Unearth The Voyage
Reno knows how to do breakfast right, and if you love pancakes, you’re in for a treat. From family-run diners to 24-hour casino cafés, the Biggest Little City is packed with spots flipping fluffy, golden stacks that tower over your plate. Whether you crave buttermilk classics, banana-walnut beauties, or seasonal pumpkin flapjacks, these twelve breakfast havens deliver the kind of pancake perfection that keeps locals coming back for more.
1. Peg’s Glorified Ham n Eggs (multiple Reno locations)
Since opening its doors in 1999, this local favorite has become a breakfast legend across Reno. With four locations scattered throughout the city, you’re never too far from a hearty morning meal. Peg’s menu covers all the classics, and pancakes—including their French-style pancakes—are a crowd favorite mentioned in countless reviews.
The portions are generous, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the service keeps people returning week after week. Families, solo diners, and groups of friends all find something to love here. If you’re hunting for a reliable stack that won’t disappoint, Peg’s delivers every single time with comfort and consistency you can count on.
2. Squeeze In (Las Brisas)
Most folks know Squeeze In for their legendary omelets, but their Jack Johnson Banana Walnut Pancakes steal the show for pancake lovers. Toasted walnuts are mixed right into the batter, giving every bite a satisfying crunch. On top, bananas get caramelized in a sweet honey-butter glaze that makes your taste buds sing.
This isn’t your average pancake—it’s a flavor-packed adventure that balances nutty, sweet, and buttery notes perfectly. The restaurant’s bright, cheerful vibe matches the food’s bold personality. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, ordering these pancakes is a decision you won’t regret, and the stack is big enough to share if you’re feeling generous.
3. Two Chicks (Midtown & South Reno)
Run by two women with a passion for creative brunch, this spot keeps pancakes exciting with rotating specials and fun twists. Coffee-crumb-cake pancakes have appeared on the menu, bringing dessert vibes to your morning plate. Pancake dippers—perfect for kids or anyone who loves a playful breakfast—also make regular appearances and get rave reviews.
The vibe here is warm, welcoming, and a little bit quirky, just like the food. Both Midtown and South Reno locations serve up the same quality and care. If you’re tired of the same old breakfast routine, Two Chicks will shake things up with inventive flavors and generous portions that leave you happily full.
4. Walden’s Coffeehouse (Mayberry, Wells, Arlington)
Walden’s takes pride in making their Buttermilk Pancakes from scratch every single day. Locals swear these are some of the best pancakes in Reno, and one bite will tell you why. They’re fluffy, thick, and have that perfect balance of sweetness and tang that only real buttermilk can deliver.
With three neighborhood locations, Walden’s feels like your favorite corner café—comfortable, friendly, and never rushed. The pancakes come in hearty stacks that fill your plate and your belly. Pair them with a strong cup of coffee, and you’ve got the ultimate Reno breakfast experience that feels both homey and satisfying in all the right ways.
5. The Cup Café (South Virginia—two locations)
When fall rolls around, The Cup Café makes a big deal about bringing back their famous Pumpkin Pancakes—and for good reason. These seasonal beauties are spiced just right and taste like autumn on a plate. But even when pumpkin isn’t in season, their “Off the Griddle” menu keeps pancake lovers happy year-round with classic and creative options.
The café has a laid-back, neighborhood feel that makes it easy to relax and enjoy your meal. With two South Virginia locations, you’ve got options for where to grab your stack. Whether you’re craving something seasonal or a timeless buttermilk favorite, The Cup delivers comfort food that feels like a warm hug.
6. Black Bear Diner (S. Virginia St.)
Sure, Black Bear Diner is a chain, but the Reno location doesn’t skimp on portion size or flavor. Their Sweet Cream Pancakes are rich, fluffy, and downright indulgent. The “Hungry Bear” breakfast platters feature pancakes alongside eggs, bacon, and all the fixings—perfect if you’re starving and want a little bit of everything on your plate.
