This North Carolina Restaurant Proves Pancakes Can Be Life-Changing
Big Ed’s City Market Restaurant has been a Raleigh breakfast institution since 1958, drawing locals and visitors alike with its legendary pancakes, towering biscuits, and genuine Southern hospitality. Tucked away at 220 Wolfe Street in the heart of downtown Raleigh, this beloved spot is famous for pancakes so large they nearly spill over the plate, perfectly golden and fluffy from edge to edge.
These are the kind of pancakes you remember long after the last bite. Step inside and you’re greeted by antique farm tools hanging from the ceiling, walls covered in political memorabilia, and the irresistible aroma of fresh biscuits and sizzling bacon.
The dining room buzzes with happy conversation as servers move quickly between tables, delivering plates piled high with comfort-food classics. From the first bite, it’s easy to understand why so many people call Big Ed’s pancakes unforgettable, and why this long-running restaurant remains a must-visit for breakfast lovers across North Carolina.
1. Hotcakes That Defy All Logic And Plate Size
My server placed the hotcake in front of me, and I actually laughed out loud. This thing was massive, hanging over the edges of my plate like it was trying to escape.
People compare them to hubcaps, and honestly, that is not an exaggeration at all. The golden brown surface glistened with butter, and steam rose from the fluffy interior.
Made from scratch using Big Ed’s secret homemade batter, these hotcakes are sweet, light, and somehow manage to stay tender despite their enormous size. I cut into mine with a fork, and it practically melted on my tongue.
The texture was perfect, not dense or heavy like some giant pancakes can be.
There is even a hotcake challenge where you can win a T-shirt if you finish three of these monsters in 45 minutes. I could barely finish one, and I left feeling happily defeated.
The combination of size and flavor makes this dish legendary, and every bite reminded me why people drive from all over North Carolina just to experience it. This is not just breakfast; it is an event.
2. A Legacy Born On A Wake County Farm
Big Ed Watkins was not just a restaurateur; he was a storyteller with a spatula. Born and raised in Wake County, he grew up helping his mother cook for farm workers on the family land.
Those early mornings in the kitchen, watching his mama fry up country ham and flip biscuits, shaped everything he would later build.
The recipes at this restaurant have been passed down through generations, reportedly originating from Big Ed’s great grandfather, a Confederate mess sergeant. That kind of history does not just add flavor; it adds soul to every dish.
You can taste the tradition in every bite, from the red eye gravy to the perfectly seasoned grits.
When Big Ed opened his doors in 1958, he brought those farm kitchen secrets with him. He wanted to share the meals that made him feel at home, and decades later, that mission still drives the restaurant.
Walking through the door feels like stepping into a piece of North Carolina history, where every recipe carries a story and every plate honors the past.
3. Country Ham That Hits Different Every Single Time
Country ham at Big Ed’s is not the deli sliced stuff you find at a grocery store. This is the real deal, salty and savory, with a texture that is both tender and satisfying.
I ordered mine with eggs and a biscuit, and the combination was pure magic.
The ham is cured and aged, giving it a deep, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the red eye gravy. That gravy, made with coffee and ham drippings, is a Southern staple that some people find strange at first.
But once you dip your biscuit in it, you understand why folks have been doing this for generations.
Every bite of that ham reminded me of Sunday mornings at my grandmother’s house, where breakfast was an all day affair. The seasoning was spot on, not too salty, just enough to make you reach for another forkful.
Paired with fluffy scrambled eggs and buttery grits, this dish is comfort food at its finest. It is the kind of meal that sticks with you long after you leave the table, making you crave it again before you even get home.
4. Biscuits So Good They Should Be Illegal
When my biscuit arrived, I could see the steam escaping from the sides. Soft inside, with just a hint of crisp on the outside, it was everything a Southern biscuit should be.
I tore it open with my hands, and the buttery aroma made my mouth water instantly.
These biscuits are made fresh throughout the day, and you can tell. The texture is light and flaky, never dense or dry like some places serve.
I slathered mine with butter and a drizzle of honey, and it was heaven in every bite.
People rave about these biscuits in reviews, and now I understand why. They are the kind of biscuits that make you close your eyes and savor the moment.
