The Original Pancake House: A True Slice of Breakfast Nostalgia

This past Sunday, while waiting for a late friend before a group motorcycle ride, we decided to grab a quick breakfast and some coffee.

Naturally, we ended up at one of the most recognizable breakfast institutions in Las Vegas — The Original Pancake House.

It’s one of those places that feels familiar before you even sit down, like it’s been part of your life all along.

The moment you step inside, the scent of sizzling bacon and fresh coffee instantly takes you back in time. The place was packed — Sunday mornings always are — but there’s something about this spot that softens the chaos.

It’s nostalgic, simple, and unapologetically old-school. No flashy decor, no trendy lighting — just the comfort of a booth, the clatter of plates, and the kind of hospitality that never tries too hard.

Best of Las Vegas Awards on the wall greeting customers — Best of Las Vegas Awards on the wall, greeting customers.

A Heritage of Breakfast Excellence

The Original Pancake House story began in Portland, Oregon, in 1953, when Les Highet and Erma Hueneke founded the business.

Drawing upon their deep culinary experience and passion for authentic national and ethnic pancake recipes, they created a menu unlike any other — one that still feels both traditional and timeless today.

Over the decades, their family-run business has grown to more than one hundred franchises across the country, earning national acclaim while keeping its commitment to quality intact.

Outside view of The Original Pancake House.

Their recipes demand the best ingredients: 93-score butter, pure 36% whipping cream, fresh Grade AA eggs, hard wheat unbleached flour, and their signature sourdough starter.

Every batter and sauce is made fresh in-house daily, and juices are squeezed fresh every morning. It’s the kind of craftsmanship you can taste in every bite — and one reason why this brand has stood the test of time.

Las Vegas’ Own Tradition

Here in Las Vegas, The Original Pancake House opened its first location in 1995, thanks to Stephan and Kim Freudenberger.

What started as one humble breakfast spot quickly grew into seven thriving locations across the valley.

This year marks their 25th anniversary of serving the Las Vegas community — a testament to their consistency, care, and local loyalty.

On our visit, that same spirit was easy to feel. Our waitress greeted us before we even got settled, pouring fresh coffee and handing over menus with a smile.

Patrons enjoying breakfast at the original pancake house — Patrons are enjoying breakfast at the original pancake house.

We didn’t have much time before hitting the road, so we kept it simple — the Bacon Lover’s Bacon and Eggs and a plate of White Chocolate Chip Macadamia Nut Pancakes.

Both arrived hot, fresh, and exactly what you’d hope for from a breakfast classic.

Breakfast, the Way It’s Meant to Be

The bacon was perfectly crisp, the eggs cooked just right, and the pancakes… well, they were heavenly.

Fluffy, buttery, and full of texture — each bite is balanced by the sweetness of the white chocolate and the crunch of the macadamia nuts.

The Original Pancake House - Bacon Lover's Bacon and Eggs — The Original Pancake House – Bacon Lover’s Bacon and Eggs.

It’s the kind of meal that makes you forget about the time and just enjoy the moment. Between coffee refills and friendly chatter, the world outside seemed to slow down for a bit.

It’s easy to see why people keep coming back. The atmosphere feels effortless — friendly faces, families sharing stacks of pancakes, and the kind of genuine warmth that’s becoming rare these days.

There’s no rush, no pressure — just a calm, steady rhythm that makes breakfast feel special again.

fluffy pancakes with white chocolate and macadamia nuts — Fluffy pancakes with white chocolate and macadamia nuts.

A Place That Feels Like Home

Las Vegas is a city that constantly reinvents itself, but The Original Pancake House proves that some things should remain unchanged. While trends come and go, their commitment to serving simple, high-quality food remains unchanged.

Every visit feels familiar — comforting even — like a Sunday morning tradition that never gets old.

“The Original Pancake House isn’t about chasing trends — it’s about preserving the kind of breakfast that makes you feel at home, wherever you are.”

So, next time you’re in the mood for a real breakfast — the kind with hot coffee, golden pancakes, and a side of nostalgia — stop by The Original Pancake House.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a longtime fan, you’ll understand why this place continues to be one of Las Vegas’ most beloved morning staples.

Some spots serve breakfast. This one serves memories.