A Local’s Go-To Breakfast Spots in Pittsburgh
Last Updated on April 8th, 2025
Pittsburgh knows how to do breakfast right. Whether it’s a classic diner plate, fancy French toast, or the perfect breakfast sandwich from a tent setup on the sidewalk, these are the places I go when I actually want to enjoy my morning. Some are quick, some are slow, but all of them hit in their own Pittsburgh way. I’m not saying these spots will change your life—but they might ruin breakfast at home forever. Consider yourself warned.
Thyme Machine - Bloomfield
Thyme Machine is posted up on Liberty Ave in Bloomfield, right across from West Penn Hospital. I’ve actually never stepped foot inside the restaurant they own—but I’ve made plenty of quiet, half-asleep pilgrimages to their outdoor tent in the morning. And trust me, that’s all you need to get hooked.
Their breakfast sandwiches are outrageous. Like, spent-all-winter-dreaming-about-them good. The kind of good that makes you question why you ever settled for a frozen one. Pair it with one of their coffees, and suddenly your morning has serotonin, structure, and maybe even a little hope. If you catch them set up outside, just do yourself a favor and stop. You’ll get it
The Nook - Lawrenceville
This place doesn’t rush a thing—and that’s kind of the beauty of it. The coffee takes time, especially if they’re busy, but it’s the kind of time you don’t mind waiting through. They put real care into what they serve, and it shows in every cup and every plate. The food is fully obsession-worthy. I’ve never left The Nook disappointed, but the diced potatoes are what really do it for me. Crispy, seasoned, perfect—I could order a full plate of just those and be completely content. Sometimes I go simple with eggs, toast, and potatoes. Other days I switch it up with something like the French toast and immediately feel like I’ve made the best decision all week. It’s cozy, consistent, and always hits exactly how I want it to.
Geppetto Cafe - Bloomfield
Gepetto Café is posted up on Liberty Ave in Bloomfield, right near West Penn Hospital, and it’s one of those spots that hits no matter what time you show up. If it’s breakfast I’m after, I’m going full “build your own” waffle mode—because waffles are undefeated. Always will be. But if it’s more of a brunch vibe, then the pesto chicken panini doesn’t mess around. It’s the one I order when I’m not even trying to overthink it. Just solid, comforting, and exactly what I want in the moment. Waffles if I'm leaning sweet, that panini if I’m not. Simple as that.