Best of 20 pancakes in Houston
In the vibrant city of Houston, pancakes hold a special place in the culinary scene. Pancakes in Houston come in various forms, from classic buttermilk stacks to innovative flavor combinations. Many local diners and brunch spots feature signature pancake dishes that delight both tourists and residents alike. These fluffy, delicious treats provide a taste of Houston's hospitality and love for comfort food.
- 1. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
- 2. The Breakfast Klub
- 3. Harry's
- 4. Black Walnut Kitchen & Bar
- 5. Lola
- 6. Black Walnut Cafe
- 7. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
- 8. First Watch
- 9. Le Peep
- 10. Empire Café
- 11. First Watch
- 12. The Buffalo Grille
- 13. Barnaby's Cafe
- 14. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
- 15. Barnaby's Cafe
- 16. IHOP
- 17. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
- 18. Baby Barnaby's
- 19. The Toasted Yolk Cafe
- 20. Avalon Diner
1. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
Inventive, locally sourced ingredients in a relaxed setting

Snooze, a chain of diners, has gained favor among diners, including ourselves, who are increasingly choosing it over other major breakfast chains. The popularity stems from Snooze's accommodating approach to dietary restrictions, as they offer gluten-free options for any pancake on their menu. The quality of their coffee has also been a contributing factor to their appeal.
However, there are some drawbacks to dining at Snooze. On weekends, specifically Saturday mornings, the wait for a table can be as long as 45 minutes to an hour, which some may find excessive. On such occasions, ordering takeout becomes a viable alternative, with a wait time of around 20 minutes. Despite the inconvenience of the long wait times, the food quality remains commendable, making it a suitable option for those who prefer takeout or are not deterred by the prospect of waiting for a table.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
2. The Breakfast Klub
Known for its traditional Southern breakfast and brunch options, popular spot for locals and visitors, community gathering place

The pancakes at The Breakfast Klub are a must-try dish. They are cooked to perfection, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal. The taste of the pancakes is exceptional, making them some of the best I have ever had.
If you are looking for a great breakfast spot, The Breakfast Klub is a top recommendation. Their pancakes are a standout dish, known for their excellent flavor and quality. I highly recommend giving them a try for a delicious and enjoyable breakfast experience.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
Relate link
3. Harry's
Family-owned diner with a cozy atmosphere and a menu full of comfort food classics.

The breakfast fare at this establishment is satisfactory, with some dishes standing out above others. The French toast and eggs Benedict, in particular, received positive feedback. However, the croissant with bacon was not as well-received, with the cheese appearing to be square and not melting properly. The chicken and waffles dish seemed to be a popular choice and may be a better option for those considering this restaurant.
As for the service and atmosphere, the waitstaff was friendly and attentive, contributing to an overall positive customer experience. However, the restaurant was quite busy and loud, making it difficult to hold conversations and enjoy the food. It is recommended to join the waitlist before arriving to ensure a table. Despite the mediocre food, the excellent service and friendly atmosphere make it a decent choice for a casual breakfast or brunch meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
4. Black Walnut Kitchen & Bar
Extensive brunch menu, cozy atmosphere, friendly service

The pancakes I had for brunch were absolutely delicious. They stood out as the highlight of my meal, and I would certainly consider returning to have them again. The fluffiness of the pancakes was exceptional, and they provided a great start to my day.
My experience with the pancakes left a positive impression. The quality of the pancakes was top-notch, and I appreciated their taste and texture. The pancakes were not only enjoyable to eat, but they also left me satisfied and content. Overall, the pancakes were a clear standout and exceeded my expectations.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
5. Lola
Cozy atmosphere, homemade ingredients, family-friendly

The pancakes we ordered were the highlight of our meal, although they may not have been as delicious without the added toppings of chocolate chips and strawberries. These additions enhanced the flavor and added much-needed moisture, as the pancakes themselves could have been too dry.
Overall, the pancakes were a standout option for breakfast. With the delicious toppings, they became an amazing dish that was thoroughly enjoyed. The combination of pancakes, chocolate chips, and strawberries was a excellent choice for starting the day.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Dinner
Relate link
6. Black Walnut Cafe
Offers all-day breakfast and lunch options

