They developed as a franchised spin-off of The Original Pancake House, founded in Portland, Oregon, in 1953 by Les Highet and Erma Hueneke; the Walker Bros. version has been in business for over 45 years.

"[2] Zagat recognized them as Chicago's "best breakfast – bar none" and the "north and Northwest suburban family favorite."

[3] They received the "Gold Cup" from Superior Coffee Company, a coveted award of excellence.

[4] Chef and food critic James Beard, who grew up in Portland, named The Original Pancake House as one of the top ten "best" in America.

In 1999, the Original Pancake House in Portland was designated by the James Beard Foundation as a regional landmark restaurant.