2 City Ham Biscuits at Waffle House deliver mild, satisfying breakfast flavor in a classic package. Two warm buttermilk biscuits filled with wet cured city ham create a traditional Southern meal. The gentle curing process gives city ham its tender texture and sweet, approachable taste. This breakfast appeals to guests seeking authentic diner culture without intense saltiness.
2 City Ham Biscuits cost $7.50 to $9.00 and contain approximately 760 calories. Each order includes two buttermilk biscuits with thin sliced city ham grilled on the flat top griddle. The sodium content reaches 1,400 to 1,600 mg, significantly lower than country ham. Available 24 hours a day at most locations.
What Makes City Ham Different?
City ham stands apart through its wet curing preparation method. Brine solution with salt, sugar, and spices preserves the meat. This technique creates milder flavor compared to dry cured country ham.
The wet curing (Wet curing process is a food preservation method where meat is soaked in a liquid curing solution (brine) to add flavor, moisture, and longer shelf life.) process keeps the ham moist and tender. Sugar in the brine adds subtle sweetness. The meat maintains a pink color and soft texture. Most Americans recognize this as a standard “deli ham” flavor.
Waffle House grills each city ham slice on the flat top griddle before assembly. The high heat creates light char marks and warms the meat through. This short order cooking method adds a subtle smoky note while preserving tenderness.
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Understanding the Buttermilk Biscuit Foundation
The buttermilk biscuits at Waffle House provide the vehicle for the city ham. These Southern style biscuits bake fresh throughout the day. The recipe includes wheat flour, buttermilk, butter or shortening, and leavening agents.
Bakers split each biscuit horizontally after baking. The interior stays soft and tender. The exterior develops a golden brown crust. The buttermilk adds a slight tang that complements the sweet ham.
Each biscuit weighs approximately 3 ounces. Two biscuits contribute 520 calories to your meal. The traditional preparation method reflects the heritage of American diner culture established by founders Joe Rogers Sr. and Tom Forkner in Avondale Estates, Georgia.
How Do They Prepare the Biscuits?
Fresh batches bake at regular intervals during service. The 24 hour diner culture at Waffle House means biscuits must stay available around the clock. Cooks split the warm biscuits, add the grilled ham, then serve immediately.
No spreads or condiments come standard with 2 City Ham Biscuits . The simplicity lets the ham flavor dominate. Some guests request butter, jelly, or honey mustard on the side.
2 City Ham Biscuits Nutrition Facts
This meal provides substantial calories and protein with moderate sodium content. Understanding nutrition helps you make informed choices.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
| Calories | 760 |
| Protein | 36 g |
| Carbohydrates | 64 g |
| Fat | 42 g |
| Sodium | 1,400-1,600 mg |
The sodium content represents approximately 60 to 70% of the recommended daily limit (2,400 mg). The wet curing process uses less salt than country ham. This creates a more moderate health profile for sodium conscious diners.
Does City Ham Provide Good Protein?
Yes. City ham delivers excellent protein content. Two biscuits with city ham provide 36 grams of bioavailable protein. This exceeds most breakfast sandwich options.
The essential amino acids in city ham include leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Your body absorbs and uses these efficiently. The protein supports muscle maintenance and creates lasting satiety for 5 to 6 hours.
Adding an egg increases total protein to 42 to 48 grams. This makes the meal suitable for post workout recovery or high protein eating plans.
Detailed Calorie Breakdown
Understanding where calories come from helps with meal planning. Here’s the component breakdown:
| Component | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
| Two Buttermilk Biscuits | 520 | 8 | 64 | 24 |
| City Ham (grilled) | 240 | 28 | 4 | 12 |
| Total | 760 | 36 | 68 | 36 |
The fat content comes primarily from the biscuit butter and the natural fat in cured pork. The protein level supports muscle recovery and prevents mid morning hunger. The carbohydrates provide quick energy from wheat flour.
How Much Does 2 City Ham Biscuits Cost?
