Morning Magic: 8 Unmissable Breakfast Spots in New Smyrna Beach, FL

Set against the backdrop of Florida’s beautiful Atlantic coast, New Smyrna Beach is a gem full of diverse experiences. From its sunlit beaches to its historic treasures, this charming coastal town offers a perfect getaway for those seeking a memorable adventure in the Sunshine State.

With so many things to do, you need to be energized for a day of exploration in the city. There’s nothing like a hearty and substantial breakfast to give you the fuel you need to stay active throughout the day.

New Smyrna Beach is home to several breakfast spots where you’ll find perfectly cooked dishes, pleasant atmospheres, and friendly service. There are options for every taste! To help you discover local favorites and must-try eateries, we’ve put together this blog featuring the top 8 breakfast spots in New Smyrna Beach.

Curious about other local tips and hidden gems? At our New Smyrna Beach destination blog, we offer expert insights on everything from the best restaurants and nightlife to fishing tips and hidden gems. Our goal is to make your stay in New Smyrna Beach unforgettable!

Looking for the perfect vacation home? Visit our booking page for a curated selection of the best vacation rentals in New Smyrna Beach. We’re here to ensure you have everything you need for an amazing trip.

1. Beacon Restaurant

For four decades, Beacon Restaurant has provided a classic diner experience with a wide variety of breakfast options to fuel your day of fun in New Smyrna Beach. 

It’s tough to pick favorites, but their egg dishes definitely stand out. The Eastern and House Special omelets are absolute must-tries. However, the real highlight of their menu is the Breakfast Favorites section, which includes Beacon’s famous pancakes, French toast, biscuits and gravy, and bagels, among others.

This family-owned gem is also known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, featuring a retro interior that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

2. Cafe Verde

For those who prefer a lighter and healthier morning meal, Cafe Verde is the best choice. Their extensive menu offers a wide variety of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, catering to all tastes and dietary restrictions.

Their tacos are great options for breakfast. For something lighter, salads like the Mediterranean, Quinoa Cucumber, Tuna Poke, and Vegan Poke salads are excellent choices. 

Adding to the dining experience, Cafe Verde features beautiful interior decor with warm colors and plants. You can also enjoy your breakfast on their patio, which is set under a charming gazebo and surrounded by trees.

3. C’s Waffles

With two locations in New Smyrna Beach—one on Canal Street and another on South Atlantic Avenue, just a few steps from the beach—C’s Waffles offers the classic and irresistible American breakfast we all love.

Number one on their menu? Waffles, of course. From fresh strawberries and chocolate chips to apple cinnamon and caramel pecan, you can’t go wrong with any flavor you choose. Other highlights include their French Toast, egg plates, omelets, wraps, and sandwiches—The Crockpot Philly,  Lil’ Piggy Melt, and  C’s Deluxe Bacon Sandwich are unbeatable! 

The décor is unassuming and simple, but the welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff will definitely put you in the right mood to start your day.

4. Bagel Barn Cafe

Bagel Barn Cafe is a local favorite for a quick and delicious breakfast in New Smyrna. One (or two) of their freshly baked bagels paired with a cup of coffee is all you need to kickstart your day. 

The menu is extensive, offering everything from breakfast sandwiches and juicy burgers to omelets and fresh salads. We highly recommend trying their bagels—there’s a wide variety of flavors to choose from, but the one you can’t miss is the bagel with their special cream cheese.

The staff is always kind and ready to offer suggestions. The no-frills atmosphere makes it perfect for a casual breakfast. Chances are, you’ll find yourself coming back more than once while visiting New Smyrna Beach.

5. Ruthy’s Kozy Kitchen

Known for its hearty, home-cooked breakfasts, Ruthy’s Kozy Kitchen is another local favorite that serves classic American breakfast staples with generous portions at reasonable prices.

Must-try dishes include Ruthy’s Gravy Omelet, the Sausage & Cheese Sandwich, the Little Piggy Burger, and the Hearty Breakfast. They also have a Specials section on their menu with superb options like the Avocado Benedict, Mediterranean Toast, and other delicacies that will help you start your day on the right foot.

It’s not just the consistently good food, reasonable prices, and great service that attract customers to Ruthy’s—their decor, resembling an old American diner, adds a charming touch for anyone visiting New Smyrna.

