Waffle House Favorite Breakfast Menu with Price (2026)

You walk into the yellow glow of a Waffle House Breakfast Menu with Prices sign at 2 a.m., or maybe during a rushed morning stop on a road trip. You already know the smell—grilled onions, sizzling bacon, fresh coffee. But then the menu gets handed to you, and the questions start. What is actually in the All-Star Special™? How many calories are in that loaded hashbrown bowl? Is there a way to eat here that fits your health goals without sacrificing the experience? More importantly, with recent economic shifts, you might be wondering: Has the price doubled? Why is there an egg surcharge? And is this meal still the value it used to be?

This is the dilemma of the modern Waffle House diner. You want the comfort food you crave, but you also need transparency—pricing that won’t bust your budget, calorie counts that won’t derail your diet, and customization options that actually make sense. You’ve probably searched for “Waffle House breakfast menu near me” only to find outdated PDFs or blurry photos. You might have compared competitors like Denny’s or IHOP, wondering who offers the better deal. You need a definitive, 2026-updated guide that answers everything: prices, calories, secret ordering hacks, regional variations, and even how to eat healthy under those iconic yellow lights.

In this comprehensive guide, we break down the entire Waffle House breakfast menu for 2026. We analyze competitor pricing, reveal the most popular items, explain every customization from “smothered” to “country,” and provide nutritional insights. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, this is your ultimate roadmap to mastering the Waffle House breakfast experience.

Why the Waffle House Breakfast Menu Stands Alone in 2026

The Waffle House breakfast menu isn’t just a list of food items—it’s a cultural institution. Unlike fast-food breakfast sandwiches that are pre-made and microwaved, Waffle House cooks every order on an open grill right in front of you. This made-to-order philosophy, combined with 24/7 availability at most locations, creates a loyal following that competitors simply cannot replicate.

What makes it unique in 2026?

• Consistency Across 1,900+ Locations: From Florida to Pennsylvania, a Waffle House breakfast tastes remarkably the same. This consistency is a key reason why travelers choose Waffle House over local diners.
• Real-Time Pricing Adjustments: Unlike chains with fixed national menus, Waffle House locations have some pricing flexibility. This means prices in this guide are averages—expect slight variations, especially in major cities like Orlando, Austin, or Kissimmee.
• The Egg Surcharge Reality: In 2026, egg prices continue to fluctuate. Many Waffle House locations have implemented temporary egg surcharges (often $0.50 to $1.00 per entrée). This is a critical factor when comparing the Waffle House breakfast menu price to competitors like Denny’s or local diners.
• Unmatched Customization Language: Only at Waffle House can you order hashbrowns “smothered, covered, chunked, and peppered” and have the cook instantly know what you mean. This unique vocabulary is part of the brand’s charm and a major differentiator.

When you compare the Waffle House breakfast menu to McDonald’s breakfast or Burger King’s morning offerings, the difference is clear: Waffle House offers a sit-down, cooked-to-order experience at a price point that often beats casual dining chains. For budget-conscious travelers and night-shift workers, this value proposition remains unmatched.

Waffle House Breakfast Menu with Price Overview Categories and First-Timer Tips

Navigating the Waffle House breakfast menu for the first time can be overwhelming. Unlike a simple board with combo meals, Waffle House presents a modular menu where almost everything can be mixed and matched. Here’s a quick overview of the main categories you’ll encounter:

Menu Category	Description	Best For
Breakfast Favorites	Classic combos like the All-Star Special and Two Egg Breakfast	First-timers, those wanting a complete meal
Signature Hashbrown Bowls	Loaded bowls with eggs, cheese, meats, and hashbrowns	Hungry diners, protein-seekers
Texas Melts & Sandwiches	Grilled sandwiches on thick Texas toast	Quick meals, handheld options
Waffles	Classic, pecan, chocolate chip, and seasonal varieties	Sweet breakfast cravings
Hashbrowns	The legendary side dish with endless toppings	Customization lovers, side orders
Biscuits & Sides	Fluffy biscuits, meats, grits, and more	Building your own meal
Beverages	Coffee, juices, sodas, and Alice’s Iced Tea	Complete the experience

Pro Tip for First-Timers: If you’re overwhelmed, order the All-Star Special™. It includes eggs, meat, toast or biscuit, hashbrowns or grits, and a waffle. It’s the ultimate sampler platter and the best way to understand why Waffle House is famous.