Pricing varies by location but typically ranges from $7.50 to $9.00. This positions it in the mid range of Waffle House breakfast options. Urban locations and tourist areas charge toward the higher end. Small town restaurants across the Southern United States often price lower.
The cost reflects quality wet cured ham and traditional preparation. City ham requires careful brining and cooking. This affects the base ingredient cost compared to standard breakfast meats.
Is It Good Value for Money?
You receive two complete biscuit sandwiches for $7.50 to $9.00. This provides 760 calories and 36 grams of protein. Compared to ordering two single biscuits separately, this combination offers better value.
The filling nature means most guests feel satisfied until lunch. The high satiety index justifies the price for travelers seeking road trip comfort food or late-night dining options.
City Ham vs Country Ham: Understanding the Difference
Waffle House offers both city ham and country ham on different menu items. The preparation methods create distinct flavor profiles and nutrition.
City Ham Characteristics:
- Wet cured with brine solution
- Soft, moist, tender texture
- Mild, slightly sweet flavor
- Pink color
- Moderate sodium (1.400-1.600 mg)
- Familiar nationwide taste
Country Ham Characteristics:
- Dry cured with heavy salt
- Firm, chewy texture
- Intense, salty flavor
- Deep red color
- Very high sodium (2,300 mg)
- Traditional Southern preparation
City ham suits guests preferring gentler flavors and lower sodium. Country ham appeals to purists seeking authentic Southern breakfast traditions. Neither is objectively better; they serve different taste preferences.
Which Ham Should First-Time Visitors Choose?
Start with city ham. The milder flavor provides an easier introduction to Waffle House breakfast meats. The familiar taste resembles standard deli ham most Americans know.
Once comfortable, try country ham to experience traditional Southern curing methods. Many guests appreciate city ham’s approachable character and never switch. Others develop preferences for one style over the other.
Can You Customize 2 City Ham Biscuits ?
Yes. Customization options enhance the traditional preparation while maintaining authenticity.
Available Additions:
Fresh Egg:
Add scrambled or fried eggs to each biscuit.
One egg contributes 80 to 90 calories and 6 grams of protein.
Rose Acre Farms eggs cook on the flat top griddle using the same short-order cooking method.
American Cheese:
One slice adds 50 calories and creates a richer sandwich.
The cheese melts over the warm ham before assembly.
The mild cheese complements the sweet ham perfectly.
Cheddar Cheese:
Sharper flavor than American. Contains 60 calories per slice.
Works well if you prefer tangy contrast to the sweet ham.
Swiss Cheese:
Nutty, slightly sweet flavor. Contains 70 calories per slice.
The sweetness matches city ham’s mild character.
Side Upgrades:
Order hashbrowns, grits, or tomatoes to complete your meal.
Each side adds different nutritional values and complements the ham differently.
Should You Add Eggs to City Ham Biscuits?
Adding eggs increases protein to 48 grams total. The egg provides an additional mild flavor that balances the sweet ham. The combination creates a more complete breakfast with better macro nutrient distribution.
However, eggs also add 160 to 180 calories (for two biscuits). Consider your calorie goals when deciding. The plain version already provides substantial calories at 760.
What Sides Pair With 2 City Ham Biscuits ?
Traditional Southern sides complement the mild, sweet ham. Each option provides different benefits.
Stone-Ground Grits:
Creamy texture with mild corn flavor. Contains 100 calories per serving.
The neutral taste lets the ham flavor shine.
Many Southern diners consider this the classic pairing.
Crispy Hashbrowns:
Shredded potatoes from Basic American Foods scattered on the griddle.
Contains 150 calories.
Order them using the hashbrown lingo:
Scattered (spread thin shredded potato)
Smothered (with saute onions)
Covered (with cheese)
Chunked (with ham)
Or any combination creating over 1,500 possible variations.
Sliced Tomatoes:
Fresh and acidic.
Contains just 20 calories.
The acidity provides contrast to the sweet ham.
