I had a great experience here. The service was fast, friendly, and genuinely welcoming. The food came out quickly and tasted fantastic -- fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with care. I'll definitely be coming back. read more

Food: Everything was delicious. Coffee was really good. Quick and hot. Service: Very nice and attentive despite it being super busy. Ambiance: Cute decor. Love the mugs. Inclusive diner. Will definitely be returning. Just keep in mind we arrived 30-40 mins before opening and waited outside. It does get busy and there's a long line but we went in October so it might be different during another time that isn't peak for Salem. read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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The Ugly Mug Diner is a creatively inspired, upscale diner in the heart of Salem that specializes in breakfast and brunch. It's open every day from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. My friends and I stopped in early one afternoon last month during our second day in Salem. Although there was a short wait when we arrived, it moved quickly and well worth it. The food was delicious, and our server was friendly and attentive. I ordered the steak & eggs, which came with two eggs, marinated skirt steak, toast, and home fries. The steak was juicy, and the marinade added a pleasant touch of sweetness. The presentation wasn't perfect because the steak was precut, but that wasn't a big deal. read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Steak & Eggs - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

We checked out The Ugly Mug Diner for breakfast on our last day in Salem. We waited in line outside for about 15 minutes before they seated us. The inside is fairly small and it definitely lives up to that diner feel - with only a few tables and a counter area. We ordered the Breakfast Burrito, This Ain't No Chicken & Waffles and the Breakfast Poutine. For drinks, we ordered the Salted Caramel Mocha and the Apple Cider Mimosa. I really enjoyed my Breakfast Poutine - the gravy had nice flavor and it was loaded with cheese. My husband liked this Chicken and Waffles - he said the chicken was great, but unfortunately my friend said the Breakfast Burrito and salsa that came on the side lacked a lot of flavor. Staff were very friendly and welcoming and the food came out quick and hot though. Overall, I really liked The Ugly Mug Diner - the food was good overall and the ambiance felt cozy. I would definitely come back and try some other dishes next time I get the chance to visit! Check them out! read more

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Super cute breakfast place. We made it to Salem during the craziest time of all, Halloween. As we were looking for places to eat, we found this lovely place close to Essex street. The spot was cozy the moment we walked in. Highly decorative and friendly. Also the crab cake Benedict was spilling out with deliciousness. The sweet potatoes absolutely immaculate. And my wife and I agreed it was a super awesome experience overall. Come check it out next time! read more

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Cute local spot for breakfast in Salem! There was a line outside (it was a Saturday morning in November), but they kept it moving efficiently. Our service was friendly, and the food was about what you'd expect from a little diner! I feel like the interior could benefit from a little bit of an update, but it's a great place for a breakfast stop. read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - This Ain't No Chicken & Waffles, Huevos Rancheros - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

I was in Salem some months back and one of my best friends found this spot with good reviews for breakfast so we walked in and luckily got a table right away. It was around 10.45am on a Friday and the place was pretty packed. I ordered some tea and my friends some coffee and juice, we were 4 people in total. For breakfast 3 of us ordered their Steak and Eggs which came with 2 eggs, marinated skirt steak, toast, and home fries. The steak was good, and the marinade they used really gave the steak a good flavor. It was a very fulfilling dish full of protein and carbs. My other friend ordered the Eggs Florentine with sauteed spinach and portobello mushrooms, she really enjoyed it. The ambiance is loud, it's a diner but decent and the food was greasy but yummy. read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Steak & Eggs - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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Solid breakfast offerings... like the dishes other restaurants don't typically make but are classics. I watched my husband be genuinely elated to order toad in a hole- he hasn't seen toad in a hole for years on a menu. The inside has super creative decor and the wait staff is friendly and attentive. Definitely recommend but it's super popular- be prepared for a wait! read more

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We had an exceptional experience at the Ugly Mug for a late breakfast on Saturday. While there is tons of street parking around, we actually found it easier to park in the parking garage behind the witches small area so that we could just freely walk around without having to worry about metered parking. My husband got the Western omelette and a pancake as well as two pieces of bacon. The food was delicious with the exception of the home fries. They tasted old and like they've been sitting for a while. I got the breakfast burrito and was very impressed with the flavor although the eggs could've used a little bit more seasoning. Overall, the location is quite busy, but the service was exceptional and probably one of the one spots during our vacation that we've had undeniably great hospitality. read more

