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Where to Eat Breakfast this Week in Philly

As home to some of the best restaurants, Philadelphia is a great spot for tourists, foodies, and any other food-lovers out there. Of these restaurants, there are numerous amazing spots to eat breakfast.

beautiful couple sharing breakfast in philadelphia

When trying a new spot though, I know it can be hard to know if it’s worth it to spend time and money there. That’s why I’ve put together a list of my top picks for the best breakfast in Philly.

When I go out to breakfast I try to get something different each time. I definitely tend to gravitate to the sweeter options (I would do anything for brioche french toast), there are a ton of savory dishes I also enjoy.

If a restaurant has breakfast tacos, breakfast burritos, or even breakfast nachos – I’ll most likely be ordering that. Luckily, I’ve tried it all, so I’ll recommend a bit of everything in my list.

Whether you want classic American breakfast food or want to try some fancy dishes or a new cuisine, there’s a spot for anything you want on this list.

From cute cafes to laid-back restaurants, you’ll have a stop for every occasion. Keep reading to learn more about these delicious spots!


Best Breakfast Restaurants in Philadelphia

Cafe La Maude

816 N 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
Phone: (267) 318-7869
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When you’re feeling a bit adventurous, swing by Cafe La Maude for a casual weekday breakfast. Serving French-Lebanese cuisine, this spot is unlike any other.

This restaurant is family-owned and serves delicious family recipes, so you can bet on enjoying your meal.

Cafe La Maude’s brunch menu has a wide variety of dishes to chooses from. Try out the green shakshuka, red velvet tiramisu pancakes (drowned in maple syrup), foul moudamas, or sweet potato benny.

This spot is BYOB, so make sure to bring some champagne or wine if you’re visiting for brunch!


Café y Chocolate

1532 Snyder Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Phone: 267-639-4506
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With its casual and family-friendly atmosphere, Café y Chocolate quickly became my go-to breakfast spot during my stay in Philadelphia. 

This Mexican restaurant opens at 9 AM and starts serving an amazing selection of Latin fare, including tacos, burritos, and huevos rancheros. It’s also a popular spot for brunch with options like omelets and smoothies.

The beverage selection is a major draw with freshly-brewed coffee and traditional Mexican hot chocolate that perfectly blends sweet and spicy flavors.

This South Philadelphia restaurant is near the intersection of Snyder Avenue and S 16th Street, one block north of the Guerin Recreation Center. 


Cafe Lift

428 N 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
Phone: (215) 922-3031
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Rounding out our list of breakfast spots is Cafe Lift. Open since 2003, this local restaurant serves American cuisine for breakfast and brunch.

With a relaxed atmosphere and art for decor, this is the perfect cozy space for a meal.

Cafe Lift serves a seasonally-evolving menu so there’s always exciting options to taste. We recommend the spring frittata, Polish benedict, nutty monkey crespelle, lemon ricotta pancakes.

Be sure to bring some champagne or wine if you’re hoping to drink with your meal!


Famous 4th Street Delicatessen

700 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: 215-922-3274
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The 1920s-inspired decor is what initially made me want to try this delicatessen. After chatting with the owner, I found out about their delicious corned beef, and I highly recommend this menu item.

The Famous 4th Street Delicatessen is an ideal breakfast spot if you’re into cured meat. Salami, bologna, and ham are just a few of the options available. You’ll also find classic American fare like hot dogs and burgers. 

Head to Queen Village and you’ll find this restaurant on the corner of S 4th and Bainbridge Street. Those looking for entertainment should check out the Theatre of the Living Arts one block north.


The Dutch

1537 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: 215-551-5000
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The Dutch has the casual feel of a small neighborhood eatery. It’s the brainchild of three chefs Lee Styer, Jessie Prawlucki-Styer, and Kevin Watters.

I love the idea of three chefs with extensive experience in the world of fine dining creating a laid-back restaurant with generous portions. 

While the chorizo hash and pork belly were my favorites, I’d likely try their omelets and pastries on my next visit. The Dutch is also a popular brunch spot thanks to its excellent selection of cocktails.

You’ll find this restaurant in the Passyunk Square area, on the corner of Tasker and S 11th Street. Sit by the window for a gorgeous view of the Singing Fountain!