Best choice for lower-calorie meals or those watching sodium.
Scrambled Eggs:
Additional protein beyond what’s in your biscuits.
One serving adds 180 calories and 12 grams of protein.
Creates a more substantial breakfast plate.
Fruit Cup:
Some locations offer fresh fruit.
Provides vitamins and natural sweetness.
Lower calorie alternative to starchy sides.
2 City Ham Biscuits Allergen Information
Know what ingredients affect your dietary restrictions. This breakfast contains several common allergens.
| Allergen | Present in Item | Notes |
| Wheat | Yes | Biscuits contain wheat flour |
| Gluten | Yes | From wheat flour in biscuits |
| Dairy | Yes | Buttermilk and butter in biscuits |
| Eggs | Possible | May be in biscuit recipe |
| Soy | Possible | May be in shortening |
| Pork | Yes | City ham is cured pork |
Cross contamination occurs on shared cooking surfaces. The flat top griddle handles toast, biscuits, eggs, and all proteins simultaneously. If you have severe allergies, inform your server so the cook can take extra precautions.
Is 2 City Ham Biscuits Gluten Free?
No. The buttermilk biscuits contain wheat flour, which includes gluten. This makes the meal unsuitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
The city ham itself contains no gluten. You can order grilled city ham separately without biscuits. Pair it with eggs and tomatoes for a naturally gluten free breakfast.
The Warning:
Waffle House is not a certified gluten free facility.
The high-volume short order cooking environment creates unavoidable cross-contact. Flour particles from biscuits transfer to other foods throughout service.
Can People With Celiac Disease Eat Here Safely?
Risk exists due to shared preparation areas. Some guests with celiac disease successfully order modified meals by clearly communicating their needs. Others avoid Waffle House completely due to contamination concerns.
The 24 hour diner culture and fast-paced service make complete separation difficult. Spatulas, griddle surfaces, and prep areas all contact wheat products regularly. Assess your personal tolerance level before deciding.
Is 2 City Ham Biscuits Keto Friendly?
No, not in standard form. The two buttermilk biscuits contribute 64 grams of carbohydrates. This exceeds the daily carb limit for ketogenic diets (typically 20 to 50 grams).
The Keto Modification:
Order city ham without biscuits.
Add two eggs and cheese.
Request sliced tomatoes as your side.
This creates a high protein, high fat, low carb plate.
A keto adapted version (ham, two eggs, cheese, no biscuits) contains approximately 6 to 8 grams of carbs. Protein reaches 40 grams. Fat totals about 35 grams. This maintains ketosis while delivering the city ham flavor.
Does Ordering Ham Without Biscuits Save Money?
Usually, yes. Ordering components separately costs less than the full biscuit meal. Ask your server for “city ham and eggs” or “city ham side” to receive adjusted pricing.
The modified order suits low-carb eating plans while reducing both cost and calories. You lose the traditional biscuit experience but gain dietary flexibility.
How Does the Maillard Reaction Affect Flavor?
When city ham hits the flat top griddle, the Maillard reaction begins. This chemical process creates brown color and savory flavor. The high heat griddle surface (around 350 to 400°F) triggers amino acids and sugars to react.
The result: enhanced flavor complexity beyond just sweet cured meat. Light char marks develop on the ham surface. The edges crisp slightly while the center stays tender. This grilling step separates Waffle House city ham from cold deli slices.
The same Maillard reaction browns biscuit exteriors during baking. Together, these create the signature diner taste that keeps customers returning to the Interstate Oasis locations.
When Can You Order 2 City Ham Biscuits ?
Waffle House operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 2 City Ham Biscuits appear on the menu at all times. Order them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or late-night meals.
This constant availability serves shift workers, long haul drivers, and travelers across the Southern United States. The Waffle House Index used by FEMA for disaster recovery depends on this reliable 24 hour operation.
Some locations may experience temporary shortages during peak hours. Generally, city ham stays available throughout service. The wet cured nature allows proper refrigeration and longer shelf life than fresh meats.
