Brunch is not something reserved only for trendy New Yorkers, although that is where brunch culture seems to have first gained a following in America. As with many other trends in the U.S., brunch first became fashionable along the coastal areas (most notably New York and Los Angeles) before slowly working its way inland. Today, meeting friends for brunch is common, with the more popular eateries being fully booked every weekend. Philadelphia’s brunch culture is thriving, and several restaurants have gained a reputation for serving up spectacular brunches.
Lacroix at the Rittenhouse
Located in Rittenhouse Square, Lacroix is part of the luxurious Rittenhouse Hotel. The quality of food to be enjoyed at Lacroix matches its upmarket surroundings. Here you will enjoy fine dining with an extensive brunch menu that includes oysters, foie gras, house-cured charcuterie meats, and even caviar. The build-your-own Bloody Mary bar and liquid nitrogen ice cream are two of their signature offerings. It’s pricey but well worth the experience.
Sabrina’s Cafe
Sabrina’s has five spots around the city, with all five being hugely popular, so you can expect a wait. The Stuffed French Toast is a winner. This is also a great venue for vegetarians, as there are several veggie meals on the menu. To snag a seat sooner, you can call ahead and get your name on the list to reduce your wait time.
Green Eggs Cafe
No green eggs and ham to be found at this top brunch spot in Philadelphia. What you will love is the Crème Brûlée French Toast, Red Velvet Pancakes, Chicken and Waffles Benedict, and an amazing selection of gourmet coffee that includes a crème brûlée latte, cookie dough latte, caramel cappuccino, and an apple pie latte (yes, you read that right!). For the ravenous, you can order “The Kitchen Sink” — a hearty breakfast with three scrambled eggs topped with sausage crumbles, Gruyère cheese, potatoes, peppers, onions, accompanied by a pork sausage and homemade jumbo biscuit.
Parc Brasserie
French-inspired Parc, also on Rittenhouse Square, offers a Parisian bistro-style atmosphere with plenty of outdoor seating and a great view of the square. The baguettes are baked in-house and their bread baskets are outstanding — great with either a cheese or charcuterie platter. Here you’ll find typical French offerings, like Quiché Lorraine, Eggs en Cocotte (trout caviar), Eggs Benedict, a great Lobster Tartine, and, of course, good ole French toast.
The Dandelion
From France to Britain, The Dandelion is a British-inspired pub restaurant perfect for a boozy brunch. They have a wide selection of beers, drafts, and ciders plus some interesting cocktails, like the King Henry’s Kick and Iron Lady (no doubt named after Margaret Thatcher). Some traditional British staples are found here, like Scones & Jam, Bangers & Mash, and Lamb Shepherd’s Pie. Naturally, tea is another beverage on the menu — sip on Twinnings, Darjeeling Earl Grey, or English Breakfast.
When it comes to brunch, Philadelphia certainly does not disappoint. These are just five of many restaurants to explore that serve up the most delicious mid-morning treats.
Image by PublicDomainPictures, used under CCO 1.0
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