Northern 'Burbs

The Egg at Davidson
The extensive menu features seven versions of eggs Benedict — including the Tennessee Bene ($7.50), topped with homemade sausage gravy in lieu of fancy Hollandaise — but regulars swear by the Junkyard ($7.25), which features hash browns scattered, smothered, and covered plus two eggs all mixed together. It's served with toast, so you can scoop up every last bit without resorting to licking the plate. 231 Griffith St., Davidson, 704-987-1885

Concord Family Restaurant

Punchy's Diner
Don't look for goat cheese omelets or turkey bacon at Punchy's — you'll only find classic breakfast food to go with the classic cars parked in its spacious dining area. Friendly and attentive servers call you "honey" and sprinkle their banter with "hey, y'all" and "bless yer heart" while they top off your coffee and make you feel downright entitled to that extra pat of butter on your grits.
590 Concord Parkway North, Concord 704-786-2222

Toast Cafe
Want to slow time? Try sipping a mimosa ($6) while you enjoy the small-town feel at one of Toast's two locations. Get there before 9 a.m. to avoid the crowds and order the thickly cut cinnamon raisin French toast ($7.50), served with your choice of bacon or sausage. 101 N. Main St., 704-655-2778; 100 Huntersville-Concord Rd. 704-875-7840.

Red Rocks
You'll find all the usual suspects here: rich eggs Benedict, thick banana walnut pancakes, steak and eggs, and a variety of fluffy omelets. But there are a few surprises for those bored with usual brunch fare, namely the Breakfast Burger ($10.95), featuring a patty topped with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar served on a soft, warm croissant. And there's the hefty breakfast burrito ($11.95), whose contents change weekly (ours had tenderloin chili, scrambled eggs, and goat cheese).
8712 Lindholm Dr., 704-892-9999; 4223 Providence Rd., 704-364-0402

Concord Family Restaurant
Locals call it simply "the diner," and you'll find them at the bar with a cup of black coffee and the paper. Families, couples, and visitors in town for events at nearby Charlotte Motor Speedway sit in shiny red vinyl booths and order off the all-day breakfast menu, which offers the standards and a pleasant surprise available á la carte, sliced fresh tomatoes. Don't miss the mouth-watering, big-as-your-fist homemade biscuits — they'll have even your grandmother asking for the recipe. 921 Concord Pkwy. North, Concord 704-786-5614