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My wife and I tried The Ugly Mug Diner during our trip to Salem. It DID NOT disappoint. I had the scotch egg breakfast and a mocha latte both of which were great. My wife, who is vegan and gluten-free, had corn cakes with candied pecans which she said was awesome. We will return the next time we are visiting. The server was great. The whole dining room is decorated in breakfast decor. I love this place. read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Scotch Egg Breakfast and Corn Cakes with Candied Pecans - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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I'm not sure why this place has such rave reviews. Aside from the stellar interior decor, some friends and I found this place to be mediocre at best. Bacon was overcooked, eggs were undercooked (runny & clear whites), and the home fries were awful. Service was kind and friendly but again, the food was not very good. The one thing I'd recommend is the sweet potato home fries, they're far better than the regular ones. Respectfully, I would not come here again. read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Egg in a basket - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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Coffee was delicious and the inside vibe/decor was cool! Food was pricey for how average it was read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Campfire Delight, Gimme S'mores & Nutella Latte - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

The food and customer service is really good. Nice stop in Salem MA. Excellent people that work there!! Very focused on great customer service!! read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Wall - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

I actually really enjoyed this spot. The waffle was good and didn't taste like a gross box of mix. It was very sweet though (I got the Elvis waffle). The service was friendly and the space was a cute decorated vibe for sure. read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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We stopped in for a quick lunch and had some grilled cheese sandwiches that hot in the spot. Service is was quick and friendly! Loved the hot cider, too read more

I love a no frills diner experience. We made our trip to Salem slightly post season and left NY at 7am. This put us in Salem a little before noon. My friend arrived a little earlier and was able to snag us a table right away. We finished parking and walked over. Immediately knew we had the coolest waitress! I noticed her "Leatheface" tattoo and I was sold! And then.....drum roll please, she showed me her leg! I am obsessed! Horror movie fanatic central, took me after we left to figure out it was from the tattoo artist I love, STEGA! She also gave us tons of great Salem tips! I truly felt so at home in Salem in this trip! I was in the mood for lunch! And the crab sandwich sounded perfect with some fries. And how could I resist a Nutella Latte. It was just what I wanted. I ordered my meal so fast that I didn't realize it came with bacon, had to pull that right out and my boyfriend was more than happy to assist. The food came out super fast and was the perfect base for running around Salem. I was tempted by the huevos rancheros and the eggs Benedict's. Until next time! And I hear there's pentagrams on the Gimme S'more! I'm here for all the gimmicks! No shame in my game! read more

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I went there this morning and it wasn't super crowded - I was sat immediately. Only 10 minutes later, did people start absolutely pouring in around 11ish. My server was really nice. I got silver dollar pancakes, eggs, bacon, sourdough toast, and home fries. I had been absolutely craving silver dollar pancakes so they made me happy and were really yummy. Also, their bacon is tasty AF - 10/10 would recommend grabbing anything with bacon. Oh, and their bathrooms were clean which I appreciated. My only gripe was that their menu online and in person said they had Diet Coke, but they have independent branded sodas that they serve (I can't remember the brand). It wasn't bad, but I did really want a diet coke. That being said - the server did let me know when I ordered that it wasn't the brand which I appreciated, but I figured I would give others a heads up in case they come from a specific brand family. Overall, I would go back and have breakfast again. read more

The atmosphere and decor is like walking in to a page from cloudy with a chance of meatballs! It is so thoughtful and imaginative. I was seated quickly at the counter. May quickly brought me water and took my order. Made suggestions and even described some of the options. When I asked for a substitution you kindly accosted and sent in my order. I ordered the hash Benny 2 ways with gravy instead of hollandaise. While I waited for my food May was attentive checking in to see if I needed more coffee or anything else. I ordered coffee, and an apple cider mimosa. Both were very good! The hash benny was great, I definitely preferred the corned beef over the sweet potato side. The gravy was very flavorful and the entire meal made for a great start to my day exploring Salem. read more

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Service: Staggered. I arrived before the diner was open and it was off putting when there are people outside while there are empty tables inside. I understand why they only allow one table in at a time within 10 minute increments. They do it to allow the kitchen staff to not be overwhelmed by the huge rush of orders all coming in at once. People in line don't understand this and they get frustrated with the wait staff. Food: Huevos Rancheros - Mid. I wanted something that was carb heavy and this was the only thing i was okay with getting. The salsa was fine and the chips got soggy while sitting in it. The eggs were poached beautifully. Wished that it had more of a kick. Speedy Turtle Latte - Not overly sweet. With the description of caramel and toffee syrup in the mocha coffee, I was pleasantly surprised that it was not overly sweet. I would get this again. On to my next adventure... read more

Cold egg/lox on bagel and undercooked cold pancakes. Bagel wasn't warmed or roasted. Potatoes were cold like reserved from someone else's plate. It was like it was warmed up leftovers. Should've kicked it all back to the kitchen. Wont be back..too many other options. read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Raw pancakes - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

