Matt’s Big Breakfast is the tiny red-brick diner at 1st Street and McKinley in downtown Phoenix that turned breakfast into a daily line-up. Matt and Erin Pool opened the 800-square-foot spot in late October 2004, and its simple formula of farm-fresh eggs, thick-cut bacon and homemade preserves still draws locals and visitors before the coffee is even poured (Matt’s Big Breakfast).
Inside, the room is snug and sunny, with counter seats and a handful of tables. Regulars order The Hog & Chick: two eggs, thick-cut bacon or country sausage, potatoes, and toast with house preserves. Off-the-bone ham costs $2 extra (Menu). Other favorites include the fluffy griddlecakes, the salami scramble and crisp hand-cut potatoes. Late-morning diners can switch to lunch with burgers and sandwiches made from the same sourcing-focused approach.
Visitor Highlights & Practical Info
The restaurant serves daily from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Yelp). It doesn’t take reservations, and weekend waits often stretch past 45 minutes, especially during spring training and the winter high season. Arrive at opening or come midweek after 12:30 p.m. for shorter lines. Valley Metro light rail stops a few blocks away at Roosevelt/Central. After your meal, walk to the galleries and murals of Roosevelt Row. If downtown is packed, try the second location at 3118 E Camelback Rd (Yelp).
When planning your Phoenix travel guide or comparing verified restaurants and american restaurant in Phoenix, pair this stop with standout local spots including The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia, The Westin Phoenix Downtown, and Sottise (0.3 km away).