Full Waffle House Breakfast Menu Detailed Breakdown with Prices and Calories (2026 Update)

Below is the most up-to-date pricing and calorie information for the Waffle House breakfast menu. Prices are averages based on national data and may vary by location. Calorie counts are estimates and can change based on preparation and customization.

Waffle House Favorite Breakfast Menu with Price

These are the cornerstone meals of the Waffle House breakfast menu. Each is a complete plate designed to satisfy.

Item	Price (Avg)	Calories (Est.)	Description
ALL-STAR SPECIAL™	$13.35	1050 Cal	The ultimate breakfast: 2 eggs, choice of meat, toast or biscuit, hashbrowns or grits, and a waffle.
Two Egg Breakfast	$7.75	670 Cal	Simple and classic: 2 eggs cooked your way, served with toast and hashbrowns or grits.
Two Egg Breakfast with Side Meat	$12.60	640 Cal	Adds bacon, sausage, or ham to the Two Egg Breakfast.
Cheese N’ Eggs with Raisin Toast	$8.75	670 Cal	Scrambled eggs with melted cheese, served with raisin toast and hashbrowns. A comforting, slightly sweet option.
Breakfast Hashbrown Bowl	$11.85	920 Cal	A generous bowl of hashbrowns topped with two eggs, cheese, and your choice of meat.
Breakfast Grits Bowl	$11.85	730 Cal	A southern twist: creamy grits bowl topped with eggs, cheese, and meat.
Texas Breakfast Melt with Hashbrowns	$11.85	920 Cal	A Texas-sized melt sandwich served with a side of hashbrowns.
Steak & Eggs	$12.60	690 Cal	A classic protein powerhouse: grilled steak with two eggs and hashbrowns.
Delmonico Steak & Eggs	$15.15	690 Cal	A premium cut steak served with eggs. Perfect for a celebratory breakfast.
Chicken Biscuit	$6.25	520 Cal	A crispy chicken filet served on a warm, buttered biscuit. A handheld favorite.

Signature Hashbrown Bowls

Hashbrown bowls have exploded in popularity and are now a central part of the Waffle House breakfast menu. They combine the crispy, shredded hashbrowns with proteins and toppings into a hearty, single-dish meal.

Item	Price (Avg)	Calories (Est.)	Key Ingredients
Cheesesteak Melt Hashbrown Bowl	$10.30	625 Cal	Sliced steak, grilled onions, melted cheese, and hashbrowns.
Chicken Melt Hashbrown Bowl	$10.30	635 Cal	Grilled chicken, cheese, and hashbrowns.
Sausage, Egg & Cheese Hashbrown Bowl	$10.30	920 Cal	Sausage, scrambled eggs, cheese, and hashbrowns.
Bacon, Egg & Cheese Hashbrown Bowl	$10.30	800 Cal	Crispy bacon, eggs, cheese, and hashbrowns.
Ham, Egg & Cheese Hashbrown Bowl	$10.30	780 Cal	Diced ham, eggs, cheese, and hashbrowns.
Build Your Own Hashbrown Bowl	$10.30	480+ Cal	Start with a base of hashbrowns and add any combination of eggs, cheese, and meats.

Competitor Analysis: Compared to similar bowls at chains like Denny’s (which can exceed $14), the Waffle House breakfast menu price for these bowls is highly competitive. The “Build Your Own” option is a significant advantage, allowing for complete control over ingredients and calories.

Texas Melts

Served on thick, buttery Texas toast, these melts are a Waffle House specialty. They are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.