Our first breakfast spot in Salem. I dont know if there is always a line out the door or if it's just October in Salem but waited about 45 minutes before we got seated and we lined up before the diner opened. Got seated by the only table in the house..right by the window so got to peek out at the line of people waiting to get in. May was our sever and she was so sweet! She made some great suggestions on things to see and do around Salem so thank you May! Food was OK. Ordered OJ and a veggie omelette. You get to choose all the veggies that goes in. Huge portions and asked for a side of fruits. I had to ask May..why is the diner called the Ugly mug? She told us many customers started bringing and leaving their own mugs here thus creating a huge collection that the diner now uses to serve coffee. Interesting right? An a-ok spot to stop at in Salem. read more

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This place is the definition of a lucky find. I stumbled in by chance, and from the moment I stepped inside, I could tell it was something special. It's got that cozy diner feel but with a fresh, artsy twist--cool artwork on the walls, laid-back but stylish vibes, and a staff that makes you feel instantly welcome. The servers are awesome--genuinely friendly, super knowledgeable about the menu, and happy to walk you through anything. You get the sense that they actually like working there, which just makes the whole experience feel even warmer. One of the coolest parts? Almost everything on the menu is around the same price, and you're getting generous portions for it. No weird upcharges, no surprises--just good food, fairly priced. And let me tell you: everything was tasty. There was even a special that turned heads as it came out, and I found myself already planning what I'd get on my next visit. By the time I looked around, almost every seat was full. It's clear this is the kind of spot locals know about--and keep coming back to for a reason. It's welcoming, it's delicious, and it's effortlessly cool without trying too hard. Definitely one of those places you feel lucky to have discovered--and even luckier to return to. read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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Loved the food! Service was fast and everyone is nice and friendly! It's a cozy little place close to Essex street. read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Crab Benedict - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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Breakfast sandwiches were delicious. We had one before the 5K run we did. Coffee and drinks were great too. The server was less than approachable. Definitely was rushing us. The place had a good flow to them and lots of regulars. Small place but cozy for a gather. read more

We're in town visiting Salem and we stopped in today at the Ugly Mug Diner. The first thing we noticed was the giant crochet bacon and egg in a jumbo frying pan on the wall. There were also a few very cool murals too. The decor also included colanders for light fixtures. Very unique! The food was fantastic! Our daughter had an omelette with sausage and pepper jack cheese. It was cooked to perfection. Many places cook the eggs to the point that they start to brown which in my opinion is over cooked. They nailed it! She also had the mixed fried potatoes which includes white and sweet potatoes. We're now a good 9 hours post breakfast and she's still talking about them and how good they were. They are a bit spicy but the flavor was just unreal, the salty and sweet combined with the spice was a trifecta of flavor. My wife had eggs benedict and she was impressed with the egg. She always looks for the runny egg and again lots of places cook the crap out of everything and they end up solid. Not here! Again, perfection! She also had a chocolate chip pancake which was giant! On option was cinnamon butter and it was the right selection. I was boring and had a bagel and cream cheese, and although it was just a bagel, it was also very good. They didn't skimp on the cream cheese either. Our server was super nice and he was very happy that we were so happy with our meal. If you're in town definitely stop in and get the mixed potatoes, you won't be sorry. read more

Our group had breakfast here the morning after our wedding. I think there were 12 of us and they were able to accommodate us at multiple tables after a short wait. The menu is really fun! We all ordered different items and fun coffees. The food came out quickly and everything was incredible! The restaurant inside is so adorable. They have large crocheted artworks on the wall and all the staff was really friendly. read more

We waited in line for about 45 minutes for a table, and to be honest, our server who was extremely friendly and attentive, the food was just "OK" so I'm not sure what the attraction and popularity is over this place. Very basic diner style food, and other than the friendly service, I'm not sure what the big deal about this place is all about. It's not bad, but nothing I'll be dreaming about. Maybe there's just limited breakfast options in this area? read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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Party of 6. Got in pretty quick even though it was the day before Halloween. Sat at 2 tables. Service was good and food was ok. Nothing really wowed me. Tried to order Scotch eggs but told they were out but 20 mins later someone else got one who was sat after us. Maybe they had to make more but I feel we should have been offered it once they were available. My S'mores Latte was blah. Chicken and Waffles was the best thing I had. read more

This is kind of like a no frills diner. The ugly mug was ugly but cute. It def fit the Salem vibe. I had the stuffed French toast with cream cheese and fruit.... I ate every bite. The girls got the pumpkin pancakes which were AHmazing. My husband ordered the crab cake Benedict and he was so pleased with it. The service was good, quick, and efficient. read more

