When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
The Original Pancake House
Why The Original Pancake House is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Original Pancake House is an iconic family-owned breakfast restaurant that has been delighting guests since its founding in 1953. Known for its dedication to using only the finest ingredients, this establishment has become a beloved spot for friends and families to gather over hearty, satisfying meals. The menu features a wide variety of classic American breakfast favorites, including their famous buttermilk pancakes, Belgian waffles, and crepes. Signature dishes such as the Apple Pancake, which is a large pancake generously topped with sautéed Granny Smith apples and cinnamon glaze, and the Dutch Baby, an airy oven-baked pancake served with lemon and powdered sugar, set this restaurant apart from typical breakfast chains. Their egg specialties, meat dishes, and omelettes are crafted fresh using high-quality ingredients like grade AA eggs, genuine 93-score butter, and freshly sourced fruits. Guests can also enjoy generous portions of thick-sliced ham, bacon, sausages, and homemade sides such as hash browns or biscuits with sausage gravy. The restaurant prides itself on preparing all batters and sauces from scratch in each location and offering freshly squeezed orange juice each morning. This commitment to quality, combined with a welcoming atmosphere, makes The Original Pancake House a great place to meet up with friends and indulge in comforting, classic American breakfast dishes.
Here's what people think of The Original Pancake House
As of recent, The Original Pancake House holds a 4.4-star rating based on 3102 reviews.
Customer reviews overwhelmingly appreciate The Original Pancake House for its consistent quality and delicious menu options, reflected in its solid 4.4-star rating from over 3,100 reviews. Positive reviews frequently highlight their fresh, homemade approach to breakfast classics—the fluffy buttermilk pancakes, flavorful egg dishes, and especially the signature Apple Pancake and Dutch Baby receive high praise. Reviewers also value the friendly, family-oriented service and the comfortable dining atmosphere, making it an enjoyable place to socialize and share a meal. Many guests note the generous portions and the fresh ingredients, including the freshly squeezed orange juice and locally sourced bread. On the downside, some negative reviews mention occasional slow service during busy times, and a few customers have expressed concerns over pricing or inconsistency in portion sizes at certain locations. Despite these isolated critiques, the prevailing sentiment among reviewers is that The Original Pancake House delivers a satisfying breakfast experience with attention to detail and homemade flair. The positive aspects overwhelmingly overshadow the negatives, confirming its reputation as a favorite breakfast destination.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
anna blaser
FOOD WAS AMAZING! Our server was very quick and kind, and everything tasted so good. Food is well worth the price. The portions are huge, and the area was clean despite the restaurant being very busy when we went. There’s a bit of construction outside which makes it difficult to get to, but it’s so worth it! Great experience.
Illiamna
Been visiting this location for 20+ years and it never fails to be delicious. I tried the coconut pancake for the first time last week and they were pretty good, however the French toast will always be my favorite! The plates come with quite a bit of food, so sharing is always an option to save some cash.
Jai Loc
Max was amazing. Such a kind person, attentive, and hilarious. I’m from California visiting my brother and it’s my last day here in utah. Max just made our day. I’ll definitely come back and hopefully Max will be our waiter again
Cris L
I really love this place. I REALLY RECOMMEND!! You have to came here! Amazing food and Amazing people! I don’t remember the waitress name (Alana / Amanda) she’s Asian I think , but she’s so nice, polite. The guy who cleaning too , his from Mexico, is soo sweet too. I really love everything and everybody. I Highly recommend this place!
Jacqueline Kassis
The food was excellent, and our waiter was perfect. She was happy excited to be there and energetic. If you go try to get into her section, her name was Mariela. The food was good , but she made our meal great.
