If there's one thing Cleveland knows how to do right, it's breakfast. From hearty Midwestern fare to soul-warming Southern classics, the city offers a delicious spread of comfort food that can turn even the grayest Ohio morning into something special. Whether you're a longtime local or a hungry traveler looking for your next great meal, Cleveland's breakfast scene delivers with buttery biscuits, crispy chicken, and perfectly spiced grits.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the top 10 Southern-style comfort restaurants in cleveland TN, highlighting where to get them, what makes them great, and why these local favorites should be on your morning menu.

Why Southern Comfort Breakfast?

Southern food is synonymous with comfort—think slow-cooked grits, fried chicken, and flaky biscuits. In recent years, Cleveland's restaurants have embraced these time-honored flavors, blending them with Midwest sensibilities and local ingredients. The result? A uniquely Cleveland take on Southern comfort that's both crave-worthy and Instagram-ready.

Top 10 Southern Comfort Breakfast Foods in Cleveland

1. Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Waffles – Jack Flaps

Location: Ohio City

Why it's a must-try: Jack Flaps is a quirky breakfast joint that takes its chicken & waffles seriously. Juicy, crispy fried chicken sits atop thick buttermilk waffles, topped with hot sauce-infused syrup and a hint of citrus zest.

Local Tip: Ask for the extra spicy maple glaze—they'll make it if you ask nicely.

2. Shrimp & Grits – Lucky's Café

Location: Tremont

Why it's a must-try: Lucky's Café is a brunch legend in Cleveland, and their shrimp & grits is a standout. Made with creamy stone-ground grits, sautéed Gulf shrimp, andouille sausage, and a splash of white wine, this dish is bold, flavorful, and satisfying.

SEO keyword: best shrimp and grits in Cleveland

3. Biscuits and Sausage Gravy – Grumpy's Café

Location: Tremont

Why it's a must-try: Grumpy's has that classic diner vibe and serves up some of the best biscuits and sausage gravy in the city. Their scratch-made biscuits are smothered in peppery sausage gravy and served with eggs and home fries.

Perfect for: A hungover Sunday or cold winter morning.

4. Smoked Brisket Hash – The Rowley Inn

Location: Across from the A Christmas Story House

Why it's a must-try: This dive-bar-meets-diner spot serves a brisket hash that's unforgettable. House-smoked brisket is tossed with crispy potatoes, onions, peppers, and topped with eggs your way.

Comfort Factor: Think Texas BBQ meets classic breakfast skillet.

5. Chicken Biscuit Sandwich – Juneberry Table

Location: Detroit-Shoreway

Why it's a must-try: Juneberry Table offers seasonal, locally sourced Southern comfort with a twist. Their chicken biscuit sandwich is a flaky buttermilk biscuit stacked with a fried chicken thigh, homemade pickles, and drizzled with hot honey.

Pro Tip: Add a side of their cheesy grits—you won't regret it.

6. Cornbread Pancakes – Big Al's Diner

Location: University Circle

Why it's a must-try: Big Al's is a no-frills diner with big flavors. Their cornbread pancakes are sweet, buttery, and have just the right amount of grit for texture. Served with syrup or topped with butter, they're comfort on a plate.

Good to know: Big portions, low prices, cash only.

7. Pimento Cheese Omelet – Le Petit Triangle Café

Location: Ohio City

Why it's a must-try: French café meets Southern soul. This fluffy omelet is filled with house-made pimento cheese, giving a creamy, tangy surprise in every bite.

Bonus: It pairs perfectly with a side of their rosemary potatoes and a latte.

8. Sweet Potato Waffle – Yours Truly Restaurant

Location: Multiple locations around Cleveland

Why it's a must-try: A sweet and hearty option, this waffle has warm spices, crisp edges, and a soft center. Add candied pecans or whipped butter for extra indulgence.

Why locals love it: It's like Thanksgiving breakfast all year round.

9. Country Ham & Eggs – West Side Market Café

Location: Inside the iconic West Side Market

Why it's a must-try: This is Southern breakfast in its purest form: thick-cut country ham, two eggs your way, and a side of creamy grits or crispy hash browns.

Local Love: Grab it before or after browsing the market for a true Cleveland experience.

10. Maple Bacon Doughnut – Brewnuts

Location: Detroit-Shoreway

Why it's a must-try: Brewnuts specializes in beer-infused doughnuts, and their maple bacon creation is a sweet-and-savory masterpiece. Imagine a fluffy yeast doughnut topped with smoky bacon pieces and a rich maple glaze.

Dessert for breakfast? Yes, please.

Honorable Mentions

  • Southern Grit Bowl at Cleveland Bagel Co. – A modern twist with bacon, cheddar, and spicy jalapeño grits.

  • Fried Green Tomato Benedict at TownHall – A Southern veggie classic turned brunch favorite.

  • Nashville Hot Chicken Wrap at Good Company – Great for a grab-and-go option with plenty of heat.

Final Thoughts: Wake Up to Cleveland's Best Southern Breakfast

Cleveland might be far from the South geographically, but its breakfast scene tells a different story. Across neighborhoods—from Tremont to Ohio City and beyond—chefs and diners alike are embracing the bold, comforting flavors of Southern cuisine. Whether it's grits and shrimp, biscuits and gravy, or just a great cup of coffee and a cornbread pancake, there's something here for everyone. City Cafe Diner is known for delicious food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere

The next time you're craving a comforting breakfast, skip the chains and head to one of these top breakfast spots in Cleveland. Your stomach (and your soul) will thank you.