Junkyard Certified

Local cult favorite done right: big griddlecakes, thick-cut bacon and the Chop & Chick. Expect a weekend line.

Family-run East Valley burrito shop since 1995. Fast, cheap, and the breakfast burritos are the size of a paddle.

Reliable daytime café: fresh-squeezed juices, avocado toast, and the Million Dollar Bacon.

Southern-style breakfast: chicken & waffles, green chile skillets, and an 18-inch, three-pound pancake if you're feeling brave.

Mesa institution since 1984. Scratch-made breakfast and a Bloody Mary worth the trip on its own.

Newer Gilbert brunch spot with generous portions and friendly service. Bring an appetite or a sharing partner.

No-frills, budget-friendly taco shop on Warner that opens early. A quick grab-and-go before or after play.

Family-run since 2004 in a cozy craftsman home in downtown Gilbert. Fluffy pancakes, great patio.

Local taco shop chain with locations all over the East Valley. Breakfast burritos any time of day.

In a converted farm garage at Agritopia. Scrambles, sandwiches, and Cupcake Wars-winning cupcakes.

Small strip-mall taqueria in Chandler that punches way above its size.

East Mesa breakfast café. The namesake French toast is the order; the classics back it up.

No-frills counter-serve Mexican in east Mesa, from breakfast burritos to carne asada.

Barbecue joint on Gilbert Road mixing smoked meats with Mexican food. Get the brisket birria or chile verde burrito, and grab a cookie.