Franklin, TN knows a thing or two about leisurely mornings and unforgettable brunches. On my last stroll down Main Street, coffee in hand and sunlight just peeking past the brick storefronts, it struck me how this town crafts a brunch experience that starts with the aroma of fresh biscuits and ends with the simple ease of Southern hospitality. There’s a hush before noon here, broken only by the laughter inside cozy bakeries and the low hum from diners comparing notes over pancakes. Choosing where to eat can feel like a friendly debate: Should you hunt for that old-school, home-baked charm, or are you in the mood for something more adventurous with a Southern twist?
Brunch in Franklin isn’t just a meal—it’s a ritual that invites curiosity. I’ve eaten my way through back-alley institutions and polished bistros, always discovering a different kind of warmth in each. Whether you’re craving honey-drizzled cornbread, golden waffles, or a robust cup of locally roasted coffee, this town offers an option for every mood and appetite. Skip the guesswork. These are the brunch spots that locals swear by—each has its own moment, and your perfect spot is just a page away.
1. 1799 Kitchen & Bar Room
+1 615-786-0840
See Menu
1799 Kitchen & Bar Room brings a dash of sophistication to Franklin’s brunch landscape with its modern Southern flair. Sunlight filters in through wide windows, setting the stage for an easygoing, polished experience. My last visit felt like a quiet celebration, sipping cold brew while chefs worked magic in an open kitchen.
The menu leans into classics with thoughtful twists. I still dream about the sweet potato pancakes—tender, gold-edged, with hints of spice and a drizzle of maple. Their seasonal frittata, bursting with fresh herbs and veggies, stands out for its color and flavor.
1799’s charm lies in the details: house-made jams, attentive staff, and a space that encourages lingering. For a memorable brunch in Franklin, this is a place where you can slow down and savor.
2. Merridee’s Breadbasket
Merridee’s Breadbasket feels like stepping into a storybook kitchen. The scent of fresh bread hits first, followed by the cheerful buzz of regulars and newcomers admiring pastry cases. I once lost track of time over a stack of their fluffy biscuits and jam, caught up in the charm of mismatched mugs and vintage décor.
The bakery’s reputation is built on scratch-made goodness. Their quiche, with a perfectly golden crust and rich filling, remains my brunch favorite. Don’t skip their cinnamon rolls—soft, warm, and laced with spice, they turn any day into a small holiday.
Merridee’s Breadbasket stands out for its wholesome comfort and welcoming vibe. If you’re after a cozy, nostalgic brunch in Franklin, this spot delivers every time.
3. Puckett’s Restaurant
Puckett’s Restaurant is Franklin’s living room, where brunch comes with a dose of local history. Rustic wood ceilings, friendly faces, and the twang of live music set an easy rhythm. On weekends, I’ve found myself lingering here, coffee cup in hand, absorbed by the hum of community and clinking cutlery.
Puckett’s stands out for its hearty, down-home cooking and mood-lifting atmosphere. They serve up Southern comfort with a sense of pride and consistency, making sure each guest feels right at home. The staff greet you like an old friend, and it’s easy to see why Puckett’s is a Franklin favorite.
The sweet potato pancakes here are legendary—fluffy, golden, and just sweet enough. For something savory, try the Veggie Omelet, brimming with peppers, onions, and melted cheese. Brunch at Puckett’s captures the soul of Franklin: warm, generous, and always worth savoring.
4. 55 South
55 South brings Gulf Coast energy to historic Main Street, making brunch feel bold and bright. The space hums with an easy pace, inviting you to settle in and watch the world go by through big windows. My last brunch here, tucked into a corner booth, made me appreciate just how effortlessly 55 South blends richness and comfort.
The restaurant’s take on Southern staples is playful but never fussy. The Avocado Toast is layered with fresh veggies—a standout for when you want something both vibrant and filling. Their classic Shrimp & Grits offer a creamy, Cajun-spiced twist that’s hard to forget.
For those chasing variety, 55 South delivers a menu full of fresh, lively choices. It’s a brunch spot made for easy mornings and adventurous palettes alike.
5. GRAYS On Main
GRAYS On Main weaves Franklin’s past into every brunch, marrying vintage charm with modern soul. Exposed brick, tall windows, and jazz tunes make for a space that’s both cozy and full of stories. Over brunch here, I found myself lost in conversation, distracted only by the buzz of Main Street drifting in below.
The menu is a love letter to Southern flavors, crafted with local ingredients. I always go for the Veggie Hash—perfectly roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and an herby finish that feels both fresh and nostalgic. Their Biscuits with house-made jam offer a sweet start to any morning.
GRAYS On Main stands out for celebrating Tennessee’s heritage on every plate. This brunch is for anyone wanting a true taste of Franklin, wrapped in warmth and personality.
6. Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar brings a modern spin to Southern comfort, pulling Franklin diners into its cheerful energy. Sun-flooded interiors and friendly servers make long, lingering brunches extra inviting. I remember savoring my first meal here with friends—laughter seemed to pair perfectly with their scratch-made fare.
The menu is a treasure trove of updated classics with a Carolina twist. The Sweet Potato Pancakes are soft, cinnamon-scented, and topped with whipped butter—a must-try for anyone seeking warmth on a plate. Their Avocado Toast, loaded with bright veggies, feels fresh and satisfying any time of day.
Tupelo Honey stands out for blending inventive dishes with time-honored traditions. It’s where Franklin’s brunch crowd goes for a bold, yet comforting, start to the day.
7. Mccreary’s Irish Pub & Eatery
McCreary’s Irish Pub & Eatery gives Franklin’s brunch scene a dose of Celtic coziness. Tucked on Main Street, its cheerful vibe and local character make it a favorite stop of mine, especially for leisurely late mornings. You’ll find worn wood tables, soft melodies, and plenty of regulars swapping stories.
The menu reads like a love note to Irish comfort with plenty of brunch favorites. I gravitate toward the Irish Breakfast Bowl—eggs, potatoes, and vegetables, all perfectly cooked and hearty enough to fuel any weekend adventure. Their Veggie Omelet, bursting with freshness, is another good pick for something lighter.
What makes McCreary’s stand out is its blending of tradition and warmth. It’s a place to slow down, eat well, and feel part of the local story.
8. Bricktop’s
Bricktop’s in Franklin offers a polished, contemporary setting for brunch that feels just a touch indulgent. With sleek interiors and genuinely attentive staff, my visits have always left me feeling a little more relaxed than when I walked in.
The menu balances freshness and flavor with classic and creative options. The French Toast—thick, golden slices with seasonal berries—wins every time for its simple elegance. Their Veggie Scramble, packed with crisp vegetables and herbs, is both satisfying and bright.
Bricktop’s stands out for its consistency and unfussy charm. Whether you want a leisurely, drawn-out meal or a quick brunch with friends, this spot turns ordinary weekends into something worth remembering.
9. Frothy Monkey
Frothy Monkey feels like Franklin’s living room for the brunch crowd—cozy, easygoing, and effortlessly creative. Every time I’ve settled in with a cup of their house-roasted coffee, I’ve felt part of a neighborhood ritual. Mornings here buzz with laptop-tappers, parents corralling toddlers, and friends catching up.
The menu covers brunch classics and inventive twists, all with a focus on fresh, local goodness. The Avocado Toast is loaded—with vibrant veggies and a squeeze of lemon that wakes up your taste buds. Their Power Breakfast Bowl, veggie-packed and protein-rich, is both filling and bright.
Frothy Monkey stands out for its thoughtful menu and inviting community vibe. If you want brunch that blends comfort with a little creativity, this is the place to linger.
10. J Alexander’s Restaurant
J Alexander’s Restaurant brings understated elegance to Franklin’s brunch scene. The warm wood tones and crisp white napkins create a space that feels upscale, yet never stuffy. On my last visit, the buzz of happy dining and attentive servers set the stage for an unhurried weekend meal.
The brunch menu blends classic comfort with a fresh, modern touch. I always reach for their veggie-packed Omelet, with its soft, fluffy texture and lively flavors. The French Toast, finished with fresh berries and a whisper of vanilla, is another star—simple, but far from ordinary.
J Alexander’s stands out for its consistency and quality, plate after plate. If you want a refined brunch experience that doesn’t miss a detail, this is an easy favorite in Franklin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best brunch spots in Franklin, TN?
Franklin has plenty of standouts, including Merridee’s Breadbasket for fresh-baked comfort, Puckett’s Restaurant for Southern classics, and Frothy Monkey for a relaxed coffeehouse brunch. 1799 Kitchen & Bar Room also draws praise for its upscale Southern fare.
Are there brunch options with vegan or gluten-free choices in Franklin?
Yes, most popular brunch spots—like Tupelo Honey, Frothy Monkey, and Bricktop’s—offer vegan and gluten-free items. Always check the menu or ask the staff for specific options when you arrive.
Which brunch places in Franklin have outdoor seating?
Many favourites offer patio seating, including GRAYS On Main and Frothy Monkey. Bricktop’s also features a pleasant outdoor area when weather allows.
Is brunch kid-friendly in Franklin?
Absolutely. Restaurants like Merridee’s Breadbasket, Puckett’s, and Frothy Monkey have kid-friendly menus and a laid-back vibe ideal for families.
What’s the best time to go for brunch in Franklin?
Popular places get busy late morning on weekends. Arriving before 10:30 am or after the main rush around noon usually means a shorter wait.
Do you need reservations for brunch in Franklin?
While most spots welcome walk-ins, reservations are a smart move at busier or more upscale locations like 1799 Kitchen & Bar Room or J Alexander’s, especially on weekends.