Is 2 City Ham Biscuits a Healthy Choice?
This depends on your definition of healthy and your dietary goals. The meal offers both benefits and considerations.
Nutritional Strengths:
- High protein content (36 grams) supports muscle maintenance
- Provides lasting satiety for 5-6 hours
- Lower sodium than country ham (1,400-1,600 mg vs 2,300 mg)
- Traditional preparation uses recognizable ingredients
- No artificial preservatives beyond curing ingredients
- Filling meal prevents overeating later
Nutritional Considerations:
- Moderate to high sodium (60-70% of daily limit)
- Moderate saturated fat from pork and butter
- Contains refined carbohydrates from white flour
- Not suitable for low-carb or gluten-free diets
- High calorie count for some meal targets
Balance this meal with lower-sodium foods throughout your day. Drink extra water to help process the salt. Consider adding tomatoes as your side to boost vegetable intake.
Who Should Order 2 City Ham Biscuits ?
This breakfast works well for several groups:
Active Individuals:
The calories and protein fuel physical work or exercise.
The balanced macros provide sustained energy throughout morning hours.
Sodium-Conscious Diners:
Those monitoring salt intake but wanting ham.
City ham contains significantly less sodium than country ham.
First-Time Visitors:
The familiar, mild flavor provides an easy introduction to Waffle House.
Less intimidating than intense country ham.
Travelers Needing Fuel:
Road trip comfort food that provides lasting energy.
The portable format suits eating while driving.
People Seeking Protein:
Those tracking protein intake get 36 grams in one meal.
Bodybuilders and athletes appreciate the amino acid profile.
Tips for Ordering 2 City Ham Biscuits
Walk to the counter or tell your server what you want. The ordering process stays straightforward for this menu item.
Ordering Steps:
- State “City Ham Biscuits, order of two”
- Specify any additions: “with eggs” or “add cheese”
- Choose your side: “with grits” or “and hashbrowns scattered and covered”
- Mention preparation preferences if any: “light on the butter” or “extra crispy ham”
Watch the cook work from counter seats. The open kitchen layout shows the flat top griddle technique. You’ll see how quickly the short-order cooking method produces your meal.
Should You Add Condiments?
City ham’s mild sweetness accepts various condiments well. Popular additions include:
Honey Mustard:
Sweet and tangy.
Complements the ham’s natural sweetness.
Not standard but usually available upon request.
Regular Mustard:
Classic pairing.
The acidity cuts through the richness.
Yellow or spicy brown both work.
Butter:
Extra richness for the biscuit.
Some guests prefer heavily buttered biscuits with ham.
Jelly or Jam:
Sweet contrast to savory ham.
Grape jelly is particularly popular in Southern breakfast traditions.
Experiment to find your preference. The approachable nature of city ham makes it versatile for customization.
What Drinks Complement City Ham?
The mild, sweet flavor calls for specific beverage pairings. These drinks balance the richness without overwhelming the gentle taste.
Royal Cup Coffee:
Hot, fresh, and slightly bitter.
The coffee cuts through the fat without overpowering the mild ham.
The partnership between Waffle House and Royal Cup Coffee ensures consistent quality.
Orange Juice:
Vitamin C offers nutritional benefits.
The citrus notes enhance pork flavors.
Natural acidity and sweetness provide perfect contrast.
Coca-Cola:
The iconic pairing dating back to the 1955 handshake agreement between Waffle House and Coca-Cola.
The sweetness complements the sweet ham.
The carbonation refreshes your palate.
Apple Juice:
Fruit sweetness matches ham’s mild character.
Less acidic than orange juice.
Popular with those who find OJ too sharp in the morning.
Alice’s Iced Tea:
Sweet tea tradition from the Southern United States.
The sugar balances the savory elements.
Regional authenticity matches the city ham heritage.
Water:
Practical choice for hydration.
You’ll want one or two glasses with the meal.