How to reach The Original Pancake House
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Why The Original Pancake House may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Original Pancake House with your friends? The Original Pancake House is a quintessential destination for gathering with friends thanks to its blend of delicious comfort food, warm ambiance, and exceptional service. Whether it’s a casual weekend breakfast or a celebratory brunch, this place fosters a welcoming environment that naturally invites conversation and connection. The menu’s standout pancakes, known for their light fluffiness and range of unique flavors, satisfy diverse tastes, making it easy to please a group with varied preferences. Moreover, the generous portions and quality coffee create a relaxing pace for guests to linger over food and catch up. The vibrant atmosphere—often buzzing with happy customers—adds to the sense of occasion without ever feeling rushed or uncomfortable. Its reputation for prompt service despite high demand means the group won’t be held up, and the friendly staff often go above and beyond. All these factors combined make The Original Pancake House an ideal spot to rally friends for a memorable meal and great company.
What kinds of food experiences make The Original Pancake House perfect for group meetups? The menu at The Original Pancake House is not only extensive but thoughtfully curated to appeal to groups with a range of tastes and preferences. Pancakes are the star attraction, featuring specialties like the iconic Dutch Baby, German apple pancakes, and the classic buttermilk variety—all known for their perfect sweetness and texture. Beyond pancakes, a group can share crepes, waffles, and hearty omelets made with fresh ingredients, ensuring everyone finds something they love. The portions are generous, making it easy to share dishes or take home leftovers, which adds an extra layer of value and comfort. The breakfast and brunch-focused menu helps groups enjoy a leisurely meal centered on familiar favorites with innovative twists. Additionally, the quality coffee and breakfast cocktails complement the meal, keeping everyone refreshed and engaged. The variety and consistency of the food, paired with the accommodating service, make dining here a stress-free, fun group experience where everyone leaves fully satisfied.
What activities can groups enjoy while visiting The Original Pancake House? While the primary draw is the food, The Original Pancake House offers more than just a meal—it’s an experience perfect for socializing and relaxing together. Groups can indulge in lively conversations over fluffy pancakes and freshly brewed coffee that energize the room. The inviting, casual setting encourages lingering, giving friends the chance to catch up or celebrate milestones. Since many locations have spacious seating and a friendly atmosphere, it’s ideal for birthdays, small reunions, or even casual business meetings that start with breakfast. The waitstaff is typically very attentive, facilitating smooth service so the group can focus on interaction rather than logistics. Some locations even host seasonal specials or unique menu items that can add an element of surprise and shared delight among friends. Whether tackling a bucket list of pancake types or savoring a classic breakfast brunch, the shared culinary adventure makes the gathering both delicious and memorable.
Why does the ambiance at The Original Pancake House enhance the group experience? The ambiance at The Original Pancake House strikes a balance between comfort and a subtle upscale vibe that fits a variety of group occasions. The interiors are usually clean, well-lit, and spacious enough to accommodate both small and larger parties without feeling cramped. This inviting atmosphere helps foster a relaxed, laid-back experience conducive to fun and meaningful interactions. Staff are known to be friendly and efficient, keeping service fast and engaging, which further elevates the dining atmosphere. Despite its popularity and often busy nature, the restaurant maintains an orderly flow, preventing the potential chaos that can disrupt social gatherings. Whether it’s a weekend brunch filled with laughter and pancakes or a midweek breakfast meet to start the day, the energy of the place is positive and welcoming. This environment helps groups feel at home, encouraging long conversations and multiple rounds of coffee without pressure to rush.
How does The Original Pancake House accommodate groups to ensure a smooth meetup? The Original Pancake House is well-equipped to handle groups with a system that balances quick turnover and attentive service. Because of its popularity, the restaurant often sees lines, but the staff’s efficient management ensures wait times move swiftly. Groups may benefit from calling ahead or planning visits during off-peak hours to avoid longer waits, but they can also trust that once seated, their orders will be taken promptly and food served hot with minimal delay. The seating arrangements are flexible, capable of combining tables or offering booths that foster group conversation. Their menu, featuring large portions and sharable options, supports communal dining. Additionally, the staff are experienced in managing group needs—accommodating special requests, dietary restrictions, and ensuring younger guests or elders in the party are comfortable. All this means groups can focus fully on the social aspect of their meetup rather than on logistics, making the experience seamless and enjoyable from arrival to dessert.
