Grits have come a long way from being a simple Southern breakfast staple. Across America, talented chefs and family-owned restaurants are transforming stone-ground grits into some of the best grits dishes, pairing them with everything from butter and sharp cheddar to shrimp, braised short ribs, smoked sausage, and slow-cooked country ham. When prepared properly, great grits are creamy, rich, and deeply comforting while still allowing high-quality ingredients to shine.
Many of the country’s best grits aren’t found at famous chain restaurants—they’re served at neighborhood cafés, historic diners, and independently owned Southern kitchens that have quietly perfected their recipes over decades. These local favorites often source heirloom corn, grind their grits fresh, or rely on family recipes passed down through generations, resulting in bowls that are rich in flavor and unmistakably homemade.
The restaurants in this guide were selected based on Google Review sentiment, James Beard recognition where applicable, regional “best breakfast” and “best Southern restaurant” rankings, local food writer recommendations, and recurring praise from Reddit food communities. While every restaurant prepares grits differently, these hidden gems have earned outstanding reputations for turning one of the South’s humblest ingredients into the highlight of the meal.
The Flying Biscuit Cafe — Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The Flying Biscuit Cafe has become one of Chapel Hill’s favorite breakfast destinations thanks to its consistently excellent Southern comfort food. While the restaurant’s fluffy biscuits have earned national attention, many regulars insist the creamy cheese grits deserve just as much recognition…