosphere. And when the weather’s warm enough, you can dine on the front porch. Yummy breakfast specials include Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast, the Tuscan Omelet, and Chocolate Chip & Banana Pancakes. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 7 am–2:30 pm. 

Kettle

1 Brookline Blvd, Havertown

Under brand new ownership as of Dec. 2024, Kettle is a popular, family-oriented, neighborhood restaurant dedicated to breakfast and lunch. Food is made to order with an emphasis on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Main Line parent, Colleen C. loves Kettle because it’s “locally owned and operated with lots of unique specials!” Outdoor, sidewalk seating is available in good weather. Open everyday from 8 am to 2 pm. 

Malvern Buttery

233 E King St, Malvern

This artisanal bakery offers a gorgeous selection of breakfast and lunch options on delectable breads and pastries. The menu also features modern, healthy options like Acai Banana Chia Pudding and Golden Overnight Muesli. Open everyday from 8 am to 2 pm. 

Minella’s Diner

320 Lancaster Avenue, Wayne

A great spot when you’re in the mood for the quintessential diner experience. Owned and operated by the Dellaportas family since 1998, Minella’s features a huge menu and a casual, comfortable atmosphere. Main Line parent Tara C. says, “Minella’s is a staple!” Open daily, 6 am to 10 pm.

Murray’s Deli

285 Montgomery Avenue, Bala Cynwyd

Not far up the road from Hymie’s, you can’t miss the vintage neon sign to Murray’s, another longstanding Jewish deli. Inside, you’re treated to classic deli decor: checkerboard tiled floors, cozy booths and tables, and a long deli case full of goodies. Like a scene out of movie, it’s a cool setting for your family breakfast outing. Although it’s best known for it’s corned beef, pickles and matzoh ball soup, their breakfast and bagels do not disappoint! Stop in Monday through Saturday, 8:30 am–6:30 pm or Sunday 8:30 am  to 3:30 pm.

Nudy’s Cafe

11 Cricket Avenue Ardmore and multiple locations around the Main Line

The first Nudy’s Cafe opened in Devon in 1979 and since that time, the business has grown to include 12 locations around the Main Line. The breakfast menu features both upscale items like Ahi Tuna Florentine and Roasted Red Pepper Omelet, as well as straightforward favorites like Blueberry Pancakes and Creamed Chipped Beef. Both breakfast and lunch are served all day. Open Monday–Friday, 7 am to 4 pm and Saturday and Sunday, 7 am to 3 pm. 

Sabrina’s Cafe

50 E Wynnewood Rd, Wynnewood

This popular breakfast and lunch cafe has locations in Philly, NJ, and Wynnewood, and has landed on a a few “Best Brunches Around Philly” lists, including Conde Nast Traveler! You can feast your eyes on many of their menu items online, like Cannoli French Toast, Chicken and Waffle and more. Parents will appreciate their thoughtful kids menu, which features simpler items and smaller portions. Open daily, 8 am to 3 pm.

Tank and Libby’s

Pilgrim Gardens Shopping Center, 1011 Pontiac Road, Drexel Hill, PA

Carolyn F.C. recommends Tank and Libby’s for its “stellar menu with weekly specials.” Indeed this breakfast and lunch restaurant strives to serve up “classic American dishes with a twist” in a home-y atmosphere. Founded and operated by two accomplished chefs, Tank & Libby’s creative menu items are made fresh from locally sourced ingredients. Stop in Wednesday through Friday, 8:15 am–1:30 pm and Saturday & Sunday, 8 am–1:30 pm.