While fast food has largely replaced the classic greasy spoon breakfast, you can still discover why they were so popular and why they continue to hang on today. Put down that sad-looking whole wheat bagel with low-fat cream cheese and get a classic breakfast that will cure any hangover and leave you full until sunset.
This is not your typical greasy spoon breakfast joint. Getting a table can be a challenge during busy mornings, and there is typically a line out the door, but the wait is very much worth it. While the menu includes many basic breakfast items, it adds a special twist to make them like nothing you have ever had before. If you've ever wondered what a waffle peanut butter and banana sandwich covered in maple syrup tastes like, you've found your new home.
You will be forgiven if you think you have been transported back in time when you walk into this traditional diner on the Quinpool strip. It's a popular spot for anyone who wants a classic, dependable breakfast, so you may need to wait for a booth, but the lumberjack special is completely worth it. The prices are some of the lowest in the city, but make sure to bring cash as this friendly place doesn't accept credit or debit.
If you find yourself on the other side of the bridge, you can satisfy your bacon and egg cravings at the ever-popular Nena's Breakfast House. While you enjoy a friendly and familiar diner atmosphere, you can dive into your cheese pancakes, or perhaps the breakfast poutine if the mood strikes. As one of the more budget-friendly locations on this list, you don't need to break the bank to fill up on some early morning calories.
As one of the few diners in the downtown core, the Bluenose II Restaurant is almost as famous as its namesake. With big booths and a friendly atmosphere, it is the quintessential diner and has been around for decades. The all-day breakfast menu includes all the classics, but it also has some menu options with distinct local flair.
If you need a quick and solid breakfast while in the city's West End, the Westcliffe Grocery & Lunch is an excellent choice. While the exterior of this restaurant is easy to miss, it is well worth the search. The food is very inexpensive, so you can load up on some of the many all-day breakfast items. And the servers call you "Hon" – what else could you want from a greasy spoon diner?
Another greasy spoon diner heats up the competition in the city's West End with an inexpensive breakfast menu that can fill up anyone for under $12. It's easy to miss this small place as it's tucked around a corner with limited signs of its existence, but once you find it, you're guaranteed to find it again and again. This spot has a small but loyal customer base, so arrive early to ensure seating and a chance to enjoy the 3+3+3 breakfast that covers all your greasy spoon food groups.
Worth the dizzy spells from going around the Armdale Rotary, you can get your morning fuel-up at the Armview Restaurant & Lounge. With loads of seating, you won't struggle to find a spot, and you can enjoy your breakfast platter in no time flat. While this place has the old-school diner feel, you can still enjoy an excellent view of the Northwest Arm.
With an all-day breakfast, you can enjoy home-made home fries at this bistro at any time during business hours. While the atmosphere is more akin to a café than a diner, the food satisfies anyone craving a solid breakfast. The Hungry Hippo Breakfast is a proven crowd-pleaser and could probably feed a crowd.