Two national chains have outlets near the I-Drive area that provide an excellent alternative to the IHOPs, Denny’s, and doughnut shops that are prevalent in the area. First Watch (7500 W. Sand Lake Rd., 407/363-5622, 7 a.m.–2:30 p.m. daily, main courses from $7) is a Florida-based chain that emphasizes fresh ingredients, a wide selection of healthy breakfast options, and unique preparations like “chickichanga,” with scrambled eggs, chorizo, chilis, cheese, and avocado piled into a tortilla. Standard breakfast fare is also available in ample portions.

Le Peep (4666 S. Kirkman Rd., 407/291-4580, 6:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 7 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Sat.–Sun., main courses from $6) adds crepes and a variety of pancakes to the typical breakfast menu, but the main reason to head here is for the excellent coffee and decadent Gooey Buns, which are English muffins broiled and topped with brown sugar, cinnamon, cream cheese, and skillet-fried apples.

The locally-owned Florida Waffle Shop (4192 Conroy Rd., 407/226-1400, 7 a.m.–2:30 p.m. daily, main courses from $6) specializes in waffles, and tops the Belgian beasts with any combination of fruit, nuts, and whipped cream you can come up with. Omelets, pancakes, and eggs-and-bacon plates are also available.