Starting the day with a hearty and delicious breakfast can bring a sense of calm amidst a busy routine.

Whether you prefer a light bite or a feast, this curated list of the world's best breakfasts offers a taste of global culinary diversity.

Turkish Traditional Breakfast

Turkey's kahvaltı is a delightful spread of flavors and textures. Expect an array of cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggs, and simit (sesame-covered bread), accompanied by jams, honey, and kaymak (clotted cream). Small sausages and regional pastries often round out the meal. While Turkey is famed for its coffee, kahvaltı literally means "before coffee," so tea is the traditional beverage.

Japanese Traditional Breakfast

A Japanese breakfast is a harmonious blend of flavors and nutrients, often served in small dishes. The core components include grilled fish, steamed rice, and miso soup. Side dishes such as pickled vegetables, a fresh salad, or eggs paired with seaweed add variety. This balanced meal is both filling and visually appealing.

Ackee and Saltfish – Jamaica

Jamaica's national dish, a vibrant and flavorful combination, pairs boiled ackee fruit with salted codfish, sautéed with Scotch bonnet peppers, onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Traditionally, it’s served with accompaniments like roasted breadfruit, boiled green bananas, or bammy (cassava flatbread).

Waakye – Ghana

Waakye is a Ghanaian roadside breakfast classic of rice and beans cooked in sorghum leaves for its signature color and taste. Served wrapped in banana leaves, it’s often paired with stews, boiled eggs, vegetables, or fried plantains for a complete meal.

Baghrir with Mint Tea – Morocco

Morocco's baghrir, a spongy semolina pancake, is best enjoyed with spreads like honey, olive oil, or jams. Another favorite is msemen, a flaky flatbread. These are paired with aromatic mint tea, which is poured from a height to release its full fragrance. For an unforgettable experience, enjoy this breakfast amidst the stunning dunes of the Sahara.

Jianbing – China

Jianbing, a popular Chinese street food, resembles a folded crepe filled with pickled vegetables, meat, scallions, or sweet potato. Each jianbing is freshly prepared, ensuring its crispy texture, and waiting in line to savor this breakfast is part of the authentic experience.

Changua – Colombia

Changua, a milk-and-water soup, is a warm and comforting breakfast from Bogotá. Eggs are poached directly in the broth, which is garnished with scallions or cilantro. A slice of crusty bread (calado) often accompanies this dish, making it perfect for cold mornings.

Full English Breakfast – United Kingdom

This iconic breakfast is a hearty spread of sliced meat, eggs, sausages, black pudding, baked beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, toast, and tea or coffee. Variations across the UK include regional specialties like potato scones in Scotland or soda bread in Northern Ireland. It’s a meal that keeps you satisfied for hours.

Gallo Pinto – Costa Rica

Literally translating to "spotted rooster," gallo pinto is a flavorful mix of rice and black beans cooked with ginger, spices, onions, and cilantro, topped with Salsa Lizano. It’s typically served with eggs, cheese, avocado, fried plantains, sour cream, tortillas, and coffee for a balanced and flavorful start to the day.

Pho – Vietnam

From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene countryside of Sapa, pho is a staple Vietnamese breakfast. This aromatic noodle soup combines a rich meat or chicken broth, fresh herbs, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat or vegetables. Each vendor’s recipe varies, giving pho its unique and beloved charm.