Breakfast and Weekend Brunch Spots in Athens, Georgia
If you’re craving something special to start your day, Athens has plenty of standout breakfast spots. After many mornings and weekend brunches while living in Athens for a month with my family, I found places that go beyond the usual, from modern Greek twists on classic fare to cozy cafés and international flavors with local flair... Here are the breakfast spots that really won me over and that I think you will love too.
1. Athens Bagel Company
I am such a big fan of this laid-back yet stylish neighborhood spot where rustic-industrial design met warm hospitality! It's basically my go-to spot.. The mix of exposed brick, natural wood, and colorful tiled accents gave it a welcoming feel, while the aroma of freshly baked bagels was irresistible.
The bagels themselves are the stars — chewy, perfectly golden, and clearly hand-rolled with care. Classics like everything and sesame were spot-on, but I loved how they also experimented with seasonal flavors. Their house-made spreads and toppings — from whipped feta with herbs to roasted beet hummus — were both delicious and unexpected.
You can also get hearty grain bowls and vibrant salads here, all clearly made with fresh, local ingredients. The coffee program was solid too, with locally roasted beans and a rotating selection of creative drinks.
- Location: Athens Bagel Company, 268 N Jackson St, Athens, GA 30601
- Vibe: Chill, casual, student-friendly
- Cost: $8–$15 per person
- Hours: Open daily from 7AM (closed Mondays)
My highlights? I had the “Classic” breakfast sandwich on an everything bagel with scrambled eggs, cheddar, and crispy bacon. Paired with a strong iced coffee and a window seat, it was the perfect low-key Athens morning.
One thing to note: the space could get busy during weekend brunch hours, but the energy felt part of the charm — more bustling café than quiet escape.
2. Mama’s Boy Restaurant
I was instantly charmed by this beloved Athens institution, where Southern hospitality meets cozy, down-to-earth vibes. Mama’s Boy feels like stepping into a friend’s kitchen — bright, casual, and bustling with the smell of biscuits baking and coffee brewing.
The menu is classic Southern comfort food with a creative twist. Their buttermilk biscuits are legendary — tall, flaky, and the perfect base for everything from fried chicken to pimento cheese. I also loved the Georgia Peach French Toast, which was indulgent without being heavy, topped with fresh fruit and just the right amount of sweetness.
On the savory side, the Pulled Pork Hash and Shrimp & Grits were standouts, hearty and deeply flavorful. Vegetarians are well looked after too, with comforting options like veggie scrambles and seasonal sides. The portions are generous — definitely come hungry!
The vibe is friendly and bustling, especially on weekends when brunch crowds line up out the door. The wait can be long, but it’s worth it for the food and the atmosphere. Plus, the staff keeps things moving and greets everyone with genuine warmth.
- Location: 197 Oak St, Athens, GA 30601
- Vibe: Southern, upbeat, friendly
- Cost: $10–$18 per person
- Hours: Daily 7AM–2:30PM
My highlights? I ordered the Georgia Peach French Toast and a side of their famous cheese grits. It was rich, warm, and somehow made the whole day feel like a hug.
Plan your brunch:
3. Donderos’ Kitchen
I stopped by Donderos’ Kitchen for brunch, tucked inside a charming converted house just minutes from Downtown Athens, and I was instantly won over by its warm, homey feel. With sunlit windows, mismatched tables, and colorful art on the walls, it felt more like brunching in a friend’s kitchen than at a café. The atmosphere was lively but never rushed, perfect for a leisurely weekend morning.
The menu leaned eclectic, with a mix of Southern staples, international flavors, and plenty of vegetarian-friendly choices. I tried their famous biscuits with eggs and cheese, a spicy tofu scramble, and a side of fried plantains that added a tropical twist. The coffee was rich and strong, and they also offered fresh smoothies and specialty teas. Prices were friendly — definitely more neighborhood café than upscale brunch.
- Location: 584 N Milledge Ave, Athens, GA 30601
- Vibe: Serene, artsy, homey
- Cost: $8–$14 per person
- Hours: Mon–Sat 8AM–2PM
My highlights? I tried the quiche with spinach and goat cheese and a fresh fruit cup, followed by a perfectly made latte. Everything felt nourishing and personal.