Whether you get them plain, with gravy, or as part of a breakfast sandwich, they elevate the entire meal. I ended up ordering a second one to go because I could not resist.
If you skip the biscuits at Big Ed’s, you are missing out on one of the best parts of the experience. They are simple, classic, and absolutely perfect.
5. Fried Catfish That Brings The South To Your Plate
Catfish for breakfast might sound unusual to some, but at Big Ed’s, it makes perfect sense. The catfish arrives golden and crispy, fried to perfection with a cornmeal crust that crunches with every bite.
I ordered mine with eggs, grits, and a biscuit, and it was a combination I will never forget.
The fish itself was tender and flaky, not greasy or heavy like poorly fried catfish can be. The seasoning was bold but not overpowering, letting the natural flavor of the fish shine through.
Paired with creamy grits and a runny egg yolk, it created a harmony of textures and flavors that felt like pure Southern comfort.
One reviewer mentioned the catfish left a lasting taste and memory all day, and I completely agree. This is not just a meal; it is an experience that lingers in the best way possible.
The portion was generous, and I left feeling satisfied but not stuffed. If you are looking for something different from the usual bacon and eggs, the fried catfish is a must try that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Southern cuisine.
6. Atmosphere Packed With Quirky Charm And History
Walking into Big Ed’s feels like stepping into a time capsule filled with character. Antique farm implements dangle from the ceiling, and every wall is covered with political memorabilia, including photos of presidential candidates who have stopped by over the years.
It is quirky, charming, and utterly unique.
The decor is not just for show; it tells the story of the restaurant and the community it serves. Old signs, vintage tools, and local memorabilia create a cozy, lived in vibe that makes you feel instantly at home.
I found myself looking around between bites, discovering new details every time I glanced up.
On Saturday mornings, a Dixieland band plays, adding live music to the already lively atmosphere. The energy is warm and welcoming, with a buzz of conversation and laughter filling the air.
It is the kind of place where strangers strike up conversations and regulars greet the staff by name. The ambiance is as much a part of the meal as the food itself, making every visit feel special and memorable.
7. Service That Feels Like Family From the Start
From the moment I sat down, the service at Big Ed’s made me feel like a regular. My server was attentive without being intrusive, keeping my coffee cup full and checking in at just the right moments.
His warmth and genuine friendliness set the tone for the entire meal.
Other diners raved about a server who apparently treats every table like family. That kind of service is rare these days, and it makes a huge difference in the overall experience.
The staff here are not just doing a job; they genuinely care about making sure you leave happy.
Southern hospitality is not just a phrase at Big Ed’s; it is a practice. The servers are knowledgeable about the menu, quick to offer recommendations, and always ready with a smile.
Even when the restaurant was busy, the service never felt rushed or impersonal. I watched as the staff greeted regulars by name and made newcomers feel just as welcome.
This level of care and attention is what keeps people coming back, turning first-time visitors into lifelong fans of this beloved Raleigh institution.
8. Breakfast Served All Day Because Rules Are Overrated
One of the best things about Big Ed’s is that breakfast never stops. Whether you arrive at 7 AM or 1 PM, you can order hotcakes, country ham, biscuits, and eggs to your heart’s content.
This policy is a game changer for anyone who loves breakfast food but does not wake up early.
I have always believed that pancakes should not be restricted to morning hours, and Big Ed’s agrees. The all day breakfast menu means you can satisfy those cravings whenever they hit, without worrying about arbitrary cutoff times.
It is freedom on a plate, and it makes the restaurant even more accessible to locals and visitors alike.
The menu is extensive, offering everything from classic egg platters to more adventurous options like chicken fried chicken and grilled bologna. No matter what time you visit, you will find something delicious waiting for you.
This flexibility is part of what makes Big Ed’s so special, allowing everyone to enjoy their favorite morning dishes on their own schedule. It is a small detail that makes a big difference in the overall experience.
9. Portions That Make You Question Your Appetite
Big Ed’s does not believe in small servings. Every plate that comes out of the kitchen is loaded with food, ensuring you get your money’s worth and then some.
My breakfast plate was so full that I had to strategize how to tackle it without making a mess.
The generous portions are a point of pride here, and diners consistently mention them in reviews. Whether you order a single hotcake or a full country breakfast, you will leave satisfied and probably with leftovers.