Item	Price (Avg)	Calories (Est.)
Texas Cheesesteak Melt	$6.50	645 Cal
Texas Patty Melt	$6.50	735 Cal
Texas Chicken Melt	$6.50	655 Cal
Texas Sausage Melt	$6.50	775 Cal

Breakfast Sandwiches & Melts

For a quicker, handheld breakfast, these sandwiches and melts are the go-to choices.

Item	Price (Avg)
Texas Sausage, Egg & Cheese Melt	$6.25
Sausage, Egg & Cheese Sandwich	$5.95
Bacon, Egg & Cheese Sandwich	$5.95
Texas Bacon, Egg & Cheese Melt	$6.25

The Legendary Waffle Favorite Breakfast Menu More Than Just a Name

Despite the name, Waffle House offers a variety of waffles that go far beyond the classic. The waffle iron is a constant presence, and the batter is a closely guarded secret.

Item	Price (Avg)	Calories (Est.)
Classic Waffle	$5.20	410 Cal
Pecan Waffle	$5.45	560 Cal
Chocolate Chip Waffle	$5.45	520 Cal
Peanut Butter Chip Waffle	$5.45	560 Cal
Blueberry Waffle	$5.70	560 Cal
Waffle with a Side of Meat	$9.30	1050 Cal

What’s Missing? Many competitors like IHOP offer “stuffed” or “candied” waffles. Waffle House keeps it simple, focusing on quality toppings rather than gimmicks. The Peanut Butter Chip Waffle is a dark horse favorite and a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Waffle House Hashbrowns Menu in Price in 2026

No guide to the Waffle House breakfast menu is complete without a deep dive into hashbrowns. This is where Waffle House truly shines and where its legendary “scattered, smothered & covered” lingo comes into play.

Base Order: Plain Hashbrowns – Price: $3.15

But plain is just the beginning. You can customize your hashbrowns with any combination of the following toppings. This is often called “ordering hashbrowns all the way.”

Waffle House Term	Topping	What It Is
Smothered	Onions	Grilled onions, soft and sweet.
Covered	Cheese	Melted American cheese.
Chunked	Ham	Diced, grilled ham pieces.
Diced	Tomatoes	Fresh, diced tomatoes.
Peppered	Jalapeños	Spicy pickled jalapeños.
Capped	Mushrooms	Grilled mushrooms.
Topped	Chili	Waffle House’s meat chili.
Country	Sausage Gravy	Creamy country sausage gravy.

Pro Tip: For the ultimate experience, order your hashbrowns “scattered, smothered, covered, chunked, and peppered.” The cook will know exactly what you mean, and you’ll get a plate of hashbrowns loaded with onions, cheese, ham, and jalapeños. This is a core part of the Waffle House breakfast menu culture.

Biscuits, Proteins, and Sides Building Your Perfect Plate

Beyond the combos, the Waffle House breakfast menu offers a la carte options to build your ideal meal.

Waffle Biscuits Menu

Waffle House biscuits are known for being soft, fluffy, and buttered to perfection.

Item	Price (Avg)
Sausage, Egg & Cheese Biscuit	$3.15
Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit	$3.15
Sausage Biscuit	$3.15
Bacon Biscuit	$3.15
Grilled Biscuit & Gravy	$3.15
2 City Ham Biscuits	$6.25
2 Country Ham Biscuits	$8.25

Proteins and Sides (A La Carte)

These are perfect for adding extra protein or rounding out a lighter meal.

Item	Price (Avg)	Calories (Est.)
Bacon (3-4 strips)	$4.20	—
Sausage (2 patties or links)	$3.95	—
City Ham	$3.95	—
Country Ham	$5.95	210 Cal
Pork Chop	$5.95	290 Cal
Grilled Chicken	$5.95	140 Cal
T-Bone Steak	$10.05	300 Cal
Bowl of Grits	$3.15	90 Cal

Waffle House Favorite Breakfast Menu Beverages: Quenching Your Thirst

The beverage menu at Waffle House is simple but covers all the bases, from classic diner coffee to regional favorites.

