East Sacramentans, grab your forks and loosen your belts—National Pancake Day is just around the corner! On February 28th, it’s time to celebrate the humble yet glorious pancake, a breakfast staple that has been delighting taste buds for over 30,000 years.
Whether you’re a fan of the classic buttermilk stack or prefer your pancakes with a creative twist, there’s no better day to indulge. Let’s dive into the history of this fluffy favorite and explore how you can celebrate right here in East Sacramento.
A Brief History of Pancakes (Yes, It’s Older Than Your Grandma’s Recipe)
Pancakes have been around for so long that they make sliced bread look like a rookie. Archaeological evidence suggests that pancakes date back to the Stone Age, with traces found in the stomach of Otzi the Iceman (a 5,300-year-old mummy). The Greeks and Romans whipped up their own alita dolcia (translation: “another sweet”), using wheat flour, olive oil, honey, and curdled milk. Even Shakespeare gave pancakes a shoutout in his plays—talk about timeless appeal.
Fast forward to today, pancakes have become a global phenomenon. Every culture has its take on this versatile dish, from thin French crêpes to fluffy Japanese soufflé pancakes. In the U.S., National Pancake Day was popularized by IHOP in 2006 as a way to raise money for charity while giving away free short stacks. Since then, the day has become a cherished tradition for pancake lovers everywhere.
How to Celebrate National Pancake Day in East Sacramento
Ready to celebrate? Here are some local spots where you can stack up your pancake game:
Address: 3440 C Street, Sacramento, CA 95816
Hours: 7:30 AM – 1:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
This East Sac favorite serves up pancakes that are anything but ordinary. Their signature banana blackberry pancakes are a must-try—light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh fruit flavor. Bonus: They cater to health-conscious eaters with gluten-free options.
Address: 2101 Broadway, Sacramento, CA 95818
Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Final seating at 1:55 PM)
Step into this retro diner for a nostalgic pancake experience. Known for its no-frills approach and generous portions, Pancake Circus has been serving Sacramento since the 1960s. Whether you go for their classic buttermilk pancakes or something more adventurous like chocolate chip stacks, you’ll leave with a smile (and maybe a food coma).
Address: 5913 Broadway, Sacramento, CA 95820
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
This Michelin-recognized gem takes pancakes to gourmet levels. Their seasonal menus feature creative spins on classics like lemon ricotta pancakes or cornmeal griddle cakes topped with local syrup. Pro tip: Arrive early; the lines can get long!
4. IHOP
Address: 2035 Arden Way, Sacramento, CA 95825
Hours on National Pancake Day: Likely 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Call to confirm)
If free pancakes sound like music to your ears, head to IHOP for their annual giveaway of short stacks. In return for your free meal, consider making a donation to one of their partnered charities—it’s a win-win!
DIY Pancake Fun at Home
Prefer flipping your own flapjacks? Head over to Delish for an arsenal of pancake recipes ranging from classic buttermilk to decadent s’mores pancakes. Feeling adventurous? Try their lemon ricotta or Japanese soufflé pancakes for a touch of culinary flair.
Pro tip: Make it a family affair by setting up a DIY pancake bar with toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, Nutella, and—you guessed it—maple syrup.
Pancake Trivia You Can Drop Over Breakfast
- The world’s largest pancake measured over 49 feet in diameter and weighed more than three tons.
- The record for the highest pancake toss is an impressive 31 feet.
- Buttermilk pancakes are America’s favorite (33%), followed by blueberry and chocolate chip varieties.
- Maple syrup wasn’t always just for pancakes—it was originally discovered as a sweet drink by Native Americans.
Why Pancakes Deserve Their Own Day
Pancakes are more than just breakfast food; they’re edible happiness. Whether you like them sweet or savory, thick or thin, there’s a pancake out there for everyone. So, this February 28th, gather your friends and family and make it a day filled with syrupy goodness.
Sources: nationaltoday.com, klove.com, calendarr.com, delish.com, google.com
Header Image Source: Nauris Pūķis on Unsplash