Dutch Eating Place

51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-922-0425
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The Dutch Eating Place is one of the most popular vendors at the Reading Terminal Market in Center City. This eatery opens at 8 AM and offers counter-style service. 

The warm apple dumplings were my favorite Dutch-inspired pastries, but the pancakes and French toast also seem to be popular. If you’re not in the mood for something sweet, there are always sandwiches and burgers.

This affordable breakfast spot is in the north section of the market. Take the Arch Street entrance and the Dutch Eating Place should be easy to find.


Middle Child

248 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 267-930-8344
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Middle Child stands out as a modern local chain with original creations. One of its most popular menu items, the Surfer, is a turkey sandwich that expertly mixes sweet and savory flavors thanks to the addition of a delicious blueberry jam.

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I also recommend the Phoagie, a vegan sub that replaces meat with roasted eggplant.

It’s a popular spot among locals who are in the know, and I wouldn’t be surprised if we see more locations in the future. The Center City location is on S 11th Street, not far from Locust Street.

The easiest way to find it is to walk four blocks west of Washington Square.


The Tasty

1401 S 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: 267-457-5670
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The Tasty immediately reminded me of a 1950s diner with its sleek counter and colorful interior. However, the menu is full of surprises with its vegan takes on classic American fare.

Besides salads, the Tasty uses tofu and other meat alternatives to reimagine classics like BLTs and pancakes.

I had the vegan cheesesteak sandwich and highly recommend it to anyone looking for some guilt-free comfort food for breakfast.

The Tasty is in Passyunk Square, at the corner of Reed and S 12th Street. It’s a fun spot for people-watching with the Columbus Square Dog Park across the street. 


Honey’s Sit ‘n Eat

800 N 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
Phone: (215) 925-1150
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Open for over 15 years, Honey’s Sit ‘n Eat is another can’t-miss breakfast spot in town. Serving Jewish and Southern comfort food, this spot is a unique place for a meal.

This restaurant is cash-only and BYOB so make sure to bring what you’ll need.

With plenty of breakfast classics and more innovative dishes, this is one of the most popular weekend brunch spots.

We recommend the asparagus benedict, challah french toast and mornin’ meat, enfrijoladas, or tofu scramble. Be sure to try their lunch and dinner, too!


Sulimay’s Restaurant

632 E Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125
Phone: 215-423-1773
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Generous diner fare, fresh juices, and budget-friendly sandwiches are the perfect recipe for a popular breakfast spot in Philadelphia. 

Sulimay’s Restaurant is a relaxed eatery in the Fishtown area. It’s a favorite among locals, and it’s somewhat of a hidden gem with its varied menu and large portions. I enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere and the friendly service. 

You’ll find it on E Girard Ave and Berks Street, a couple of minutes away from the Rivers Casino if you follow the Delaware Expressway. 


Sabrina’s Cafe & Spencer’s Too

1804 Callowhill St, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Phone: (215) 636-9061
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When you’re looking for a casual spot for breakfast, we recommend Sabrina’s Cafe & Spencer’s Too. Serving New American fare for breakfast and brunch, you’ll find all of your favorites here.

Offering a vast array of tasty options on their breakfast menu, you might feel a little overwhelmed by this menu.

Try out the cannoli french toast, breakfast sandwich, stuffed challah french toast, huevos rancheros, or ultimate mexi scramble. Make sure you try the stuffed french toast latte, too!


The Breakfast Den

1500 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19146
Phone: 267-758-6008
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The name says it all. This fusion restaurant offers Vietnamese and American-inspired breakfast food.

You’ll find classics like pancakes or sausage and egg sandwiches, but there are also options like rice paper rolls or banh mi.

I tried the herby chicken banh mi and absolutely loved the combination of the fresh baguette and savory chicken. 

The Breakfast Den offers a mix of comfort food, healthy options, and vegetarian dishes. It’s on South and S 15th Street, a few blocks south of Center City and two blocks away from the Marian Anderson Recreation Center.


Front Street Cafe

1253 N Front St, Philadelphia, PA 19122
Phone: 215-515-3073
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The Front Street Cafe has a reputation for well-crafted cocktails and excellent food.