During my weekend trip to Boston, I decided to drive up to Salem for the day to explore the city. I mean, it was October and Friday the 13th - could the setting be any more perfect? Anyway, part of my planning was to find places to eat in addition to the historic sites. The Ugly Mug Diner came up as a popular breakfast spot, and since I like to sit for breakfast whenever I travel - I thought it was a ideal spot to start my day. UMD sits close to Essex St, which is the main touristy hub of Salem. I arrived in the city around 7:30am to be sure I could beat the traffic and walk around before the crowds started; I got to the diner at opening and was seated right away. The interior isn't too large but has a decent amount of tables and stool seating at the bar. Decor is simple with accents throughout the space - a standout are crocheted bacon and eggs hanging on the wall. True to the name, all the mugs are random, or "ugly" - seemingly collected from wherever they could find them. They had a good selection of breakfast items, including a section dedicated to benedicts. The Blue Plate special stood out to me, which consisted of blueberry pancakes with a side of bacon and hash browns. I was given the choice of regular potatoes, sweet potatoes, or a mix (I chose a mix) and regular or cinnamon butter (I chose cinnamon). The dish was fine - I think there could have been more blueberries in the pancakes, and the hash browns weren't really hash browns - they were more like roasted potatoes. Service was good, the staff was friendly and kept things moving. Overall, I think the Ugly Mug Diner is fine for a basic breakfast, but there is nothing too outstanding about it. Due to its location in Salem, it's consistently busy - there was a long line waiting to get in by the time I left. I wouldn't be against returning here, but would want to explore other eateries in the city first. read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Blue Plate Special (blueberry pancakes with mix of sweet and regular potato hash browns, bacon, and cinnamon butter) - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

I was excited to try this place out. The customer service was excellent but the food just didn't do it for me. While I had never tried eggs Benedict and I had nothing to compare it to, it was just ok. I had them put the sauce on the side to make sure I would like the sauce. read more

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Service was good, but definitely not gf friendly. Chicken and waffles was okay waffles chicken fingers (some boneless some bone in) Standard dinner setup. read more

No wonder this place is so popular! Excellent breakfast and warm, welcoming service! A vast assortment of choices for breakfast. Fun deco inside too. read more

The place is cute with cool decor and ambiance. The food is generally well priced. I ordered the eggs Benedict with crab cake. Although the food had great flavor, and the crab cake was good... the eggs were hard boiled. Eggs Bennie is my go to, and I've never had hard boiled "poached" eggs on one before. The home fries were also cold. I ate the food, didn't complain bc the flavor was there. When I told server she should tell the cook he's over cooking the eggs, she was really rude about it and side eyed me the rest of the time. Even crumbling the receipt in front of us when we let her know the meal was separate for the four of us. She appeared to never go back to let the cooks know he was over cooking the eggs by the way. I would like to add I am a former server and try very hard to be polite when complaining about food... if at all. And to have a server act that way towards our table really ruined our experience. read more

Cute little breakfast spot right near the Bewitched statue. It was busy but the service was quick. I wanted to try the seasonal fried green tomato Benedict but they were out so went with the eggs florentine. They also had the choice of regular and sweet potato home fries or mixed. I could have used more hollandaise, maybe because other restaurants don't have the egg cooked as long so you get the yolk mixed in too. read more

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Food was great. Staff was very friendly, atmosphere was fun and clean. A little pricy. They charged $3 just to add pumpkin to my pancakes.

Came here for Halloween weekend and it's got a real spooky vibe inside. Worth the wait and everyone inside is super nice. The food was a classic American breakfast and it was delicious. read more

This restaurant was really cute. It seemed very busy, but thankfully we were seated within five minutes. Our hostess was really kind and made sure to give us extra room between the table next to us so we would have a little more space. The table itself was pretty small, we didn't have a TON of room, but that was okay. Our waiter was really nice and chill and made sure we had everything we needed. I ordered the Nutella iced latte. It was good, but not my favorite (it fell a little short). I also ordered the sausage egg and cheese breakfast sandwich on a bagel. It was good, but I ordered the egg over easy (since that's what seemed to be the standard) but it was hard to eat (since I'm used to eggs being fried or scrambled). However, that's my fault for not changing the order. Regardless, the food was good and the decorations were cute (with an adorable crotched griddle and eggs on the wall!) read more

The Ugly Mug Diner - Nutella Iced Latte - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salem, Massachusetts

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Avoid at all cost. Seating and waiting on us seemed to be a bother. The food was over cooked and burnt. To top it off as the staff gathered to talk, it was a loud talk and full off very personal details. I just felt like an obligation eating there read more

This place is so good! I grew up on Reds but would come here instead anytime. That's big if ur from Salem. I'm back in Salem after 15 years so this place is new to me. The Elvis waffles were so amazing and the eggs were delicious. read more