4. Em’s Kitchen at Hawthorne Drugs
When I visited Em’s Kitchen at Hawthorne Drugs for brunch in Athens, GA, and I was charmed by its nostalgia-meets-comfort kitchen vibe. It occupies part of the old soda fountain inside Hawthorne Drugs, and there’s something delightfully down-to-earth about the place — vintage touches, warm lighting, a counter that serves long-time locals, and a hum of familiarity. It doesn’t try to be fancy, just honest and homey in a way that completely won me over.
The menu feels rooted in Southern comfort with a sprinkle of deli classics. I had the breakfast plate with eggs and grits, paired with buttery biscuits, and later sampled a chicken salad sandwich and a bowl of Brunswick stew. Everything tasted home-made: meats sliced in house, soups made fresh, desserts like gooey bars that feel like coming home. The sweet tea impressed too. Prices are modest — definitely accessible, not luxury — and service is friendly, especially if you enjoy places where people know your name (or learn it quickly).
- Location: 975 Hawthorne Ave, Athens, GA 30606
- Vibe: Vintage, quirky, community-centered
- Cost: $7–$12 per person
- Hours: Mon–Sat 7AM–3PM
My highlights? I had the Southern-style breakfast bowl with sausage, grits, scrambled eggs, and cheddar—and it was exactly what I didn’t know I was craving.
5. Five and Ten
Stepping into Five & Ten to me felt like entering a beautiful Southern bungalow, stately yet welcoming, nestled in the Five Points neighborhood along Milledge Avenue.
Though it feels upscale, there’s an intimacy to the place: diners treating meals like something special—dates, celebrations, or simply taking time for a really good dinner. It’s formal enough to impress, casual enough that you don’t feel stiff.
- Location: 1073 S Milledge Ave, Athens, GA 30605
- Vibe: Upscale, relaxed, thoughtful
- Cost: $20–$35 per person
- Hours: Sunday Brunch 11AM–2PM
My highlights? The duck confit hash with eggs and hollandaise was rich and delicate all at once. I sipped a mimosa on the porch and let time stretch just a little longer.
6. J. Christopher’s
When I visited J. Christopher’s in Athens, the vibe was bright and welcoming — light-filled dining rooms, cheerful décor, and a steady hum of conversation that made it feel both lively and laid-back. It’s the kind of place where college students, families, and regulars all seem equally at home.
The menu leaned into hearty, comforting breakfast and brunch staples, from fluffy pancakes stacked high to savory skillets brimming with eggs, cheese, and potatoes. I tried their Blueberry Crunchcakes (pancakes topped with crunchy granola and fresh blueberries) alongside a creamy side of grits, and it struck that perfect balance of indulgence and homestyle goodness. Service was quick and friendly, making it an easy spot for a casual morning meet-up.
- Location: 1650 S Lumpkin St, Athens, GA 30606
- Vibe: Comfortable, classic, family-friendly
- Cost: $10–$16 per person
- Hours: Daily 7AM–2PM
My highlights? I had the Belgian waffle with fresh strawberries and a side of applewood bacon. Nothing fancy—just done really well.
7. Last Resort Grill
There’s something iconic about brunching at Last Resort. Maybe it’s the mural outside or the buzz that always seems to be there. I remember thinking, “This feels like the beating heart of brunch in Athens.” It was energetic, flavorful, and full of character.
The creativity in the dishes, the vibrant atmosphere, and the cool art-filled space were all fantastic.
- Location: 184 W Clayton St, Athens, GA 30601
- Vibe: Lively, artsy, beloved
- Cost: $15–$25 per person
- Hours: Weekend Brunch 10AM–3PM
My highlights? I ordered the Praline French Toast with caramelized bananas, and every bite felt like a little celebration.
Conclusion
Brunch in Athens isn’t just a meal—it’s part of the city’s rhythm. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back like it’s a second home, these spots offer more than just great food. They’re places where memories are made between sips of coffee, laughter over biscuits, and sunny patio conversations. No matter what you’re craving, Athens is ready to serve it up with warmth, flavor, and a little Georgia charm.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
