ELIZABETH. Located within walking distance of Presbyterian Hospital and Central Piedmont Community College, this family-owned eatery serves up eggs, grits, hash browns, sausage and bacon in any combination. Pancakes, flaky biscuits and waffles round out this full Southern breakfast menu.

DILWORTH. Sure, everybody knows about Starbucks and Seattle's Best, but Dilworth Coffee House is widely known as Charlotte's best! As soon as you walk in, inviting scents and a warm interior encourage you to take a seat and drift off to another place ­ a feat made easier if you happened to load some Miles Davis on your player. The coffee is fantastic, and the service is even better. This location is the original, but since their start in 1989, the company has expanded to 13 locations, most of which are in Charlotte.

MYERS PARK. If you slept in late but still want to start the day right, this is the place to go! In addition to receiving high marks for its fun, family-friendly atmosphere, the joint serves breakfast eats and downhome favs like she-crab soup and shrimp-n-grits all day long (that qualifies as brunch, right?). When you go, be prepared to see all walks of life ­ from judges and CEO's to working men and women ­ as just about everyone claims Eddie's one of their favorite places for breakfast and brunch.

ARBORETUM. Kick back to the 50s at Good Ol' Days, where families and friends can feast quite inexpensively on buttermilk pancakes, French toast, and as-you-like-it omelets. Add a little fun to the meal by requesting the pink Cadillac booth! Be sure to return for a fabulous lunch or dinner meal, too!

UPTOWN. Monticello exudes a quailty of sophistication befitting the austere Dunhill Hotel. Indeed, such is the property's reputation that many companies have their out-of-town clients stay there. Monticello certainly does its part to enhance the experience by delivering impeccible dishes like tuna steak Oriental, Lowcountry-style shrimp and grits, and tournedos duxelle in a setting that recalls European elegance. NB The restaurant is open for afternoon tea Friday-Sunday, but reservations must be made 24 hours ahead of time.