Looking for the best breakfast in Salem? White's Restaurant has been a go-to spot since 1936. This place has been serving up some of the heartiest breakfasts you’ll find anywhere, and the history behind it only adds to the charm. Biscuits and gravy, scrambles and omelets, and a 'big mess' you won't find anywhere else have set White's apart as one of the best homestyle breakfast spots in the capital.
Hearty Breakfasts At White's Restaurant In Salem, Oregon
The food at White's Restaurant in Salem is made fresh every day, cooked to order, and served with a side of old-school hospitality. White's is known for their generous portions and the kind of meals that make you feel like you’ve just visited a beloved relative.
If there’s one thing you have to try when you go in, it’s Don’s Big Mess—a delicious medley of bacon, sausage, ham, onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes, and hash browns, all grilled together and smothered in their famous sausage gravy. This dish is a pre-skillet, pre-scramble classic, and it’s got a loyal following for a reason.
But the homemade goodness doesn’t stop there. Their chicken fried steak, with your choice of southern fried beef or chicken breast topped with that same legendary sausage gravy, is the kind of meal that’ll make you forget about lunch. Seriously, pair it with eggs, hash browns, and toast, and you’re in breakfast heaven.
White's has a history as rich as its gravy. Starting back in the 1930s, Charles and Myrtle White opened the original White’s Lunch after moving their family to South Commercial Street. The Whites’ dedication to quality and service was so strong that it became the backbone of the diner’s legacy. And that legacy continues today with Scott Casterline, who brings his love for Salem and passion for good food to every plate served.
Oh, and if you find yourself there on a Thursday, don’t miss Maynard’s Meatloaf. It’s not your average meatloaf—this recipe has its own story, involving a near-death experience, a rescue, and a whole lot of flavor.
Whether you’re in the mood for biscuits and gravy, corned beef hash, or a classic ham and egg sandwich, White’s Restaurant has something that will hit the spot.
With breakfast served until 2 PM, and huge juicy burgers and sandwiches on the menu for lunch, it’s no wonder this place is a staple for anyone in Salem who loves a hearty meal!
White's Restaurant Salem, Oregon Information
- Location: 1138 Commercial St SE in Salem, Oregon.
- Hours: Monday - Saturday 6 AM - 2 PM, Sunday 8 AM - 2 PM
- Get more information and see the full menu at the White's Restaurant website.