Beverage	Price (Avg)	Calories (Est.)
Large Coffee	$2.65	10 Cal
Chocolate Milk	$2.65	440 Cal
Milk	$2.65	250 Cal
Coca-Cola (fountain)	$2.65	160 Cal
Diet Coke	$2.65	0 Cal
Sprite	$2.65	160 Cal
Hi-C Fruit Punch	$2.65	170 Cal
Barq’s Root Beer	$2.65	180 Cal
Simply Orange (bottle)	$2.90	160 Cal
Simply Lemonade	$2.90	160 Cal
ALICE’S ICED TEA™ (Sweet)	$2.65	70 Cal

ALICE’S ICED TEA™ is a Waffle House proprietary brand. It’s a sweet tea that has a cult following. If you’re in the South, ordering sweet tea is almost mandatory. For health-conscious diners, unsweetened tea is also available.

Waffle House The All-Star Special™ – Waffle House’s Flagship Meal

The All-Star Special™ is more than just a menu item; it’s a statement. It represents the full breadth of what Waffle House offers in one meal.

• Price: $13.35
• Calories: ~1050 (varies by meat and preparation choices)
• Includes:
  • 2 eggs (cooked your way: scrambled, over easy, sunny-side up, etc.)
  • Choice of meat (bacon, sausage, ham)
  • Toast (white, wheat, or raisin) or a biscuit
  • Hashbrowns or grits
  • 1 waffle (classic, with upgrades available for an additional cost)

Why it’s the best seller: It offers variety. You get the savory (eggs, meat, hashbrowns), the creamy (grits or the biscuit with butter), and the sweet (waffle with syrup) all in one go. It’s the ultimate “can’t decide” meal.

Value Analysis: At $13.35, the All-Star Special™ is often cheaper than ordering all its components separately. Compared to a similar “Big Breakfast” at McDonald’s (which has shrunk in size and risen in price), the All-Star Special™ offers significantly more food and higher quality, made-to-order preparation.

Customization Options Speak the Language

One of the biggest strengths of the Waffle House breakfast menu is its flexibility. Understanding the lingo can transform your meal.

Waffle House Customization Guide

Category	Options	Description / Notes
Egg Styles	Scrambled	Well-mixed, fluffy eggs.
	Over Easy	Fried on both sides, runny yolk.
	Over Medium	Fried on both sides, slightly set yolk.
	Over Hard	Fried on both sides, fully cooked yolk.
	Sunny-Side Up	Fried on one side only, runny yolk.
	Poached	Cooked in water (available at select locations).
Waffle Add-Ons (for an extra charge)	Pecans
	Chocolate Chips
	Peanut Butter Chips
	Blueberries
	Whipped Cream
Meat Choices (for combos)	Bacon	Choose crispy or chewy.
	Sausage	Choose patties or links.
	City Ham	A leaner, sliced ham.
	Country Ham	A saltier, cured ham.
	Grilled Chicken
	T-Bone Steak	Premium upcharge applies.
Hashbrown Doneness	Light	Slightly browned, softer.
	Regular	Standard golden brown.
	Well	Darker, crispier.
	Scattered Well	Spread thin on the grill for maximum crispiness.
	Double Well	Extra crispy, almost burnt (for true enthusiasts).

Dietary Considerations Vegetarian, Gluten, and Healthy Options at Waffle House

While known for comfort food, the Waffle House breakfast menu has options for various dietary needs. However, it’s crucial to be aware of cross-contact, especially with gluten.

Vegetarian-Friendly Options

• Hashbrowns: The base is potatoes and oil. Ensure they are cooked on a clean part of the grill or ask for “no meat contact.”
• Grits: A classic southern staple. They are typically made with water or milk and are vegetarian.
• Eggs and Cheese: A simple plate of eggs and cheese is a solid vegetarian option.
• Toast and Raisin Toast: Served with butter or jelly.
• Waffles: The batter contains dairy and eggs, but no meat.
• Tomatoes and Vegetable Toppings: You can add diced tomatoes, grilled onions, or mushrooms to your eggs or hashbrowns.

