The Biggest Ordering Mistakes You’re Making At Breakfast Chain Restaurants

Everyone loves a good, hearty breakfast at their favorite chain restaurant, but not every menu choice is worth the price. Some items look delicious, but fall short once they arrive at the table.

Knowing where these chains tend to cut corners helps you order smarter.

Ordering plain scrambled eggs

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Exclusive Image/Unsplash
Exclusive Image/Unsplash

Plain scrambled eggs are often made in large batches and kept warm, which affects texture and flavor. They may arrive dry or rubbery.

Chefs often suggest ordering eggs with added ingredients or choosing a different preparation. Omelets or fried eggs are usually cooked to order and tend to be fresher.

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Forgetting to ask about portion sizes

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Ramsés Cervantes/Unsplash
Ramsés Cervantes/Unsplash
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When it comes to breakfast, your eyes may be bigger than your stomach. Ordering too much (or too little) food is an all-too-common mistake that results in overspending and food waste.

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Before making your selection, ask the server how much food will come. This helps save on guesswork and ensures you're getting a portion that you'll actually eat.

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Ordering toast as a standalone side

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Masha Rayt/Unsplash
Masha Rayt/Unsplash
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Toast is rarely worth ordering on its own at breakfast chains. It is often pre-toasted and served lukewarm.

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If toast is included with a meal, it makes sense, but paying extra for it may be disappointing. Choosing sides like potatoes or fruit offers better value and more flavor.

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Asking for too many modifications

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Mary West/Unsplash
Mary West/Unsplash
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Everyone likes their breakfast prepared slightly differently, but too many modifications can over-complicate an order.

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Not only is this annoying for the server, but big changes can cause confusion when the order is relayed to the kitchen. It may even mean you have to wait longer for your dish. Keep it simple—it's worth it.

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Ordering well-done bacon

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Mikey Frost/Unsplash
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Well-done bacon at busy breakfast spots often ends up overly brittle or burnt. Bacon cooks quickly, and timing is hard to manage during rush hours.

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Ordering regular or lightly crisp bacon usually results in better texture and flavor.

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Start the day off right!

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George Dagerotip/Unsplash
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Breakfast chains can deliver comforting meals when you order thoughtfully. Avoiding common mistakes helps you get better flavor, texture, and value.

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When it comes to ordering breakfast, a little thoughtful consideration will help you start your day off right.