I am not what you would call a breakfast enthusiast. Eggs, bacon, grits, even French toast piled high with heaps of syrup and butter do not appeal to my rather picky palate. In fact, nothing about breakfast makes my mouth water or my tummy rumble … until recently.

Pancake Pantry is a must when family and friends are visiting me in Nashville. However, I had never ventured out of my comfort zone to try the breakfast until now. Despite rave reviews and the droves of people wrapped around the building waiting in line, I’ve always been too nervous to order the breakfast. This time, I chose the sweet potato pancakes. Topped with cinnamon sugar and butter, I savored each and every bite. The flavors were skillfully blended to create a certain fluffy and rich, yet sweet taste. Don’t be discouraged if sweet potatoes are not your cup of tea. There are more than 20 different kinds of pancakes, from wild blueberry to orange walnut to Caribbean pancakes topped with bits of shredded coconut.

But you don’t have to take my word for it. Garth Brooks likes to frequent the Pantry and so does Lyle Lovett. When LeAnn Rimes has nothin’ better to do, she comes in for a hot bite to eat. Pancake Pantry owner David Baldwin says even Keith Urban often occupies a seat at one of his tables, but to his woe, only one seat. (He’s anxious to meet Nicole Kidman.)

For 47 years, Pancake Pantry has remained a staple of Nashville and for good reason. The delectable food is freshly prepared and the service is always friendly. Their hospitable atmosphere makes the customer feel as though they’re at a family gathering. Like their menu reads, “You are always welcome at our table.” I can proudly say the Pancake Pantry has converted this breakfast brooder to a flapjack fanatic.

See photos.