These Southern hometown favorites are chef-approved.

The breakfast hours might be more limited, but the memoriesand flavorsare not.

You walk into a pretty typical country diner, but the secret is in the menu.

Menu at Fife’s restaurant

Credit:Catherine Jessee

They also serve very traditional American fare, but the Korean fusion breakfasts are my favorite."

“It’s the best thing.”

“It’s one of the best classicmeat-and-threestyle dessert cases that I’ve ever seen.

pies and cakes in a dessert case at Fife’s Restaurant

Credit:Catherine Jessee

The pie slices are 2 dollars.

It has not changed since 1982, and it’s beautiful.”

“They have beginnings similar to mine with starting at farmer’s markets.

breakfast pastry and coffee at Ema Restaurant

Credit:Marlén Mendoza

With a cup of black coffee, I’m set!”