Brunch doesn’t have to be a luxury reserved for special occasions or bottomless mimosas. Plenty of cafes and diners offer quality meals packed with flavor—and at prices that won’t derail your budget. Whether you’re craving pancakes, avocado toast, or savory scrambles, it’s possible to enjoy brunch while saving money through deals, rewards programs, and even cashback gift cards. Here’s how to find the best brunch spots that keep both your appetite and wallet satisfied.
- First Watch – Seasonal Specials and Healthy Plates
Known for fresh, made-to-order dishes, First Watch offers a wide range of brunch favorites under $12. Their Avocado Toast, Elevated Egg Sandwich, and rotating seasonal specials deliver solid portions and quality ingredients. - IHOP – Classic Breakfasts for Less
IHOP is a brunch staple for a reason. With value combos, all-day breakfast, and frequent promotions, it’s easy to get full for under $10. Their MyHop loyalty program gives you a free stack of pancakes at sign-up and again every year on your birthday. - Panera Bread – Breakfast Sandwiches and You Pick Two
Panera’s breakfast options range from hearty egg sandwiches to lighter soufflés. When you sign up for MyPanera, you’ll receive exclusive rewards and birthday freebies. You can also buy a Panera Bread gift card online with cashback from Fluz to stretch your brunch budget even further. - Another Broken Egg Cafe – Elevated Comfort Food
With a menu filled with southern-inspired comfort dishes like Shrimp ‘n Grits and Cinnamon Roll French Toast, Another Broken Egg feels upscale but still delivers value. - The Original Pancake House – Classic Brunch Without the Cost
Known for its generous portions and signature Dutch Baby Pancake, this national chain offers filling meals under $12. While they don’t currently have a loyalty program, prices are consistent and portion sizes easily justify the cost. - Denny’s – All-Day Value Menu
Denny’s offers a Super Slam deal that includes several brunch-worthy options under $8. Signing up for Denny’s Rewards gets you 20% off your first order and birthday freebies. - Waffle House – No-Frills, Always Reliable
Waffle House is an American brunch icon with one of the most affordable menus in the game. A waffle and eggs combo can cost as little as $7 depending on your location. While there’s no loyalty app, its consistency and late hours make it a favorite among brunch traditionalists. - Peet’s Coffee – Pastries and Breakfast Sandwiches
If you’re looking for a quicker, café-style brunch, Peet’s offers pastries, breakfast wraps, and coffee pairings under $10. - Starbucks – Customizable Brunch on the Go
While Starbucks isn’t a full brunch restaurant, their menu includes Protein Boxes, Breakfast Sandwiches, and Bakery Items that can be paired with coffee for a brunch-like meal. Use the Starbucks Rewards program to earn stars toward free food. You can also earn cashback at Starbucks with a gift card from Fluz when you reload your account. - Local Cafes and Bakeries – Hidden Gems Worth Exploring
Many local cafes offer affordable brunch specials or weekday discounts. Use Yelp or Google Maps to find highly-rated spots in your area. Some even offer punch-card rewards or loyalty apps with free coffee or pastries after a few visits.
Tip: Stack the Savings
Before heading to your favorite brunch place, check if you can buy a gift card through Fluz for instant cashback. Combine this with restaurant-specific loyalty apps, early bird deals, or combo menus, and your brunch indulgence can turn into a budget-friendly habit.
