One of the best breakfasts in Raleigh. However, it can be VERY slow for no obvious reason. It should not take 40+ minutes for bacon and eggs.

Watkins is a classic old Raleigh restaurant that still has confederate decorations on the wall. I see people of all types in there though. Everyone seems welcome.

It does not look like they have spent a dime taking care of the place over the years and that is part of its charm. It is not "dirty"... just very dated. However, the AC ducts are run right through the restaurant and have been known to leak on people and their food. Be warned.

The food is consistently great and the prices are hard to beat. The wait staff is friendly and after a few visits, they may memorize your favorite order.

The problem is the time it takes for simple orders to come out of the kitchen. They seem to cook one order at a time and if you get stuck behind a larger order, you are screwed. Although this is not a fault of the wait staff, they should warn you if things are busy and keep you comfortable with biscuits or something. If you are in a rush, this is not a place for you.

It makes me wonder how a place like Waffle House has a single chef juggling dozens of orders and the food is ready in only a few minutes.

The parking lot can be an adventure if you don't get there early enough. They accept cash only and have an ATM outside.

With some investment and efficiency management, this place would be a real gem... But they always seem to be busy enough without my unsolicited advice.