Gluten Notes (Important!)

• High Gluten Risk: Waffles, biscuits, Texas toast, and sandwich buns all contain gluten.
• Lower-Gluten Choices (Not Gluten-Free):
  • Eggs
  • Plain hashbrowns (if cooked on a dedicated surface, but cross-contact is likely on the shared grill)
  • Grits (if made with water and no cross-contact)
  • Meats (bacon, sausage – check for additives, but generally gluten-free)
• Warning: The grill is shared. Hashbrowns are cooked right next to Texas toast and waffles. Cross-contact is almost certain. If you have celiac disease, Waffle House is not a safe option.

Healthy Breakfast Options and Weight Watchers Choices

Yes, you can eat healthier at Waffle House. The key is customization and portion control.

1. The Protein Plate: Order 2 eggs cooked in a little butter (ask for “light butter”) with a side of grilled chicken. Add a side of diced tomatoes for freshness.
2. Light Hashbrowns: Ask for your hashbrowns “dry” or “lightly oiled” and skip the cheese and gravy.
3. Egg White Omelet (Off-Menu Hack): While not on the menu, you can ask for scrambled egg whites. They may accommodate if they’re not too busy.
4. Skip the Toast/Biscuit: Save 200-300 calories by skipping the bread.
5. Choose Grits over Hashbrowns: A bowl of grits (90 cal) is significantly lower in calories than a standard order of hashbrowns (~240 cal before toppings).

Low-Calorie Order Idea: Two scrambled eggs, one side of bacon, and a bowl of grits. This clocks in around 400-450 calories and is high in protein.

Waffle House Breakfast for Kids, Seniors, and Special Diets

Kid-Friendly Breakfast Options

Waffle House doesn’t have a printed “kids menu” at every location, but they are extremely accommodating. Popular choices for kids include:

• Half a waffle
• One scrambled egg
• A small side of hashbrowns
• One strip of bacon or one sausage patty
• A small milk or juice

Money-Saving Tip: You can often order a “side” of eggs and a “side” of bacon and split a waffle between two kids, which is cheaper than ordering full adult meals.

Waffle House Senior Breakfast Menu

There is no official national senior menu with discounts. However, seniors frequently order from the regular menu and make smart choices:

• Two Egg Breakfast: A perfect portion for a smaller appetite.
• Light Hashbrowns: Easier to digest.
• Raisin Toast: A classic, slightly sweet choice.
• Small Waffle: Often enough for one person.
• Coffee and Grits: A simple, comforting, and affordable meal.

Strategy: Seniors should look for early-bird specials that some franchise locations offer, though these are not guaranteed nationally.

Waffle House Breakfast Menu vs. Denny’s, IHOP, and Local Diners

To truly understand the value of the Waffle House breakfast menu, it’s essential to compare it to its main competitors.

Factor	Waffle House	Denny’s	IHOP	Local Diners
Price Point (Avg Entrée)	$7 – $13	$9 – $16	$10 – $18	Highly variable, often $8 – $20
Customization	Extreme (unique lingo)	High (standard modifiers)	High (standard modifiers)	Moderate to High
Speed	Very Fast (open grill)	Moderate	Moderate	Varies
Hours	24/7 (most)	Varies (many 24/7)	Varies	Usually limited
Signature Item	Hashbrowns, All-Star	Grand Slam	Pancakes	Varies
Atmosphere	Iconic diner, open kitchen	Standard diner	Family restaurant	Unique local vibe

Analysis:

• Waffle House wins on price and speed. For a late-night meal or a quick, cheap breakfast, Waffle House is unbeatable.
• Denny’s and IHOP offer more variety in terms of pancake flavors and lunch/dinner items, but often at a higher price.
• Local diners provide uniqueness but lack the consistency and speed of Waffle House.

For the budget-conscious traveler or the night-shift worker, the Waffle House breakfast menu price-to-value ratio is the best in its class.

