A great day in Franklin begins with a delicious breakfast — and whether you’re looking for traditional southern favorites like biscuits with ham and gravy or lighter, more modern fare, this town’s got it all. Here are a few of our favorite spots in and around Franklin to grab breakfast or brunch.
Biscuit Love
Consider Biscuit Love, located inside downtown Franklin’s historic Corn House, to be a must-do on any visit to the city. You’ll definitely want an order of bonuts topped with lemon mascarpone for the table, and their hot chicken biscuit (called the Princess) is simply the best. More often than not, there’s a line out the door, but not to worry — It moves fast!
Merridee’s Breadbasket
I can’t overstate the popularity of Merridee’s Breadbasket. A Franklin staple since 1981, you’ll find classic breakfast dishes and sandwiches at this bustling downtown restaurant, as well as delicious, made-from-scratch pastries.
The Honeysuckle
For a brunch to remember, try The Honeysuckle in Cool Springs, where you can choose from a sophisticated, ‘new southern’ menu that includes everything from eggs Benedict topped with Chesapeake blue crab to duck confit and Angus breakfast burgers.
Frothy Monkey
Revered for its excellent coffee drinks, this downtown coffeehouse also serves an excellent breakfast until 5 p.m. each day. At Frothy Monkey, you’ll find delicious breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast, pastries, omelets, and more, as well fantastic craft lattes, mochas, and other hot and cold beverages.
Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant
For an all-out super southern experience, you can’t go wrong with breakfast at Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant in downtown Franklin. Come hungry and choose from down-home favorites like the skillet cinnamon roll, Bubba’s eggs Benedict, fried chicken, and applejack pancakes, or smoked brisket hash. You won’t be disappointed!
Herban Market
A relatively new addition to the Franklin scene, health-focused Herban Market has quickly become a local (and personal) favorite. Choose from delicious dishes like Wagyu steak and eggs, banana pancakes, avocado toast, and more — and don’t forget to order a CBD-infused latte. It will leave you both caffeinated and calm which is, as it turns out, a surprisingly delightful combination.
55 South
In Franklin, weekends mean brunch at 55 South. This longtime downtown staple serves up all kinds of mid-morning favorites, from chicken and waffles to char-grilled oysters to the beloved garlic and crab parmesan fries (my personal obsession).
The Puffy Muffin
One of my all-time favorite breakfast places can be found in nearby Brentwood. The Puffy Muffin is one of Middle Tennessee’s most beloved purveyors of biscuits, pastries, cakes, and cookies, and I’ve never had a meal here that wasn’t fantastic. The breakfast menu includes omelets, breakfast sandwiches, french toast, pancakes, and more. You’ll also want to order their famous fruit tea — It’s delicious!
Franklin Mercantile Deli
Franklin Mercantile Deli is a sweetly Southern, fast-casual eatery in downtown Franklin with a breakfast menu your grandma would approve of. It includes all the A.M. classics, like breakfast sandwiches, cheese grits, pancakes, french toast, and omelets.
The Coffee House at Second & Bridge
Whether you’re looking for a sit-down breakfast or something you can grab and go, The Coffee House at Second & Bridge in downtown Franklin has got you covered. Have a classic breakfast with eggs, bacon, and pancakes, or opt for one of The Coffee House’s delicious crepes. And if you’re on the run, don’t overlook the bakery items at the counter. The muffins and chess bar squares are truly some of the best you’ll find in town.
Do you have a favorite breakfast spot in Franklin? Which one of the above is your favorite?