This establishment gave me the impression of an upscale cafe. I loved the classy feel of the place and the fact that this cafe sources sustainable ingredients.

There are some fun breakfast options, ranging from fresh food plates to acai bowls and breakfast burritos. There are also some shareable plates for groups.

You’ll find this Fishtown cafe on N Front and W Thompson Street. You can see overhead train tracks from the cafe for an authentic Philadelphia experience!


Green Eggs Cafe

212 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: (267) 861-0314
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With six locations across the city, it’s no wonder Green Eggs Cafe has become such a popular spot to visit for breakfast or brunch.

Using house-grown ingredients in addition to locally-sourced ones, you’ll be supporting many local businesses by visiting this restaurant. It’s cash-only, so don’t forget to bring some.

Green Eggs Cafe’s menu is filled with indulgent takes on classic dishes that you’ll have to try. We recommend the cookie dough stuffed french toast, fried chicken and waffles benedict, avocado toast, or their breakfast sandwiches. Be sure to sip on a mimosa or bloody mary!


Renata’s Kitchen

3940 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: 267-275-8254
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With its Mediterranean fare, Renata’s Kitchen quickly became one of my favorite Philadelphia breakfast spots.

From the diablo chicken sandwich with harissa to the marinated olive appetizers or toasted tahini, the menu will have you travel from Italy to North Africa.

The outdoor seating is ideal for a warm summer morning, and the delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes and fresh ingredients are an absolute treat.

Renata’s Kitchen is on Baltimore Avenue, within walking distance from the University of Pennsylvania campus.

You can catch the trolley at one of the stops located near the restaurant to explore the city after a hearty breakfast.


Booker’s Restaurant & Bar

5021 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143
Phone: 215-883-0960
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Booker’s Restaurant & Bar is one of my favorite breakfast spots in Philadelphia with its upscale atmosphere and excellent food.

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I adored the relaxing atmosphere, helped by its leather seating and wood accents, and couldn’t ask for better service.

It draws in the dinner crowd thanks to the weekly live jazz events, but you’ll also find an excellent brunch menu if you’re in the mood for quick bites.

Options include daily specials, fresh salads, decadent desserts, Thai-inspired small plates, seafood dishes, and more.

Booker’s is on Baltimore Avenue in the Cedar Park neighborhood, near 50th Street Park.


Honeysuckle Provisions

310 S 48th St, Philadelphia, PA 19143
Phone: 215-307-3316
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Honeysuckle Provisions is a small cafe and grocery store in Garden Court. The founders, Omar Tate and Cybille St. Aude-Tate, launched the business to celebrate the Black community.

I love the idea of creating a business with a strong social mission, and it’s also a great breakfast spot with a small but varied menu.

I had the breakfast sandwich with maple sage sausage and coconut parfait, and I highly recommend this combination.

You’ll find this hidden gem on S 48th Street between Spruce and Pine Street, three blocks east of Malcolm X Park.


Beiler’s Bakery

51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 267-318-7480
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Start your day with a sweet treat from Beiler’s Bakery. It’s a popular spot for donuts, fritters, and other fried delights.

With original flavors like banana creme, M&M’s, coconut custard, or key lime, the bakery has a donut for everyone.

Better still, you can get great deals if you order donuts for a family or group of friends. Come get your sugar fix at the Reading Terminal Market.

Using the N 12th Street entrance is the easiest way to find Beiler’s Bakery. 


Comfort & Floyd

1301 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: 215-465-2917
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Comfort & Floyd is a small eatery with a creative menu. It’s one of my favorite Philadelphia restaurants because most of the ingredients come from local businesses. 

You can do your part to support the local economy by ordering one of the unique breakfast sandwiches, burgers, tuna melts, or egg plates. My favorite was the lentil berry sandwich, a bold combination of legumes and fresh fruits. 

Comfort & Floyd is a popular breakfast and lunch spot among locals. It’s in Passyunk Square, on the corner of S11th and Wharton Street between the Capitolo Playground and the Columbus Square Dog Park. 


Korshak Bagels

1700 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19148
Phone: 267-592-7678
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This bagel shop serves fresh and warm confections including pumpernickel, sesame, onion, or cinnamon raisin bagels. 