The value is incredible, especially considering the quality of the food and the reasonable prices.
I watched as other tables received their meals, and every single plate looked like a feast. The home fries were piled high, the biscuits were enormous, and the meat portions were hearty and substantial.
This is not a place where you leave hungry or feeling shortchanged. The philosophy here is simple: give people real food in real amounts, and they will keep coming back.
It is a philosophy that clearly works, as the restaurant has been thriving for decades, feeding generations of happy, well fed customers.
10. No Reservations Policy That Keeps Things Real
Big Ed’s operates on a first come, first served basis, which means no reservations and no VIP treatment. Everyone waits their turn, and there is something refreshingly democratic about that approach.
It keeps the experience authentic and ensures that every customer is treated equally.
During peak times, especially on weekends, you might wait a bit for a table. But the line moves quickly, and most people report waiting only five to ten minutes.
The staff manages the flow efficiently, and the wait gives you time to soak in the atmosphere and anticipation.
For unusually large groups, the restaurant recommends calling ahead during business hours to make arrangements. But for the average diner, showing up and getting in line is part of the experience.
It builds a sense of community among those waiting, and by the time you sit down, you are already feeling connected to the place. This no frills approach is part of what makes Big Ed’s so beloved, reminding us that great food does not require pretense or exclusivity, just patience and an appetite.
11. Grits That Bring Creamy Comfort To Every Bite
Grits are a polarizing food, but at Big Ed’s, they are done right. Creamy, smooth, and perfectly seasoned, they serve as the ideal base for eggs, gravy, or just a pat of butter.
I ordered mine with cheese, and they arrived warm and comforting, exactly what I needed on a chilly morning.
Some reviewers mentioned the grits were a bit thinner than they prefer, but I found the consistency just right. They were not gummy or lumpy, which can ruin a good batch of grits.
The flavor was mild but rich, allowing them to complement the other items on my plate without overpowering them.
Grits are a staple of Southern cuisine, and Big Ed’s treats them with the respect they deserve. Whether you are a grits purist or someone trying them for the first time, you will appreciate the care that goes into preparing them here.
I found myself mixing them with my eggs and a bit of hot sauce, creating a combination that was both simple and deeply satisfying. They are the kind of comfort food that sticks to your ribs and makes you feel good from the inside out.
12. Community Connection That Goes Beyond The Menu
Located at 220 Wolfe Street in Raleigh, Big Ed’s is not just a restaurant, it is a community hub. The business has been involved in local revitalization projects and supports nearby farms by sourcing ingredients from local producers.
This commitment to the community adds depth to the dining experience, knowing that your meal supports the local economy.
The restaurant has been a fixture in downtown Raleigh for decades, witnessing the area’s transformation while remaining true to its roots. Locals bring their families here for special occasions, and visitors make it a must stop on their Raleigh itinerary.
The sense of belonging is palpable, with regulars chatting with staff and newcomers quickly feeling like part of the family.
This connection to the community is what gives Big Ed’s its soul. It is not a corporate chain churning out identical meals; it is a locally owned treasure that cares about the people it serves.
Every meal supports local farmers, every visit strengthens community ties, and every plate carries the legacy of Big Ed’s vision. That kind of impact goes far beyond food, making this restaurant an essential part of Raleigh’s cultural fabric.
13. A Meal That Stays With You Long After
As I finished my last bite of biscuit and drained my coffee cup, I sat back and felt completely content. The meal had been everything I hoped for and more, a perfect blend of flavor, tradition, and warmth.
My server checked in one last time, making sure I had everything I needed before presenting the bill.
The total came to just over thirteen dollars, which felt almost too good to be true considering the quality and quantity of food I had just enjoyed. In many cities, the same meal would cost twice as much and not taste half as good.
The value here is unbeatable, making Big Ed’s accessible to everyone regardless of budget.
I left Big Ed’s City Market Restaurant with a full stomach and a happy heart. The experience was more than just a meal; it was a glimpse into Southern culture, a taste of history, and a reminder of what restaurants can be when they prioritize people over profits.
I will be back, probably sooner than I should admit, because some places just call you home. This is one of them.
