Ask five people where to get breakfast in Everett and you’ll probably get six different answers.
Unless, apparently, you ask Facebook.
When someone in the “Everett Washington Community” group recently posted a simple question—“whats the best place to have breakfast in everett? I’m super picky”—hundreds of locals weighed in.
A few restaurants earned plenty of love, but one clear winner emerged: The Totem wasn’t just recommended, it was practically declared an Everett institution.
Comments ranged from “Totem hands down” and “The only answer is the Totem” to the more succinct, “Enough said.”
After combing through the responses, three breakfast spots rose to the top.
🥇 The Totem: Everett’s Unofficial Breakfast Champion
If Everett had an official breakfast headquarters, it would probably be The Totem.
The longtime diner on Rucker Avenue opened as the Totem Drive-In in 1947 before becoming a sit-down restaurant in 1953. It takes its name from a historic 60-foot story pole carved by Tulalip cultural leader William Shelton that once stood nearby.
Today, the restaurant is synonymous with giant portions and classic comfort food.
Breakfast alone features more than 40 combination plates, oversized biscuits, scratch-made pancakes and cinnamon rolls so large they practically need their own ZIP code.
Current owners Steve and Alicia Jermyn have also added Southern barbecue to the menu, giving the diner a little extra personality beyond its breakfast roots.
According to Yelp reviewers, customer favorites include the chicken fried steak, eggs Benedict and French toast.
The community’s verdict? If you’re visiting Everett and only have time for one breakfast spot, chances are someone will point you toward The Totem.
Just don’t be surprised if you have to wait for a table on a Sunday morning.
View their hours and menu online.
🥈 Kate’s Greek & American Deli: The Neighborhood Favorite
If The Totem is Everett’s breakfast king, Kate’s may be its most beloved hidden gem.
Located in downtown Everett, the woman-owned diner has earned a devoted following thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, homemade food and unique blend of Greek and American comfort dishes.
Inside, the restaurant feels less like a chain diner and more like someone’s eclectic dining room. Mismatched wooden chairs, colorful tablecloths and artwork from local artists give the space an unmistakably neighborhood feel.
Locals also appreciate the restaurant’s role in the community, frequently providing early work opportunities to neighborhood youth.
The menu is equally charming.
Popular dishes include the gyro scramble, veggie Benedict and thick-cut French toast. Tables are also stocked with house-made freezer jams for spreading onto toast and biscuits.
And unlike many breakfast spots, Kate’s serves breakfast all day.
Several Facebook commenters called it the “best overall” breakfast destination in Everett.
View their hours and menu online.
🥉 Patty’s Eggnest: The Safe Bet for Picky Eaters
For someone who describes themselves as “super picky,” Patty’s Eggnest may actually be the ideal answer.
The family-owned Washington diner chain was repeatedly recommended because of one thing: options.
A lot of options.
Breakfast is served all day and the menu is packed with eggs Benedict variations, scrambles, pancakes, French toast and traditional diner favorites.
Customer favorites include the Elvis French Toast, Country Benedict and the restaurant’s famous Swedish pancakes served with lingonberries.
The Everett location on Evergreen Way operates inside the historic Chuckwagon Inn and even features a full-service bar and karaoke nights later in the week.
It’s also one of the few places where one diner can order a light breakfast while another goes all-in on chicken fried steak and nobody leaves disappointed.
View their hours and menu online.
Honorable Mentions
Several other restaurants also received enthusiastic shout-outs.
Vintage Cafe
Known for quality food and a popular Bloody Mary menu.
Sisters Restaurant
A cozy favorite with a loyal following. Commenters specifically praised the quiche and described leaving feeling “nourished.”
Mukilteo Speedway Cafe
Technically not in Everett, but several locals said the short drive is worth it.
So, Where Should a Picky Eater Go?
The answer depends on what “picky” means.
Want giant portions and a classic diner experience? Head to The Totem.
Looking for homemade food and a cozy neighborhood atmosphere? Try Kate’s.
Need a huge menu with something for everyone? Patty’s Eggnest may be your best bet.
But based on the hundreds of comments from Everett residents, one thing is clear: When it comes to breakfast in Everett, The Totem still wears the crown.