What sets Korshak Bagels apart is the selection of toppings. You can opt for classics like strawberry jam and farm butter or try something original like shredded carrots or seafood.

There is also a small but delicious selection of coffee, tea, and kombucha. Korshak Bagels is in South Philly, in the East Passyunk Crossing area. Head to the corner of Morris and S 10th Street and look for a brick building.


Reading Terminal Market

1136 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-922-2317
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Reading Terminal Market is a 78,000 square feet venue with over 75 vendors. You can’t leave Philadelphia without taking a stroll through this busy covered space and trying food from all over the world while shopping till you drop.

Going to the market for breakfast is a fun experience since most food stalls open at 8 AM. I already included a few breakfast spots to check out inside the market, but I should also mention the Market Bakery, Beck’s Cajun Cafe, and the Hatville Deli.

The market is in Center City, on N 12th Street between Market and Arch Street. You can access it easily from the nearby Jefferson train station.


Federal Donuts

1909 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: 215-665-1101
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With more than 10 locations and a food truck, Federal Donuts is a local institution. It’s easy to understand why once you try one of their perfect sugary fried confections.

Federal Donuts has an impressive selection of classic and fancy donuts, but you can also get fried chicken sandwiches, wings, and more.

I tried the breakfast sandwich, a menu item that combines egg, bacon, cheese, and cherry pepper relish with a soft potato roll. 

It’s one of the most imaginative breakfast sandwiches I’ve ever had, which is why I recommend trying Federal Donuts on Samson and S 19th Street near Rittenhouse Square.


Parc

227 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: 215-545-2262
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Parc is a stylish French restaurant with a covered patio and elegant interior inspired by classic French bistros from the late 19th Century.

The simple name reflects the simple fare, but make no mistake, Parc is an upscale restaurant where each and every dish is brimming with flavor. 

The breakfast menu includes classic options like pancakes, fruit parfaits, or avocado toast. I opted for a more European-inspired breakfast and ordered the quiche Lorraine, which turned out to be one of the most memorable meals I had in Philadelphia.

You’ll find Parc on Locust and S 18th Street. I think it would be a great setting for a romantic breakfast with a view of Rittenhouse Square.


Fitzwater Cafe

728 S 7th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: 215-629-0428
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Fitzwater Cafe offers classic American fare served in a cozy bistro atmosphere. The daily specials deliver great value, and I was impressed by the fast and friendly service.

It’s a popular spot for lunch and brunch, but you can also savor some classic breakfast treats like waffles or French toast. I tried the banana bread French toast while my significant other opted for the excellent crab omelet. 

From the get-go, you’ll notice just how creative the menu is, and the prices are very reasonable given the quality of the food and service.

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You’ll find Fitzwater Cafe in the Queen Village area, on Fitzwater and S 7th Street. Cianfrani Park is on the same block.


Hawthornes Cafe

738 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: 215-627-3012
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I knew I had to try Hawthornes Cafe after seeing pictures of the interior with its sofas and fireplace on social media. The cafe didn’t disappoint with its cozy atmosphere and delicious food. 

Hawthornes has an amazing selection of sweet and savory breakfast options. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, you can’t go wrong with the waffle sundae.

For those who prefer savory breakfasts, I recommend the crab cake or chorizo burritos. And if you can’t decide, the egg and bacon breakfast sandwich on brioche bread is the perfect combination of the two.

The cafe is in the Hawthorne neighborhood, between Hawthorne Park and the Palumbo Recreation Center on Fitzwater and S 11th Street.


Heung Fa Chun Sweet House

112 N 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-238-8968
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On the last day of my trip to Philly, I decided to do something different and have Chinese for breakfast. I had heard about Heung Fa Chun Sweet House and wanted to try this authentic restaurant for its selection of sweet soups and tofu dishes.

After having a vegetable and pork bun accompanied by a sweet tofu dessert with red beans, I suggest grabbing a bite to eat here before exploring Chinatown or heading to the nearby Reading Terminal Market.

You’ll find this Chinese restaurant on N 10th Street, a few paces away from the Chinatown Friendship Arch.