Black Walnut Cafe is known for its delicious and fluffy pancakes. A stack of these pancakes is an ideal way to start your day. The pancakes are consistently cooked to perfection, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
The pancakes' fluffiness and flavor make them a standout item on Black Walnut Cafe's menu. Diners should not miss the opportunity to savor these tasty pancakes. The care taken in cooking them results in a delectable and satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Late Night
7. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
Uses high-quality, locally sourced ingredients

The fluffy and delicious pineapple pancake was a standout dish. Its perfect texture and sweet pineapple flavor made it a memorable breakfast item. The pancake of the day was another excellent choice, showcasing a variety of flavors and always made fresh.
In addition to the pineapple pancake, the breakfast pot pie was a hit. This savory pie was packed with flavorful ingredients, making for a satisfying and filling start to the day. Both the pancake and the pot pie were excellent choices, and demonstrated the care and attention put into the preparation of the breakfast dishes.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
8. First Watch
Known for their daytime dining and friendly service

Pancakes at this establishment are described as delightful, typically presented as individual pieces and made with a variety of grains. The banana multigrain pancake is a popular recommendation among guests. Unfortunately, the quality of the food falls short of expectations. Multiple issues were reported, including poorly cooked food, small portions, and incorrect orders. Guests were assured that these problems would be addressed, but the situation did not improve.
In addition to the poor food quality, the staff's promise to rectify the situation was not kept. Specific details about the unfulfilled promise are not provided in the description. However, it is clear that the overall experience was disappointing. Despite the potential of the pancakes, the negative aspects of the visit left a bad taste in guests' mouths. It is unclear whether the issues were addressed satisfactorily in the end.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Gluten-Free
- Vegetarian Options
9. Le Peep
Friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and convenient location

Contrasting descriptions have been given for the pancakes in question. One account describes them as tending to be dry and lacking in flavor, which is not a favorable assessment. On the other hand, another person had a different experience and found the pancakes to be delicious and fluffy, making for a great start to their day.
Despite the differing opinions, both accounts agree that the pancakes were the subject of discussion. The discrepancy in their views suggests that there may have been variations in the preparation of the pancakes, leading to diverse taste and texture experiences. It is not uncommon for dishes to have different effects on different people due to factors such as individual taste preferences, portion sizes, and accompanying food or drinks.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
Relate link
10. Empire Café
Friendly staff, local art displays, and free parking

The fruit pancakes I had were exceptional. The serving size was plentiful, and the fruit was fresh and flavorful. The pancakes were the standout part of the meal, boasting a light and fluffy texture that was incredibly satisfying.
If you find yourself with a craving for pancakes, this is the place to go. The pancakes are a must-try, as they are some of the best I have ever had. The fluffy texture and delightful taste make for a truly enjoyable dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for fruit-topped pancakes or something more indulgent, this establishment has you covered.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
11. First Watch
Friendly staff, community-minded, offers gluten-free options

The cinnamon chip pancakes were a delicious breakfast option, with a perfectly balanced combination of sweet and spicy flavors. The spicy kick from the cinnamon chips added an exciting twist to the classic pancake, making it a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Gluten-Free
- Vegetarian Options
12. The Buffalo Grille
Family-owned diner serving American comfort food since 1986

The breakfast menu offers a variety of delicious options. The pancakes are especially noteworthy, as they are large in size and flavor. The biscuits are another standout, bursting with delicious taste. The bacon is a highlight as well, with its thick cut and generous amount of pepper.
The pancakes are huge and packed with flavor. The biscuits are a must-try, as they are delicious and well-made. The bacon is a standout, being thickly sliced and generously seasoned with pepper. It adds a nice kick to the overall meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
Relate link
13. Barnaby's Cafe
Features a spacious patio, locally sourced ingredients, and a relaxed atmosphere