Helps process the moderate sodium content.
How Does It Compare to Other Breakfast Options?
Several Waffle House breakfast items compete for your attention. Here’s how 2 City Ham Biscuits stack up.
Vs. 2 Country Ham Biscuits : City ham provides milder flavor and lower sodium (1,400-1,600 mg vs 2,300 mg). Country ham tastes more intense and traditional. City ham costs slightly less ($7.50-9.00 vs $8.50-10.00) and has fewer calories (760 vs 870).
Vs. Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit: Bacon version offers smokier flavor. City ham provides more protein per biscuit (18g vs 9g). The ham version includes two biscuits versus one in the bacon option.
Vs. Sausage Biscuit: Sausage delivers richer, fattier flavor. City ham tastes cleaner and less greasy. Sausage appeals to those wanting indulgent breakfast. City ham suits health-conscious choices.
Vs. Chicken Biscuit: Chicken provides similar protein with different flavor. City ham tastes sweeter and more traditional. Chicken works for those avoiding red meat. City ham celebrates pork curing heritage.
Vs. Build-Your-Own Biscuit: Building your own allows complete customization. 2 City Ham Biscuits provide simplicity and consistent preparation. Build-your-own works for dietary restrictions; city ham celebrates traditional Southern breakfast.
Understanding the City Ham Curing Process
The wet-curing method sets city ham apart from country ham. This process takes days rather than weeks. Brine solution containing salt, sugar, water, and spices submerges the pork.
The liquid penetration creates even flavor distribution. Sugar adds sweetness while salt preserves the meat. The ham absorbs moisture rather than losing it like country ham. This creates a tender, juicy texture.
Modern commercial operations use injection curing for faster results. Needles inject brine directly into the meat. This speeds curing from weeks to days while maintaining quality.
Why Is City Ham More Popular Nationwide?
The mild flavor appeals to broader audiences. The wet-curing method became standard in urban areas (hence “city” ham). Industrial production made it widely available and affordable.
Country ham remained regional due to production complexity and intense flavor. City ham spread nationwide through commercial distribution. Most Americans grew up eating city ham, making it the familiar choice.
Making the Most of Your Order
2 City Ham Biscuits deliver the best experience when you understand what to expect. The mild, sweet flavor satisfies without being overwhelming. Each bite balances tender ham, soft biscuit, and slight tang from buttermilk.
Pair it with a side that provides textural contrast. Crispy hashbrowns add crunch. Creamy grits offer smoothness. Tomatoes provide fresh acidity. All three balance the ham effectively.
Eat within 15-20 minutes for optimal texture. The biscuits stay tender and the ham remains warm. Beyond that, the biscuits begin drying out and the ham cools.
This breakfast represents accessible Southern diner culture. It honors traditions from Avondale Estates, Georgia without intimidating newcomers. The same recipes that fed travelers decades ago still satisfy customers today.
Related Waffle House Breakfast Options
2 Country Ham Biscuits : Bold alternative with Dry cured ham. Higher sodium but authentic Southern flavor. For those wanting traditional intensity.
Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit: Classic combination familiar nationwide. Smoky bacon instead of sweet ham. Single biscuit option for lighter appetite.
Chicken Biscuit: Grilled chicken breast on buttermilk biscuit. Lean protein option. Good for those avoiding pork.
Sausage Biscuit: Rich, fatty, satisfying. Appeals to those wanting indulgent breakfast. Different flavor profile than ham.
All-Star Special: Complete breakfast with eggs, protein choice, hashbrowns, grits, and toast. More components and customization than two biscuits alone.
Build-Your-Own Biscuit: Total control over ingredients. Best for dietary restrictions or specific preferences. Similar cost to preset combinations.
Conclusion
2 City Ham Biscuits at Waffle House deliver mild Southern breakfast flavor for $7.50 to $9.00. Two buttermilk biscuits filled with wet cured city ham provide 760 calories and 36 grams of protein. The moderate sodium content (1,400-1,600 mg) makes this more accessible than country ham for health-conscious diners.