High Street Philadelphia

101 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-625-0988
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High Street on Market is a rustic mix between an artisanal bakery and a restaurant. I love this concept because everything feels fresh and handmade. 

The breakfast menu is fairly small, but with delicious creations like a Reuben sandwich topped with caramelized onions or scrambled eggs served with freshly-made seed rolls, High Street offers an unforgettable breakfast experience in a cottage-inspired setting.

If you enjoy this type of classic American fare prepared with high-quality ingredients, Chef Eli Kulp has another restaurant in Philadelphia called Fork.

High Street is on S 9th and Chestnut Street in Center City. After enjoying a delicious breakfast, you can walk three blocks east to see the Independence Hall and Liberty Bell.


Miles Table

1620 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19146
Phone: (215) 651-3040
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When you’re looking for a spot with the classics, Miles Table should be your go-to in Philadelphia.

Prioritizing the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, this food is full of flavor. With hundreds of glowing reviews about the service and food, you’ll want to try this spot ASAP.

Miles Table serves breakfast, lunch, and brunch, so no matter what you’re in the mood for, they’ll have it here.

Try out the tres leches french toast, el guapo burrito, chicken and waffles, or carnitas benedict!


Morning Glory Diner

735 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: (215) 413-3999
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Looking for a charming spot for breakfast? Check out Morning Glory Diner. This local restaurant is housed in an old-school diner setting. With classic house-made dishes, you can count on this food being delicious. This spot is cash-only, though, so be sure to come prepared.

With a variety of tasty plates to choose from, you may have a hard time deciding what to order. We recommend the chorizo frittata, monkey french toast, breakfast pizza, or their breakfast sandwiches. Be sure to BYOB too!


M Kee

1002 Race St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-238-8883
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M Kee is an authentic Cantonese restaurant located in Chinatown, a few blocks north of Center City. It’s a small restaurant with budget-friendly options and generous portions.

I had the roast duck, but we also ordered the scallion chicken and the porridge to sample a few items from the menu. The food was delicious and the use of spices and herbs resulted in perfectly balanced dishes.

We also enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere, and experiencing Chinatown early in the morning was a fun highlight of our trip. M Kee is at the corner of Race and N 10th Street, a block away from the Pennsylvania Convention Center.


Penrose Diner

2016 Penrose Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Phone: 215-465-1097
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Penrose Diner is a popular Packer Park restaurant that has been around for over 50 years. It serves classic American fare, including an excellent all-day breakfast.

If you’re in a hurry, I recommend the savory pork roll breakfast sandwich. If you have a few minutes to sit down and enjoy a generous breakfast, the omelets are a great way to start your day, but you can also build your own breakfast with French toast, waffles, pancakes, and your choice of proteins.

It’s a fun, budget-friendly spot, and I think families and large groups will enjoy it. The restaurant is between Penrose Avenue and S 20th Street, not far from FDR Park. 


Sam’s Morning Glory Diner

735 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: 215-413-3999
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It’s hard to think of a more quintessential American breakfast experience than Sam’s Morning Glory Diner. With its brick building and counter service, this charming neighborhood diner offers a retro-inspired vibe and some amazing food.

This spot opens as early as 7 AM and serves classic breakfast items such as pancakes, waffles, burritos, and bagels.

I tried the French toast with homemade blackberry sauce and found myself savoring every bite. If you’re in the mood for something bold, I recommend the breakfast crab cakes! 

Sam’s Morning Glory Diner is in the Bella Vista area at the corner of Fitzwater and S 10th Street, across the street from the Palumbo Recreation Center. 


Seeing as they say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, it’s definitely important to know where to grab some.

Now that you’ve read this list, you’ll know exactly where to get a hearty and delicious breakfast next time you’re in Philly.

Looking for an alternative morning meal? We recommend you try a combination of breakfast and lunch or BRUNCH. We’ve list down the best brunch spots in Philadelphia that serve meals that’ll make ordinary mornings into something great.

Which restaurant are you most excited to try? Let us know! Did we leave a restaurant out of this list? Make sure you drop us a line and we’ll check it out!

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

Follow him on LinkedIn, Instagram, Quora, Google Guide and Facebook.