Top 5 breakfast joints near the Notch

Written by Notch staff member Stephanie Robinson, based on her personal experience living and breakfast dining in Lincoln, NH.

After having spent most of my childhood summers in Lincoln, I’ve eaten at just about every restaurant in the area. Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day (after all, it’s first!) so I decided make a list of the top five breakfast joints near the Notch Hostel. All these places have earned the Notch employee stamp of approval, so definitely try one out next time you’re up here!

1. Sunny Day Diner

The Sunny Day Diner is my favorite breakfast place in town. It’s right down Route 3, conveniently located close to Franconia Notch, Loon Mountain, and of course, the Notch Hostel. It is quick, authentic, and delicious! My personal favorite dish is the egg and salmon with Hollandaise sauce. I’m also a huge fan of eggs benedict, which they cook to perfection. They’re only open on weekends during winter, so get there early to beat the crowds. If you haven’t done brunch at Sunny Day yet, be sure to go next time you’re in the White Mountains!

Address: Rt 3 at west end of Connector Road, Lincoln, NH, 03251
Yelp Page: yelp.com/biz/sunny-day-diner-lincoln
Phone number: (603) 745-4833
Winter hours: Friday, Saturday and Sunday: 7am-2pm *Open every day during MA vacation week
Summer hours: Monday through Sunday: 7am-2pm

2. Flapjacks

Flapjacks, located on Main Street in Lincoln, is THE place to go for pancakes. On weekends the line is often out the door, so it’s good to go early, or call ahead! There is a lot of natural light throughout the restaurant, a friendly staff and delicious hot food. They have a wide selection of flapjacks, French toast, and breakfast platters, as well as mimosas and other breakfast cocktails. Portion sizes are large; you get a lot of bang for your buck. A beautiful railroad display winds through the restaurant,  replicating scenes from the historic White Mountains railroads.

Address: 149 Main St, Lincoln, NH 03251
Website: flapjacks.biz
Phone Number: (603) 745-8226
Monday  7am-12pm
Tuesday & Wednesday  Closed
Thursday & Friday  7am-12pm
Saturday  & Sunday  7am-1pm
Closed for: the last week of April and first week of May.

3. Brittany’s Café

Brittany’s Café is located in the Kancamagus Motor Lodge right off the Kancamagus in Lincoln, across the street from Loon Mountain. They serve breakfast, brunch, and dinner. Brittany’s serves traditional breakfast food in a small, homey dining area. They have outdoor and indoor seating and a bar area. The breakfast wait is often shorter than at Flapjacks, the food is always delicious and the staff are welcoming. Great place to go with a group of friends if you want a fun, relaxing breakfast. Tip: Park in the back of the Lodge, and go in the door near the pool.

Address: Route 112, Main St, Lincoln, NH
Website: kancamaguslodge.com/dining
Phone Number: (603) 745-4899
Monday–Sunday morning: 7am-11:30am
Monday-Sunday evening: 5pm-8pm

4. White Mountain Bagel Co.

White Mountain Bagel is a laid-back bagel joint located right on Main Street in Lincoln. When you order at the counter, you can choose from a lengthy menu of fresh bagels, coffee, and lunch sandwiches. This New England-esque cafe is great for an informal breakfast or even just a cup of joe and the paper. The prices are reasonable, so you can get a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Free wifi. Tip: If you’ve got a hungry crew waiting for you back at the Notch Hostel, be sure to grab a bag of their day-old bagels — the bags are huge and cost only a couple of bucks. The bagels still taste delicious!

Address: 25 Main Street, Lincoln NH
Website: whitemountainbagel.com
Phone Number: 603-745-8576
Hours: open daily 6:30am-3pm

5. Half Baked & Fully Brewed

Half Baked & Fully Brewed is a great café with premade meals, smoothies, and plenty of gluten-free options available. They serve breakfast and lunch sandwiches, yummy treats, and more for a reasonable price. It’s a great place to sit inside (or outside!) and chill out, or to grab something to go. Not only do they use fresh ingredients, but the staff is very personable too. Great place to check out while in town!

Address: 187 Main Street, Lincoln NH
Phone Number: 603-745-8811
Hours: open 8am-4pm except Thursdays

What are your favorite breakfast joints in the White Mountains? Comment below!