12 Things Brits Would Find Surprisingly Different About Eating Breakfast in America

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If you’re from the UK and find yourself sitting down for breakfast in America, you’re in for a few surprises! From the way pancakes are served to the concept of biscuits and gravy, the American breakfast experience can be quite different from what you’re used to back home. Let’s walk through some of these intriguing differences that might catch a Brit off guard in an American diner.

1. Pancakes Can Arrive as a Side

In the UK, pancakes are often a main feature of a meal, especially on Shrove Tuesday. But in America, don’t be startled if you find pancakes popping up as a simple side dish. This means you might get a couple of pancakes on the side of your plate, right next to your eggs and bacon. It’s a tasty way to add a little sweet to your savory breakfast, and it sure makes the meal more interesting!

2. Free Coffee Refills Are Common

In many American diners, you’ll notice that your coffee cup might never hit bottom. That’s because free refills on drip coffee are pretty standard. This is great for those who need a good caffeine kick to start the day. You can sit back, relax, and sip away knowing that your friendly waiter will likely swing by to top off your cup without even asking.

3. Bacon Is Usually Much Crispier

Expect a different bacon experience in America. Unlike the thicker, less crispy British back bacon, American bacon is typically thin and cooked until it’s very crispy. This can be a delightful crunch to add to your breakfast plate, perfect for dipping into egg yolk or dabbing into maple syrup if you’re feeling adventurous.

4. Biscuits and Gravy

If you hear ‘biscuits and gravy’ for breakfast, forget the cookie-like biscuits or the meaty gravy you might be picturing. In America, ‘biscuits’ are fluffy, bread-like treats, and ‘gravy’ is often a creamy, thick sauce with bits of sausage. It’s a beloved Southern dish that can really fill you up quickly!

5. Breakfast Potatoes

Alongside your main breakfast, expect to see a hearty helping of breakfast potatoes. These can be hashed browns, home fries, or even cottage fries. They’re usually seasoned and fried until crispy and golden, making them the perfect companion to eggs or a dipper for your ketchup or hot sauce.

6. Sweet and Savoury on One Plate

Don’t be too surprised when you see sweet pancakes or waffles served alongside savory bacon and eggs. In America, mixing sweet with savory on one plate is quite common and makes for an exciting taste experience. You get to enjoy a little bit of everything!

7. All-Day Breakfast

Fancy breakfast for dinner? In many American diners, that’s totally possible. These establishments often serve their entire breakfast menu all day, so you can enjoy your favorite morning meals any time you crave them.

8. Packed Omelettes

In the States, when you order an omelette, be prepared for a dish bursting with fillings. From cheeses to meats, to all sorts of vegetables, these omelettes are not only a breakfast but could easily pass as a hearty lunch.

9. Maple Syrup Near Your Bacon and Eggs

It might be a bit odd at first to see maple syrup drizzled over not just pancakes but also making its way over to your bacon and eggs. But give it a try! The mix of sweet maple syrup with salty bacon and eggs can be unexpectedly delicious.

10. Generous Breakfast Portions

Portion sizes in America are generally larger than in the UK. A single order of breakfast might look like it’s enough for two people. It’s pretty common for folks to either share a meal or take home leftovers for another meal later.

11. Regional Breakfast Favorites

Depending on where you are in the country, the breakfast choices can vary widely. From the Tex-Mex inspired breakfast tacos in Texas to the shrimp and grits in the South, regional favorites add a delicious local twist to morning meals.

12. Taking Leftovers Home

Taking home the leftovers from your breakfast isn’t seen as unusual in America. It’s quite practical, especially with the generous portion sizes. So, if you can’t finish your meal, feel free to ask for a box and enjoy it later!