Is Nashville’s Pancake Pantry Worth the Wait? (A Restaurant Review)

Last updated: 6/4/24

Pancake Pantry in Hillsboro Village has been a Nashville institution since long before Nashville became an It City. However, despite the Pancake Pantry’s long-term popularity, some people claim that the breakfast spot is overrated. After all, it is true that the line can look overwhelming when all you want is a stack of pancakes.

As an avid lover of breakfast and brunch spots, I had to brave the line and try out the Pancake Pantry for myself.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re debating whether Pancake Pantry is really worth the wait.

The Pancake Pantry’s History

Pancake Pantry in Hillsboro Village first opened in 1961. I’d imagine that the spot’s location within walking distance of Vanderbilt University is part of what initially made it so popular.

The Pancake Pantry was family-owned by the Baldwins until 2007, but the family recipes are still used today.

A second location is now open in Downtown. I have not been to that location yet, but I appreciate that there’s a way for visitors staying in that area to have easy access to the Nashville staple.

For those who are curious, Nashville’s Pancake Pantry is not connected with the one in Gatlinburg.

The Pancake Pantry Experience

I first visited the Pancake Pantry on a chilly winter Saturday morning. As expected, the line was fairly long, but at least the Hillsboro Village area is interesting to look at. (I’ve also been told that the line is shorter on weekdays if you’re able to plan your visit for then.)

Despite being long, the line did move at a good pace. I was very much ready to eat by the time we got to the front of the line though. Once you get close to the entrance, you can see the huge menu on the outside wall, so you can decide which one of the 23 pancake flavors you’d like to try.

There are also different combinations of breakfast dishes involving eggs, sausage, and bacon. You can also get avocado toast if you want although that wouldn’t be most people’s order at a place that literally has pancake in the name..

The inside of the Pancake Pantry isn’t particularly remarkable. You can tell it was designed before Instagram was around, but that makes the spot stand out among all the new trendy breakfast restaurants all over Nashville. It feels authentic and welcoming inside. Plus, you’re (presumably) there for the pancakes rather than the photos.

And, in my opinion, the pancakes deliver. My go-to pancake order is blueberry pancakes, and these were possibly the best ones I’ve ever had. I have very high standards about what makes a good blueberry pancake, and they absolutely nailed it!

According to the restaurant’s website, all of the pancakes are made from scratch, and I believe it!

As good as the Pancake Pantry is, I wouldn’t recommend it for families with small children. I don’t think our toddler would make it through the wait in line.

Also, Pancake Pantry is not for those with gluten allergies. They don’t offer gluten-free options for safety reasons. (It’s likely not possible to completely prevent contamination with so much flour being used in the kitchen.)

For everyone else, it’s worth the wait…assuming you enjoy pancakes, of course.

I even included the Pancake Pantry on my 24-hour guide to Nashville because almost everyone will enjoy visiting!

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The Pancake Pantry has a Downtown location and a Hillsboro Village location. You can visit their website for hours and the menu.

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