What makes The Original Pancake House’s menu unique compared to other breakfast spots? The uniqueness of The Original Pancake House stems from its longstanding tradition of perfecting pancake recipes and its diversity of offerings that go beyond the usual breakfast fare. While many places serve pancakes, this restaurant is famous for distinctive items like the German Apple Pancake and Dutch Baby, which are not commonly found elsewhere and tend to become crowd favorites. The pancakes are known for being thick yet tender, with a perfect balance of fluffiness and flavor, often enhanced with specific syrups or toppings exclusive to the brand. Beyond pancakes, the menu incorporates classic American breakfast staples but with attention to quality and portion size that appeals to both casual diners and food enthusiasts. The inclusion of varied eggs Benedict styles, crepes with unique fillings, and savory options means the menu caters not only to sweet tooths but also to those preferring hearty, savory meals. This combination keeps group members intrigued and satisfied, offering a culinary experience that elevates the traditional pancake house concept.
How does service at The Original Pancake House enhance group gatherings? Excellence in service is a cornerstone of The Original Pancake House experience, significantly enhancing the enjoyment of group outings. Reviewers frequently highlight staff who are friendly, attentive, and proactive in meeting diners’ needs, which creates a welcoming atmosphere especially important for groups that need efficient coordination. Servers strike a balance between being available without hovering, allowing guests to enjoy their company comfortably. Drinks, including coffee refills, are delivered promptly, and special requests—such as dietary accommodations or extra sides—are handled graciously. This level of service ensures that the entire group feels well cared for, reducing stress and allowing everyone to focus on socializing rather than waiting or managing issues. Efficient service also helps with pacing, ensuring that food arrives in a timely manner so the group can eat together and share their reactions to the meal, deepening the sense of togetherness.
Why is The Original Pancake House a great choice for family meetups as well as friends? The Original Pancake House suits both family and friend gatherings due to its approachable menu, family-friendly environment, and accommodating staff. Kids enjoy the wide variety of pancakes, especially favorites like chocolate chip and blueberry, while adults appreciate the range of savory and sweet options. The casual yet polished setting is inviting for all ages, with sufficient space and seating comfort for families and larger groups. Portions are generous enough to satisfy appetites of younger family members as well as hearty adult diners, and leftovers add value for families traveling or staying nearby. The staff are used to handling families, often attentive to special needs such as high chairs or dietary preferences. This makes the restaurant not just a stop for a meal but a place where families and friends create shared memories over a beloved classic breakfast tradition.
What additional tips can make your visit to The Original Pancake House with a group even better? Planning ahead enhances the group experience at The Original Pancake House, especially given its popularity. Arriving early on weekends or making a reservation if the location allows can minimize wait times. It helps to decide on shared dishes or family-style ordering in advance, as the menu is large and diverse. Groups might want to try specialty pancakes known to the house to experience the unique offerings rather than sticking to standard selections. Sharing multiple plates encourages trying different flavors without overwhelming anyone with too much food. Bringing a spirit of relaxed enjoyment is key, as leisurely eating is part of the appeal. Lastly, engaging with the friendly staff by asking for recommendations or accommodating special requests can enhance the experience further, creating a comfortable, welcoming environment for all.
In summary, The Original Pancake House presents an outstanding venue to host meetups with friends or family through its delectable, diverse menu; inviting and relaxed ambiance; attentive service; and well-managed group accommodations. It combines classic comfort food with distinctive specialties in a way that satisfies all palates and occasions. Whether relishing iconic pancakes, enjoying hearty omelets, or sipping excellent coffee, groups find both the food and the environment perfectly suited to memorable gatherings. Its blend of tradition, quality, and warmth makes it a favored spot to rally together and share good times over great breakfast.