This breakfast works well for active individuals seeking substantial protein. The traditional preparation honors Southern diner culture while offering approachable flavor. The same flat top griddle technique used since Joe Rogers Sr. and Tom Forkner opened in Avondale Estates, Georgia continues today.
Customization options let you add eggs or cheese for extra protein and richness. Sides like grits or hashbrowns complete the meal. The 24 hour availability makes it accessible any time you crave traditional breakfast.
If you appreciate classic flavors and quality protein without intense saltiness, 2 City Ham Biscuits deliver a satisfying Southern breakfast. The familiar taste welcomes newcomers while maintaining authentic preparation methods beloved by regular customers.
FAQ’s
Can You Order Just One City Ham Biscuit?
Most locations accommodate single biscuit orders upon request. This works for lighter appetites or budget conscious diners. The price adjusts proportionally, typically $4.00 to $5.00 for one biscuit.
How Salty Is City Ham Compared to Bacon?
City ham and bacon contain similar sodium levels. Two strips of bacon have about 300 to 400 mg sodium. One serving of city ham contains approximately 700 to 800 mg. The taste difference comes from sugar in ham curing.
Does Waffle House Cure Their Own City Ham?
No. Waffle House sources city ham from specialized suppliers maintaining quality wet curing standards. The restaurant grills pre-cured ham slices to order on the flat top griddle.
Can You Request Thick Cut City Ham?
City ham comes pre sliced at standard thickness. You cannot request thicker cuts at most locations. The thin slicing ensures quick grilling and even heating. All locations use the same thickness for consistency.
Should You Eat City Ham Biscuits Before or After Exercise?
This works well either way. Before exercise, it provides sustained energy from protein and carbs. After exercise, the protein supports muscle recovery. The moderate fat content might cause discomfort during intense activity.
How Long Do Leftovers Keep?
Store leftover biscuits in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven wrapped in foil for 10 to 12 minutes. Microwaving makes biscuits tough and rubbery. The ham quality remains good for 2-3 days refrigerated.
Can You Order City Ham as a Side?
Yes. Request “city ham side” to receive the grilled ham without biscuits. This costs less than the two biscuit meal. Pair it with eggs and tomatoes for a low carb breakfast.
Is 2 City Ham Biscuits Popular Nationwide?
Yes. City ham’s mild flavor appeals across all regions. Unlike country ham’s concentrated Southern popularity, city ham sells well everywhere Waffle House operates. The familiar taste crosses regional boundaries.
What Makes City Ham “City” Style?
The term “city” refers to the urban industrial wet curing method. This contrasts with “country” ham’s rural dry curing tradition. City ham developed for mass production and wider distribution.
Can You Freeze City Ham Biscuits?
Yes, but quality suffers. Freeze assembled biscuits wrapped tightly in plastic, then foil. They keep for 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven. The biscuit texture never fully recovers original quality.
Does City Ham Contain Nitrates?
Most commercial city ham contains sodium nitrate or sodium nitrite. These preservatives maintain color and prevent bacterial growth. Waffle House does not publish exact curing methods used by their suppliers.
How Many People Does an Order Feed?
2 City Ham Biscuits is a single serving for most adults. Active individuals or those with large appetites consider it one complete meal. Less active people might split it or save one biscuit for later.
Can You Add Gravy to City Ham Biscuits?
Yes. Some guests request sausage gravy on the side. This adds Southern flavor and extra calories. The combination creates a heartier meal but increases sodium significantly.
What Temperature Should the Ham Be?
Food safety standards require ham to reach 165°F internal temperature. The flat top griddle heats ham to this level quickly. The ham arrives at your table hot enough to melt cheese or butter.
Is City Ham Processed Meat?
Yes. Wet curing qualifies as processing. However, city ham uses recognizable ingredients like pork, salt, sugar, and water. This differs from heavily processed meats with extensive additives.