Columbia diners blend university traditions with Missouri farm-fresh ingredients.
These establishments have perfected their recipes through decades of serving students, professors, and locals seeking authentic CoMo flavors.
These five diners offer distinctive combinations of classic breakfast fare and local specialties that celebrate the city’s college town character.
Tiger Table
Operating since 1952, this diner specializes in game day portions.
Their “Homecoming Special” includes house-made biscuits with sausage gravy, three eggs, and crispy hashbrowns seasoned with local herbs.
The kitchen produces fresh cinnamon rolls using a recipe from the original owner’s grandmother.
Their signature “Quarterback Plate” features thick-cut bacon from local farms and cornmeal pancakes.
The coffee blend combines beans from three Columbia roasters.
Ninth Street
Morning Established in 1961, this spot focuses on student favorites.
Their “Journalism School Special” combines house-smoked ham, eggs any style, and sourdough toast made daily.
The kitchen prepares fresh pecan rolls throughout service.
Their famous “Final Exam Skillet” includes three meats, local peppers, and Missouri cheese.
The seasonal pancakes feature Show-Me State produce.
Shakespeare’s Sunrise
Founded in 1957, this establishment emphasizes literary-themed portions.
Their “Writer’s Block Breakfast” features house-made corned beef hash, poached eggs, and artisan bread.
The kitchen produces fresh scones using local butter.
Their signature “Poets Corner” combines sweet potato hash, local eggs, and house-made hollandaise.
The French toast uses bread from downtown bakeries.
Broadway Diner
Operating since 1954, this spot serves classic portions.
Their “Downtown Special” includes house-cured bacon, eggs, and grits with red-eye gravy.
The kitchen makes fresh cathead biscuits hourly.
Their “Columns Breakfast” features local sausage and potato hash with seasonal vegetables. The house-made preserves include Missouri blackberry and peach varieties.
Flat Branch Morning
Established in 1963, this diner specializes in fresh market ingredients.
Their “Farmer’s Market Plate” features seasonal vegetables, local eggs, and house-made hot sauce.
The kitchen produces traditional Missouri apple butter daily.
Their “Research Park Omelet” combines three local cheeses and fresh herbs from nearby farms.
The signature breakfast burrito includes ingredients from Columbia’s farmers market.
Their house-made sausage uses pork from local farms.
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