6. Mom’s Home Cooking

Mom’s Home Cooking is a cozy, family-owned diner known for its comforting homestyle breakfast dishes. This hidden gem in New Smyrna Beach is a must-visit if you’re looking for cooked-to-perfection meals and a genuine local atmosphere. 

The menu features classic favorites like fluffy pancakes, loaded omelets, biscuits and gravy, and breakfast sandwiches, all served in generous portions. However, the standout on their menu is the waffles with fresh fruit and delicious whipped cream.

The laid-back vibe and satisfying breakfasts that feel just like a meal from your own kitchen will definitely put Mom’s Home Cooking on your list of must-return places in New Smyrna.

7. A.M. Cafe

This charming breakfast spot is known for its fresh, made-to-order dishes and friendly atmosphere.

Popular picks include their delicious Biscuit & Gravy, French Toast, crepes, pancakes, and omelets—all made with three eggs and your choice of cheese. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, perhaps for brunch, their burgers are mouthwatering. Our favorites are the Volcano Burger and the Pub Burger, the latter served with irresistible melted American cheese and the house’s pub sauce.

The warm and inviting ambiance blends the comfort of a neighborhood diner with a touch of coastal charm. The decor is simple and unpretentious, featuring bright, airy spaces with natural light filtering through large windows, creating a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere to start the day.

8. Wake Up Cafe

A family-owned spot offering a blend of American and Argentine breakfast dishes, Wake Up Cafe is a must-include spot on your New Smyrna Beach bucket list.

The cafe features a range of breakfast favorites, including hearty omelets, flavorful breakfast burritos, and fresh pastries. For a unique meal, try something with a Latin flair, like J.P.’s Benedict, an open-face English muffin topped with grilled Argentine chorizo, two poached eggs, and homemade chipotle sauce. Another great choice is the Latin Snack, a delicious Spanish tortilla with Argentine chorizo and a savory mix of tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, squash, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and feta cheese.

The cozy and welcoming environment, combined with attentive service, makes it an excellent place to enjoy a perfect breakfast before exploring all that New Smyrna Beach has to offer.

Bonus: What about a cozy breakfast at your short-term rental? 

While we highly recommend trying the local gems mentioned above, another great option is to prepare a delicious breakfast at your short-term rental. With numerous supermarkets and grocery stores around town, it’s easy to pick up whatever you need for a personalized morning meal. 

There’s nothing like taking advantage of your rental’s well-equipped kitchen and gathering the family to cook breakfast together. Then, you can decide where to enjoy your first meal of the day: in the kitchen, in the dining room, or maybe by the pool? Be creative and have a wonderful start to your day in this Florida darling!

Want to find more local breakfast spots in New Smyrna Beach? Here are some tips: 

• • Ask Locals for Recommendations: Engage with residents or local business owners for their favorite breakfast spots. They often know the hidden gems that aren’t widely advertised. Another great way to get recommendations is by asking on Reddit where to have breakfast like a local in New Smyrna Beach. The local users are always happy to share their favorite spots with you.

• • Check Online Reviews: Use review platforms like Yelp, Google Reviews, or TripAdvisor to see what other diners are saying about local breakfast places.

• • Explore Social Media: Look for local food bloggers or Instagram accounts dedicated to dining in the area. They often feature and review breakfast spots.

• • Walk Around Popular Areas: Explore bustling neighborhoods or main streets in the morning to find cafes and diners that may not be widely advertised.
    
    

Where to Stay in New Smyrna Beach, FL

Want another tip from us? When you visit New Smyrna Beach, choose vacation rentals over hotels to enjoy a place with local vibes and all the privacy you want.

At Great Ocean Condos & Homes, we offer plenty of beach vacation properties, cozy condos, and charming homes in this area. This is another way to immerse yourself in the local culture — shop at local markets, stroll through nearby neighborhoods, and dine at local restaurants.

You’ll truly feel like a local.

For a selection of the very best vacation homes in New Smyrna Beach, visit our booking page. For all the above, we’ve got you covered.

Not to brag, but we are very proud to have earned the official title of one of the “Best Vacation Rental Professionals in the World” from Business Insider.