Rise and Shine!

Three of the Valley's best breakfast spots

Written by Rachel Luman

It’s the most important meal of the day, and when done right with all the fixings, it just might be the only meal in your day. Wake up happy with these three Valley breakfast locales – all cooking up plate-sized portions of your favorite morning pick-me-ups accompanied by hot coffee and friendly smiles.

Crepes, waffles, oven-baked omelets and, of course, pancakes abound at the Original Pancake House, located just west of Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall on Camelback Road. Breakfast is a popular hour here, and it is not unusual to see a small crowd hovering outside the modern-style diner’s entrance – but this is just a testament to the sweet secret inside. House-made sourdough batters are the base for signature plates like the colossal cinnamon-glazed apple pancake (more than enough for you and a friend), thin and chewy “49-ers,” lighter-than-air Dutch babies, and fruit-stuffed French crepes.

Open Monday through Sunday, 7 a.m to 2 p.m.

The Original Pancake House
6840 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale
480.946.4902, www.originalpancakehouse.com

Chicken and waffles? While it may sound like the oddest combination since Twinkies and fry batter, skeptics willing to put fork to mouth become devout regulars after one bite. Recognized as one of the most popular breakfast and lunch spots in the state, Lo-Lo’s has discovered the secret to great food – keep it simple and pile it on. Aside from perfectly fried family-recipe chicken and “from the griddle to your plate” waffles, Lo-Lo’s offers soul-food staples such as cat fish, grits, collard greens and red velvet cake. Come early and be patient – food this good is worth the wait.

Doors open at 10 a.m., and the restaurant is closed on Mondays.

Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffles
10 West Yuma Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602.340.1304, www.loloschickenandwaffles.com

A sign outside reads, “Honk if U Love Chicken-Fried Steak,” and those who’ve experienced the signature dish at Ranch House Grille are laying on their horns. Breaded and fried to golden perfection, the steak is topped with either peppery cream gravy or their famous pork chile verde sauce (available in jar-form for purchase). Huevos Rancheros, Biscuits and Gravy, and griddle specialties are available all day, along with lunch items such as juicy burgers and homemade Guatemalan tamales.

Open Monday through Sunday, 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Ranch House Grille
5618 E Thomas Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85018
480.946.1290