Regional Breakfast Variations and Near Me Searches

One of the most common searches is “Waffle House breakfast menu near me.” Here’s what you need to know about regional variations:

• Pricing Fluctuations: A breakfast in Orlando, FL, might cost $0.50 to $1.00 more than the same meal in a rural town in Alabama. High-traffic tourist areas and cities like Austin, TX, or Kissimmee, FL, often have slightly inflated prices.
• Seasonal Specials: Some regions test limited-time items. You might find a regional BBQ hashbrown bowl in the South or a specific pie flavor not available elsewhere.
• Local Promotions: Individual franchise owners can run their own promotions, like “Free coffee with entrée” or early-bird discounts. It’s always worth asking your server.
• Google Maps Accuracy: When searching “Waffle House near me,” Google Maps is your best friend. It will show you the closest locations, hours (most are 24/7, but always double-check), and sometimes even recent photos of the menu with local prices.

Pennsylvania vs. Southern States: While the core menu is the same, you might notice subtle differences. For example, sweet tea is the default in the South, but you’ll have to ask for it in Pennsylvania. Grits consumption is naturally higher in the South, while Northern locations might sell more hashbrowns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most popular breakfast item at Waffle House?

The All-Star Special™ is the undisputed king. It offers the greatest variety and is often recommended to first-timers. Among hashbrown bowls, the Cheesesteak Melt Hashbrown Bowl is a top seller, combining two Waffle House favorites.

Does Waffle House serve breakfast all day?

Yes. This is one of the biggest selling points. Waffle House serves its full breakfast menu 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can order a waffle at 3 p.m. or a Texas melt at 4 a.m.

Are Waffle House breakfast bowls customizable?

Absolutely. The “Build Your Own Hashbrown Bowl” is a testament to this. You can customize any bowl by adding or removing ingredients, asking for extra cheese, or even requesting a different meat. The kitchen is designed for this level of customization.

Does Waffle House offer healthy or high-protein breakfast options?

Yes, with caveats.

• High-Protein: The Steak & Eggs, the Chicken Biscuit (without the biscuit), or any egg bowl with extra meat are excellent high-protein choices.
• Healthy: “Healthy” is relative. You can create a lower-calorie, lower-fat meal by ordering eggs, grilled chicken, diced tomatoes, and a side of fruit (where available). However, Waffle House is not a health food destination. The focus is on indulgence and comfort.

Why is there an egg surcharge on my bill?

In periods of high egg prices (like 2026), Waffle House, like many restaurants, adds a temporary surcharge to egg-containing items to offset costs. This is usually noted on a small sign at the register or on your menu. It’s a variable cost, so your total may be slightly higher than the printed menu price.

Does Waffle House have a loyalty program or app?

Waffle House offers email promotions and exclusive deals through their website. While there isn’t a national app with mobile ordering or a points-based loyalty program yet, you can sign up on their official website to receive updates on seasonal specials and promotions.

Conclusion

The Waffle House breakfast menu continues to be one of the best comfort-food breakfast options in America. Affordable pricing, full customization, and all-day availability make it a favorite for every type of diner. Whether you want a classic waffle, a hearty hashbrown bowl, a Texas melt, or a simple two-egg breakfast, Waffle House offers something for everyone.

In 2026, as diners become more price-sensitive and value-conscious, the transparency of the Waffle House model—an open kitchen, a simple menu, and unparalleled customization—stands out. While competitors like Denny’s and IHOP offer broader menus, they can’t match the speed, the unique culture, or the sheer consistency of the yellow-sign institution.

So the next time you pull into a Waffle House parking lot, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to order like a pro. You’ll know that “scattered, smothered & covered” isn’t just a phrase—it’s a way of life. You’ll know that the All-Star Special™ is the best value on the menu, and that a simple cheese omelet with tomatoes can be a surprisingly healthy choice. Most importantly, you’ll understand that a meal at Waffle House is more than just food; it’s an experience—a slice of Americana served up on a plate, 24 hours a day.