BALTIMORE, MD — In a state famous for its crab cakes and Old Bay, finding the undisputed "king of breakfast" is a tall order. But if you ask locals in Baltimore County where to go when you need a meal that sticks to your ribs, one neon-lit name comes up more than any other.
For decades, the Broadway Diner on Eastern Avenue has served as a beacon for hungry Marylanders. With its gleaming chrome exterior, checkered walls, and a menu thick enough to be a novel, it is the quintessential American diner. But according to regulars, it’s not just the nostalgia that keeps the parking lot packed—it’s the food.
The "Guy Fieri" Stamp of Approval
While locals have known about this gem for years, the secret got out nationally when Guy Fieri rolled up in his red convertible for Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Fieri didn’t just eat eggs and bacon. He dove into the diner’s surprisingly complex menu, famously raving about the Hungarian Beef Goulash and the Shrimp Creole. It’s rare for a diner to master international comfort food alongside pancakes, but Broadway Diner does exactly that.
The Dish You Have to Order
If you are visiting for the first time, skip the cereal. Locals insist that the real magic happens on the griddle.
- The Potato Pancakes: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and often served with a side of applesauce or sour cream. They are a Maryland staple done right.
- The Chipped Beef: A classic Mid-Atlantic breakfast dish that Broadway Diner serves in massive, steaming portions over toast.
- Seafood for Breakfast: You are in Maryland, after all. The Crab Cake and Eggs benedict is a massive seller, featuring lump crab meat that rivals high-end seafood restaurants in the Inner Harbor.
"The Menu is a Book"
Part of the Broadway Diner’s viral appeal is the sheer size of its menu. It features hundreds of items, meaning you can order a full rack of ribs at 8:00 AM or a stack of Belgian Waffles for dinner.
For families, this is a lifesaver. "It’s the only place where my husband can get a steak, I can get a Greek salad, and the kids can get pancakes, and everyone leaves happy," says one longtime Dundalk resident.
Know Before You Go
Because of its reputation, the Broadway Diner can get slammed on weekends.
- The Wait: Expect a line on Sunday mornings, though the veteran staff moves tables quickly.
- Parking: The lot is tight, so be prepared to circle or park on a side street during peak hours.
- Bring an Appetite: The portions are legendary. Most first-timers end up taking a "to-go" box home.
Whether you're craving a hangover cure or a family feast, Broadway Diner remains the heavy hitter of the Maryland breakfast scene.
