Matt’s Big Breakfast: The Best Breakfast in Arizona
If you’re not a breakfast person, Matt’s Big Breakfast will convert you. From the crispy bacon to the syrupy waffles, there is something for even the pickiest of eaters.
Matt’s opened back in 2004 in a tiny brick building in the arts district of downtown Phoenix. I am a proud member of the original crowd that frequented the small establishment. My younger brother’s name is Matt, so for many years he would insist that we go to “his” restaurant for his birthday. As we grew older, we lost sight of the tradition. A couple years ago when I moved to downtown Phoenix for school, I rediscovered the breakfast from my childhood. When I went looking for it, I wasn’t at all surprised that they moved half a block north to a larger space. The original location could barely hold a large family, let alone a crowd of hundreds. While people still wait for the delectable food, there is a much shorter wait than before. Since 2004, they have completely rebranded, from the white and orange walls to the modern chairs. However, the menu remains the same.
One of the classic dishes is the Hog and Chick. This platter has two eggs, bacon or sausage, toast, and choice of potatoes. The only right answer to all those options is scrambled eggs, bacon, sourdough toast, and hash browns. The thick-cut, pepper crusted bacon snaps when you bite into it and releases a smoky flavor. The tangy sourdough bread perfectly balances out the sweetness of the jam. And let’s not forget the hash browns. When they arrive at your table, they’re dripping in butter.
Every day, Matt’s has a rotating special depending on the day fo the week. I’ve tried the Huevos Rancheros, which comes with a side of creamy beans, and their biscuits and gravy.
If you’re still not a fan of breakfast food, Matt’s does offer a selection of lunch options starting at 11am every day. The Hickory Burger layers a half-pound ground chuck patty with toppings such as Wisconsin cheddar and Canadian bacon. The meat crumbles when you bite into it, but the blanket of cheddar holds it together to keep you from making too much of a mess.
For those who can’t make the trek downtown, they have expanded to include locations in Tempe, the Biltmore and Sky Harbor. I myself have dined at the Tempe location, which is in a business complex just north of Sun Devil stadium. When waiting for a flight, I’ve been known to grab a quick toast at Sky Harbor. While the other locations taste identical to the main location, nothing beats the atmosphere of the downtown Phoenix original.
Food Quality: ★★★★
Atmosphere: ★★★
Service: ★★★
Price: $$
Creativity: ★★★
