They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and if you go to one of these local diners, we’d argue it’s also the best meal of the day.
Follow along as we showcase some reader submitted diners (plus a few of our own favorites) where the coffee is flowing + the griddle is hot.
Stav’s Diner, 2932 E. Broad St.
Thanks to reader Mindy B., we discovered this diner tucked away in Bexley near Block’s Bagels. Try the challah French toast to satisfy that early morning sweet tooth, or grab classic western omelet with hash browns + bacon.
Starliner Diner, 4121 Main St.
Switch up your normal breakfast routine with this Cuban diner, recommended by reader Jeff M. Try the breakfast burrito — which is stuffed with scrambled eggs, ham, beans, and cheese — or the heuvos rancheros, a vegetarian favorite.
Paul’s Fifth Avenue, 1565 W. 5th Ave.
This Grandview diner, suggested by reader Nadine F., offers special plates like the Callahan. This is Paul’s take on a no egg omelet where all the ingredients are served on top of home fries with American cheese + white toast.
Cap City Fine Diner & Bar, Multiple locations
Stop by Grandview, Gahanna, or Dublin and you’ll find a Cap City ready for you. Find brunch options like a lox bagel, or treat yourself to a classic eggs Benedict served with red skin potatoes.
Jack and Benny’s, 2563 N. High St.
This greasy spoon has been a staple of CBUS for 27 years and its walls are full of historic CBUS moments throughout that time. It’s known for the Gutbuster — a dish that features shredded hash browns, two eggs, sausage gravy, and toast of your choice. Check out weekly specials on pancakes which have included options like raspberry or red velvet.
DK Diner, 1715 W. 3rd Ave.
There are three big things you need to know about DK Diner — house made biscuits, donuts made daily, and self-serve on non-alcoholic drinks. We recommend “The Sandy” — a completely customizable sandwich — for the meal then treat yourself to a sour cream donut or cinnamon roll before asking for the check.
Café Creekside, 53 Granville St.
For 16 years, Café Creekside has been the spot for folks in Gahanna to grab a quick and delicious breakfast. The menu offers anything from French toast to massive breakfast burritos + its faithful staff that’s been there for years is great at recommendations with their wealth of knowledge.
Tommy’s Diner, 914 W. Broad St.
Tommy’s Diner has been in Franklinton for 30+ years and its atmosphere takes visitors back to a classic time of eating out with glossy, red vinyl booths + checkered flooring. The menu follows suit, too — we’re talking two different styles of steak (country fried or ribeye) + pork chops, all served in the morning alongside eggs of your preference.