I love a good brunch. Who doesn’t? Brunch for me is an ongoing tradition that celebrates the end of the week. When I’m not learning how to cook breakfast in my own kitchen, I’m definitely brunching with my friends around town over the weekend. Bottomless mimosas and Frosé are always a must!
Many have asked what my go-to brunch spots are, so now I’m sharing my top 5 places, plus my favorite dishes at each restaurant.
Hopscoth: Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Biscuits
Hopscotch is an upscale, retro diner serving craft cocktails & inventive American fare with a Japanese touch.
I love Hopscotch’s brunch for a few reasons, mainly for their diverse brunch menu. Their menu features a range of Asian and American fused dishes such as Kimchee Fried Rice & Shoyu Eggs, Smoked Salmon Benedict and my personal favorite, the Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Biscuits (without the pork sausage gravy and with scramble eggs, cast iron skillet potatoes and mixed salad.)
I usually pair the Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Biscuits meal with a chilled glass of Rosé. The restaurant isn't very large so prepare to wait or make a reservation, however I often opt to eat outside.
Hopscotch, Saturday, at 10:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.1915 San Pablo Ave. (Uptown Oakland)
The art deco ambience of Flora makes for a classy brunch experience. Whether you are dining solo, with your significant other or with your #squad, Flora never disappoints. They offer brunch classics like steak and eggs, grilled shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles and eggs benedict with pork bacon.
I live for their perfectly crafted beignets paired with a classic glass of Prosecco.
Flora, Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., 1900 Telegraph Ave.
La Note's Cote Est: Two scrambled eggs, one Crème Fraiche Pancake, and home fries with cappuccino.
If I’m able to get a seat at the always packed La Note, I immediately feel transported to a quaint café in Paris. La note is a known brunch staple because of their authentic rustic Provencal styled food with warm atmosphere. Although the menu is in French, it’s easy enough to navigate.
I order the same dish: Cote Est— Two scrambled eggs, one Crème Fraiche Pancake, and home fries with cappuccino.
If you’re looking for a French based brunch, I’d highly recommend.
La Note, Saturday & Sunday from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., 2377 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley
Rolling Dunes is a charming neighborhood family restaurant, located near Lake Merritt, where you can enjoy great food, large portions and affordable prices. Rolling Dunes is especially special to me because it’s my Dad and I’s brunch place.
Every time I go to Rolling Dunes for brunch, I order the Pancakes Meets Eggs (short stack of buttermilk pancakes, with two eggs and choice of ham and bacon.)
Don’t forget to try to fresh squeezed orange juice, when you visit!
Monday-Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., 3331 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland
Grand Lake Kitchen is a small cafe right alongside Lake Merritt and just a block away from the Saturday morning farmers market, so it's the perfect way to start afternoon before getting some exercise in. Their French Toast decorated with strawberries and powdered sugar along with their Avocado Toast which includes two poached eggs, Aleppo Chile, and baby kale salad is delicious.
Also, I can’t forget their delightful Boozy Slushes. I’ll have the Salty Dog with Rosé, please!
Saturday & Sunday, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., 576 Grand Ave. Oakland
Think I’m leaving out some amazing brunch spots? Let me know of your faves in the comments below.