Barnaby's Cafe is known for its delicious pancakes. They are consistently fluffy and perfectly cooked, making them a must-try for anyone visiting the cafe. For breakfast, the pancakes are a popular choice and do not disappoint. They are light and airy, with a generous serving of syrup on the side.
The pancakes at Barnaby's Cafe are a standout item on the menu. Whether you're a fan of sweet breakfast foods or just looking for something delicious, these pancakes are sure to satisfy. With their fluffy texture and generous syrup servings, they are the perfect way to start any day. If you find yourself at Barnaby's Cafe, be sure to give their pancakes a try.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
14. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
Local favorite with vegetarian and vegan options

The restaurant offers delicious food, but be prepared for a long wait. The pancakes are a highlight of the menu, with friendly staff serving generous portions. If you're looking to try something unique, the sweet potato pancakes are a standout choice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
Relate link
15. Barnaby's Cafe
Uses locally sourced, organic ingredients and offers vegan and gluten-free options.
Barnaby's Cafe is well-known for serving delicious pancakes that are cooked to perfection. These fluffy cakes have a fantastic taste that keeps customers coming back for more. During a recent breakfast, I had the opportunity to try their pancakes, and they did not disappoint.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Dinner
Relate link
16. IHOP
Open 24/7, Family-friendly atmosphere, Offers a senior menu

Today is Pancake Day! I recently visited a happy pancake service, but I found the service to be quite slow. Despite the wait, I must say that the food was excellent. I particularly enjoyed my Apple Caramel Pancakes – they were a real treat. The restaurant had plenty of seating and parking spaces available, and although there was no wait on Sunday morning, it did get very busy.
The pancakes themselves were fluffy and delicious. However, there were a few instances where they came out cold and without the requested condiments. Even with these occasional hiccups, I would still recommend the pancake service for their great-tasting food.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Breakfast
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
17. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
Local favorite with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere

The pancakes at this establishment are a popular choice, highly recommended by many. Two standout options are the Sinful and blueberry danish pancakes, although all varieties have received positive feedback. One particularly noteworthy pancake is the pineapple pancake, which boasts a delightfully fluffy texture and a delicious taste.
This establishment's pancakes are a favorite among customers, with the Sinful and blueberry danish pancakes being particularly recommended. But all of the pancakes have been well-received. The pineapple pancake, for instance, is a star attraction with its incredibly fluffy texture and scrumptious flavor.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Breakfast
18. Baby Barnaby's
Kid-friendly environment, excellent customer service, homemade syrups

The blueberry pancake stood out, not being overly sweet and featuring fresh blueberries that added a delightful tartness. The white cheddar and eggs were another memorable part of the meal, with the eggs being light on the palate and the ham complementing the dish without being too salty.
Both dishes were impressive, with the pancake having a perfect level of sweetness and a burst of tartness from the blueberries. The eggs and cheddar paired well, with the eggs having a light taste and the ham adding a savory element. The blueberry pancake was a highlight, offering a pleasant twist on the usual sweet version.
TOPICS
- Suburban
- Mid-Range
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
19. The Toasted Yolk Cafe
Friendly and attentive staff, Cozy and comfortable atmosphere, Perfect for brunch or breakfast

The buttermilk pancakes were a delicious treat, although their size proved to be a challenge to finish. The pancakes had a wonderful flavor and texture, making them a satisfying choice for breakfast or brunch.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
Relate link
20. Avalon Diner
Open 24/7, serving classic diner food since 1952

The Big Breakfast is a generous and appetizing meal, known for its high-quality bacon and exceptional pancakes. The service at this establishment is commendable, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience. Furthermore, the coffee served is top-notch, complementing the delicious food.
In particular, the pancakes are a standout item on the breakfast menu. They boast a delightful fluffy texture that makes them a true joy to consume. Overall, the combination of delicious food and excellent service makes The Big Breakfast a worthy choice for any meal of the day.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
Relate link