The restaurant’s rustic, cabin-style décor adds to the hearty, homestyle vibe. Everything here is designed to fill you up and send you out the door satisfied. If you’re the kind of person who loves a massive breakfast that doesn’t quit, Black Bear’s giant stacks and generous servings will hit the spot every single time.
7. Gold ‘N Silver Inn (4th St.)
Open around the clock, Gold ‘N Silver Inn is a Reno institution that’s been serving breakfast at all hours for decades. Their pancake menu includes a fun throwback called “2 Pancake Sandwiches”—a diner classic that layers pancakes with eggs and meat in between. It’s quirky, filling, and totally delicious.
The vibe here is pure old-school diner: vinyl booths, friendly servers, and a menu that doesn’t try to be fancy. Whether it’s 3 a.m. or 3 p.m., you can count on a hot stack of pancakes whenever hunger strikes. For anyone who loves retro breakfast spots with character and soul, this place is a must-visit gem on Reno’s breakfast map.
8. Stone House Café (S. Arlington Ave.)
Tucked into a cozy bungalow, Stone House Café feels like you’re eating breakfast at a friend’s house—if that friend happens to be an amazing cook. Their breakfast menu covers all the bases, including a solid lineup of pancakes and waffles. The atmosphere is quiet, comfortable, and perfect for a relaxed morning meal.
This isn’t a flashy spot, and that’s exactly the point. Stone House keeps things simple, focusing on good food and a welcoming environment. If you’re looking for a sit-down breakfast where you can take your time and enjoy a big, classic stack without the noise and rush of a busy diner, this café delivers exactly that experience.
9. Purple Parrot Café at Atlantis Casino Resort
Located inside the Atlantis Casino Resort, Purple Parrot Café is open 24 hours a day, making it the perfect spot for late-night pancake cravings or an early pre-pool breakfast. Their menu features buttermilk pancakes and pancakes-and-eggs combos that are simple, satisfying, and always available.
The café has that classic casino coffee shop vibe—quick service, comfortable booths, and a menu that covers all your breakfast favorites. Whether you’re a guest at the resort or just passing through, you can grab a hot stack any time of day or night. It’s convenient, reliable, and exactly what you need when you want breakfast on your own schedule without leaving the casino floor.
10. Café Central at Silver Legacy
Right in the heart of downtown Reno, Café Central at Silver Legacy keeps things straightforward with an all-day breakfast menu that includes a full Pancakes & Waffles section. Their “Golden Brown Pancake” and “Pancakes & Eggs” combos are listed right on the menu, making it easy to order exactly what you’re craving.
The café is casual, convenient, and perfect for fueling up before exploring downtown or hitting the casino floor. Service is quick, portions are generous, and the pancakes are cooked just right—golden, fluffy, and ready to soak up syrup. If you’re downtown and need a classic griddle breakfast without any fuss, Café Central is a solid, dependable choice every time.
11. The Original Mel’s Diner (Downtown & Boomtown)
Step into The Original Mel’s Diner, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time to the golden age of American diners. Chrome accents, vinyl booths, and a jukebox set the scene for a breakfast that’s pure nostalgia. Their hotcakes and combos like the Wolfman Jack—which includes two pancakes—are comfort food at its finest.
With locations downtown and at Boomtown, Mel’s brings that classic diner charm to every meal. The pancakes are fluffy, the service is friendly, and the whole experience feels like home. If you grew up loving retro diners or just want a fun, throwback breakfast, Mel’s is the place to go for stacks that taste just like the good old days.
12. Jack’s Coffee Shop & Diner (Wells Ave.)
Jack’s Coffee Shop & Diner is the kind of place where everyone knows your name—or at least your usual order. This old-school counter-service diner serves up pancakes straight from their posted menu, and the bottomless diner vibes make every visit feel authentic and unpretentious. It’s a true neighborhood gem.
The pancakes here are simple, reliable, and exactly what you’d expect from a classic breakfast joint. No frills, no fuss—just good food served by people who care. If you’re looking for a quintessential Reno breakfast experience that feels real and honest, Jack’s is the spot. Grab a seat at the counter, order a stack, and enjoy breakfast the way it was meant to be.
